Windshield Blackout Viewing Window with Dynamic Display Feature
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Solution Overview
Problem
The aesthetic appeal of tall or wide windshield blackouts in new electric vehicles is compromised due to the design disconnect between the windshield and the instrument panel, leading to an unappealing visual gap.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a viewing window within the windshield blackout and a versatile blackout window feature, which can be an illuminated message board, fanned LED lighting, switchable branding device, ornamental device, solar panel, electronic display, or laser etched image, to enhance the appearance and functionality of the area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If a viewing window is provided in the windshield blackout, then the aesthetic appeal is enhanced by providing visual interest, but the blackout function deteriorates by allowing view into the concealed area
Solution Approach 1:
A blackout window feature is introduced as an intermediary element positioned behind the viewing window. This intermediary provides the desired visual display (messages, branding, ornaments) while the viewing window itself maintains the primary blackout function by limiting views of the interior concealed area.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a blackout window feature is provided behind the viewing window, then the functionality is enhanced by providing illuminated messages or branding, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The blackout window feature is designed to serve multiple functions - displaying illuminated messages, showing branding, providing ornamental displays, or remaining dark. This multi-functionality allows a single structural addition to provide diverse capabilities without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The blackout window feature can dynamically change its state - illuminated or dark, displaying different messages or branding. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to different functional requirements without requiring separate physical components for each function.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enhances the aesthetic appeal and functionality of the windshield blackout area by providing a visually stimulating and functional alternative to the traditional tall blackout, while maintaining the vehicle's aerodynamic shape and allowing for features like solar energy collection or improved visibility under low light conditions.
Implementation Method 1
the blackout window feature is a solar panel. That solar panel may be used to collect solar energy to charge the battery of the electric vehicle or provide electric power to electrical devices on board the motor vehicle
Implementation Method 2
the ornamental device is illuminated by a light source positioned in front of and below the ornamental device but behind the windshield blackout where the light source is hidden from view
Implementation Method 3
the blackout window feature may be fanned LED lighting. That fanned LED lighting may be utilized to light the under hood area of the motor vehicle when the hood is opened so as to allow one to see the forward storage area under the hood in the absence of ambient lighting
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a windshield blackout between a bottom of the windshield and a top of the instrument panel, a viewing window provided in the windshield blackout and a blackout window feature provided behind the viewing window.