Patent Abstract:
A motor driven sunshield for permanent installation within the interior of an automotive vehicle, securely attached to the roof of the vehicle between the roof interior surface and the interior roof lining. Operable in either manual or semi-automatic mode, the sunshield can be deployed while the vehicle transmission is in PARK mode to cover the windshield of the vehicle for preventing potentially damaging solar radiation from entering the interior of the vehicle through the windshield. Conversely when the transmission is in RUN mode, i.e. drive, reverse, or neutral, the sunshield is automatically retracted to provide unobstructed views for the driver. When fabricated from a suitably tough material and the electrical control circuitry configured to permit a secure locked condition, the deployed sunshield can also offer a deterrent to unauthorized operation of the vehicle.

Full Description:
BACKGROUND 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention concerns generally a sunshield for installation in a vehicle. In particular, the present invention is directed to a manually and automatically controlled motor driven sunshield for automotive vehicles, wherein the present invention is installed in a motor vehicle featuring a windshield and a roof covering the driver and passenger seating area, and wherein such vehicle features an electrical system, an ignition key control system, an automatic transmission system, and a roof system covering the driver and passenger seating area, all such systems in communication therewith. For example, the present invention, powered by the vehicle&#39;s electrical system and attached to the interior of the roof, provides a motor driven shield that automatically deploys to cover the interior surface of the vehicle windshield when the transmission lever is in PARK position and the ignition key is turned off. Conversely, when the ignition key is turned on and the transmission lever is placed in NEUTRAL, DRIVE or REVERSE position, the motor driven shield automatically retracts to allow safe, unrestricted visibility through the windshield. Although the present invention is automatically controlled by communication with the ignition key system and the automatic transmission system, the shield additionally may be retracted or deployed when the transmission is in PARK position, through manual operation of a momentary contact switch. When extended to cover the windshield and the ignition key removed, the present invention, in conjunction with a security system, obscures driver visibility through the windshield, providing some deterrence to unauthorized operation of the automobile. 
     2. Description of Related Art 
     Manually placed and adjusted sunshields for temporarily covering the windshield of an automotive vehicle are nearly ubiquitous, available in a plethora of shapes, sizes, and colors, providing ample testimony for the need to protect the dashboard of contemporary motor vehicles. Unfortunately, forgetfulness on the part of the motor vehicle operator often results in an overheated vehicle or, worse, a damaged dashboard, when the simple, manually placed sunshield is absent from its intended position. U.S. Pat. No. 5,038,844 “AUTO WINDOW SHADE” and U.S. Pat. No. 4,886,104 “WINDOW SHADE APPARATUS” are incorporated herein by reference for the purpose of indicating the mature state of the art for providing a temporary sunshade for covering the windshield and protecting the dashboard and interior of a motor vehicle. 
     In addition to providing protection from the sun&#39;s rays traveling through the windshield, other inventions disclose sunshields for the side windows and sunroof of motor vehicles. U.S. Pat. No. 4,867,220 “SUNSHADE ASSEMBLEY OF MOTOR VEHICLE” is incorporated herein by reference for the purpose of indicating the mature state of the art for providing a sunshade for use with a sun roof construction of a motor vehicle. 
     SUMMARY 
     An object of the present invention is to provide a permanently installed, motor driven sunshield to prevent potentially damaging solar radiation from passing through the windshield and entering the interior of an automotive vehicle. A further object of the present invention is to provide both manual and automatic operation of the motor driven sunshield. For example, the sunshield automatically fully deploys when transmission is placed in PARK and the ignition key turned off; subsequently, the sunshield can be partially or fully retracted with a manually operated momentary contact switch while in the PARK mode; and the sunshield automatically fully retracts when the ignition key is turned on and the transmission placed in NEUTRAL, DRIVE or REVERSE. Another object of the present invention is to provide a securable sunshield mechanism that deters unauthorized operation of the sunshield. 
     The present invention relieves the motorist, particularly those motorists driving in sunny regions, from having to place and subsequently remove from the interior of the windshield a simple fabric or paper product sun shield. The popularity of these inexpensive sun shields is demonstrated by their ubiquity in the South and Southwest regions. However, these inexpensive devices do deteriorate and wear out. The present invention is intended for permanent installation. 
     Manual placement and removal of the inexpensive sunshields is time consuming and sometimes inconvenient; consequently, motorists, confronted with the dilemma of whether to place the inexpensive sunshield, often opt not to place the device, particularly on a cloudy or overcast day. Unfortunately, the motorist may often return to the vehicle, chagrined to find the bright rays of a sunny day entering the unprotected windshield, heating the interior of the vehicle and potentially damaging the dashboard. The present invention automatically deploys when the ignition key is turned off, removing this vexation to the motorist. 
     The slats of the present invention may be fabricated from a strong material, such as metal or polycarbonates. Use of a tough, resilient slat material, in conjunction with a security locking system for the deployment and retraction control mechanism, can deter unauthorized operation of the present invention. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     FIG. 1 is an exemplary perspective view of an embodiment of a motor driven sunshield according to the present invention, wherein the sunshield is fully retracted while the ignition key is turned on and the vehicle transmission is in the RUN mode of operation, i.e. drive, neutral, or reverse. Phantom lines denote the vehicle, which is not claimed in the present invention. Shown are the relative positions of the shield assembly, the wheel track assembly, the rack assembly, and the drive assembly. 
     FIG. 2 is an exemplary perspective view of an embodiment of a motor driven sunshield according to the present invention, wherein the sunshield is fully deployed to protect the dashboard and interior of the vehicle from potentially harmful sun rays otherwise passing through the windshield. The present invention may be deployed only when the vehicle transmission is in the PARK mode of operation, i.e. the vehicle is stationary. Phantom lines denote the vehicle, which is not claimed in the present invention. Shown are the relative positions of the shield assembly, the wheel track assembly, the rack and rack guide assembly, and the drive assembly. 
     FIG. 3 is an exemplary top view of an embodiment of a motor driven sunshield according to the present invention, wherein the sunshield is fully retracted to permit unobstructed vision while operating the vehicle. Phantom lines denote the vehicle, which is not claimed in the present invention. Shown are the relative positions of the shield assembly, the wheel track assembly, the rack assembly, and the drive assembly. 
     FIG. 4 is an exemplary top view of an embodiment of a motor driven sunshield according to the present invention, wherein the sunshield is fully deployed to protect the dashboard and interior of vehicle from potentially harmful sunrays otherwise passing through the windshield. Phantom lines denote the vehicle, which is not claimed in the present invention. Shown are the relative positions of the shield assembly, the wheel track assembly, the rack and rack guide assembly, and the drive assembly. 
     FIG. 5 is a top view of an embodiment of an intermediate slat assembly according to the present invention, the slat assembly comprising a slot section and a pin section, wherein the slot section comprises a slotted slat upper section and a slotted slat lower section, formed as a unit. The slotted slat lower section and pin section each feature a first crenelated edge and a second crenelated edge. The merlons, defining the crenels, each feature a merlon bore, parallel to the lengthwise axis of the slat assembly. The merlons and crenels are not of equal width. 
     FIG. 6 is an exploded top view of FIG.  5 . For clarity, the merlon bores are not shown. 
     FIG. 7 is a side view of an embodiment of an intermediate slat assembly according to the present invention, previously shown in FIG. 5 in a top view. 
     FIG. 8 is an exploded side view of FIG.  7 . For clarity, the merlon bores are not shown. The slot retaining pin, in conjunction with the slot formed in the slotted slat upper section, assists maintaining the pin section and the slotted slat upper section in a proximate relationship. 
     FIG. 9 is a top view of an embodiment of an intermediate slat assembly according to the present invention, wherein two of such slat assemblies are joined together with a compressible dual axle and wheel assembly, illustrating how a plurality of slat assemblies are combined to form a shield. The compressible dual axle turns freely in the associated merlon bore. 
     FIG. 10 is an exemplary view of the compressible dual axle and wheel assembly according to the present invention, illustrating the assembly in the extended mode of use. Also shown is the connective axle pin. 
     FIG. 11 is an exemplary view of the compressible dual axle and wheel assembly according to the present invention, illustrating the assembly in the compressed mode of use. Here the connective axle pin is fully enclosed within the dual axles. 
     FIG. 12 is an enlarged broken view of the first wheel edge (leftmost portion) of FIG. 5, additionally including a first wheel and associated axle to illustrate how the axle passes through and turns freely within each participating merlon bore of a slat. 
     FIG. 13 is an end view of FIG. 12 illustrating a first wheel and a merlon and merlon bore of the second crenelated edge of an intermediate slat. 
     FIG. 14 is a top view of an exemplary embodiment of a driver slat assembly according to the present invention, the slat assembly comprising a slot section and a pin section, wherein the slot section comprises a slotted slat upper section and a slotted slat lower section, formed as a unit. The slotted slat lower section and pin section each feature a driver slat crenelated edge. The merlons, defining the crenels, each feature a merlon bore, parallel to the lengthwise axis of the slat assembly. The merlons and crenels are not of equal width. The driver slat assembly includes a first rack connective mount and second rack connective mount used for connecting the driver slat to a mechanical means for deploying and retracting the driver slat and all other slats connected thereto. 
     FIG. 15 is an exploded view of FIG.  14 . In the interest of clarity, the merlon bores are not shown. 
     FIG. 16 is an enlarged broken view of the first wheel edge (leftmost portion) of FIG. 14, additionally including a first wheel and associated axle to illustrate how the axle passes through and turns freely within each participating merlon bore of a slat. Also shown is a first rack connective mount used for connecting the driver slat to a mechanical means for deploying and retracting the driver slat and all other slats connected thereto. 
     FIG. 17 is an end view of FIG.  16 . 
     FIG. 18 is a top view of an exemplary embodiment of a skirt slat assembly according to the present invention, the slat assembly comprising a slot section and a pin section, wherein the slot section comprises a slotted slat upper section and a slotted slat lower section, formed as a unit. The slotted slat lower section and pin section each feature a skirt slat crenelated edge. The merlons, defining the crenels, each feature a merlon bore, parallel to the lengthwise axis of the slat assembly. The merlons and crenels are not of equal width. The skirt slat assembly includes a pliable skirt, which is molded to conform to the general contour of the vehicle dashboard. 
     FIG. 19 is an exploded view of FIG.  18 . For clarity, the merlon bores are not shown. 
     FIG. 20 is an enlarged broken view of the first skirt section guide pin edge (leftmost portion) of FIG. 18, further illustrating the first dual disk flange guide pin and a portion of the skirt. 
     FIG. 21 is an end view of FIG.  20 . 
     FIG. 22 is an exemplary top view of an embodiment of a motor driven sunshield according to the present invention, illustrating, in retracted position, a sun shield assembly comprising a driver slat assembly, a skirt slat assembly, and a plurality of intermediate slat assemblies interconnected, by a plurality of dual axles, between and to the driver slat assembly and skirt slat assembly. Also illustrated are the associated first and second wheels, with their dual axles, and the guide pins. The retaining pin of each slat assembly lies in a line perpendicular to the principal axis of the slats, confirming the slats and dual axles are in the compressed (retracted) mode. For clarity, the first and second wheel tracks are not shown. 
     FIG. 23 is an exemplary top view of an embodiment of a motor driven sunshield according to the present invention, illustrating, in deployed position, a sun shield assembly comprising a driver slat assembly, a skirt slat assembly, and a plurality of intermediate slat assemblies interconnected, by a plurality of dual axles, between and to the driver slat assembly and skirt slat assembly. Also illustrated are the first and second wheel tracks associated with first and second wheels, with their dual axles, and the guide pins. The retaining pin of each slat assembly lies in a line not perpendicular to the principal axis of the slats, confirming the slats and dual axles are in the extended (deployed) mode. For clarity, the first and second wheels are not shown. 
     FIG. 24 is an exemplary top view of an embodiment of a motor driven sunshield according to the present invention, illustrating, in deployed mode, a rack assembly and drive assembly, including a first and second pinion. A first rack drive rod extends from a first rack and a second rack drive rod extends from a second rack, the drive rods normally connected to an associated connection mount on a driver slat assembly. 
     FIG. 25 is an exemplary top view of an embodiment of a motor driven sunshield according to the present invention, illustrating, in retracted mode, a rack assembly and drive assembly, including a first and second pinion. A first rack drive rod extends from a first rack and a second rack drive rod extends from a second rack, the drive rods normally connected to an associated connection mount on a driver slat assembly. 
     FIG. 26 is an exemplary top view of an embodiment of a motor driven sunshield according to the present invention, illustrating, in retracted mode, a shield assembly connected to a rack assembly and drive assembly, including a first and second pinion. Here a first rack drive rod extends from a first rack and a second rack drive rod extends from a second rack, the drive rods connected to an associated connection mount on a driver slat assembly. 
     FIG. 27 is a sectional view of FIG. 26, illustrating the dispositional relationships among the drive assembly, rack assembly, wheels, wheel tracks, and shield-mounting pedestal. For clarity, the slat assemblies are not shown. 
     FIG. 28 is a sectional view of FIG. 23, illustrating the dispositional relationship between the shield assembly, wheels, and wheel track assembly. The section occurs behind the slot and retaining pin of the drive slat. 
     FIG. 29 is a broken view of a second rack, illustrating a second rack drive rod, second pinion, and rack bearing balls. 
     FIG. 30 is a partial sectional view of FIG:  24 , illustrating exclusively a cross-section of a rack guide, including a rack guide raceway. 
     FIG. 31 is a partial sectional view of FIG. 24, illustrating exclusively a cross-section of a rack, including a rack bearing ball. 
     FIG. 32 is a partial sectional view of FIG. 24, illustrating exclusively a cross-section of a rack guide and rack. 
     FIG. 33 is a broken view of the underside of a rack, illustrating a plurality of rack bearing balls and rack bearing ball retainer. 
     FIG. 34 is a broken view of the drive assembly, illustrating the reversible drive motor, motor limit switch, first and second pinions, and first and second motor shafts. 
     FIG. 35 is an exemplary broken side view of the motor driven sunshield according to the present invention, illustrating the dispositional positioning of the wheels, wheel track assembly, rack assembly, shield assembly, and drive assembly, and their location relative to the roof and interior lining of the vehicle. 
     FIG. 36 is an enlarged broken end view of a first wheel track and first wheel of a slat. The track cross section is in the general rectilinear shape of a “C”. 
     FIG. 37 is an enlarged broken end view of a rectilinear cross section first wheel track and first dual disk flange guide captive therein. 
     FIG. 38 is an exemplary electrical circuit schematic connecting the motor driven sun shield to the electrical system of the vehicle, according to the present invention. The electrical circuit, including sensors and switches, allows deployment of the sunshield only when the vehicle transmission is in PARK mode. In DRIVE mode, the sunshield is automatically retracted to provide unobstructed vision for the driver. 
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
     In an exemplary perspective view, FIG. 1 depicts a motor driven sunshield according to the present invention. Shield assembly  10  is shown fully retracted within roof  4  of automotive vehicle  2 , permitting unobstructed vision through windshield  6  for the driver when the ignition key switch is turned on, and the transmission of vehicle  2  is in the RUN mode, that is, Drive, Neutral, or Reverse. Shield assembly  10  is widthwise extensible when deployed to conform to the generally trapezoidal shape of windshield  6 , which is encompassed by windshield frame  8 . Vehicle  2 , including roof  4 , roof interior liner  5  (FIG.  35 ), windshield  6 , and windshield frame  8  are illustrated with phantom lines in the figures herewith and are not claimed in the present invention. A typical windshield of a conventional automotive vehicle is wider across the bottom than across the top, consequently, an effective sun shield for a windshield must be capable of configuring to a trapezoidal shape. Effective low-friction mobility for shield assembly  10  during deployment forward and across the interior surface of windshield  6  and subsequent retraction to a position for storage beneath roof  4  by a plurality of wheels confined within first wheel track  133  and second wheel track  142 , a first portion of each being proximate to roof  4  and parallel to each other and to the lengthwise axis of vehicle  2 , and a second portion of each track splaying outward and downward to conform to the vertical, side portions of frame  8 . Retraction and deployment of shield assembly  10  is provided by twin shaft reversible drive motor  223 , connected to first pinion  229  and second pinion  233 , each in turn connected to first rack  158  and second rack  182 , respectively. Each rack is connected to a portion of the shield assembly  10 . When the present invention is fully retracted and effectively in storage position, each track is in its rearward most position. 
     FIG. 2 illustrates, in perspective view, an embodiment of the present invention fully deployed, conforming to the generally trapezoidal shape of windshield frame  8  of vehicle  2 . Shield assembly  10 , has moved from its storage location beneath roof  4  to cover the inner surface of windshield  6  (not shown). In addition to showing elements of the present invention displayed previously in FIG. 1, FIG. 2 introduces first rack guide channel  168  and second rack guide channel  192 . These guide channels confine the movement of first rack  158  and second rack  182 , respectively, during deployment and retraction of shield assembly  10 . As in FIG. 1, motor vehicle  2  is shown in phantom lines. The present invention is intended for installation in the vehicle between the roof  4  and the roof interior liner  5  (not shown, either as original equipment during manufacture or post-manufacture add-on by an automotive specialty shop. 
     Top views of the present invention, illustrating full retraction and full deployment of shield assembly  10 , are shown in FIG.  3  and FIG. 4, respectively. These figures clearly depict how the first wheel track  133  and second wheel track  142 , initially parallel to each other proximate to and beneath roof  4 , splay outward to conform to the side portions of windshield frame  8 . During deployment, twin shaft reversible motor  223  urges both first rack  158  and second rack  182  forward, moving and configuring shield assembly  10 , connected thereto, covering the interior surface of windshield  6 . Movement of first rack  158  is confined to forward or rearward motion by first rack guide channel  168 ; likewise, second rack  182  is confined by second rack guide channel  192 . 
     The widthwise-extensible shield assembly  10  is fabricated from a plurality of hinged, lengthwise extensible slidable slats, including at least one drive slat  89  FIG.  14 ), at least one dashboard skirt slat  65  (FIG. 18) and a plurality of intermediate slats  12  (FIG. 5) connected therefrom. Depicted in top (plan) views, FIGS. 5,  6 , each intermediate slat  12  has two separable sections; a slot section  14  featuring a first wheel edge  34 , a slotted slat upper section  16 , having a slot  18 , and a slotted slat lower section  20 , and a pin section  40 . Pin section  40  has a capped slot retaining pin  42  and a second wheel edge  59  (FIG.  6 ). Details of an intermediate slat  12 , illustrated in FIG. 5, show two lengthwise crenelated edges, each edge having a plurality of crenels  24  and a plurality of merlons  26 . Typically, the width of each crenel exceeds the width of each merlon. Each merlon has a merlon bore  28 , whose axis is parallel with the lengthwise axis of the slat. Each slat additionally features a slot  18  and a cooperative capped slot retaining pin  42 , a first wheel edge  34  and a second wheel edge  59 . To clarify some of the details, an exploded top view, FIG. 6, depicts separately a slot section  14  and pin section  40 . A slot  18  is formed in slotted slat upper section  16 . Slotted slat lower section  20  features a slot section first crenelated edge  22  and a slot section second crenelated edge  30 . In addition to having a capped slot retaining pin  42  (FIG.  5 ), pin section  40  similarly features a pin section first crenelated edge  47  and a pin section second crenelated edge  55 . Structure of the intermediate slat  12 , is further illustrated in side (elevation) view, FIG.  7  and exploded side (elevation) view FIG.  8 . These views clearly demonstrate the capability of a portion of pin section  40  to slide underneath slotted slat upper section  16 , constrained to close proximity to each other by capped slot retaining pin  42 . To clarify the structure of the intermediate slat  12 , the plurality of merlon bores is not shown in FIG.  6  and FIG.  8 . 
     Connecting together a plurality of intermediate slats  12  with alternating crenels and merlons of adjacent slats effects fabrication of shield assembly  10 . The top (first) intermediate slat is further connected to a drive slat  89  and the bottom (last) intermediate slat is further connected to a dashboard skirt slat  65 . FIG. 9 depicts how adjacent slats are connected together with a wheel and dual axle assembly  49 , passing through alternating merlon bores of adjacent slats. Wheel and dual axle assembly  49  rotates freely within all merlon bores. 
     Wheel and dual axle assembly  49 , illustrated in FIG.  10  and FIG. 11 extension and compression, respectively, comprises a first wheel  36  connected to a first wheel tubiform axle  38  and a second wheel  61  connected to a second wheel tubiform axle  63 . Axle  38  and axle  63  are slidably and rotatably connected with connective axle pintle  64  permitting the two axles to rotate and slide lengthwise, independent of each other. This construction allows lengthwise extension and compression of the wheel and dual axle assembly  49 . 
     When passed through alternating merlon bores  28  of adjacent slats, forming a special hinge, the wheel and axle assembly, in conjunction with the slot  18  and retaining pin  42 , and the proportional difference in the width of crenels and merlons, allow simultaneously a lengthwise extensibility and widthwise curvature of the surface of shield assembly  10  to configure and conform to the generally curved, trapezoidal shape of a typical windshield. 
     Further detail of intermediate slat  12  is illustrated in a broken, enlarged top (plan) view (FIG. 12) and end view (left side) (FIG. 13) of slotted slat lower section  20 , showing a typical crenel  24 , merlon  26 , merlon bore  28 , first wheel edge  34 , first wheel  36 , and first wheel tubiform axle  38 . 
     As mentioned hereinbefore, the shield assembly  10  includes a drive slat  89 , connected to the top (first) intermediate slat  12 , for linkage to a mechanism for deploying assembly  10  across or retracting from the windshield  6  of vehicle  2 . 
     With three important exceptions, drive slat  89 , illustrated in assembled top view of FIG.  14  and exploded top view of FIG. 15, is virtually identical to intermediate slat  12 . For example, drive slat slot section crenelated edge  99  and drive pin section crenelated edge  121  (FIG. 15) are identical to slot section first crenelated edge  22  (FIG. 6) and pin section first crenelated edge  47  (FIG.  6 ), respectively. The drive slat  89  and the intermediate slat  12  both feature a plurality of merlon bores  28 , merlons  26 , and crenels  24 . Likewise, both types of slats have a slot  18  and a capped slot retaining pin  42 . Drive slot section  91  features drive slat first wheel edge  107  (FIG. 15) corresponding to first wheel edge  34  of intermediate slat  12 ; likewise, drive slat pin section  113  has a drive slat second wheel edge  123  corresponding to second wheel edge  59  of intermediate slat  12 . 
     The three exceptions are: first, drive slat slotted section outer edge  97  and drive slat pin section outer edge  98  are smooth, in marked contrast to the crenelated edges of slot section second crenelated edge  30  (FIG. 6) and pin section second crenelated edge  55 ; second, drive slat  89  features a first rack connection mount  109  and a second rack connection mount  125  to facilitate connection to a drive mechanism; and third, a motor control stop rod  111  is attached to drive slot section  91  to de-energize the drive mechanism upon full retraction of shield assembly  10 . Details are further clarified in the broken, partial top view of drive slot section  91 , FIG. 16, and the broken, partial end (side) view of drive slot section  91 , FIG.  17 . FIG.  16  and FIG. 17 provide more detail for first rack connection mount  109 , showing the mount to be tubiform for receiving a mechanical connection from the drive mechanism and also showing a first wheel  36  and associated first wheel tubiform axle  38  inserted in the merlon bores  28  of merlons  26 . 
     FIG. 18, assembled top view, and FIG. 19, exploded top view, depict the dashboard skirt slat  65 , which is attached via a wheel and dual axle assembly  49  (FIG. 10, FIG.  11 ), to the bottom-most intermediate slat  12  of shield assembly  10 . Again, similar to drive slat  89 , dashboard skirt slat  65  is virtually identical to intermediate slat  12 , with two notable exceptions: first, there is a first skirt section guide pin  78  attached to first skirt section wheel edge  77  and a second skirt section guide pin  88  attached to second skirt section wheel edge  87 ; second, a pliant dashboard skirt configuring and conforming to the general contour of the dashboard of vehicle  2  is attached to dashboard skirt slat  65 . Lower slot section skirt  75  is attached to skirt slotted slat lower section  70 ; upper slot section skirt  74  is attached to skirt slotted slat upper section  68 ; and skirt pin section skirt  85  is attached to skirt pin section  79 . This configuration allows skirt pin section skirt  85  to slip beneath upper slot section skirt  74  while widthwise extension or compression of shield assembly  10  is occurring. A top (plan) exploded view of dashboard skirt slat  65  is shown in FIG. 19, clearly depicting skirt slot section  67  and skirt pin section  79 . First skirt slot lower section skirt edge  73 , first skirt slot upper section skirt edge  76 , and skirt pin section skirt edge  83  are pliant and contour to fit the general contour of the dashboard when the present invention is fully deployed. Additional detail is provided in the broken, enlarged top of a portion of skirt slotted slat lower section  70 , FIG. 20, and the broken, enlarged left-side view, FIG. 21, showing the first skirt section wheel edge  77 . 
     A top (plan) broken view, FIG. 22, of composite shield assembly  10  shows a plurality of interconnected intermediate slats  12 , the top intermediate slat connected to a drive slat  89  and the bottom intermediate slat connected to a dashboard skirt slat  65 , each such connection effected with a wheel and dual axle assembly  49 . In this view the length of each extensible slat is constant, the width of the shield assembly  10  is constant, and the plurality of first wheels, second wheels, and capped slot retaining pins are each in a distinct straight line, parallel to each other, signifying that the shield assembly  10  is in a fully compressed, retracted state. 
     Conversely, FIG. 23 depicts the shield assembly  10  in a fully extended, deployed state. Here the plurality of first wheels and first skirt section guide pin are confined and hidden within first wheel track  133  and the plurality of second wheels and second skirt section guide pin are confined and hidden within second wheel track  142 . These confining wheel tracks, conforming to the two vertical sides of windshield frame  8  (FIG. 3, FIG. 4) urge first dual disk flange guide pin  78 , and second dual disk flange guide pin  88  and also the plurality of first and second wheels outward, proportionally extending the width of shield assembly  10  to conform to the general trapezoidal shape of windshield  6 . The proportional difference in width between the crenels and merlons, allow each slat to extend lengthwise more than the successive, adjacent, connected slat, immediately following. The line formed by the plurality of capped slot retainer pins  42  is no longer parallel to both the first wheel track  133  and the second wheel track  142 . 
     FIG. 24 (top view) and FIG. 25 (top view) illustrate a rack assembly  156  as an exemplary means for providing a mechanism to move the shield assembly  10  forward during deployment and rearward during retraction, respectively. A plurality of shield mounting pedestal transverse members  153  supports a first rack guide channel  168  and a second rack guide channel  192 . First rack guide channel  168  contains and controls the movement of first rack  158 ; similarly, second rack guide channel  192  contains and controls the movement of second rack  182 . Bearing raceway  178  facilitates movement and control of first rack  158 ; bearing raceway  202  facilitates movement and control of second rack  182 . The cut teeth of first rack  158  are operationally engaged with the cut teeth of first pinion  229 , this pinion, in turn, is connected to first shaft  227  (FIG. 27) of twin shaft reversible motor  223 . Like-wise, the cut teeth of second rack  182  are operationally engaged with the cut teeth of second pinion  233 , this pinion, in turn, is connected to second shaft  231  of twin shaft reversible motor  223 . Attached to the forward end of first rack  158  and protruding therefrom is first rack drive rod  206 . Second rack drive rod  208  is, in like manner, attached to the forward end of second rack  182  and protruding therefrom. Attached to twin shaft reversible drive motor  223  is shield automatic retract limit switch  251  (normally closed) for interrupting electrical power supply to motor  223  when electrical motor control system  243  (FIG. 38) of the present invention is in the automatic retract mode and the shield assembly  10  is fully retracted. 
     FIG. 26 (top, broken view) shows shield assembly  10  operatively connected to rack assembly  156 , wherein first rack drive rod  206  (FIG. 24) is connected to first rack connection mount  109  (FIG. 22, FIG. 14) and second rack drive rod  208  (FIG. 24) is connected to second rack connection mount  125  (FIG. 22, FIG.  14 ). In this view, shield assembly  10  is fully retracted and motor control stop rod  111  (FIG. 14, FIG. 15) has engaged shield retract limit switch  251  deenergizing drive motor  223 , preventing further rearward travel of shield assembly  10  while electrical motor control system  243  is in the automatic retract mode. The plurality of first wheels  36  and first skirt section guide pin  78  are confined and concealed within first wheel track  133 ; likewise, the plurality of second wheels  61  and second skirt section guide pin  88  are confined and concealed within first wheel track  142 . 
     A sectional view of FIG. 26 is shown in FIG. 27, illustrating how the present invention is disposed beneath the roof  4  (shown in phantom lines) of vehicle  2 . This sectional view is toward the rear of the vehicle  2 . All components of the composite present invention are securely attached to or mounted upon shield mounting pedestal  151  or its plurality of integral components, shield mounting pedestal transverse member  153 . The mounting pedestal  151  is securely and permanently affixed to the interior side of roof  4 . 
     FIG. 28 is a simplified sectional view of FIG. 23, showing a front (elevation) section of drive slat  89  (FIG.  14 ). Also shown are first rack connection mount  109 , second rack connection mount  125 , first wheel track  133  and second wheel track  142 . 
     Details of the relation between rack and pinion are displayed in FIG. 29, a broken, enlarged, elevation view. Second pinion  233  is securely affixed to second shaft  231  of twin shaft reversible drive motor  223 . The cut teeth of pinion  233  operatively engage the cut teeth of second rack  182 . The bottom of rack  182  features a lengthwise raceway groove for receiving a plurality of rack bearing balls  204 , such balls retained in the groove by rack bearing ball retainer  205 . Rack  182  additionally possesses a second rack drive rod  208  for connection to second rack connection mount  125  (FIG.  28  and FIG.  23 ). 
     FIG. 30, FIG. 31, and FIG. 32 are partial sectional views of FIG. 24, showing exclusively detail of first rack guide channel  168  (FIG.  30 ), and first rack  158  (FIG.  31 ), and composite channel and rack (FIG.  32 ). Channel  168  features a first rack guide channel exterior edge  170 , a first rack guide channel exterior flange  171 , a first rack guide channel bottom edge  172 , a first rack guide channel interior edge  174 , a first rack guide channel interior flange  175 , a first rack guide channel bottom internal surface  176 , and a lengthwise guide channel raceway  178 . 
     In like manner, second rack guide channel  192  (not shown) features a second rack guide channel exterior edge; a second rack guide channel exterior flange, a second rack guide channel bottom edge, a second rack guide channel interior edge, a second rack guide channel interior flange, a second rack guide channel bottom internal surface, and a lengthwise second guide channel raceway  202 . 
     FIG. 31 illustrates a sectional view of first rack  158 , featuring a first rack toothed upper edge  160 , a first rack exterior edge  162 , exhibiting a lengthwise groove, slidably cooperative with exterior flange  171 , a first rack interior edge  164 , such edge featuring a lengthwise groove slidably cooperative with interior flange  175 , and a first rack bottom edge  166 . Also shown is rack bearing ball  204  and rack bearing ball retainer  205 . In the interest of clarity, the bearing ball is not shown in section. 
     The sectional view of FIG. 32 shows first rack  158  disposed within the channel of first rack guide channel  168 , sliding forward for deployment and rearward for retraction on the plurality of rack bearing balls  204  positioned in guide channel raceway  178 . 
     Depicted in the bottom view of FIG. 33, first rack bottom edge  166  possesses a lengthwise rack raceway to receive a plurality of bearing balls  204  retained in place by rack bearing ball retainer  205 . 
     Drive assembly  221 , shown in the broken view of FIG. 34, includes a twin shaft reversible drive motor  223 , a first shaft  227  (broken to improve efficacy of FIG. 34) connected to a first pinion  229 , a second shaft  231  (also broken in FIG. 34) connected to a second pinion  233 , and a shield retract limit switch  251  (normally closed). Motor  223  is powered by electrical motor control system  243 , which receives power from the vehicle&#39;s electrical system. 
     FIG. 35 is a broken side view of an embodiment of the present invention, the invention disposed between roof  4  and roof interior liner  5  of vehicle  2  (FIG. 1) (the vehicle  2 , including windshield  6 , windshield frame  8 , roof  4 , and roof liner  5  shown in phantom lines and not claimed). All components of the composite present invention are securely affixed to shield mounting pedestal  151  and its associated plurality of shield mounting pedestal transverse members  153  (FIG.  27 ), which in turn, is securely and permanently attached to the underside of roof  4 . First wheel track  133  extends underneath roof  4 , windshield  6 , and windshield frame  8 , providing confinement and guidance of the plurality of first wheels  36  (shown in more detail in FIG.  36 ), which in turn with companion plurality of second wheels  61  (FIG. 22) similarly confined in second wheel track  142  (FIG.  23 ), provide efficient mobility to shield assembly  10  during deployment and retraction. The uppermost (most rearward) slat of shield assembly  10  is drive slat  89 , having first rack connection mount  109  attached thereto. Mount  109  is connected to first rack drive rod  206 , a component of and protruding form first rack  158 , whose first rack toothed upper edge  160  engages the cut teeth of first pinion  229 . First pinion  229  is powered from twin shaft reversible motor  223 , via first shaft  227 . 
     As mentioned hereinbefore, efficient mobility of shield assembly  10  is effected by riding forward during deployment and rearward during retraction on a plurality of first wheels  36  confined within first wheel track  133  and a plurality of second wheels  61  confined within second wheel track  142 . Detail of this feature of an embodiment of the present invention is shown in sectional view FIG.  36 . Thin-walled and rectilinear, the cross-section of track  133  is formed in the general shape of a “C ”, the opening of the “C” facing inward toward the longitudinal axis of vehicle  2 . First wheel track  133  features an internal volume  136  bounded by first wheel track interior upper edge axle face  138 , first wheel track interior upper edge  139 , first wheel track upper edge  137 , first wheel track exterior edge  135 , first wheel track bottom edge  134 , first wheel track interior lower edge  141 , and first wheel track interior lower edge axle face  140 . As demonstrated in FIG. 36, internal volume  136  is sufficient to accommodate a plurality of first wheels  36 ; and, the spacing between upper edge axle face  138  and lower edge axle face  140  is sufficient to accommodate first wheel tubiform axle  38 . 
     A similar situation exists for second wheel track  142  and second wheel  61 . Although not shown in detail, thin-walled and rectilinear, the cross-section of second wheel track  142  is formed in the general shape of a “C”, the opening of the “C” facing inward. Second wheel track  142  features a second wheel track interior volume bounded by second wheel track interior upper edge axle face, second wheel track interior upper edge, second wheel track upper edge, second wheel track exterior edge, second wheel track bottom edge, second wheel track interior lower edge, and second wheel track interior lower edge axle face. Similarly, as demonstrated in first wheel track internal volume  136  shown in FIG. 36, second wheel track internal volume is sufficient to accommodate a plurality of second wheels  61 ; and, the spacing between upper edge axle face and lower edge axle face is sufficient to accommodate second wheel tubiform axle  63 . 
     As mentioned hereinbefore, urging widthwise extension and compression of shield assembly  10  during deployment and retraction, respectively, is accomplished by first dual disk flange guide pin  78  attached to first skirt section wheel edge  77  of skirt slot section  67  and second dual disk flange guide pin  88  attached to second skirt section wheel edge  87  of skirt pin section  79 . As first wheel track  133  and second wheel track  142  each curve outward and downward during deployment of shield assembly  10  across the inner surface of windshield  6 , captive guide pins  78  and  88  follow the curvature and consequently extend the length of dashboard skirt slat  65  by pulling skirt slot section  67  and skirt pin section  79  away from each other. However skirt slat  65  is slidably connected to one of a plurality of intermediate slats  12  with a wheel and dual axle assembly  49 , connecting skirt slot section crenelated edge  71  and skirt pin section crenelated edge  81 to slot section first crenelated edge  22  and pin section first crenelated edge  47 . As skirt slat  65  lengthwise extends and slides along the axles of dual axle assembly  49 , its merlons  26  engage similar merlons of the attached intermediate slat and urge lengthwise extension of the intermediate slat. Since all slats forming shield assembly  10  are similarly connected, each connected slat progressively responds to the urging of the preceding slat and transmits this urging to the next successive slat. 
     FIG. 37 illustrates how first dual disk flange guide pin  78  is captive of first wheel track  133 . The spacing between upper edge axle face  138  and lower edge axle face  140  is sufficient to accommodate the diameter of guide pin  78 , but small enough to maintain first interior disk flange  72  within volume  136  and likewise maintain first exterior disk flange  82  exterior to interior upper edge  139  and interior lower edge  141 . 
     An important feature of the present invention is the ability to function automatically, as well as manually, relieving the vehicle&#39;s occupants of the responsibility and task of placing a sunshield across the inner face of the windshield and subsequently removing the manually placed shield. Manual operation is also provided to accommodate situations where it is desired to deploy or retract the sunshield. FIG. 38 is an exemplary embodiment of an electrical circuit, electrical motor control system  243 , for automatically and manually controlling deployment and retraction of the present invention. All electrical power is supplied by vehicle electrical system  245  and all mechanical movement of the present invention is provided by twin shaft reversible motor  223 . Transmission mode sensor and second bimodal switch  247  is connected to electrical system  245  by means of vehicle electrical system circuit  246  and additionally linked to sense the bimodal operating mode of the transmission, that is, PARK or RUN, where RUN includes drive, neutral, and reverse. Typically the vehicle ignition key switch is off when the transmission is in PARK mode and the ignition key switch is on when the transmission is in RUN mode. When the transmission is in PARK mode, second bimodal switch  247  provides electrical power to first bimodal switch and automatic deploy circuit  253  via PARK circuit  249 . Initially after turning the ignition key off, the first bimodal momentary contact switch is armed, set and maintained in the DEPLOY mode by the deploy circuit and electrical power is supplied directly to motor  223  via shield deploy circuit  254 . Upon full deployment, the automatic deploy circuit interrupts the supply of electrical power to motor  223  and disarms the first bimodal momentary contact switch. Manually pressing the RETRACT portion of the first bimodal switch arms that switch and supplies electrical via second shield retract circuit  255  to motor  223  to retract shield assembly  10 . The first bimodal switch remains armed and can be manually utilized to alternately deploy and retract the shield assembly  10  until transmission mode sensor and second bimodal switch  247  detects a change in operating state from PARK mode to RUN mode. When the ignition key is turned on and the transmission is placed in RUN mode, second bimodal switch  247  interrupts power to circuit  249  and instead provides electrical to shield automatic retract limit switch  251  (normally closed) via RUN circuit  248 . In turn, limit switch  251  provides electrical power, via first shield retract circuit  252 , to motor  223  to retract shield assembly  10 . When shield assembly  10  is fully retracted, providing unobstructed vision for the driver of the vehicle, limit switch  251  interrupts the supply of electrical power to motor  223 . When the transmission is placed in PARK and the ignition key switched off, second bimodal switch  247  reverts to providing electrical power to PARK circuit  249 , initiating automatic deployment of the present invention. 
     Electrical motor control system  243  can include a security means to prevent unauthorized operation of the present invention. This additional feature could discourage unauthorized use of the motor vehicle by obscuring the vision of an unauthorized driver. 
     Another embodiment of the present invention concerns a different method for urging lengthwise extension and compression, during deployment and retraction, respectively, of drive slat  89 , dashboard skirt slat  65 , and the plurality of intermediate slats  12 , forming the composite shield assembly  10 . In this alternative embodiment, each first wheel  36  is attached to and rotates freely about the outside end its associated first wheel tubiform axle  38 . Likewise, each second wheel  61  is attached to and rotates freely about the outside end its associated second wheel tubiform axle  63 . 
     Each first wheel tubiform axle  38  is firmly affixed to and neither rotates nor slides within each merlon bore  28  associated with each merlon  26  associated with slot section first crenelated edge  22  of each intermediate slat  12 . In addition, each first wheel tubiform axle  38  also is firmly affixed to and neither rotates nor slides within each merlon bore  28  associated with each merlon  26  associated with drive slat slot section crenelated edge  99  of drive slat  89 . 
     Each second wheel tubiform axle  63  is firmly affixed to and neither rotates nor slides within each merlon bore  28  associated with each merlon  26  associated with pin section first crenelated edge  47  of each intermediate slat  12 . In addition, each second wheel tubiform axle  63  also is firmly affixed to and neither rotates nor slides within each merlon bore  28  associated with each merlon  26  associated with drive pin section crenelated edge  121  of drive slat  89 . 
     Conversely, each first wheel tubiform axle  38  and each second wheel tubiform axle  63  freely rotates and slides within each merlon bore  28  associated with each merlon  26  associated with each slot section second crenelated edge  30  and each pin section second crenelated edge  55  of each intermediate slat  12  and also skirt slot section crenelated edge  71  and skirt pin section crenelated edge  81  of dashboard skirt slat  65 . 
     In this alternative embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of first wheels  36  captive within first wheel track  133  and the plurality of second wheels  61  captive within second wheel track  142  will urge lengthwise extension or compression of each associated slat section attached thereto as the wheels move within the confines of the wheel tracks during deployment and retraction of shield assembly  10 . 
     Although only a few exemplary embodiments of the present invention have been described in the exposition hereinbefore, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible in the exemplary embodiments without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of this invention. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention as defined in the following claims. In the claims, means-plus-functions clauses are intended to cover the structures described herein as performing the recited functions and not only structural equivalents but also equivalent structures.

Technology Classification (CPC): 1