US20220063385A1 - Sunroof catch apparatus and related sunroof assemblies for use with vehicles - Google Patents
Sunroof catch apparatus and related sunroof assemblies for use with vehicles Download PDFInfo
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- US20220063385A1 US20220063385A1 US17/011,113 US202017011113A US2022063385A1 US 20220063385 A1 US20220063385 A1 US 20220063385A1 US 202017011113 A US202017011113 A US 202017011113A US 2022063385 A1 US2022063385 A1 US 2022063385A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- sunroof
- bracket
- adapter
- assembly
- rail
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Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60J—WINDOWS, WINDSCREENS, NON-FIXED ROOFS, DOORS, OR SIMILAR DEVICES FOR VEHICLES; REMOVABLE EXTERNAL PROTECTIVE COVERINGS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES
- B60J7/00—Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels, e.g. rotary sunroofs
- B60J7/02—Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels, e.g. rotary sunroofs of sliding type, e.g. comprising guide shoes
- B60J7/04—Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels, e.g. rotary sunroofs of sliding type, e.g. comprising guide shoes with rigid plate-like element or elements, e.g. open roofs with harmonica-type folding rigid panels
- B60J7/043—Sunroofs e.g. sliding above the roof
- B60J7/0435—Sunroofs e.g. sliding above the roof pivoting upwardly to vent mode and moving at the outside of the roof to fully open mode
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60J—WINDOWS, WINDSCREENS, NON-FIXED ROOFS, DOORS, OR SIMILAR DEVICES FOR VEHICLES; REMOVABLE EXTERNAL PROTECTIVE COVERINGS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES
- B60J7/00—Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels, e.g. rotary sunroofs
- B60J7/02—Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels, e.g. rotary sunroofs of sliding type, e.g. comprising guide shoes
- B60J7/024—Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels, e.g. rotary sunroofs of sliding type, e.g. comprising guide shoes characterised by the height regulating mechanism of the sliding panel
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60J—WINDOWS, WINDSCREENS, NON-FIXED ROOFS, DOORS, OR SIMILAR DEVICES FOR VEHICLES; REMOVABLE EXTERNAL PROTECTIVE COVERINGS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES
- B60J7/00—Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels, e.g. rotary sunroofs
- B60J7/02—Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels, e.g. rotary sunroofs of sliding type, e.g. comprising guide shoes
- B60J7/04—Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels, e.g. rotary sunroofs of sliding type, e.g. comprising guide shoes with rigid plate-like element or elements, e.g. open roofs with harmonica-type folding rigid panels
- B60J7/043—Sunroofs e.g. sliding above the roof
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60J—WINDOWS, WINDSCREENS, NON-FIXED ROOFS, DOORS, OR SIMILAR DEVICES FOR VEHICLES; REMOVABLE EXTERNAL PROTECTIVE COVERINGS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES
- B60J7/00—Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels, e.g. rotary sunroofs
- B60J7/185—Locking arrangements
- B60J7/19—Locking arrangements for rigid panels
- B60J7/192—Locking arrangements for rigid panels for locking the sunroof panel to the roof
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
- E05F—DEVICES FOR MOVING WINGS INTO OPEN OR CLOSED POSITION; CHECKS FOR WINGS; WING FITTINGS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, CONCERNED WITH THE FUNCTIONING OF THE WING
- E05F15/00—Power-operated mechanisms for wings
- E05F15/60—Power-operated mechanisms for wings using electrical actuators
- E05F15/603—Power-operated mechanisms for wings using electrical actuators using rotary electromotors
- E05F15/632—Power-operated mechanisms for wings using electrical actuators using rotary electromotors for horizontally-sliding wings
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
- E05F—DEVICES FOR MOVING WINGS INTO OPEN OR CLOSED POSITION; CHECKS FOR WINGS; WING FITTINGS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, CONCERNED WITH THE FUNCTIONING OF THE WING
- E05F15/00—Power-operated mechanisms for wings
- E05F15/60—Power-operated mechanisms for wings using electrical actuators
- E05F15/603—Power-operated mechanisms for wings using electrical actuators using rotary electromotors
- E05F15/632—Power-operated mechanisms for wings using electrical actuators using rotary electromotors for horizontally-sliding wings
- E05F15/643—Power-operated mechanisms for wings using electrical actuators using rotary electromotors for horizontally-sliding wings operated by flexible elongated pulling elements, e.g. belts, chains or cables
- E05F15/646—Power-operated mechanisms for wings using electrical actuators using rotary electromotors for horizontally-sliding wings operated by flexible elongated pulling elements, e.g. belts, chains or cables allowing or involving a secondary movement of the wing, e.g. rotational or transversal
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
- E05F—DEVICES FOR MOVING WINGS INTO OPEN OR CLOSED POSITION; CHECKS FOR WINGS; WING FITTINGS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, CONCERNED WITH THE FUNCTIONING OF THE WING
- E05F5/00—Braking devices, e.g. checks; Stops; Buffers
- E05F5/003—Braking devices, e.g. checks; Stops; Buffers for sliding wings
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60J—WINDOWS, WINDSCREENS, NON-FIXED ROOFS, DOORS, OR SIMILAR DEVICES FOR VEHICLES; REMOVABLE EXTERNAL PROTECTIVE COVERINGS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES
- B60J7/00—Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels, e.g. rotary sunroofs
- B60J7/02—Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels, e.g. rotary sunroofs of sliding type, e.g. comprising guide shoes
- B60J7/04—Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels, e.g. rotary sunroofs of sliding type, e.g. comprising guide shoes with rigid plate-like element or elements, e.g. open roofs with harmonica-type folding rigid panels
- B60J7/053—Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels, e.g. rotary sunroofs of sliding type, e.g. comprising guide shoes with rigid plate-like element or elements, e.g. open roofs with harmonica-type folding rigid panels sliding with final closing motion having vertical component to attain closed and sealed condition, e.g. sliding under the roof
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
- E05Y—INDEXING SCHEME RELATING TO HINGES OR OTHER SUSPENSION DEVICES FOR DOORS, WINDOWS OR WINGS AND DEVICES FOR MOVING WINGS INTO OPEN OR CLOSED POSITION, CHECKS FOR WINGS AND WING FITTINGS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, CONCERNED WITH THE FUNCTIONING OF THE WING
- E05Y2201/00—Constructional elements; Accessories therefore
- E05Y2201/20—Brakes; Disengaging means, e.g. clutches; Holders, e.g. locks; Stops; Accessories therefore
- E05Y2201/218—Holders
- E05Y2201/22—Locks
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
- E05Y—INDEXING SCHEME RELATING TO HINGES OR OTHER SUSPENSION DEVICES FOR DOORS, WINDOWS OR WINGS AND DEVICES FOR MOVING WINGS INTO OPEN OR CLOSED POSITION, CHECKS FOR WINGS AND WING FITTINGS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, CONCERNED WITH THE FUNCTIONING OF THE WING
- E05Y2201/00—Constructional elements; Accessories therefore
- E05Y2201/60—Suspension or transmission members; Accessories therefore
- E05Y2201/622—Suspension or transmission members elements
- E05Y2201/624—Arms
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
- E05Y—INDEXING SCHEME RELATING TO HINGES OR OTHER SUSPENSION DEVICES FOR DOORS, WINDOWS OR WINGS AND DEVICES FOR MOVING WINGS INTO OPEN OR CLOSED POSITION, CHECKS FOR WINGS AND WING FITTINGS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, CONCERNED WITH THE FUNCTIONING OF THE WING
- E05Y2201/00—Constructional elements; Accessories therefore
- E05Y2201/60—Suspension or transmission members; Accessories therefore
- E05Y2201/622—Suspension or transmission members elements
- E05Y2201/644—Flexible elongated pulling elements; Members cooperating with flexible elongated pulling elements
- E05Y2201/654—Cables
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
- E05Y—INDEXING SCHEME RELATING TO HINGES OR OTHER SUSPENSION DEVICES FOR DOORS, WINDOWS OR WINGS AND DEVICES FOR MOVING WINGS INTO OPEN OR CLOSED POSITION, CHECKS FOR WINGS AND WING FITTINGS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, CONCERNED WITH THE FUNCTIONING OF THE WING
- E05Y2201/00—Constructional elements; Accessories therefore
- E05Y2201/60—Suspension or transmission members; Accessories therefore
- E05Y2201/622—Suspension or transmission members elements
- E05Y2201/684—Rails
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
- E05Y—INDEXING SCHEME RELATING TO HINGES OR OTHER SUSPENSION DEVICES FOR DOORS, WINDOWS OR WINGS AND DEVICES FOR MOVING WINGS INTO OPEN OR CLOSED POSITION, CHECKS FOR WINGS AND WING FITTINGS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, CONCERNED WITH THE FUNCTIONING OF THE WING
- E05Y2900/00—Application of doors, windows, wings or fittings thereof
- E05Y2900/50—Application of doors, windows, wings or fittings thereof for vehicles
- E05Y2900/53—Application of doors, windows, wings or fittings thereof for vehicles characterised by the type of wing
- E05Y2900/542—Roof panels
Definitions
- This disclosure relates generally to vehicles and, more particularly, to sunroof catch apparatus and related sunroof assemblies for use with vehicles.
- sunroofs typically employ sunroofs to improve comfort of vehicle occupants by allowing sunlight to enter a vehicle cabin through a sunroof panel (e.g., glass).
- a sunroof panel e.g., glass
- Some vehicle sunroofs are configured to open and close, which may be desirable to the vehicle occupants (e.g., when the vehicle cabin is relatively hot).
- a known vehicle sunroof may have a panel that can be moved (e.g., tilted, raised, lowered, etc.) in response to a sunroof motor generating output.
- An aspect of the present disclosure includes an assembly for a sunroof of a vehicle.
- the assembly can include a sunroof panel and a rail extending in a length direction of the vehicle.
- the rail includes multiple guide channels to receive and guide movable sunroof components.
- the assembly can also include a bracket beneath the sunroof panel and connected to a side portion of the sunroof panel.
- the bracket includes a first end that is a pivot point of the bracket and a second end opposite to the first end.
- the assembly can also include an adapter coupled to the bracket proximate to the second end and a drive mechanism slidably coupled to the rail and connected to a part of the bracket between the first end and the second end of the bracket.
- the assembly can also include a catch device slidable along the rail relative to the adapter.
- the catch device includes a body portion connected to a sunroof cable and a structure attached to the body portion.
- the catch device also includes a channel that extends through the structure configured to receive the adapter when the bracket is in the first position. When the adapter is in the channel, the structure is configured to engage the adapter to maintain the bracket in the first position and resist deflection of the bracket.
- FIG. 1 is a view of an example vehicle in which examples disclosed herein can be implemented
- FIG. 2A is a partial-view of the example vehicle of FIG. 1 and shows an example vehicle sunroof in a first state;
- FIG. 2B is a view of the example vehicle sunroof of FIG. 2A and shows a different state of the example vehicle sunroof;
- FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C are detailed views of an example sunroof assembly in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure.
- FIG. 4 is a partial cross-sectional view of the example sunroof assembly along line A-A of FIG. 3C and shows an example implementation thereof;
- FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C are partial views of the example sunroof assembly along line B-B of FIG. 3C and show different stages of a sunroof closing operation;
- FIG. 6 is a detailed view of an example catch device in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure.
- FIG. 7 is another detailed view of the example catch device of FIG. 6 and shows related translational displacement resulting from certain loading conditions.
- FIG. 8 is a detailed view of a different sunroof component and shows related translational displacement resulting from certain loading conditions.
- a known single link system can include a main bracket arranged along a side of the panel and fixedly coupled to the panel. Additionally, the known system can be provided with a slidable shoe and a rotatable link operatively coupled to the shoe and the main bracket holding the panel, where interaction of the shoe and the link rotates the link and the bracket.
- a known single link system may not effectively hold the main bracket in place when the sunroof is closed.
- a rear part of the panel may substantially deflect due to flex in the movable components of the system.
- the forces applied to the panel may cause the main bracket to substantially lift upward and potentially break weatherstrip seals, thereby creating an air leak that could result in undesirable noises as well as a water leak that could damage other components of a vehicle.
- Some single link systems are provided with known catching mechanism that aid in closing a sunroof panel during high-speed operations and restrict upward deflection of a bracket holding the sunroof panel when closed.
- a known catching mechanism may include a ledge that can slide against the bracket when the sunroof is closing.
- the bracket may slip off of the ledge under certain loading conditions due to an inherent structure of the catching mechanism, in turn allowing the bracket to flex and/or deflect upwards in a manner that could break the weatherstrip seals.
- Sunroof catch apparatus and related sunroof assemblies for use with vehicles are disclosed. Examples disclosed herein provide a simple, light-weight, and cost-effective solution to advantageously secure a panel (e.g., glass) of a sunroof when the sunroof is closed.
- Some disclosed examples provide an example vehicle sunroof assembly (e.g., a single link assembly) that can include an exemplary bracket (e.g., a function bracket) and an exemplary catch device (e.g., a high speed catch device) for maintaining the bracket in a certain position after a closing operation of the sunroof is carried out.
- the bracket is arranged alongside the panel and configured to carry and/or support the panel.
- the bracket can be adjusted between different positions by applying certain forces or loads to the bracket, which opens or closes the sunroof.
- the bracket can be adjusted between any of a lowered position, a tilted position, a raised position, and the like via a slidable shoe and a rotatable link of the assembly that cooperatively interact with each other.
- the disclosed catch device is configured to engage the bracket or part thereon (e.g., an adapter) while the bracket is in a certain or first position (e.g., the lowered positioned), thereby restricting deflection of the bracket and keeping the sunroof closed in certain scenarios of interest.
- the disclosed catch device is effective in maintaining the bracket in the first position when the vehicle is driving at relatively high speeds and/or during a vehicle rollover, where substantially high forces are applied to the panel held by the bracket.
- the disclosed catch device can include a body portion slidably disposed in a sunroof track or rail and connected to a sunroof cable extending from the catch device to a sunroof motor. As such, the body portion and/or, more generally, the disclosed catch device can slide along the rail relative to the bracket. Further, the disclosed catch device also includes an example structure that can directly contact the bracket or an adapter thereon when the bracket is substantially in the first position to limit relative movement of the bracket. The disclosed structure is attached to the body portion of the catch device and positioned adjacent an end of the catch device. Additionally, a primary channel (e.g., a U-shaped channel) extending at least partially through the structure is sized and/or shaped to receive the adapter on the bracket.
- a primary channel e.g., a U-shaped channel
- an adapter which is coupled to the bracket and may be positioned at or near an end of the bracket to better enable the disclosed device to catch, hold, and/or release the bracket.
- the adapter or part thereof passes into the primary channel, where the structure can impart a certain load on the adapter that substantially maintains the bracket in the first position.
- the adapter may be provided with a hook-shaped feature that is insertable in the primary channel, which facilitates smooth engagement of the adapter and the structure.
- the catch device includes an example base that provides support to the structure and a primary wall of the catch device coupled to a cable receiver for holding the sunroof cable.
- the primary wall can slide through the rail and receive guidance therefrom during sunroof operation.
- the structure is coupled to the base and spaced from the primary wall, such that a secondary channel, different from the primary channel, exists in the catch device between the structure and the primary wall. In such examples, both sides of the structure are supported by the base, which evenly distributes forces in the catch device during high speed catch operation.
- a cross-sectional area of the structure corresponding to the primary channel is substantially U-shaped, which allows for a more compact architecture (e.g., with respect to height and/or length of the catch device) while improving holding performance compared to the above-mentioned known catching mechanisms and/or single link systems.
- a height of the structure can be substantially equal to a height of the primary wall to give additional clearance to surrounding sunroof components.
- the structure can be provided with a first support portion (e.g., a relatively thin wall) and a second support portion (e.g., a relatively thin wall) that are coupled to the base of the catch device. Further, the structure can be provided with a catch portion connecting the first and second support portions together.
- the first and second support portions can define an inner space in which the adapter on the bracket is insertable or positionable, where the catch portion is configured to impart the load on the adapter.
- the first and second support portions are configured to resist a reactive load applied to the catch portion by the adapter.
- the first support portion and/or the second support portion can abut the adapter, thereby keeping the adapter in the primary channel and/or engaged with the catch portion.
- the examples disclosed herein prevent the adapter from slipping off of the catch portion in the presence of relatively high external forces applied to the panel (e.g., until an opening operation of the sunroof is initiated), which would have otherwise been unattainable using the above-mentioned known catching mechanisms and/or single link systems.
- some examples disclosed herein provide a particular ribbing structure arranged on the catch portion, the first support portion, and/or the second support portion.
- FIG. 1 is a view of an example vehicle (e.g., a motor vehicle) 100 in which examples disclosed herein can be implemented.
- vehicle 100 of FIG. 1 could be, for example, any of a car, a van, a truck, a sport utility vehicle (SUV), and like, or any other suitable motor vehicle.
- the vehicle 100 includes an example sunroof 102 , an example controller 104 , and one or more example motors 106 .
- the controller 104 of FIG. 1 receives a user input from an input device (e.g., an in-vehicle button or switch accessible to an occupant in the vehicle 100 ) connected to the controller 104 and, in response, opens or closes the sunroof 102 via the motor(s) 106 and based on the user input.
- an input device e.g., an in-vehicle button or switch accessible to an occupant in the vehicle 100
- the controller 104 of FIG. 1 can be implemented, for example, using one or more microcontrollers, one or more electronic control units (ECUs), and the like, any other suitable control circuitry, or a combination thereof.
- the controller 104 may include at least one processor and a database in communication with the processor.
- the controller 104 is sometimes referred to as a sunroof controller and/or a vehicle controller.
- the controller 104 is communicatively coupled to the motor(s) 106 , for example, via a transmission or signal wire, a bus, radio frequency, etc.
- the controller 104 provides electrical power and/or one or more control signals or commands to the motor(s) 106 , thereby controlling the motor(s) 106 and/or an output thereof (e.g., a torque and/or a force).
- the controller 104 receives (e.g., continuously and/or repeatedly) data from the motor(s) 106 , such as positional data that may be indicative of a panel position and/or the state of the sunroof 102 .
- the controller 104 of FIG. 1 may also be communicatively coupled to an input device, which facilitates interactions between the controller 104 and a person or user.
- the input device may be positioned in the vehicle 100 such that a vehicle occupant can activate and/or provided an input to the input device.
- the controller 104 receives input data from the input device corresponding to a certain sunroof state or panel position.
- the controller 104 processes the input data and/or directs the motor(s) 106 in accordance with the input data.
- the sunroof 102 of FIG. 1 can be implemented, for example, using any of a panoramic sunroof, a pop-up sunroof, a sliding sunroof, a spoiler sunroof, and the like, or any other suitable vehicle sunroof.
- the sunroof 102 is sometimes referred to as a vehicle sunroof.
- the sunroof 102 is structured and/or configured to open, close, vent, and/or change between different sunroof states, for examples, in response to the motor(s) 106 generating output.
- the sunroof 102 may be provided with at least one movable panel (e.g., a glass panel) that can be tilted, raised, lowered, and the like.
- the sunroof 102 of FIG. 1 when closed or in the first state, substantially isolates a cabin 108 of the vehicle 100 from an outside or external environment, such that external fluids (e.g., water, air, etc.) are prevented from flowing into the cabin 108 through the sunroof 102 .
- external fluids e.g., water, air, etc.
- light e.g., sunlight
- the sunroof 102 when closed or in the first state, the sunroof 102 of FIG. 1 substantially isolates a cabin 108 of the vehicle 100 from an outside or external environment, such that external fluids (e.g., water, air, etc.) are prevented from flowing into the cabin 108 through the sunroof 102 .
- light e.g., sunlight
- the sunroof 102 when open or in the second state, exposes the vehicle cabin 108 to the external environment, such that ambient air is permitted or enabled to flow into the vehicle cabin 108 , which may be desired by a driver and/or vehicle occupant(s) in certain driving conditions.
- the motor(s) 106 of FIG. 1 can be implemented, for example, using one or more electric motors.
- the motor(s) 106 are coupled to the sunroof 102 and/or supported by a sunroof component. Further, the motor(s) 106 may be communicatively coupled to the controller 104 . In some examples, in response to receiving the power and/or the control signal(s) or command(s) from the controller 104 , the motor(s) 106 cause the sunroof 102 to open, close, and/or change between the different sunroof states.
- FIG. 2A is a partial-view of the vehicle 100 and shows the sunroof 102 in the first state.
- the sunroof 102 of FIG. 2A is coupled to a roof 202 of the vehicle 100 , for example, via one or more example fasteners and/or one or more example fastening methods or techniques. Further, the sunroof 102 of FIG. 2A or at least part thereof is disposed in an aperture 203 extending through the roof 202 .
- the aperture 203 can be, for example, a relatively large opening in the roof 202 that is sized and/or shaped to receive one or more sunroof components.
- the sunroof 102 may be provided with one or more example panels (e.g., glass panels) 204 , 206 , two of which are shown in this example (i.e., a first panel 204 and a second panel 206 ).
- the first panel 204 is movable and/or is configured to move between a first panel position (as shown in FIG. 2A ) and a second panel position different from the first panel position, which changes the state of the sunroof 102 .
- the first panel position can be, for example, a lowered position corresponding to the first state of the sunroof 102 .
- the second panel position can be, for example, a raised position and/or a tilted position corresponding to the second state of the sunroof 102 .
- the first panel 204 can slide over or under the second panel 206 to open the sunroof 102 (e.g., see FIG. 2B ).
- the second panel 206 of FIG. 2A is likewise movable and/or configured to move between the first panel position and the second panel position.
- the sunroof 102 of FIG. 2A is in the first state.
- the first panel 204 of FIG. 2A is in the first panel position
- the second panel 206 of FIG. 2A is in the first panel position.
- the sunroof 102 is provided with one or more exemplary assemblies 208 , 210 , two of which are shown. For example, in FIG.
- a first assembly e.g., a single link assembly
- a second assembly e.g., a single link assembly
- each of the assemblies 208 , 210 include one or more particular sunroof components that function cooperatively to adjust a position and/or an orientation of the first panel 204 based on motor output.
- Such component(s) include, but are not limited to, any of an adjustable bracket, a catch device for the adjustable bracket, a slidable shoe, a rotatable link, a guide block, a guide track or rail, a cable, and the like, any other suitable component(s) associated with sunroof operation, or a combination thereof.
- an adjustable bracket e.g., see the example bracket 302 shown in FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C
- a sunroof track or rail may extend in a length direction of the vehicle 100 across a certain dimension (e.g., a length) 211 of the sunroof 102 or at least part of the dimension 211 , which provides one or more paths or guideways along which movable sunroof components can travel.
- the first and second assemblies 208 , 210 when the motor(s) 106 generate output, the first and second assemblies 208 , 210 , together, advantageously guide the first panel 204 of FIG. 2A between the first and second panel positions. Additionally, when the motor(s) 106 cease generating the output, the first and second assemblies 208 , 210 , together, can effectively hold the first panel 204 in one of the first panel position, the second panel position, or a position between the first and second panel positions, where the first panel 204 is substantially immobile (e.g., until subsequent motor output is generated). In such examples, each assembly 208 , 210 or at least part thereof is connected to the motor(s) 106 to receive the output therefrom, for example, via one or more cables, belts, chains, etc.
- first assembly 208 and/or the second assembly 210 can be advantageously utilized to secure the first panel 204 in the presence of relatively high panel forces associated with causing panel or bracket deflection, as discussed further below.
- one or more external forces may be applied to the first panel 204 while the sunroof 102 is closed or in the first state, which urges the first panel 204 to move and/or deflect along with the sunroof component(s) connected to the first panel 204 .
- Such force(s) 212 can be generated, for example, as a result of the vehicle 100 driving at relatively high speeds and/or during a vehicle rollover event.
- the first and second assemblies 208 , 210 are structured to counteract the external force(s) 212 , such that the panel or bracket deflection is substantially reduced and/or eliminated while the sunroof 102 is in the first state.
- FIG. 2B is a view of the vehicle sunroof 102 of FIG. 2A and shows the second state of the vehicle sunroof 102 .
- the first panel 204 of FIG. 2B is in the second panel position.
- the vehicle sunroof 102 of FIG. 2B substantially exposes the vehicle cabin 108 to an outside environment.
- the fluid(s) may pass into the vehicle cabin 108 through an example opening 214 in the sunroof 102 resulting from the first panel 204 moving away from the first panel position.
- FIG. 2B depicts the first and second panels 204 , 206 overlapping and being substantially parallel relative to each other when the first panel 204 is in the second panel position
- the second panel position corresponds to a different or intermediate state (e.g., a vented state) of the sunroof 102 , wherein the first panel 204 is adjacent and substantially tilted relative to the second panel 206 .
- FIGS. 2A and 2B depict aspects in connection with translating the first panel 204 , in some examples, such aspects likewise apply to the second panel 206 .
- the second panel 206 can be similarly configured to move to provide an opening in the sunroof 102 .
- the first and second assemblies 208 , 210 may be operatively coupled to the second panel 206 .
- the sunroof 102 may be provided with one or more additional assemblies, different from the first and second assemblies 208 , 210 , that is/are operatively coupled to the second panel 206 to likewise guide and/or control movement thereof.
- FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C are detailed views of an example assembly 300 for a sunroof of a vehicle in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure.
- the assembly 300 of FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C corresponds to and/or can be used to implement one or more of the assemblies previously described such as, for example, the first assembly 208 and/or the second assembly 210 .
- the assembly 300 when assembled, forms and/or defines the sunroof 102 or at least part thereof.
- the assembly 300 shown is sometimes referred to as a vehicle sunroof assembly and/or a sunroof assembly.
- the assembly 300 of FIG. 3A includes an example bracket (e.g., a function bracket of a sunroof) 302 supporting and/or configured to hold a sunroof panel, such as the first or second panel 204 , 206 .
- the bracket 302 of FIG. 3A is adjustable and sometimes referred to as an adjustable bracket. Accordingly, the bracket 302 can be adjusted between different positions and/or orientations, for example, by applying certain forces to the bracket 302 in a substantially controlled manner.
- a bracket e.g., a function bracket of a sunroof
- the bracket 302 is in a first position thereof (sometimes referred to as a first bracket position) such as, for example, a lowered or closed position that provides the first state of the sunroof 102 and/or the first panel position previously described.
- the vehicle sunroof assembly 300 includes an example catch device (e.g., a high speed catch device) 304 that can connect to the bracket 302 (or a part thereon) and disconnect from the bracket 302 , which will be discussed in greater detail below.
- the catch device 304 when connected to the bracket 302 (as shown in FIG.
- 3A is effective in reducing and/or eliminating undesired panel or bracket movement typically associated with high vehicle speeds and/or certain driving events (e.g., a vehicle rollover), where the external force(s) 212 may act on the panel held by bracket 302 .
- the assembly 300 of FIG. 3A can include an example track or rail 303 .
- the rail 303 of FIG. 3A is positionable on the roof 202 of the vehicle 100 and/or can be fixedly coupled to the roof, for example, via one or more fasteners and/or one or more fastening methods or techniques.
- the rail 303 of FIG. 3A forms and/or defines at least one guideway that extends across a length 305 of the rail 303 or at least part thereof to receive and guide one or more movable sunroof components, as discussed in greater detail below.
- the vehicle sunroof assembly 300 can be provided with an example drive mechanism 306 that is slidably coupled to the rail 303 , which facilitates tilting, raising, lowering, and/or otherwise translating the bracket 302 and the panel held by the bracket 302 .
- the drive mechanism 306 of FIG. 3A is structured such that movement of the drive mechanism 306 along the rail 303 adjusts or moves the bracket 302 between the first position and a second position (as represented by the dotted/dashed lines of FIG. 3A ) different from the first position.
- the second position which is sometimes referred to as a second bracket position, can be, for example, a tilted position of the bracket 302 that provides the intermediate state of the vehicle sunroof 102 .
- the second position can be a raised or open position of the bracket 302 that provides the second state of the vehicle sunroof 102 , as discussed further below in connection with FIG. 3B .
- the first position of the bracket 302 is a position in which the sunroof 102 is open, while the second position of the bracket 302 is a position in which the sunroof 102 is closed.
- the drive mechanism 306 includes an example drive shoe 307 and an example link 308 that is operatively connected to the drive shoe 307 and the bracket 302 .
- the link 308 of FIG. 3A is pivotably coupled to the bracket 302 such that the link 308 and the bracket 302 can pivot or rotate relative to each other about a first movable joint (e.g., a pin joint) 310 .
- the link 308 of FIG. 3A is slidably coupled to the drive shoe 307 , for example, via a pin and slot connection defined by the link 308 and the drive shoe 307 .
- the drive shoe 307 is movable relative to the link 308 , thereby translating the link 308 and the bracket 302 .
- the drive shoe 307 can be connected to the motor(s) 106 via a sunroof cable (and the like) extending from the drive shoe 307 to the motor(s) 106 , where tension in the sunroof cable is utilized to pull the drive shoe 307 .
- Each of the drive shoe 307 and the link 308 can be disposed in the rail 303 and/or configured to slide through the rail 303 to receive guidance from the rail 303 .
- the drive shoe 307 of FIG. 3A can be moved relative to the link 308 in a first direction (e.g., a rear or rearward direction) 312 during a sunroof opening operation associated with opening the sunroof 102 .
- a first direction e.g., a rear or rearward direction
- the drive shoe 307 can slide along the rail 303 from a first position relative to the link 308 (as shown in FIG. 3A ) to a second position relative to the link 308 (shown in FIG. 3B ) different from the first position.
- the drive shoe 307 can be moved relative to the link 308 in a second direction (e.g., a front or forward direction) 314 , opposite to the first direction 312 , during a sunroof closing operation associated with closing the sunroof 102 .
- the drive shoe 307 remains substantially engaged with the link 308 (e.g., the drive shoe 307 and the link 308 do not disconnect or separate during sunroof operation).
- the link 308 of FIG. 3A can be implemented, for example, using a bracket and is sometimes referred to as a link bracket.
- one or more guide pins are coupled to the link 308 , each of which is slidably disposed in a slot or path extending through the drive shoe 307 .
- a first pin on the link 308 can slide through a first path 316 in the drive shoe 307
- a second pin on the same side of the link 308 (different from the first pin) can slide through a second path 318 in the drive shoe 307 .
- the first path 316 may be separate from and/or adjacent to the second path 318 .
- 3A are sized and/or shaped in connection with precisely controlling relative movement of the link 308 .
- movement of the drive shoe 307 relative to the link 308 particularly changes an orientation and/or a position of the link 308 and, consequently, changes an orientation and/or a position of the bracket 302 as well as the panel carried by the bracket 302 .
- the drive shoe 307 imparts certain loads on the pins, thereby causing the link 308 to (a) rotate relative to an axis associated with pins and/or (b) slide in one of the first or second directions 312 , 314 .
- the bracket 302 may pivot relative to the link 308 about the first movable joint 310 .
- a point at which the bracket 302 and part of the drive mechanism 306 connect corresponds to a first pivot point of the bracket 302 .
- the drive mechanism 306 is connected to a part of the bracket 302 (via the link 308 ) that is between a first end (e.g., a front end) 319 of the bracket 302 and a second end (e.g., a rear end) 320 of the bracket 302 opposite to the first end 319 .
- the first end 319 of the bracket 302 is a second pivot point of the bracket 302 spaced from the first pivot point.
- the vehicle sunroof assembly 300 includes an example guide structure (e.g., a front guide) attached to the bracket 302 and a pin 321 projecting from the guide structure.
- the pin 321 of FIG. 3A is configured to slidably engage a front guide block (not shown) coupled to the rail 303 , thereby forming and/or defining a second movable joint (e.g., a pin joint) 322 about which the bracket 302 is pivotable.
- the front guide block may include a ramped guide channel therein that connects with a linear guide channel in the rail 303 .
- each of the guide structure and/or the pin 321 is positioned substantially at or adjacent the first end 319 of the bracket 302 .
- the assembly 300 includes an example adapter 324 coupled to the bracket 302 , for example, via one or more fasteners and/or one or more fastening methods or techniques.
- the adapter 324 of FIG. 3A can be positioned at or proximate to the second end 320 of the bracket 302 , which facilitates reducing loads applied to the catch device 304 by the adapter 324 during catch operation.
- the adapter 324 is spaced from the second end 320 of the bracket 302 by a relatively small or certain distance.
- the adapter 324 is part of the bracket 302 , and/or the bracket 302 and the adapter 324 define an integral or one-piece component.
- the adapter 324 of FIG. 3A can directly contact a certain area (e.g., an internal area) of the catch device 304 (e.g., when the external force(s) 212 is/are applied to the panel held by the bracket 302 ), thereby substantially maintaining the first position of the bracket 302 as well as the first state of the sunroof 102 .
- a certain area e.g., an internal area
- the catch device 304 is movable relative to the link 308 and, in particular, relative to the bracket 302 and/or the adapter 324 thereon.
- the catch device 304 can slide along the rail 303 from a first position relative to the adapter 324 (as shown in FIG. 3A ) to a second position relative to the adapter 324 (shown in FIG. 3 B) different from the first position.
- the first position of the catch device 304 can be an engaged position in which the catch device 304 and the adapter 324 are substantially engaged with each other, while the second position of the catch device 304 can be a disengaged position in which the catch device 304 and the adapter 324 are disengaged and/or separated from each other.
- the first position of the catch device 304 can be a position in which the adapter 324 is inserted or positioned in the catch device 304 .
- the catch device 304 is connected to the motor(s) 106 via a sunroof cable (and the like) extending from the catch device 304 to the motor(s) 106 , where tension in the sunroof cable can be utilized to pull the catch device 304 .
- the catch device 304 can be moved relative to the adapter 324 ( a ) in the first direction 312 during the sunroof opening operation and/or (b) in the second direction 314 during the sunroof closing operation.
- the catch device 304 and the drive shoe 307 can be configured to move cooperatively together or in tandem during sunroof operation.
- FIG. 3B another side-view of the vehicle sunroof assembly 300 is shown.
- the bracket 302 is in the second bracket position thereof to provide the second state of the sunroof 102 .
- the drive shoe 307 moved from the first position to the second position relative to the link 308 , which changed the orientation of the link 308 .
- relative movement of the drive shoe 307 in the first direction 312 causes the link 308 to rotate relative to the drive shoe 307 in a first rotational direction 327 across a certain angle 328 , which lifts at least the second end 320 bracket 302 and a corresponding end of the panel held by the bracket 302 .
- the catch device 304 of FIG. 3B is in the second position thereof, where the catch device 304 of FIG. 3B is separated from the bracket 302 and the adapter 324 thereon.
- the link 308 when the pins on the link 308 reach ends of the respective paths 316 , 318 , the link 308 is substantially locked in place, where an orientation of the link 308 is maintained by the drive shoe 307 and/or the rail 303 (e.g., until the drive shoe 307 is moved in an opposite direction).
- the link 308 In FIG. 3B , the link 308 is substantially tilted or inclined.
- the drive shoe 307 is enabled to pull the link 308 and the bracket 302 in the first or second direction 312 , 314 at least partially across the length 305 of the rail 303 .
- the drive mechanism 306 is interposed between the bracket 302 and the rail 303 , which provides support to the bracket 302 or at least the second end 320 of the bracket 302 .
- the pin 321 associated with the first end 319 of the bracket 302 is slidably engaged with rail 303 and positioned in a certain guide channel in the rail 303 , which provides support to the first end 319 of the bracket 302 .
- the bracket 302 of FIG. 3B can be substantially supported by the rail 303 and the drive mechanism 306 .
- FIG. 3C a top-view of the vehicle sunroof assembly 300 is shown.
- FIG. 3C shows relative positioning associated with the bracket 302 , the catch device 304 , the drive shoe 307 , the link 308 , and the adapter 324 , according to at least one implementation of the vehicle sunroof assembly 300 disclosed herein.
- the assembly 300 is provided with an example sunroof panel (e.g., glass) 329 that is held by the bracket 302 , which may correspond to the first or second panel 204 , 206 previously described.
- the bracket 302 is connected to a side portion 330 of the sunroof panel 329 , for example, directly and/or via one or more intermediate components interposed between the bracket 302 and the sunroof panel 329 , such that the bracket 302 provides support to the side portion 330 .
- the side portion 330 of the sunroof panel 329 can include an edge of the sunroof panel 329 or an area adjacent the edge that extends across the length of the sunroof panel 329 .
- the drive shoe 307 is provided with a first receiver (e.g., a cable receiver) 331 , which facilitates connecting the drive shoe 307 to means for transmitting energy from the motor(s) 106 to the drive shoe 307 , such as a cable, a belt, a chain, and the like.
- the catch device 304 is provided with a second receiver (e.g., a cable receiver) 332 , which similarly facilitates connecting the catch device 304 to means for transmitting energy from the motor(s) 106 to the catch device 304 .
- the first receiver 331 can connect the drive shoe 307 to a first sunroof cable 334 extending from the first receiver 331 to the motor(s) 106
- the second receiver 332 can connect the catch device 304 to a second sunroof cable 336 extending from the second receiver 332 to the motor(s) 106
- the catch device 304 and the drive shoe 307 are connected to the same cable.
- FIG. 4 is a partial cross-sectional view of the vehicle sunroof assembly 300 along line A-A of FIG. 3C and shows an example implementation thereof.
- the rail 303 which is sometimes referred to as a sunroof rail, may be arranged alongside the panel 329 held by the bracket 302 and may extend substantially across the dimension 211 of the sunroof 102 or at least part thereof.
- the rail 303 of FIG. 4 extends in the length direction of the vehicle 100 .
- the catch device 304 is in the rail 303 near the adapter 324 and slidably coupled to the rail 303 , where the catch device 304 is slidable along the rail 303 relative to the adapter 324 .
- the rail 303 of FIG. 4 includes a rail body (e.g., an extruded body or an extrusion) 404 and a primary guide channel 406 extending through the rail body 404 along an axis of the rail 303 . That is, the primary guide channel 406 is in the rail 303 and arranged along a length of the rail 303 or at least part of the length. In such examples, the primary guide channel 406 is sized and/or shaped to receive the catch device 304 and allow the catch device 304 slide through the primary guide channel 406 .
- a rail body e.g., an extruded body or an extrusion
- one or more inner surfaces of the rail 303 defining the primary guide channel 406 is/are configured to slidably engage the catch device 304 , thereby substantially maintaining an orientation of the catch device 304 relative to the rail 303 .
- the primary guide channel 406 is configured to slidably receive the drive mechanism 306 (e.g., including drive shoe 307 and/or the link 308 ) and/or the guide structure coupled to the first end 319 of the bracket 302 .
- the catch device 304 may be provided with an example base 408 and a primary wall 410 connected to the base 408 .
- the base 408 supports the primary wall 410 and/or one or more other features of the catch device 304 .
- the base 408 and the primary wall 410 are coupled together, for example, via one or more fasteners and/or one or more fastening methods or techniques.
- the primary wall 410 is angled relative to the base 408 such that an outer surface of the primary wall 410 and an outer surface of the base 408 define an angle (e.g., angle that is substantially 90 degrees).
- the primary wall 410 is configured to fit within the primary guide channel 406 or a certain space therein.
- the base 408 can be slidably supported on a bottommost or lowermost (in the orientation of FIG. 4 ) surface 412 of the sunroof rail 303 that defines part of the primary guide channel 406 .
- a first protrusion 414 is projecting from the base 408 , where the first protrusion 414 may slide against the lowermost surface 412 and/or a second protrusion 416 projecting from the lowermost surface 412 .
- the catch device 304 includes an example body portion 418 that is slidably disposed in the sunroof rail 303 , which may be substantially formed and/or defined by the base 408 and the primary wall 410 . As such, the body portion 418 is movable relative to the bracket 302 and/or the adapter 324 .
- the body portion 418 of the catch device 304 may be implemented using a one-piece component or multiple components that are assembled.
- the body portion 418 is connectable to at least one sunroof cable 334 , 336 , for example, via the second receiver 332 .
- the base 408 , the primary wall 410 , and/or the body portion 418 of the catch device 304 is/are structured to sufficiently resist operating loads (e.g., any of tensile loads, axial loads, bending loads, and the like) applied to the catch device 304 during sunroof operation, such that plastic deformation or mechanical failure (e.g., fracturing, cracking, etc.) of the catch device 304 can be prevented.
- operating loads e.g., any of tensile loads, axial loads, bending loads, and the like
- the catch device 304 is provided with an example structure 420 that is associated with the bracket 302 and/or the adapter 324 thereon.
- the structure 420 of the catch device 304 is attached to the body portion 418 .
- the catch device 304 includes an example primary channel (e.g., U-shaped channel) 422 in the structure 420 that is configured to receive the adapter 324 when the bracket 302 is in the first position thereof.
- the primary channel 422 of FIG. 4 extends at least partially or fully through the structure 420 .
- the adapter 324 is insertable or positionable in the primary channel 422 , for example, at a certain stage of the sunroof closing operation.
- the structure 420 is configured to engage the adapter 324 to maintain the bracket 302 in the first position and/or restrict deflection (e.g., upward deflection) of the bracket 302 .
- the structure 420 is configured to removably couple, via the adapter 324 , to the bracket 302 when the bracket 302 is in the first position thereof. That is, when the bracket 302 is in the first position thereof, the adapter 324 enables structure 420 to effectively couple to the bracket 302 and decouple from the bracket 302 .
- the structure 420 and the adapter 324 shown in FIG. 4 may remain substantially engaged together, for example, until the catch device 304 is moved away from the adapter 324 .
- engagement of the structure 420 and the adapter 324 occurs only in response to the external force(s) 212 being applied to the panel held by the bracket 302 . As shown in FIG. 4 , a relatively small space or gap is between the adapter 324 and the structure 420 .
- the base 408 of FIG. 4 is connected between primary wall 410 and the structure 420 , and the structure 420 of FIG. 4 is spaced from the primary wall 410 by a relatively small or certain distance, such that a secondary channel 424 of the catch device 304 exists different from the primary channel 422 .
- the secondary channel 424 is external to the structure 420 .
- the secondary channel 424 is between the structure 420 and the primary wall 410 .
- the primary and secondary channels 422 , 424 are spaced and/or separated from each other.
- the structure 420 of FIG. 4 may be provided with one or more particularly shaped cross-sectional areas that improve holding performance. As shown in FIG.
- a certain cross-sectional area of the structure 420 is substantially U-shaped.
- Such a cross-sectional area can be located between opposite ends of the structure 420 along a plane (e.g., a frontal plane) and corresponds to part of the primary channel 422 .
- the primary channel 422 in the structure 420 is substantially U-shaped.
- the structure 420 can include a first support portion 426 and a second support portion 428 that are coupled to the base 408 of the catch device 304 . As shown in FIG. 4 , the second support portion 428 is spaced from the first support portion 426 , for example, by a relatively small or certain distance.
- the structure 420 can also include an example catch portion 430 connecting the first and second support portions 426 , 428 together, which facilitates catching, holding, and/or releasing the adapter 324 .
- the catch portion 430 of FIG. 4 may be located at a topmost (in the orientation of FIG. 4 ) portion of the U-shaped cross-sectional area corresponding to a closed side of the primary channel 422 .
- the structure 420 substantially surrounds the adapter 324 when the adapter 324 is in the primary channel 422 , as shown in FIG. 4 .
- any of the first support portion 426 , the second support portion 428 , and/or the catch portion 430 may directly contact the adapter 324 to keep the adapter 324 in the primary channel 422 while the external force(s) 212 urge the bracket 302 to move.
- first support portion 426 , the second support portion 428 , and the catch portion 430 together, form and/or define the primary channel 422 .
- first and second support portions 426 , 428 together, form and/or define an inner space in which the bracket 302 or the adapter 324 is positionable, where the inner space corresponds to the primary channel 422 or at least a portion thereof.
- Each of the first and second support portions 426 , 428 can be implemented, for example, using a relatively thin wall and/or a wall-shaped structure. Accordingly, each of the first and second support portions 426 , 428 is sometimes referred to as a wall and/or a secondary wall.
- the primary wall 410 , the base 408 , and the first support portion 426 form and/or define the secondary channel 424 .
- the catch portion 430 may be arranged and/or connected between the first and second support portions 426 , 428 .
- the catch portion 430 of FIG. 4 is coupled to the first support portion 426 and the second support portion 426 , for example, via one or more fasteners and/or one or more fastening methods or techniques.
- the catch portion 430 can be positioned at or adjacent distal ends of the respective first and second support portions 426 , 428 .
- the catch portion 430 is configured to impart a first load 432 on the adapter 324 that maintains the bracket 302 in the first position thereof.
- first and second support portions 426 , 428 are configured to resist a second load 434 applied to the catch portion 430 by the adapter 324 .
- the adapter 324 may apply the second load 434 to a particular inner area of the catch portion 430 corresponding to the closed side of the primary channel 422 .
- the second load 434 of FIG. 4 is transmittable through the first and second support portions 426 , 428 from (a) the catch portion 430 to (b) the base 408 and/or an example guide 436 on the structure 420 .
- the catch device 304 can be provided with the guide 436 (and/or one or more similar guides), which can be coupled to the structure 420 via one or more fasteners and/or one or more fastening methods or techniques.
- the primary guide channel 406 in the rail 303 may be comprised of multiple channels.
- the rail 303 defines multiple guide channels, each of which extends at least partially across the length 305 of the rail 303 to receive and guide a movable sunroof component or part thereof.
- a first guide channel (e.g., a side channel) 438 of the multiple guide channels is sized and/or shaped to receive the primary wall 410 and, in some examples, the drive shoe 307 .
- the base 408 of FIG. 4 extends out of the first guide channel 438 from the primary wall 410 to the structure 420 .
- a second guide channel (e.g., a side channel) 440 of the multiple guide channels is sized and/or shaped to receive the guide 436 .
- the guide 436 projects from a first side 442 of the structure 420 .
- the first side 442 of the structure 420 faces away from the primary wall 410 and/or in an inboard direction.
- the guide 436 of FIG. 4 is configured to engage part of the sunroof rail 303 to further restrict deflection of the bracket 302 .
- one or more inner surfaces of the sunroof rail 303 defining the second guide channel 440 is/are configured to slide against the guide 436 , which provides support to the catch device 304 .
- the guide 436 is positioned between a proximal portion 444 of the structure 420 and a distal portion 446 of the structure 420 .
- the proximal portion 444 of the structure 420 is attached to the base 408
- the distal portion 446 of the structure 420 is spaced from the base 408 and/or positioned further away from the base 408 .
- the guide 436 is proximate to or adjacent a contact area 448 of the structure 420 to which the adapter 324 applies the second load 434 .
- the guide 436 is positioned closer to the distal portion 446 than the proximal portion 444 .
- the structure 420 of FIG. 4 due to its inherent strength and/or rigidity, has a relatively short height 450 , which gives additional clearance to surrounding components. As shown in FIG. 4 , the height 450 of the structure is substantially equal to a height 452 of the primary wall 410 . Further, a width 454 of the primary channel 422 in the structure 420 is larger than a width of the adapter 324 to facilitate insertion of the adapter 324 in the primary channel 422 and/or ensure an end of the adapter 324 passes into the primary channel 422 at a final stage of the sunroof closing operation. In some examples, a first side 456 of the adapter 324 facing the first support portion 426 abuts the first support portion 426 .
- a second side 458 of the adapter 324 facing the second support portion 428 abuts the second support portion 428 .
- the adapter 324 is prevented from slipping off of the catch portion 430 in the presence of the external force(s) 212 applied to the panel (e.g., until the sunroof opening operation is initiated).
- the catch device 304 is a one-piece component.
- the base 408 , the primary wall 410 , the structure 420 (e.g., including the first and second support portions 426 , 428 and the catch portion 430 ), and/or the guide 436 are integrally formed.
- FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C are partial cross-sectional views of the vehicle sunroof assembly 300 along line B-B of FIG. 3C and show different example stages (e.g., final stages) of the previously described sunroof closing operation.
- the adjustable bracket 302 (a relatively small portion of which is shown) is substantially in the first position thereof, while the catch device 304 is being moved in the second direction 314 toward the adapter 324 such that the adapter 324 passes into the primary channel 422 of the structure 420 .
- the catch device 304 is approaching the adapter 324 , where there is no physical interaction between bracket 302 and the catch device 304 .
- the adapter 324 may pass into the primary channel 422 via a first opening 502 in a first end (e.g., a rearmost end) 504 of the structure 420 .
- the structure 420 can be provided with a first guide or contact surface 506 that is on part of the catch portion 430 internal to the structure 420 .
- a second guide or contact surface 508 may be provided on the adapter 324 , which is associated with the first contact surface 506 .
- the first contact surface 506 is configured to slide against the second contact surface 508 on the adapter 324 as the adapter 324 passes into the primary channel 422 .
- each of the first contact surface 506 and/or the second contact surface 508 has an area that is substantially inclined or curved.
- the first contact surface 506 can be provided with a first ramped area 510 configured to slidably engage and/or directly contact a second ramped area 512 of the second contact surface 508 to finely adjust a position of the bracket 302 .
- examples disclosed herein account for a certain positional variance of the bracket 302 that can result from the external force(s) 212 as the sunroof closing operation is completed.
- the catch device 304 or the structure 420 thereof begins to engage the adapter 324 as the adapter 324 travels through the first opening 502 .
- the external force(s) 212 previously described may be substantially prevalent at this stage of the sunroof closing operation depicted by FIG. 5B .
- the first and second loads 432 , 434 are generated as a result.
- the first ramped area 510 generates the first load 432 and/or imparts the first load 432 on the second ramped area 512 .
- the first and second ramped areas 510 , 512 of FIG. 5B slidably engage each other, wherein subsequent movement of the catch device 304 relative to the adapter 324 urges the adapter 324 and the bracket 302 to move, at least slightly, in a third direction (e.g., an upward direction) 514 and/or a fourth direction 516 opposite to the third direction 514 .
- a third direction e.g., an upward direction
- a fourth direction 516 opposite to the third direction 514 .
- the bracket 302 and the adapter 324 have moved slightly in the fourth direction 516 , for example, across a relatively small or certain distance. If the catch device 304 of FIG.
- the adapter 324 and the bracket 302 may move slightly further in the fourth direction 516 as the catch device 304 effectively locks the bracket 302 in the first position thereof.
- the catch device 304 of FIG. 5B slides in the first direction 312 (e.g., during the opening operation of the sunroof 102 )
- the adapter 324 and the bracket 302 may move slightly in the third direction 514 as the adapter 324 exits the primary channel 422 and disengages from the structure 420 .
- a relatively small part of the adapter 324 may exit the primary channel 422 through a second opening 518 in a second end (e.g., a front most end) 520 of the structure 420 .
- the second end 520 of the structure 420 is opposite to the first end 504 of the structure 420 .
- the primary channel 422 extends through the structure 420 from the first opening 502 to the second opening 518 .
- the inner space (defined by the first and second support portions 426 , 428 ) extends through the structure 420 from the first opening 502 to the second opening 518 . According to the illustrated example of FIG.
- the catch device 304 is in the first position thereof relative to the adapter 324 .
- the first ramped area 510 is not engaged with the second ramped area 512 .
- the first and second ramped areas 510 , 512 are separated and/or spaced from each other.
- a different area of the first contact surface 506 adjacent the first ramped area 510 is configured to directly contact a different area of the second contact surface 508 adjacent the second ramped area 512 , which substantially limits relative movement of the adapter 324 and the bracket 302 .
- Such contact occurs, for example, when the external force(s) 212 applied to the panel are relatively high and/or urge the bracket 302 to deflect (e.g., upwardly or in an upward direction).
- FIG. 6 is a detailed view of the catch device 304 , wherein an example implementation of the catch device 304 is depicted.
- the second receiver 332 previously described is on the body portion 418 .
- the second receiver 332 is coupled to the primary wall 410 , for example, via one or more fasteners and/or one or more fastening methods or techniques.
- the second receiver 332 of FIG. 6 is connected to, for example, at least one of the sunroof cables 334 , 336 . That is, the second receiver 332 of FIG.
- the catch device 304 can be precisely moved along the sunroof rail 303 and/or relative to the bracket 302 .
- the first support portion 426 , the second support portion 428 , and part of the body portion 418 are positioned adjacent the same or first end (e.g., a rearmost end) 604 of the catch device 304 .
- the primary wall 410 of FIG. 6 extends away from the first end 604 toward or to a second end 606 of the catch device 304 opposite to the first end 604 .
- the primary wall 410 extends across a length 608 of the catch device 304 .
- the primary wall 410 of FIG. 6 substantially defines the length 608 of the catch device 304 .
- the structure 420 of FIG. 6 extends across only part of the length 608 of the catch device 304 .
- the primary channel 422 of the catch device 304 extends through the structure 420 along a primary axis 610
- the secondary channel 424 of the catch device 304 extends between the body portion 418 and the structure 420 along a secondary axis 612 different from the primary axis 610
- the primary and secondary axes 610 , 612 may be substantially parallel relative to each other. Further, as shown in FIG. 6 , the primary axis 610 is spaced from the secondary axis 612 by a relatively small or certain distance 614 .
- the catch device 304 of FIG. 6 is configured to receive the adjustable bracket 302 or part thereon (e.g., the adapter 324 ) in the primary channel 422 to limit relative movement of the adjustable bracket 302 in the third direction 514 .
- the adapter 324 can be inserted or positioned in the primary channel 422 , and the structure 420 can engage the adapter 324 and/or impart the first load 432 thereon.
- a portion of the primary channel 422 is exposed by the second opening 518 . While the second opening 518 is shown, in some examples, the structure 420 of FIG. 6 is implemented differently, for example, having the first opening 502 but not the second opening 518 . In such examples, the primary channel 422 may extend only partially into the structure 420 away from the first end 504 thereof.
- the structure 420 includes ribs 616 , 618 arranged on the catch portion 430 to distribute stress and/or reduce stress concentrations in the structure 420 resulting from the second load 434 applied to the catch portion 430 by the adapter 324 .
- at least a first rib 616 is associated with the first side 442 of the structure 420
- at least second rib 618 is associated with a second side 620 of the structure 420 opposite to the first side 442 .
- the second side 620 of the structure 420 faces the primary wall 410 .
- the ribs 618 , 618 of FIG. 6 are coupled to the structure 420 , for example, via one or more fasteners and/or one or more fastening methods or techniques.
- the ribs 616 , 618 can be distributed substantially on a topmost (in the orientation of FIG. 6 ) portion of the structure 420 across a length 619 of the structure 420 or at least part thereof.
- the ribs 616 can be formed and/or defined by any of the catch portion 430 , the first support portion 426 , and/or the second support portion 428 .
- FIG. 7 is another detailed view of the example catch device 304 and shows related translational displacement resulting from certain loading conditions.
- an example load 702 is applied to the catch portion 430 of the structure 420 , which may cause the catch device 304 to elastically deform by slightly bending, twisting, etc.
- the adapter 324 can provide such a load during and/or after the sunroof closing operation.
- the catch device 304 of FIG. 7 has moderately displaced areas 704 on part of the base 408 and/or the catch portion 430 , as represented by the light dotted shading in FIG. 7 .
- the moderately displaced areas 704 correspond to translational displacement magnitude values substantially 1 millimeter (mm) or less.
- the catch device 304 also has relatively high displaced areas 706 (in comparison to other areas of the catch device 304 ) on part of the first support portion 426 and/or the catch portion 430 , as represented by the dark dotted shading of FIG. 7 .
- the relatively high displaced areas 706 correspond to translational displacement magnitude values substantially between 1 mm and 1.24 mm. In some examples, a maximum translational displacement magnitude of the catch device 304 is 1.24 mm or less.
- the catch device 304 of FIG. 7 has certain constrained or holding areas that are substantially prevented from moving in certain directions due to engagement with the rail 303 , which can be located on any of the second receiver 332 , the base 408 , the primary wall 410 , the guide 436 , etc.
- first and second holding areas 708 . 710 of the catch device 304 may be located on the guide 436 .
- the first and second holding areas 708 , 710 are relatively close to and/or adjacent to the contact area 448 to which the second load 434 is applied, which reduces forces transmitted through the catch device 304 .
- FIG. 8 is a detailed view of a different sunroof component 800 and shows related translational displacement resulting from certain loading conditions. Similar to the illustrated example of FIG. 7 , the example load 702 is applied to a portion 802 of the sunroof component 800 associated with catching a sunroof bracket. However, the sunroof component 800 of FIG. 8 does not include the aforementioned structure 420 . As a result, when under such a load, the sunroof component 800 substantially bends, twists, etc. In FIG. 8 , the sunroof component 800 has moderately displaced areas 804 represented by the light dotted shading of FIG. 8 . The moderately displaced areas 804 of FIG. 8 correspond to translational displacement magnitude values substantially 10 mm or less.
- the sunroof component 800 also has relatively high displaced areas 806 represented by the dark dotted shading of FIG. 8 .
- the relatively high displaced areas 806 correspond to translational displacement magnitude values substantially between 10 mm and 13.6 mm.
- the aforementioned catch device 304 out performs the sunroof component 800 shown in FIG. 8 by a factor of about 10.
- Examples disclosed herein provide catch devices that can be used to advantageously secure a panel of a sunroof when the sunroof is closed and/or prevent leaks associated with bracket deflection. Examples disclosed herein provide for more compact and/or lightweight sunroof architecture while improving holding performance associated with such sunroof devices.
Abstract
An assembly for a sunroof can include a rail extending in a length direction of a vehicle, a bracket beneath a sunroof panel, an adapter coupled to the bracket, and a drive mechanism connected to a part of the bracket. Movement of the drive mechanism along the rail moves the bracket between a first position in which the sunroof is closed and a second position in which the sunroof is open. A catch device can slide along the rail relative to the adapter and includes a channel extending through a structure of the catch device to receive the adapter when the bracket is in the first position. When the adapter is in the channel, the structure is configured to engage the adapter to maintain the bracket in the first position and resist deflection of the bracket.
Description
- This disclosure relates generally to vehicles and, more particularly, to sunroof catch apparatus and related sunroof assemblies for use with vehicles.
- Motor vehicles typically employ sunroofs to improve comfort of vehicle occupants by allowing sunlight to enter a vehicle cabin through a sunroof panel (e.g., glass). Some vehicle sunroofs are configured to open and close, which may be desirable to the vehicle occupants (e.g., when the vehicle cabin is relatively hot). For example, a known vehicle sunroof may have a panel that can be moved (e.g., tilted, raised, lowered, etc.) in response to a sunroof motor generating output.
- An aspect of the present disclosure includes an assembly for a sunroof of a vehicle. The assembly can include a sunroof panel and a rail extending in a length direction of the vehicle. The rail includes multiple guide channels to receive and guide movable sunroof components. The assembly can also include a bracket beneath the sunroof panel and connected to a side portion of the sunroof panel. The bracket includes a first end that is a pivot point of the bracket and a second end opposite to the first end. The assembly can also include an adapter coupled to the bracket proximate to the second end and a drive mechanism slidably coupled to the rail and connected to a part of the bracket between the first end and the second end of the bracket. Movement of the drive mechanism along the rail moves the bracket between a first position in which the sunroof is closed and a second position in which the sunroof is open. The assembly can also include a catch device slidable along the rail relative to the adapter. The catch device includes a body portion connected to a sunroof cable and a structure attached to the body portion. The catch device also includes a channel that extends through the structure configured to receive the adapter when the bracket is in the first position. When the adapter is in the channel, the structure is configured to engage the adapter to maintain the bracket in the first position and resist deflection of the bracket.
- The foregoing paragraphs have been provided by way of general introduction, and are not intended to limit the scope of the following claims.
- A more complete appreciation of the disclosure and many of the attendant advantages thereof will be readily obtained as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein:
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FIG. 1 is a view of an example vehicle in which examples disclosed herein can be implemented; -
FIG. 2A is a partial-view of the example vehicle ofFIG. 1 and shows an example vehicle sunroof in a first state; -
FIG. 2B is a view of the example vehicle sunroof ofFIG. 2A and shows a different state of the example vehicle sunroof; -
FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C are detailed views of an example sunroof assembly in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure; -
FIG. 4 is a partial cross-sectional view of the example sunroof assembly along line A-A ofFIG. 3C and shows an example implementation thereof; -
FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C are partial views of the example sunroof assembly along line B-B ofFIG. 3C and show different stages of a sunroof closing operation; -
FIG. 6 is a detailed view of an example catch device in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure; -
FIG. 7 is another detailed view of the example catch device ofFIG. 6 and shows related translational displacement resulting from certain loading conditions; and -
FIG. 8 is a detailed view of a different sunroof component and shows related translational displacement resulting from certain loading conditions. - The figures are not to scale. In general, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawing(s) and accompanying written description to refer to the same or like parts.
- Some vehicle sunroofs have known single link systems that are structured to control movement of a glass panel based on motor output. For example, a known single link system can include a main bracket arranged along a side of the panel and fixedly coupled to the panel. Additionally, the known system can be provided with a slidable shoe and a rotatable link operatively coupled to the shoe and the main bracket holding the panel, where interaction of the shoe and the link rotates the link and the bracket. However, such a known single link system may not effectively hold the main bracket in place when the sunroof is closed. For example, in certain scenarios where relatively high forces are applied to the panel (e.g., when driving at high speeds or during a vehicle rollover), a rear part of the panel may substantially deflect due to flex in the movable components of the system. In particular, the forces applied to the panel may cause the main bracket to substantially lift upward and potentially break weatherstrip seals, thereby creating an air leak that could result in undesirable noises as well as a water leak that could damage other components of a vehicle.
- Some single link systems are provided with known catching mechanism that aid in closing a sunroof panel during high-speed operations and restrict upward deflection of a bracket holding the sunroof panel when closed. Such a known catching mechanism may include a ledge that can slide against the bracket when the sunroof is closing. However, the bracket may slip off of the ledge under certain loading conditions due to an inherent structure of the catching mechanism, in turn allowing the bracket to flex and/or deflect upwards in a manner that could break the weatherstrip seals.
- Sunroof catch apparatus and related sunroof assemblies for use with vehicles are disclosed. Examples disclosed herein provide a simple, light-weight, and cost-effective solution to advantageously secure a panel (e.g., glass) of a sunroof when the sunroof is closed. Some disclosed examples provide an example vehicle sunroof assembly (e.g., a single link assembly) that can include an exemplary bracket (e.g., a function bracket) and an exemplary catch device (e.g., a high speed catch device) for maintaining the bracket in a certain position after a closing operation of the sunroof is carried out. Generally speaking, the bracket is arranged alongside the panel and configured to carry and/or support the panel. The bracket can be adjusted between different positions by applying certain forces or loads to the bracket, which opens or closes the sunroof. For example, the bracket can be adjusted between any of a lowered position, a tilted position, a raised position, and the like via a slidable shoe and a rotatable link of the assembly that cooperatively interact with each other. As will be discussed in greater detail below, the disclosed catch device is configured to engage the bracket or part thereon (e.g., an adapter) while the bracket is in a certain or first position (e.g., the lowered positioned), thereby restricting deflection of the bracket and keeping the sunroof closed in certain scenarios of interest. In particular, the disclosed catch device is effective in maintaining the bracket in the first position when the vehicle is driving at relatively high speeds and/or during a vehicle rollover, where substantially high forces are applied to the panel held by the bracket.
- The disclosed catch device can include a body portion slidably disposed in a sunroof track or rail and connected to a sunroof cable extending from the catch device to a sunroof motor. As such, the body portion and/or, more generally, the disclosed catch device can slide along the rail relative to the bracket. Further, the disclosed catch device also includes an example structure that can directly contact the bracket or an adapter thereon when the bracket is substantially in the first position to limit relative movement of the bracket. The disclosed structure is attached to the body portion of the catch device and positioned adjacent an end of the catch device. Additionally, a primary channel (e.g., a U-shaped channel) extending at least partially through the structure is sized and/or shaped to receive the adapter on the bracket. As previously mentioned, some examples disclosed herein provide an adapter, which is coupled to the bracket and may be positioned at or near an end of the bracket to better enable the disclosed device to catch, hold, and/or release the bracket. In particular, as the catch device is moved toward the bracket, the adapter or part thereof passes into the primary channel, where the structure can impart a certain load on the adapter that substantially maintains the bracket in the first position. The adapter may be provided with a hook-shaped feature that is insertable in the primary channel, which facilitates smooth engagement of the adapter and the structure.
- In some examples, the catch device includes an example base that provides support to the structure and a primary wall of the catch device coupled to a cable receiver for holding the sunroof cable. The primary wall can slide through the rail and receive guidance therefrom during sunroof operation. The structure is coupled to the base and spaced from the primary wall, such that a secondary channel, different from the primary channel, exists in the catch device between the structure and the primary wall. In such examples, both sides of the structure are supported by the base, which evenly distributes forces in the catch device during high speed catch operation.
- Additionally, in some examples, a cross-sectional area of the structure corresponding to the primary channel is substantially U-shaped, which allows for a more compact architecture (e.g., with respect to height and/or length of the catch device) while improving holding performance compared to the above-mentioned known catching mechanisms and/or single link systems. For example, a height of the structure can be substantially equal to a height of the primary wall to give additional clearance to surrounding sunroof components. In such examples, the structure can be provided with a first support portion (e.g., a relatively thin wall) and a second support portion (e.g., a relatively thin wall) that are coupled to the base of the catch device. Further, the structure can be provided with a catch portion connecting the first and second support portions together. The first and second support portions, together, can define an inner space in which the adapter on the bracket is insertable or positionable, where the catch portion is configured to impart the load on the adapter. In such examples, the first and second support portions are configured to resist a reactive load applied to the catch portion by the adapter.
- When the adapter is between the first and second support portions of the structure, the first support portion and/or the second support portion can abut the adapter, thereby keeping the adapter in the primary channel and/or engaged with the catch portion. In this manner, the examples disclosed herein prevent the adapter from slipping off of the catch portion in the presence of relatively high external forces applied to the panel (e.g., until an opening operation of the sunroof is initiated), which would have otherwise been unattainable using the above-mentioned known catching mechanisms and/or single link systems. Additionally, to facilitate reducing and/or eliminating stress concentrations in the catch device resulting from the reactive load, some examples disclosed herein provide a particular ribbing structure arranged on the catch portion, the first support portion, and/or the second support portion.
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FIG. 1 is a view of an example vehicle (e.g., a motor vehicle) 100 in which examples disclosed herein can be implemented. Thevehicle 100 ofFIG. 1 could be, for example, any of a car, a van, a truck, a sport utility vehicle (SUV), and like, or any other suitable motor vehicle. According to the illustrated example ofFIG. 1 , thevehicle 100 includes anexample sunroof 102, anexample controller 104, and one ormore example motors 106. The controller ofFIG. 1 is structured and/or configured to control the motor(s) 106 to change a state of thesunroof 102, for example, from a first state (e.g., a closed state) to a second state (e.g., an open or vented state) or vice versa. In some examples, thecontroller 104 ofFIG. 1 receives a user input from an input device (e.g., an in-vehicle button or switch accessible to an occupant in the vehicle 100) connected to thecontroller 104 and, in response, opens or closes thesunroof 102 via the motor(s) 106 and based on the user input. - The
controller 104 ofFIG. 1 can be implemented, for example, using one or more microcontrollers, one or more electronic control units (ECUs), and the like, any other suitable control circuitry, or a combination thereof. As such, thecontroller 104 may include at least one processor and a database in communication with the processor. Thecontroller 104 is sometimes referred to as a sunroof controller and/or a vehicle controller. Additionally, thecontroller 104 is communicatively coupled to the motor(s) 106, for example, via a transmission or signal wire, a bus, radio frequency, etc. In some examples, thecontroller 104 provides electrical power and/or one or more control signals or commands to the motor(s) 106, thereby controlling the motor(s) 106 and/or an output thereof (e.g., a torque and/or a force). In other examples, thecontroller 104 receives (e.g., continuously and/or repeatedly) data from the motor(s) 106, such as positional data that may be indicative of a panel position and/or the state of thesunroof 102. - The
controller 104 ofFIG. 1 may also be communicatively coupled to an input device, which facilitates interactions between thecontroller 104 and a person or user. The input device may be positioned in thevehicle 100 such that a vehicle occupant can activate and/or provided an input to the input device. In some examples, thecontroller 104 receives input data from the input device corresponding to a certain sunroof state or panel position. In response to receiving the input data, thecontroller 104 processes the input data and/or directs the motor(s) 106 in accordance with the input data. - The
sunroof 102 ofFIG. 1 can be implemented, for example, using any of a panoramic sunroof, a pop-up sunroof, a sliding sunroof, a spoiler sunroof, and the like, or any other suitable vehicle sunroof. Thesunroof 102 is sometimes referred to as a vehicle sunroof. In some examples, thesunroof 102 is structured and/or configured to open, close, vent, and/or change between different sunroof states, for examples, in response to the motor(s) 106 generating output. As such, thesunroof 102 may be provided with at least one movable panel (e.g., a glass panel) that can be tilted, raised, lowered, and the like. In such examples, when closed or in the first state, thesunroof 102 ofFIG. 1 substantially isolates acabin 108 of thevehicle 100 from an outside or external environment, such that external fluids (e.g., water, air, etc.) are prevented from flowing into thecabin 108 through thesunroof 102. Of course, light (e.g., sunlight) may be transmitted through the panel(s) of thesunroof 102 when thesunroof 102 is closed or in the first state. On the other hand, when open or in the second state, thesunroof 102 exposes thevehicle cabin 108 to the external environment, such that ambient air is permitted or enabled to flow into thevehicle cabin 108, which may be desired by a driver and/or vehicle occupant(s) in certain driving conditions. - The motor(s) 106 of
FIG. 1 can be implemented, for example, using one or more electric motors. The motor(s) 106 are coupled to thesunroof 102 and/or supported by a sunroof component. Further, the motor(s) 106 may be communicatively coupled to thecontroller 104. In some examples, in response to receiving the power and/or the control signal(s) or command(s) from thecontroller 104, the motor(s) 106 cause thesunroof 102 to open, close, and/or change between the different sunroof states. -
FIG. 2A is a partial-view of thevehicle 100 and shows thesunroof 102 in the first state. Thesunroof 102 ofFIG. 2A is coupled to aroof 202 of thevehicle 100, for example, via one or more example fasteners and/or one or more example fastening methods or techniques. Further, thesunroof 102 ofFIG. 2A or at least part thereof is disposed in anaperture 203 extending through theroof 202. Theaperture 203 can be, for example, a relatively large opening in theroof 202 that is sized and/or shaped to receive one or more sunroof components. Thesunroof 102 may be provided with one or more example panels (e.g., glass panels) 204, 206, two of which are shown in this example (i.e., afirst panel 204 and a second panel 206). InFIG. 2A , thefirst panel 204 is movable and/or is configured to move between a first panel position (as shown inFIG. 2A ) and a second panel position different from the first panel position, which changes the state of thesunroof 102. The first panel position can be, for example, a lowered position corresponding to the first state of thesunroof 102. On the other hand, the second panel position can be, for example, a raised position and/or a tilted position corresponding to the second state of thesunroof 102. In some examples, thefirst panel 204 can slide over or under thesecond panel 206 to open the sunroof 102 (e.g., seeFIG. 2B ). Additionally or alternatively, in some examples, thesecond panel 206 ofFIG. 2A is likewise movable and/or configured to move between the first panel position and the second panel position. - As previously mentioned, the
sunroof 102 ofFIG. 2A is in the first state. As such, thefirst panel 204 ofFIG. 2A is in the first panel position, and/or thesecond panel 206 ofFIG. 2A is in the first panel position. To facilitate translating the panel(s) 204, 206 and/or controlling positions thereof, thesunroof 102 is provided with one or moreexemplary assemblies FIG. 2A , a first assembly (e.g., a single link assembly) 208 is associated with translating a first side of thefirst panel 204, while a second assembly (e.g., a single link assembly) 210 is associated with translating a second side of thefirst panel 204 opposite to the first side. As will be discussed in greater detail below, each of theassemblies first panel 204 based on motor output. Such component(s) include, but are not limited to, any of an adjustable bracket, a catch device for the adjustable bracket, a slidable shoe, a rotatable link, a guide block, a guide track or rail, a cable, and the like, any other suitable component(s) associated with sunroof operation, or a combination thereof. For example, an adjustable bracket (e.g., see theexample bracket 302 shown inFIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C ) may be arranged along a side of thefirst panel 204 and coupled to the side, where the adjustable bracket provides support to and/or holds thefirst panel 204 or at least the side thereof. In another example, a sunroof track or rail may extend in a length direction of thevehicle 100 across a certain dimension (e.g., a length) 211 of thesunroof 102 or at least part of thedimension 211, which provides one or more paths or guideways along which movable sunroof components can travel. - In some examples, when the motor(s) 106 generate output, the first and
second assemblies first panel 204 ofFIG. 2A between the first and second panel positions. Additionally, when the motor(s) 106 cease generating the output, the first andsecond assemblies first panel 204 in one of the first panel position, the second panel position, or a position between the first and second panel positions, where thefirst panel 204 is substantially immobile (e.g., until subsequent motor output is generated). In such examples, eachassembly assembly first assembly 208 and/or thesecond assembly 210 can be advantageously utilized to secure thefirst panel 204 in the presence of relatively high panel forces associated with causing panel or bracket deflection, as discussed further below. - In certain driving scenarios, one or more external forces (e.g., any of suction forces, impact forces, etc.) 212 may be applied to the
first panel 204 while thesunroof 102 is closed or in the first state, which urges thefirst panel 204 to move and/or deflect along with the sunroof component(s) connected to thefirst panel 204. Such force(s) 212 can be generated, for example, as a result of thevehicle 100 driving at relatively high speeds and/or during a vehicle rollover event. In some examples, to protectweatherstrips 213 and/or other fluid seals or sealing devices of thesunroof 102, the first andsecond assemblies sunroof 102 is in the first state.FIG. 2B is a view of thevehicle sunroof 102 ofFIG. 2A and shows the second state of thevehicle sunroof 102. In contrast to the illustrated example ofFIG. 2A , thefirst panel 204 ofFIG. 2B is in the second panel position. In particular, thevehicle sunroof 102 ofFIG. 2B substantially exposes thevehicle cabin 108 to an outside environment. For example, the fluid(s) may pass into thevehicle cabin 108 through anexample opening 214 in thesunroof 102 resulting from thefirst panel 204 moving away from the first panel position. WhileFIG. 2B depicts the first andsecond panels first panel 204 is in the second panel position, in some examples, the second panel position corresponds to a different or intermediate state (e.g., a vented state) of thesunroof 102, wherein thefirst panel 204 is adjacent and substantially tilted relative to thesecond panel 206. - Although
FIGS. 2A and 2B depict aspects in connection with translating thefirst panel 204, in some examples, such aspects likewise apply to thesecond panel 206. For example, thesecond panel 206 can be similarly configured to move to provide an opening in thesunroof 102. In such examples, the first andsecond assemblies second panel 206. Alternatively, thesunroof 102 may be provided with one or more additional assemblies, different from the first andsecond assemblies second panel 206 to likewise guide and/or control movement thereof. -
FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C are detailed views of anexample assembly 300 for a sunroof of a vehicle in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure. In some examples, theassembly 300 ofFIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C corresponds to and/or can be used to implement one or more of the assemblies previously described such as, for example, thefirst assembly 208 and/or thesecond assembly 210. According to the illustrated examples ofFIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C , theassembly 300, when assembled, forms and/or defines thesunroof 102 or at least part thereof. Theassembly 300 shown is sometimes referred to as a vehicle sunroof assembly and/or a sunroof assembly. - Turning to
FIG. 3A , a side-view of theassembly 300 is shown. Theassembly 300 ofFIG. 3A includes an example bracket (e.g., a function bracket of a sunroof) 302 supporting and/or configured to hold a sunroof panel, such as the first orsecond panel bracket 302 ofFIG. 3A is adjustable and sometimes referred to as an adjustable bracket. Accordingly, thebracket 302 can be adjusted between different positions and/or orientations, for example, by applying certain forces to thebracket 302 in a substantially controlled manner. InFIG. 3A , thebracket 302 is in a first position thereof (sometimes referred to as a first bracket position) such as, for example, a lowered or closed position that provides the first state of thesunroof 102 and/or the first panel position previously described. To effectively hold thebracket 302 in the first position thereof, thevehicle sunroof assembly 300 includes an example catch device (e.g., a high speed catch device) 304 that can connect to the bracket 302 (or a part thereon) and disconnect from thebracket 302, which will be discussed in greater detail below. In particular, thecatch device 304, when connected to the bracket 302 (as shown inFIG. 3A ), is effective in reducing and/or eliminating undesired panel or bracket movement typically associated with high vehicle speeds and/or certain driving events (e.g., a vehicle rollover), where the external force(s) 212 may act on the panel held bybracket 302. - To provide support and/or guidance to the
bracket 302, thecatch device 304, and/or any other appropriate sunroof component(s), theassembly 300 ofFIG. 3A can include an example track orrail 303. Therail 303 ofFIG. 3A is positionable on theroof 202 of thevehicle 100 and/or can be fixedly coupled to the roof, for example, via one or more fasteners and/or one or more fastening methods or techniques. In particular, therail 303 ofFIG. 3A forms and/or defines at least one guideway that extends across alength 305 of therail 303 or at least part thereof to receive and guide one or more movable sunroof components, as discussed in greater detail below. - In some examples, the
vehicle sunroof assembly 300 can be provided with anexample drive mechanism 306 that is slidably coupled to therail 303, which facilitates tilting, raising, lowering, and/or otherwise translating thebracket 302 and the panel held by thebracket 302. In particular, thedrive mechanism 306 ofFIG. 3A is structured such that movement of thedrive mechanism 306 along therail 303 adjusts or moves thebracket 302 between the first position and a second position (as represented by the dotted/dashed lines ofFIG. 3A ) different from the first position. The second position, which is sometimes referred to as a second bracket position, can be, for example, a tilted position of thebracket 302 that provides the intermediate state of thevehicle sunroof 102. Alternatively, the second position can be a raised or open position of thebracket 302 that provides the second state of thevehicle sunroof 102, as discussed further below in connection withFIG. 3B . Stated differently, in some examples, the first position of thebracket 302 is a position in which thesunroof 102 is open, while the second position of thebracket 302 is a position in which thesunroof 102 is closed. - In some examples, the
drive mechanism 306 includes anexample drive shoe 307 and anexample link 308 that is operatively connected to thedrive shoe 307 and thebracket 302. Thelink 308 ofFIG. 3A is pivotably coupled to thebracket 302 such that thelink 308 and thebracket 302 can pivot or rotate relative to each other about a first movable joint (e.g., a pin joint) 310. Additionally, thelink 308 ofFIG. 3A is slidably coupled to thedrive shoe 307, for example, via a pin and slot connection defined by thelink 308 and thedrive shoe 307. In particular, thedrive shoe 307 is movable relative to thelink 308, thereby translating thelink 308 and thebracket 302. Thedrive shoe 307 can be connected to the motor(s) 106 via a sunroof cable (and the like) extending from thedrive shoe 307 to the motor(s) 106, where tension in the sunroof cable is utilized to pull thedrive shoe 307. Each of thedrive shoe 307 and thelink 308 can be disposed in therail 303 and/or configured to slide through therail 303 to receive guidance from therail 303. - In some examples, the
drive shoe 307 ofFIG. 3A can be moved relative to thelink 308 in a first direction (e.g., a rear or rearward direction) 312 during a sunroof opening operation associated with opening thesunroof 102. For example, thedrive shoe 307 can slide along therail 303 from a first position relative to the link 308 (as shown inFIG. 3A ) to a second position relative to the link 308 (shown inFIG. 3B ) different from the first position. Conversely, thedrive shoe 307 can be moved relative to thelink 308 in a second direction (e.g., a front or forward direction) 314, opposite to thefirst direction 312, during a sunroof closing operation associated with closing thesunroof 102. In any case, thedrive shoe 307 remains substantially engaged with the link 308 (e.g., thedrive shoe 307 and thelink 308 do not disconnect or separate during sunroof operation). - The
link 308 ofFIG. 3A can be implemented, for example, using a bracket and is sometimes referred to as a link bracket. In some examples, one or more guide pins are coupled to thelink 308, each of which is slidably disposed in a slot or path extending through thedrive shoe 307. For example, a first pin on thelink 308 can slide through afirst path 316 in thedrive shoe 307, and/or a second pin on the same side of the link 308 (different from the first pin) can slide through asecond path 318 in thedrive shoe 307. Thefirst path 316 may be separate from and/or adjacent to thesecond path 318. In particular, thepaths FIG. 3A are sized and/or shaped in connection with precisely controlling relative movement of thelink 308. In some examples, movement of thedrive shoe 307 relative to thelink 308 particularly changes an orientation and/or a position of thelink 308 and, consequently, changes an orientation and/or a position of thebracket 302 as well as the panel carried by thebracket 302. For example, as the pins on thelink 308 travel through respective ones of thepaths drive shoe 307 imparts certain loads on the pins, thereby causing thelink 308 to (a) rotate relative to an axis associated with pins and/or (b) slide in one of the first orsecond directions - As previously mentioned, the
bracket 302 may pivot relative to thelink 308 about the firstmovable joint 310. As such, a point at which thebracket 302 and part of thedrive mechanism 306 connect corresponds to a first pivot point of thebracket 302. InFIG. 3A , thedrive mechanism 306 is connected to a part of the bracket 302 (via the link 308) that is between a first end (e.g., a front end) 319 of thebracket 302 and a second end (e.g., a rear end) 320 of thebracket 302 opposite to thefirst end 319. Additionally, in some examples, thefirst end 319 of thebracket 302 is a second pivot point of thebracket 302 spaced from the first pivot point. In such examples, thevehicle sunroof assembly 300 includes an example guide structure (e.g., a front guide) attached to thebracket 302 and apin 321 projecting from the guide structure. Thepin 321 ofFIG. 3A is configured to slidably engage a front guide block (not shown) coupled to therail 303, thereby forming and/or defining a second movable joint (e.g., a pin joint) 322 about which thebracket 302 is pivotable. The front guide block may include a ramped guide channel therein that connects with a linear guide channel in therail 303. For example, thepin 321 ofFIG. 3A can slide through the front guide block from the ramped guide channel to the linear guide channel in therail 303, which raises thefirst end 319 of thebracket 302. InFIG. 3A , each of the guide structure and/or thepin 321 is positioned substantially at or adjacent thefirst end 319 of thebracket 302. - According to the illustrated example of
FIG. 3A , theassembly 300 includes anexample adapter 324 coupled to thebracket 302, for example, via one or more fasteners and/or one or more fastening methods or techniques. Theadapter 324 ofFIG. 3A can be positioned at or proximate to thesecond end 320 of thebracket 302, which facilitates reducing loads applied to thecatch device 304 by theadapter 324 during catch operation. As shown inFIG. 3A , theadapter 324 is spaced from thesecond end 320 of thebracket 302 by a relatively small or certain distance. In some examples, theadapter 324 is part of thebracket 302, and/or thebracket 302 and theadapter 324 define an integral or one-piece component. In particular, theadapter 324 ofFIG. 3A can directly contact a certain area (e.g., an internal area) of the catch device 304 (e.g., when the external force(s) 212 is/are applied to the panel held by the bracket 302), thereby substantially maintaining the first position of thebracket 302 as well as the first state of thesunroof 102. - Similar to the
drive shoe 307, thecatch device 304 is movable relative to thelink 308 and, in particular, relative to thebracket 302 and/or theadapter 324 thereon. For example, thecatch device 304 can slide along therail 303 from a first position relative to the adapter 324 (as shown inFIG. 3A ) to a second position relative to the adapter 324 (shown in FIG. 3B) different from the first position. The first position of thecatch device 304 can be an engaged position in which thecatch device 304 and theadapter 324 are substantially engaged with each other, while the second position of thecatch device 304 can be a disengaged position in which thecatch device 304 and theadapter 324 are disengaged and/or separated from each other. Additionally or alternatively, the first position of thecatch device 304 can be a position in which theadapter 324 is inserted or positioned in thecatch device 304. In any case, thecatch device 304 is connected to the motor(s) 106 via a sunroof cable (and the like) extending from thecatch device 304 to the motor(s) 106, where tension in the sunroof cable can be utilized to pull thecatch device 304. In such examples, thecatch device 304 can be moved relative to the adapter 324 (a) in thefirst direction 312 during the sunroof opening operation and/or (b) in thesecond direction 314 during the sunroof closing operation. Further, thecatch device 304 and thedrive shoe 307 can be configured to move cooperatively together or in tandem during sunroof operation. - Turning to
FIG. 3B , another side-view of thevehicle sunroof assembly 300 is shown. InFIG. 3B , thebracket 302 is in the second bracket position thereof to provide the second state of thesunroof 102. In contrast to the illustrated example ofFIG. 3A , thedrive shoe 307 moved from the first position to the second position relative to thelink 308, which changed the orientation of thelink 308. For example, during the sunroof opening operation, relative movement of thedrive shoe 307 in thefirst direction 312 causes thelink 308 to rotate relative to thedrive shoe 307 in a firstrotational direction 327 across acertain angle 328, which lifts at least thesecond end 320bracket 302 and a corresponding end of the panel held by thebracket 302. Additionally, thecatch device 304 ofFIG. 3B is in the second position thereof, where thecatch device 304 ofFIG. 3B is separated from thebracket 302 and theadapter 324 thereon. - In some examples, when the pins on the
link 308 reach ends of therespective paths link 308 is substantially locked in place, where an orientation of thelink 308 is maintained by thedrive shoe 307 and/or the rail 303 (e.g., until thedrive shoe 307 is moved in an opposite direction). InFIG. 3B , thelink 308 is substantially tilted or inclined. Additionally, in such examples, while thelink 308 is substantially locked or in a locked state, thedrive shoe 307 is enabled to pull thelink 308 and thebracket 302 in the first orsecond direction length 305 of therail 303. - In
FIG. 3B , thedrive mechanism 306 is interposed between thebracket 302 and therail 303, which provides support to thebracket 302 or at least thesecond end 320 of thebracket 302. Whereas thepin 321 associated with thefirst end 319 of thebracket 302 is slidably engaged withrail 303 and positioned in a certain guide channel in therail 303, which provides support to thefirst end 319 of thebracket 302. As such, thebracket 302 ofFIG. 3B can be substantially supported by therail 303 and thedrive mechanism 306. - Turning to
FIG. 3C , a top-view of thevehicle sunroof assembly 300 is shown. In particular,FIG. 3C shows relative positioning associated with thebracket 302, thecatch device 304, thedrive shoe 307, thelink 308, and theadapter 324, according to at least one implementation of thevehicle sunroof assembly 300 disclosed herein. According to the illustrated example ofFIG. 3C , theassembly 300 is provided with an example sunroof panel (e.g., glass) 329 that is held by thebracket 302, which may correspond to the first orsecond panel bracket 302 ofFIG. 3C is arranged beneath thesunroof panel 329 and can extend at least partially across a length of thesunroof panel 329. Additionally, thebracket 302 is connected to aside portion 330 of thesunroof panel 329, for example, directly and/or via one or more intermediate components interposed between thebracket 302 and thesunroof panel 329, such that thebracket 302 provides support to theside portion 330. InFIG. 3C , theside portion 330 of thesunroof panel 329 can include an edge of thesunroof panel 329 or an area adjacent the edge that extends across the length of thesunroof panel 329. - In some examples, the
drive shoe 307 is provided with a first receiver (e.g., a cable receiver) 331, which facilitates connecting thedrive shoe 307 to means for transmitting energy from the motor(s) 106 to thedrive shoe 307, such as a cable, a belt, a chain, and the like. Additionally or alternatively, thecatch device 304 is provided with a second receiver (e.g., a cable receiver) 332, which similarly facilitates connecting thecatch device 304 to means for transmitting energy from the motor(s) 106 to thecatch device 304. For example, thefirst receiver 331 can connect thedrive shoe 307 to afirst sunroof cable 334 extending from thefirst receiver 331 to the motor(s) 106, and/or thesecond receiver 332 can connect thecatch device 304 to asecond sunroof cable 336 extending from thesecond receiver 332 to the motor(s) 106. In some examples, thecatch device 304 and thedrive shoe 307 are connected to the same cable. -
FIG. 4 is a partial cross-sectional view of thevehicle sunroof assembly 300 along line A-A ofFIG. 3C and shows an example implementation thereof. According to the illustrated example ofFIG. 4 , therail 303, which is sometimes referred to as a sunroof rail, may be arranged alongside thepanel 329 held by thebracket 302 and may extend substantially across thedimension 211 of thesunroof 102 or at least part thereof. In some examples, therail 303 ofFIG. 4 extends in the length direction of thevehicle 100. InFIG. 4 , thecatch device 304 is in therail 303 near theadapter 324 and slidably coupled to therail 303, where thecatch device 304 is slidable along therail 303 relative to theadapter 324. - In some examples, the
rail 303 ofFIG. 4 includes a rail body (e.g., an extruded body or an extrusion) 404 and aprimary guide channel 406 extending through therail body 404 along an axis of therail 303. That is, theprimary guide channel 406 is in therail 303 and arranged along a length of therail 303 or at least part of the length. In such examples, theprimary guide channel 406 is sized and/or shaped to receive thecatch device 304 and allow thecatch device 304 slide through theprimary guide channel 406. As thecatch device 304 slides through theprimary guide channel 406, one or more inner surfaces of therail 303 defining theprimary guide channel 406 is/are configured to slidably engage thecatch device 304, thereby substantially maintaining an orientation of thecatch device 304 relative to therail 303. Similarly, in some examples, theprimary guide channel 406 is configured to slidably receive the drive mechanism 306 (e.g., includingdrive shoe 307 and/or the link 308) and/or the guide structure coupled to thefirst end 319 of thebracket 302. - To improve stability of the
catch device 304 while sliding, thecatch device 304 may be provided with anexample base 408 and aprimary wall 410 connected to thebase 408. In some examples, thebase 408 supports theprimary wall 410 and/or one or more other features of thecatch device 304. InFIG. 4 , thebase 408 and theprimary wall 410 are coupled together, for example, via one or more fasteners and/or one or more fastening methods or techniques. Further, theprimary wall 410 is angled relative to the base 408 such that an outer surface of theprimary wall 410 and an outer surface of the base 408 define an angle (e.g., angle that is substantially 90 degrees). In particular, theprimary wall 410 is configured to fit within theprimary guide channel 406 or a certain space therein. Further, the base 408 can be slidably supported on a bottommost or lowermost (in the orientation ofFIG. 4 )surface 412 of thesunroof rail 303 that defines part of theprimary guide channel 406. As shown inFIG. 4 , afirst protrusion 414 is projecting from thebase 408, where thefirst protrusion 414 may slide against thelowermost surface 412 and/or asecond protrusion 416 projecting from thelowermost surface 412. - Additionally or alternatively, in some examples, the
catch device 304 includes anexample body portion 418 that is slidably disposed in thesunroof rail 303, which may be substantially formed and/or defined by thebase 408 and theprimary wall 410. As such, thebody portion 418 is movable relative to thebracket 302 and/or theadapter 324. Thebody portion 418 of thecatch device 304 may be implemented using a one-piece component or multiple components that are assembled. Thebody portion 418 is connectable to at least onesunroof cable second receiver 332. In any case, thebase 408, theprimary wall 410, and/or thebody portion 418 of thecatch device 304 is/are structured to sufficiently resist operating loads (e.g., any of tensile loads, axial loads, bending loads, and the like) applied to thecatch device 304 during sunroof operation, such that plastic deformation or mechanical failure (e.g., fracturing, cracking, etc.) of thecatch device 304 can be prevented. - According to the illustrated example of
FIG. 4 , thecatch device 304 is provided with anexample structure 420 that is associated with thebracket 302 and/or theadapter 324 thereon. InFIG. 4 , thestructure 420 of thecatch device 304 is attached to thebody portion 418. In particular, thecatch device 304 includes an example primary channel (e.g., U-shaped channel) 422 in thestructure 420 that is configured to receive theadapter 324 when thebracket 302 is in the first position thereof. Theprimary channel 422 ofFIG. 4 extends at least partially or fully through thestructure 420. In particular, theadapter 324 is insertable or positionable in theprimary channel 422, for example, at a certain stage of the sunroof closing operation. More particularly, when theadapter 324 is in the primary channel 422 (as shown inFIG. 4 ), thestructure 420 is configured to engage theadapter 324 to maintain thebracket 302 in the first position and/or restrict deflection (e.g., upward deflection) of thebracket 302. - In some examples, the
structure 420 is configured to removably couple, via theadapter 324, to thebracket 302 when thebracket 302 is in the first position thereof. That is, when thebracket 302 is in the first position thereof, theadapter 324 enablesstructure 420 to effectively couple to thebracket 302 and decouple from thebracket 302. In such examples, thestructure 420 and theadapter 324 shown inFIG. 4 may remain substantially engaged together, for example, until thecatch device 304 is moved away from theadapter 324. In other examples, engagement of thestructure 420 and theadapter 324 occurs only in response to the external force(s) 212 being applied to the panel held by thebracket 302. As shown inFIG. 4 , a relatively small space or gap is between theadapter 324 and thestructure 420. - The
base 408 ofFIG. 4 is connected betweenprimary wall 410 and thestructure 420, and thestructure 420 ofFIG. 4 is spaced from theprimary wall 410 by a relatively small or certain distance, such that asecondary channel 424 of thecatch device 304 exists different from theprimary channel 422. Unlike theprimary channel 422, thesecondary channel 424 is external to thestructure 420. InFIG. 4 , thesecondary channel 424 is between thestructure 420 and theprimary wall 410. Additionally, the primary andsecondary channels structure 420 ofFIG. 4 may be provided with one or more particularly shaped cross-sectional areas that improve holding performance. As shown inFIG. 4 , a certain cross-sectional area of thestructure 420 is substantially U-shaped. Such a cross-sectional area can be located between opposite ends of thestructure 420 along a plane (e.g., a frontal plane) and corresponds to part of theprimary channel 422. Accordingly, in some examples, theprimary channel 422 in thestructure 420 is substantially U-shaped. - Further, in such examples, the
structure 420 can include afirst support portion 426 and asecond support portion 428 that are coupled to thebase 408 of thecatch device 304. As shown inFIG. 4 , thesecond support portion 428 is spaced from thefirst support portion 426, for example, by a relatively small or certain distance. Thestructure 420 can also include anexample catch portion 430 connecting the first andsecond support portions adapter 324. Thecatch portion 430 ofFIG. 4 may be located at a topmost (in the orientation ofFIG. 4 ) portion of the U-shaped cross-sectional area corresponding to a closed side of theprimary channel 422. Thus, in some examples, thestructure 420 substantially surrounds theadapter 324 when theadapter 324 is in theprimary channel 422, as shown inFIG. 4 . In such examples, any of thefirst support portion 426, thesecond support portion 428, and/or thecatch portion 430 may directly contact theadapter 324 to keep theadapter 324 in theprimary channel 422 while the external force(s) 212 urge thebracket 302 to move. - In
FIG. 4 , thefirst support portion 426, thesecond support portion 428, and thecatch portion 430, together, form and/or define theprimary channel 422. More generally, the first andsecond support portions bracket 302 or theadapter 324 is positionable, where the inner space corresponds to theprimary channel 422 or at least a portion thereof. Each of the first andsecond support portions second support portions FIG. 4 , theprimary wall 410, thebase 408, and thefirst support portion 426 form and/or define thesecondary channel 424. - The
catch portion 430 may be arranged and/or connected between the first andsecond support portions catch portion 430 ofFIG. 4 is coupled to thefirst support portion 426 and thesecond support portion 426, for example, via one or more fasteners and/or one or more fastening methods or techniques. Further, thecatch portion 430 can be positioned at or adjacent distal ends of the respective first andsecond support portions catch portion 430 is configured to impart afirst load 432 on theadapter 324 that maintains thebracket 302 in the first position thereof. Additionally, the first andsecond support portions second load 434 applied to thecatch portion 430 by theadapter 324. Theadapter 324 may apply thesecond load 434 to a particular inner area of thecatch portion 430 corresponding to the closed side of theprimary channel 422. In particular, thesecond load 434 ofFIG. 4 is transmittable through the first andsecond support portions catch portion 430 to (b) thebase 408 and/or anexample guide 436 on thestructure 420. As such, thecatch device 304 can be provided with the guide 436 (and/or one or more similar guides), which can be coupled to thestructure 420 via one or more fasteners and/or one or more fastening methods or techniques. - To better guide movable components of the
sunroof assembly 300, theprimary guide channel 406 in therail 303 may be comprised of multiple channels. Stated differently, in some examples, therail 303 defines multiple guide channels, each of which extends at least partially across thelength 305 of therail 303 to receive and guide a movable sunroof component or part thereof. As shown inFIG. 4 , a first guide channel (e.g., a side channel) 438 of the multiple guide channels is sized and/or shaped to receive theprimary wall 410 and, in some examples, thedrive shoe 307. Thebase 408 ofFIG. 4 extends out of thefirst guide channel 438 from theprimary wall 410 to thestructure 420. Additionally or alternatively, a second guide channel (e.g., a side channel) 440 of the multiple guide channels is sized and/or shaped to receive theguide 436. InFIG. 4 , theguide 436 projects from afirst side 442 of thestructure 420. Thefirst side 442 of thestructure 420 faces away from theprimary wall 410 and/or in an inboard direction. In particular, theguide 436 ofFIG. 4 is configured to engage part of thesunroof rail 303 to further restrict deflection of thebracket 302. In some examples, one or more inner surfaces of thesunroof rail 303 defining thesecond guide channel 440 is/are configured to slide against theguide 436, which provides support to thecatch device 304. - In
FIG. 4 , theguide 436 is positioned between aproximal portion 444 of thestructure 420 and adistal portion 446 of thestructure 420. Theproximal portion 444 of thestructure 420 is attached to thebase 408, while thedistal portion 446 of thestructure 420 is spaced from thebase 408 and/or positioned further away from thebase 408. Additionally, in some examples, theguide 436 is proximate to or adjacent acontact area 448 of thestructure 420 to which theadapter 324 applies thesecond load 434. As shown inFIG. 4 , theguide 436 is positioned closer to thedistal portion 446 than theproximal portion 444. By positioning theguide 436 within close proximity to thecontact area 448, bending and/or twisting in the structure 420 (resulting from interaction of theguide 436 and the sunroof rail 303) is substantially prevented. - The
structure 420 ofFIG. 4 , due to its inherent strength and/or rigidity, has a relativelyshort height 450, which gives additional clearance to surrounding components. As shown inFIG. 4 , theheight 450 of the structure is substantially equal to aheight 452 of theprimary wall 410. Further, awidth 454 of theprimary channel 422 in thestructure 420 is larger than a width of theadapter 324 to facilitate insertion of theadapter 324 in theprimary channel 422 and/or ensure an end of theadapter 324 passes into theprimary channel 422 at a final stage of the sunroof closing operation. In some examples, afirst side 456 of theadapter 324 facing thefirst support portion 426 abuts thefirst support portion 426. Additionally or alternatively, in some examples, asecond side 458 of theadapter 324 facing thesecond support portion 428 abuts thesecond support portion 428. In such examples, theadapter 324 is prevented from slipping off of thecatch portion 430 in the presence of the external force(s) 212 applied to the panel (e.g., until the sunroof opening operation is initiated). - In some examples, the
catch device 304 is a one-piece component. In such examples, thebase 408, theprimary wall 410, the structure 420 (e.g., including the first andsecond support portions guide 436 are integrally formed. -
FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C are partial cross-sectional views of thevehicle sunroof assembly 300 along line B-B ofFIG. 3C and show different example stages (e.g., final stages) of the previously described sunroof closing operation. According to the illustrated examples ofFIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C , the adjustable bracket 302 (a relatively small portion of which is shown) is substantially in the first position thereof, while thecatch device 304 is being moved in thesecond direction 314 toward theadapter 324 such that theadapter 324 passes into theprimary channel 422 of thestructure 420. - Turning to
FIG. 5A , thecatch device 304 is approaching theadapter 324, where there is no physical interaction betweenbracket 302 and thecatch device 304. Theadapter 324 may pass into theprimary channel 422 via afirst opening 502 in a first end (e.g., a rearmost end) 504 of thestructure 420. To facilitate smooth engagement and/or disengagement, thestructure 420 can be provided with a first guide orcontact surface 506 that is on part of thecatch portion 430 internal to thestructure 420. Further, a second guide orcontact surface 508 may be provided on theadapter 324, which is associated with thefirst contact surface 506. In some examples, thefirst contact surface 506 is configured to slide against thesecond contact surface 508 on theadapter 324 as theadapter 324 passes into theprimary channel 422. Additionally, each of thefirst contact surface 506 and/or thesecond contact surface 508 has an area that is substantially inclined or curved. In such examples, thefirst contact surface 506 can be provided with a first rampedarea 510 configured to slidably engage and/or directly contact a second rampedarea 512 of thesecond contact surface 508 to finely adjust a position of thebracket 302. In this manner, examples disclosed herein account for a certain positional variance of thebracket 302 that can result from the external force(s) 212 as the sunroof closing operation is completed. - Turning to
FIG. 5B , thecatch device 304 or thestructure 420 thereof begins to engage theadapter 324 as theadapter 324 travels through thefirst opening 502. The external force(s) 212 previously described may be substantially prevalent at this stage of the sunroof closing operation depicted byFIG. 5B . In particular, the first andsecond loads FIG. 5B , the first rampedarea 510 generates thefirst load 432 and/or imparts thefirst load 432 on the second rampedarea 512. - In some examples (e.g., when the external force(s) 212 applied to the panel are relatively high and/or urge the
bracket 302 to deflect upwardly), the first and second rampedareas FIG. 5B slidably engage each other, wherein subsequent movement of thecatch device 304 relative to theadapter 324 urges theadapter 324 and thebracket 302 to move, at least slightly, in a third direction (e.g., an upward direction) 514 and/or afourth direction 516 opposite to thethird direction 514. In contrast to the illustrated example ofFIG. 5A , thebracket 302 and theadapter 324 have moved slightly in thefourth direction 516, for example, across a relatively small or certain distance. If thecatch device 304 ofFIG. 5B continues sliding in the second direction 314 (e.g., seeFIG. 5C ), theadapter 324 and thebracket 302 may move slightly further in thefourth direction 516 as thecatch device 304 effectively locks thebracket 302 in the first position thereof. On the other hand, if thecatch device 304 ofFIG. 5B slides in the first direction 312 (e.g., during the opening operation of the sunroof 102), theadapter 324 and thebracket 302 may move slightly in thethird direction 514 as theadapter 324 exits theprimary channel 422 and disengages from thestructure 420. - Turning to
FIG. 5C , a relatively small part of theadapter 324 may exit theprimary channel 422 through asecond opening 518 in a second end (e.g., a front most end) 520 of thestructure 420. Thesecond end 520 of thestructure 420 is opposite to thefirst end 504 of thestructure 420. As such, in some examples, theprimary channel 422 extends through thestructure 420 from thefirst opening 502 to thesecond opening 518. Additionally or alternatively, in some examples, the inner space (defined by the first andsecond support portions 426, 428) extends through thestructure 420 from thefirst opening 502 to thesecond opening 518. According to the illustrated example ofFIG. 5C , thecatch device 304 is in the first position thereof relative to theadapter 324. In contrast to the illustrated example of FIG. 5B, the first rampedarea 510 is not engaged with the second rampedarea 512. Further, as shown inFIG. 5C , the first and second rampedareas first contact surface 506 adjacent the first rampedarea 510 is configured to directly contact a different area of thesecond contact surface 508 adjacent the second rampedarea 512, which substantially limits relative movement of theadapter 324 and thebracket 302. Such contact occurs, for example, when the external force(s) 212 applied to the panel are relatively high and/or urge thebracket 302 to deflect (e.g., upwardly or in an upward direction). -
FIG. 6 is a detailed view of thecatch device 304, wherein an example implementation of thecatch device 304 is depicted. InFIG. 6 , thesecond receiver 332 previously described is on thebody portion 418. In some examples, thesecond receiver 332 is coupled to theprimary wall 410, for example, via one or more fasteners and/or one or more fastening methods or techniques. Thesecond receiver 332 ofFIG. 6 is connected to, for example, at least one of thesunroof cables second receiver 332 ofFIG. 6 is configured to receive and hold a sunroof cable 336 (and the like) such that energy is transmittable through thesunroof cable 336 from the motor(s) 106 to thesecond receiver 332. Accordingly, in some examples, theprimary wall 410 and/or, more generally, thebody portion 418 ofFIG. 6 is/are connected to thesunroof cable 336 via thesecond receiver 332. By creating tension in thecable 336 ofFIG. 6 , thecatch device 304 can be precisely moved along thesunroof rail 303 and/or relative to thebracket 302. - In
FIG. 6 , thefirst support portion 426, thesecond support portion 428, and part of the body portion 418 (e.g., the primary wall 410) are positioned adjacent the same or first end (e.g., a rearmost end) 604 of thecatch device 304. Theprimary wall 410 ofFIG. 6 extends away from thefirst end 604 toward or to asecond end 606 of thecatch device 304 opposite to thefirst end 604. As shown inFIG. 6 , theprimary wall 410 extends across alength 608 of thecatch device 304. In some examples, theprimary wall 410 ofFIG. 6 substantially defines thelength 608 of thecatch device 304. On the other hand, thestructure 420 ofFIG. 6 extends across only part of thelength 608 of thecatch device 304. - According to the illustrated example of
FIG. 6 , theprimary channel 422 of thecatch device 304 extends through thestructure 420 along aprimary axis 610, while thesecondary channel 424 of thecatch device 304 extends between thebody portion 418 and thestructure 420 along asecondary axis 612 different from theprimary axis 610. The primary andsecondary axes FIG. 6 , theprimary axis 610 is spaced from thesecondary axis 612 by a relatively small orcertain distance 614. - In some examples, the
catch device 304 ofFIG. 6 is configured to receive theadjustable bracket 302 or part thereon (e.g., the adapter 324) in theprimary channel 422 to limit relative movement of theadjustable bracket 302 in thethird direction 514. As previously described, theadapter 324 can be inserted or positioned in theprimary channel 422, and thestructure 420 can engage theadapter 324 and/or impart thefirst load 432 thereon. InFIG. 6 , a portion of theprimary channel 422 is exposed by thesecond opening 518. While thesecond opening 518 is shown, in some examples, thestructure 420 ofFIG. 6 is implemented differently, for example, having thefirst opening 502 but not thesecond opening 518. In such examples, theprimary channel 422 may extend only partially into thestructure 420 away from thefirst end 504 thereof. - In some examples, the
structure 420 includesribs catch portion 430 to distribute stress and/or reduce stress concentrations in thestructure 420 resulting from thesecond load 434 applied to thecatch portion 430 by theadapter 324. As shown inFIG. 6 , at least afirst rib 616 is associated with thefirst side 442 of thestructure 420, while at leastsecond rib 618 is associated with asecond side 620 of thestructure 420 opposite to thefirst side 442. Thesecond side 620 of thestructure 420 faces theprimary wall 410. Theribs FIG. 6 are coupled to thestructure 420, for example, via one or more fasteners and/or one or more fastening methods or techniques. Further, theribs FIG. 6 ) portion of thestructure 420 across alength 619 of thestructure 420 or at least part thereof. In such examples, theribs 616 can be formed and/or defined by any of thecatch portion 430, thefirst support portion 426, and/or thesecond support portion 428. -
FIG. 7 is another detailed view of theexample catch device 304 and shows related translational displacement resulting from certain loading conditions. InFIG. 7 , anexample load 702 is applied to thecatch portion 430 of thestructure 420, which may cause thecatch device 304 to elastically deform by slightly bending, twisting, etc. As previously described, theadapter 324 can provide such a load during and/or after the sunroof closing operation. Thecatch device 304 ofFIG. 7 has moderately displacedareas 704 on part of thebase 408 and/or thecatch portion 430, as represented by the light dotted shading inFIG. 7 . The moderately displacedareas 704 correspond to translational displacement magnitude values substantially 1 millimeter (mm) or less. Further, thecatch device 304 also has relatively high displaced areas 706 (in comparison to other areas of the catch device 304) on part of thefirst support portion 426 and/or thecatch portion 430, as represented by the dark dotted shading ofFIG. 7 . The relatively high displacedareas 706 correspond to translational displacement magnitude values substantially between 1 mm and 1.24 mm. In some examples, a maximum translational displacement magnitude of thecatch device 304 is 1.24 mm or less. - Additionally, the
catch device 304 ofFIG. 7 has certain constrained or holding areas that are substantially prevented from moving in certain directions due to engagement with therail 303, which can be located on any of thesecond receiver 332, thebase 408, theprimary wall 410, theguide 436, etc. For example, first and second holdingareas 708. 710 of thecatch device 304 may be located on theguide 436. In particular, the first and second holdingareas contact area 448 to which thesecond load 434 is applied, which reduces forces transmitted through thecatch device 304. -
FIG. 8 is a detailed view of adifferent sunroof component 800 and shows related translational displacement resulting from certain loading conditions. Similar to the illustrated example ofFIG. 7 , theexample load 702 is applied to aportion 802 of thesunroof component 800 associated with catching a sunroof bracket. However, thesunroof component 800 ofFIG. 8 does not include theaforementioned structure 420. As a result, when under such a load, thesunroof component 800 substantially bends, twists, etc. InFIG. 8 , thesunroof component 800 has moderately displacedareas 804 represented by the light dotted shading ofFIG. 8 . The moderately displacedareas 804 ofFIG. 8 correspond to translational displacement magnitude values substantially 10 mm or less. Further, thesunroof component 800 also has relatively high displacedareas 806 represented by the dark dotted shading ofFIG. 8 . The relatively high displacedareas 806 correspond to translational displacement magnitude values substantially between 10 mm and 13.6 mm. Thus, theaforementioned catch device 304 out performs thesunroof component 800 shown inFIG. 8 by a factor of about 10. - It will be appreciated that the systems, apparatus, and methods disclosed in the foregoing description provide numerous advantages. Examples disclosed herein provide catch devices that can be used to advantageously secure a panel of a sunroof when the sunroof is closed and/or prevent leaks associated with bracket deflection. Examples disclosed herein provide for more compact and/or lightweight sunroof architecture while improving holding performance associated with such sunroof devices.
- Although certain example systems, apparatus, and methods have been disclosed herein, the scope of coverage of this patent is not limited thereto. Obviously, numerous modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings. It is therefore to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein.
- Thus, the foregoing discussion discloses and describes merely exemplary embodiments of the present invention. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. Accordingly, the disclosure of the present invention is intended to be illustrative, but not limiting of the scope of the invention, as well as other claims. The disclosure, including any readily discernible variants of the teachings herein, defines, in part, the scope of the foregoing claim terminology such that no inventive subject matter is dedicated to the public.
Claims (14)
1. An assembly for a sunroof of a vehicle, comprising:
a sunroof panel;
a rail extending in a length direction of the vehicle, the rail including multiple guide channels to receive and guide movable sunroof components;
a bracket beneath the sunroof panel and connected to a side portion of the sunroof panel, the bracket including a first end that is a pivot point of the bracket and a second end opposite to the first end;
an adapter coupled to the bracket proximate to the second end;
a drive mechanism slidably coupled to the rail and connected to a part of the bracket between the first end and the second end of the bracket, movement of the drive mechanism along the rail moving the bracket between a first position in which the sunroof is closed and a second position in which the sunroof is open; and
a catch device slidable along the rail relative to the adapter, the catch device including:
a base slidable along a bottom surface of the rail,
a primary wall extending upward from the base and connected to a sunroof cable, and
a structure attached to the base, the structure including a first support portion extending upward from the base at a side of the base opposite to the primary wall, a second support portion slidable on the rail and spaced from the first support portion, and a catch portion connected between upper ends of the first and second support portions, the first support portion, the second support portion, and the catch portion, together, defining a channel that extends through the structure configured to receive the adapter when the bracket is in the first position, and when the adapter is in the channel, the structure is configured to engage the adapter to maintain the bracket in the first position and resist deflection of the bracket.
2. The assembly of claim 1 , wherein a cross-sectional area of the structure is U-shaped.
3. (canceled)
4. The assembly of claim 1 , wherein the first and second support portions of the structure, together, are configured to resist a load applied to the catch portion by the adapter.
5. The assembly of claim 4 , wherein the structure includes ribs arranged on the catch portion to distribute stress in the structure resulting from the load.
6. The assembly of claim 4 , wherein the structure includes a first contact surface on part of the catch portion internal to the structure, the first contact surface configured to slide against a second contact surface on the adapter as the adapter passes into the channel.
7. The assembly of claim 6 , wherein each of the first and second contact surfaces has an area that is inclined or curved.
8. (canceled)
9. The assembly of claim 1 , wherein a height of the structure is substantially equal to a height of the primary wall.
10. The assembly of claim 1 , wherein the catch device includes a guide that projects from a side of the second support portion, the guide configured to engage part of the rail to further restrict deflection of the bracket.
11. The assembly of claim 10 , wherein the guide is positioned between a proximal portion of the structure and a distal portion of the structure.
12. The assembly of claim 11 , wherein the guide is closer to the distal portion than the proximal portion.
13. The assembly of claim 10 , wherein the guide is adjacent a contact area of the structure to which the adapter applies a load.
14. The assembly of claim 1 , wherein the catch device includes a first protrusion that projects from the base slides along a second protrusion that projects from the bottom surface of the rail.
Priority Applications (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US17/011,113 US11279215B1 (en) | 2020-09-03 | 2020-09-03 | Sunroof catch apparatus and related sunroof assemblies for use with vehicles |
CN202022742108.1U CN215662898U (en) | 2020-09-03 | 2020-11-24 | Assembly for a sunroof for a vehicle |
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US17/011,113 US11279215B1 (en) | 2020-09-03 | 2020-09-03 | Sunroof catch apparatus and related sunroof assemblies for use with vehicles |
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US20220063385A1 true US20220063385A1 (en) | 2022-03-03 |
US11279215B1 US11279215B1 (en) | 2022-03-22 |
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US17/011,113 Active US11279215B1 (en) | 2020-09-03 | 2020-09-03 | Sunroof catch apparatus and related sunroof assemblies for use with vehicles |
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US20200164729A1 (en) * | 2018-11-27 | 2020-05-28 | Roof Systems Germany Gmbh | Sliding roof system for a motor vehicle |
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US20010008347A1 (en) * | 2000-01-19 | 2001-07-19 | Nobuo Ito | Sunroof apparatus |
US20080303316A1 (en) * | 2007-06-11 | 2008-12-11 | Robert Brady Mooney | Venting Spoiler Glass Moving Mechanism |
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US10647185B2 (en) | 2018-10-11 | 2020-05-12 | AISIN Technical Center of America, Inc. | Drive link apparatus for use with vehicle sunroofs |
US10618388B1 (en) | 2018-10-11 | 2020-04-14 | AISIN Technical Center of America, Inc. | Sunroof high speed catch device |
-
2020
- 2020-09-03 US US17/011,113 patent/US11279215B1/en active Active
- 2020-11-24 CN CN202022742108.1U patent/CN215662898U/en active Active
Patent Citations (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20010008347A1 (en) * | 2000-01-19 | 2001-07-19 | Nobuo Ito | Sunroof apparatus |
US20080303316A1 (en) * | 2007-06-11 | 2008-12-11 | Robert Brady Mooney | Venting Spoiler Glass Moving Mechanism |
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20200164729A1 (en) * | 2018-11-27 | 2020-05-28 | Roof Systems Germany Gmbh | Sliding roof system for a motor vehicle |
US11718161B2 (en) * | 2018-11-27 | 2023-08-08 | Roof Systems Germany Gmbh | Sliding roof system for a motor vehicle |
Also Published As
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CN215662898U (en) | 2022-01-28 |
US11279215B1 (en) | 2022-03-22 |
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