Air curtain using smart materials
US10226991B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 6, 2015 |
| Grant date | Mar 12, 2019 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 6, 2035 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60J5/0493
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus provides an air shield over a portal access opening between a vehicle access member and a stationary vehicle trim member. An air supply device disposed within the vehicle. The air supply device includes an active material creating the burst of air. The air supply device produces a burst of air that discharges upon opening of the vehicle access member. At least one output port outputs the burst of air. The burst of air forms the air shield in a direction substantially transverse to the portal opening. The air shield is formed across at least a portion of a perimeter of the portal access opening between the vehicle access member and the stationary vehicle trim member. The air shield inhibits precipitation from entering the compartment of the vehicle during a pressure equalization phase that occurs in response to the opening of the vehicle access member.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.