Abstract: To make it difficult for the left and right lateral walls of a portion rising in front of an occupant to come into sight through a windshield in a windshield unit for a saddle-ride type vehicle provided at the front center of a vehicle body with an air duct for directing the air flow from the front of the vehicle toward the upside. In a screen provided at the front center of a vehicle body with an air duct adapted to lead the air flow from the front of the vehicle toward the upside, a straight portion of the air duct rising in front of an occupant is provided so that a left-right width of a rear wall rearwardly of the straight portion may be narrower than the left-right width of a front wall forward of the straight portion.

Abstract: A pressure difference rearward of a windshield is efficiently corrected in a windshield unit for a saddle-ride type vehicle provided with two types of air ducts for directing the air flow from the front of the vehicle to the upside of the vehicle and to the rear of the windshield. A windshield unit includes an air duct for allowing an air introduction port opening toward the front of the vehicle to communicate with an air blowout port opening toward the upside of the vehicle and a second air duct for allowing a second air introduction port opening toward the front of the vehicle to communicate with a second air blowout port disposed rearward of the air duct to open toward the rear of the vehicle. The second air blowout port is disposed within the left-right width of the air blowout port of the air duct.

Abstract: A wind-deflecting and wind-guiding device is disposed in the region of a windshield of a motor vehicle. The device is formed, in particular, as a cowling extending in the transverse direction of the vehicle. A prestressing device biases lateral longitudinal end regions of the wind-deflecting device in the direction of the vehicle and in the direction of the windshield and, as a result, effectively prevents said longitudinal end regions from lifting off, even under temperature loadings.

Abstract: The rain and snow protection device is constructed so that rain cannot adhere to the window glass in the range of the field of vision; thereby a satisfactory field of vision is continuously visible without the use of wipers, through the window glass from the driver's seat in the motor vehicle, for example.

Abstract: The invention is a dynamic flow diverter for a vehicle having a windshield. The flow diverter has a deflector which comprises a sphere or some portion of a sphere or a cone, such as about half of a sphere with a flat top that is substantially parallel to a planar top surface of a base. The base includes a bottom surface with an adhesive or a magnet that holds the diverter to the vehicle for the after market version. In OEM version, the diverter may permanently secured to the vehicle. In both cases, a link holds the deflector in a spaced relation to the vehicle at an optimal distance and location to deflect air away from the windshield so as to cause energy savings and to make the vehicle more responsive.

Abstract: A wind deflector assembly attachable to the exterior, front or side surface of a vehicle windshield or body, adaptable to be connected to differently shaped and contoured windshields and bodywork, tunable to obtain the desired wind deflection effect and, in some embodiments, removable and reattachable to the vehicle windshield or other aerodynamically desirable locations on the vehicle body. The exterior surface mounted adjustable wind deflector of the present invention comprises a transparent, flexible shield along with two integrated mounting assemblies in the preferred embodiment. The mounting assemblies employ a clamshell type connector adapted for adhesive attachment to the exterior front surface of a windshield without having to drill or otherwise alter the windshield.

Abstract: There is a noise reduction device for reducing noise from a vibrating strap. There is a securing member including a strip of material having a first surface including hook material and a second surface including loop material, wherein the securing member is configured to removably attach to the vibrating strap by wrapping about the strap and attaching a portion of the first surface to a portion of the second surface. There is a damping member including a plurality of strands of fibers configured to dampen vibratory motion. There is an internal coupling member configured to couple the securing member to the damping member and configured to bundle the plurality of strands of fibers.

Abstract: A debris deflector to deflect oncoming wind rocks and bugs by diverting the wind which is associated with rocks, bugs, and other debris instead of heading for the hood and windshield of a vehicle, and diverts these nuisances up and away from the vehicle's body. The deflector attaches to the front of a car, truck, sport utility vehicle (SUV), or any other type of vehicle that is prone to oncoming debris. The deflector includes a wing and a pair of pillars connecting the wing to a wind tunnel portion. Air directed through the air passageway formed between the wing and the wind tunnel portion is accelerated and is directed upwardly to deflect debris.

Abstract: In order to improve a wind stop device, in particular, for convertible vehicles, comprising a wind blocker rising above a belt line of a body, and a cover connected to the wind blocker for an area, located behind the wind blocker in relation to a direction of travel, of a passenger compartment opening of the body, with respect to its optimum effect, i.e., the prevention of draft in a passenger compartment area located in front of the wind blocker, it is proposed that the wind blocker have an air permeability which is greater than an air permeability of the cover.

Abstract: A vehicle shield is provided according to the invention. The vehicle shield is constructed to avoid excessive hood flutter. The shield includes a hood protector region and an attachment region. The hood protector region is constructed for extending across at least a portion of a vehicle hood for protecting the vehicle hood. The attachment region is constructed for attaching the hood protector region to a vehicle. Also provided is a method of installing the shield to a motor vehicle.

Abstract: A molded plastic vehicle shield device includes a hood protector region and hood attachment region. The hood protector region is constructed for extending across a portion of a vehicle hood for protecting the vehicle hood. The hood protector region includes at least one flexible region for allowing bending of the hood protector region. The hood attachment region includes a first hood attachment flange attached to a portion of the hood protector region and constructed for attaching to a left side of the vehicle hood, and a second hood attachment flange attached to a portion of the hood protector region and constructed for attachment to a right side of the vehicle hood.

Abstract: A vehicle shield device includes a hood protector region and hood attachment region. The hood protector region is constructed for extending across at least a portion of a vehicle hood for protecting the vehicle hood. The hood protector region includes at least one flexible region for allowing folding of the hood protector region to provide the vehicle shield device in a folded configuration that is shorter than the full length of the vehicle shield device as it would be provided when mounted to a vehicle hood so that the vehicle shield device can be packaged and shipped in the folded configuration. The hood protector region and the hood attachment region can be provided from a molded and continuous plastic sheet.

Abstract: A motor vehicle provides redirection of the slipstream to keep side windows of the vehicle clear of grime thrown into the path of the vehicle as spray or carried by precipitation. Redirection of the slipstream is provided by a turbulence or eddy generating protrusions extending into the slipstream from the vehicle's A-pillars. The protrusions or contours may be formed integrally with the encapsulation molding attached around the circumference of the vehicle's windshield.

Abstract: A system for reducing turbulence and therefore improving fuel efficiency for land-operated vehicles uses at least one linear array of vortex generators along typically a leading edge of a vehicle profile. I addition an aerodynamic bug diversion system is provided for creating and directing an airflow shield to prevent bugs and other lightweight debris from hitting the windshield of a moving vehicle.

Abstract: A vehicle shield device is provided according to the invention. The vehicle shield device includes a hood protector region and hood attachment region. The hood protector region is constructed for extending across at least a portion of a vehicle hood for protecting the vehicle hood. The hood protector region includes at least one flexible region for allowing folding of the hood protector region. The hood attachment region is constructed for attaching the hood protector region to a vehicle hood. The hood attachment region includes a first hood attachment flange attached to at least a portion of the hood protector region and constructed for attaching to a left side of a vehicle hood, and a second hood attachment flange attached to at least a portion of the hood protector region and constructed for attachment to a right side of a vehicle hood. The hood protector region and the hood attachment region can be provided from a molded and continuous plastic sheet.

Abstract: A vehicle shield device is provided according to the invention. The vehicle shield device includes a hood protector region and hood attachment region. The hood protector region is constructed for extending across at least a portion of a vehicle hood for protecting the vehicle hood. The hood protector region includes at least one flexible region for allowing folding of the hood protector region. The hood attachment region is constructed for attaching the hood protector region to a vehicle hood. The hood attachment region includes a first hood attachment flange attached to at least a portion of the hood protector region and constructed for attaching to a left side of a vehicle hood, and a second hood attachment flange attached to at least a portion of the hood protector region and constructed for attachment to a right side of a vehicle hood. The hood protector region and the hood attachment region can be provided from a molded and continuous plastic sheet.

Abstract: A truck front section (120) including a grill (128), a hood (121), and a bridge assembly (137) is provided. The grill has a substantially vertical front surface and an upper portion. The hood has an upper panel (121) with a sloping front end disposed adjacent the grill upper portion. The bridge assembly is disposed above the front end of the hood upper panel and has a pair of oppositely disposed upright end members (133) attached to the hood upper panel. The bridge assembly also has a substantially horizontal aerodynamically shaped member (138 and/or 140) attached to the end members. The upper portion of the grill, the front end of the hood upper panel and the bridge assembly cooperatively form a duct generally disposed above the grill. The duct may discharge into a longitudinal channel (112 and/or 114) formed in the upper panel.

Abstract: A system for reducing turbulence and therefore improving fuel efficiency for land-operated vehicles uses at least one linear array of vortex generators along typically a leading edge of a vehicle profile. I addition an aerodynamic bug diversion system is provided for creating and directing an airflow shield to prevent bugs and other lightweight debris from hitting the windshield of a moving vehicle.

Abstract: An air channeler device is provided for use with a vehicle having a forward and rearward end for reducing wind resistance of the vehicle. The air channeler has an air inlet for positioning within an air stream surrounding the vehicle so that air is received in the inlet as the air stream moves about the vehicle. An air discharge is provided for positioning at a generally central location of the rearward end of the vehicle and has a width that is substantially less than the width of the rearward end of the body so that the air discharge is spaced inward from the edges of the rearward end. An air conduit couples to the vehicle and has a generally tubular passageway that is in communication between the air inlet and the air discharge for directing air from the air inlet through the conduit to the discharge.

Abstract: A system for reducing turbulence and therefore improving fuel efficiency for land-operated vehicles uses at least one linear array of vortex generators along typically a leading edge of a vehicle profile. I addition an aerodynamic bug diversion system is provided for creating and directing an airflow shield to prevent bugs and other lightweight debris from hitting the windshield of a moving vehicle.

Abstract: A vehicle shield device is provided according to the invention. The vehicle shield device includes a hood protector region and hood attachment region. The hood protector region is constructed for extending across at least a portion of a vehicle hood for protecting the vehicle hood. The hood protector region includes at least one flexible region for allowing folding of the hood protector region. The hood attachment region is constructed for attaching the hood protector region to a vehicle hood. The hood attachment region includes a first hood attachment flange attached to at least a portion of the hood protector region and constructed for attaching to a left side of a vehicle hood, and a second hood attachment flange attached to at least a portion of the hood protector region and constructed for attachment to a right side of a vehicle hood. The hood protector region and the hood attachment region can be provided from a molded and continuous plastic sheet.

Abstract: A truck front section (120) comprising a grill (128), a hood (121), and a bridge assembly (137) is provided. The grill has a substantially vertical front surface and an upper portion. The hood has an upper panel (121) with a sloping front end disposed adjacent the grill upper portion. The bridge assembly is disposed above the front end of the hood upper panel and has a pair of oppositely disposed upright end members (133) attached to the hood upper panel. The bridge assembly also has a substantially horizontal aerodynamically shaped member (138 and/or 140) attached to the end members. The upper portion of the grill, the front end of the hood upper panel and the bridge assembly cooperatively form a duct generally disposed above the grill. The duct may discharge into a longitudinal channel (112 and/or 114) formed in the upper panel.

Abstract: A nut is buried previously in the inside of a roof spoiler to direct an axis center of its threaded hole to a working hole of an inner panel. A concave seat portion is formed on a surface of the roof spoiler on an outer panel side. A spacer is adhered to the concave seat portion. The spacer has a hole opened at the center portion thereof, and a bolt seat surface and an inclined surface on the outer panel side. The outer panel is deformed and fitted tightly to the spacer by fastening the bolt. A threaded portion of a bolt is inserted into a through hole formed in the outer panel and then screwed into the nut via the hole in the spacer.

Abstract: An air channeler device is provided for use with a vehicle having a forward and rearward end for reducing wind resistance of the vehicle. The air channeler has an air inlet for positioning within an air stream surrounding the vehicle so that air is received in the inlet as the air stream moves about the vehicle. An air discharge is provided for positioning at a generally central location of the rearward end of the vehicle and has a width that is substantially less than the width of the rearward end of the body so that the air discharge is spaced inward from the edges of the rearward end. An air conduit couples to the vehicle and has a generally tubular passageway that is in communication between the air inlet and the air discharge for directing air from the air inlet through the conduit to the discharge.

Abstract: A vehicle shield device is provided according to the invention. The vehicle shield device includes a hood protector region and hood attachment region. The hood protector region is constructed for extending across at least a portion of a vehicle hood for protecting the vehicle hood. The hood protector region includes at least one flexible region for allowing folding of the hood protector region. The hood attachment region is constructed for attaching the hood protector region to a vehicle hood. The hood attachment region includes a first hood attachment flange attached to at least a portion of the hood protector region and constructed for attaching to a left side of a vehicle hood, and a second hood attachment flange attached to at least a portion of the hood protector region and constructed for attachment to a right side of a vehicle hood. The hood protector region and the hood attachment region can be provided from a molded and continuous plastic sheet.

Abstract: A bug screen interface device for provide a gap blocking interface between a bug deflector and an automobile to reduce the collection of debris. The bug screen interface device includes a main member designed for covering a gap created between a bug deflector and a hood of an automobile, and an attachment member coupled to the main member and designed for coupling the main member to a back side of the bug deflector.

Abstract: An apparatus for reducing buffeting in a vehicle caused by airflow over a removable or retractable roof-opening includes a rail that is mounted adjacently to the leading edge of the roof-opening. Attached to the rail is an angled deflector that diverts the airflow away from the roof-opening. Extending from the top edge of the deflector is a trip segment that causes the airflow to stabilize and reattach at a point beyond the roof-opening of the vehicle.

Abstract: A system and method for efficiently removing rain water and the like from a rear window (backlite) of a vehicle. A rear spoiler or air deflector is provided for redirecting air toward the backlite and causing the speed of air flow to increase. A hydrophobic coating is provided on the major exterior surface of the backlite. Air directed by the air deflector over and/or across the surface of the backlite functions to remove the rain water and the like from the backlite. In certain embodiments, the hydrophobic coating may include diamond-like carbon (DLC) deposited on the substrate in a manner to increase its hydrophobicity.

Abstract: A system and method for efficiently removing rain water and the like from a rear window (backlite) of a vehicle. A rear spoiler or air deflector is provided for redirecting air toward the backlite and causing the speed of air flow to increase. A hydrophobic coating is provided on the major exterior surface of the backlite. Air directed by the air deflector over and/or across the surface of the backlite functions to remove the rain water and the like from the backlite. In certain embodiments, the hydrophobic coating may include diamond-like carbon (DLC) deposited on the substrate in a manner to increase its hydrophobicity.

Abstract: A system and method for efficiently removing rain water and the like from a rear window (backlite) of a vehicle. A rear spoiler or air deflector is provided for redirecting air toward the backlite and causing the speed of air flow to increase. A hydrophobic coating is provided on the major exterior surface of the backlite. Air directed by the air deflector over and/or across the surface of the backlite functions to remove the rain water and the like from the backlite. In certain embodiments, the hydrophobic coating may include diamond-like carbon (DLC) deposited on the substrate in a manner to increase its hydrophobicity.

Abstract: An air wiper for an automobile is disposed near a viewing surface on which adhering substances are to be removed, and is provided with an air jet section having at least one air jet port. Air is discharged toward the surface and the adhered substances on the viewing surface are removed. The air jet port can be moved in a pivoting or rotating manner so that the air can be jetted over substantially the whole surface of part.

Abstract: The subject invention is an air deflector for a motor vehicle that is adapted to be attached to the posterior portion of a roof structure of a motor vehicle, with some limited overhang over the vertical rear vehicle surface for purposes of directing the flow of air over the roof of a moving motor vehicle downwardly over such rear surface of the motor vehicle, said deflector comprising an air deflector member forming with the motor vehicle an air passage that is curved downwardly from the upper rear surface of the roof in order to deflect air movements from a horizontal flow pattern over the roof surface to a substantial vertical flow directed downwardly and adjacent to the posterior surface of the vehicle, such air deflector device having a concave lower surface adapted to fit conformingly over the rear portion of the roof and the upper portion of the rear surface of the vehicle, with specialized attachment means affixed to such lower surface for attaching the air deflector to a portion of the motor vehicle w

Abstract: The subject invention is an air deflector for a motor vehicle that is adapted to be attached to the posterior portion of a roof structure of a motor vehicle for purposes of directing the flow of air over the roof of a moving motor vehicle downwardly over the rear surface of the motor vehicle, said deflector comprising an air collector member having an internal air passage that is curved downwardly to deflect air movements from a horizontal flow pattern to a substantial vertical flow directed downwardly adjacent to the posterior surface of the vehicle, such device having a concave lower surface adapted to fit conformingly over the rear portion of the roof, with attachment means affixed to such lower surface.

Abstract: A method for determining the tractive effort required at the wheels of a vehicle for a given set of operating parameters by taking into account a plurality of variables which affect vehicle performance. A total grade effort value is determined which represents the force required to move the vehicle due to the grade of the surface on which the vehicle is expected to travel. An approximate total rolling effort value is also determined which is representative of the force required to move the vehicles due to the hysteresis of the vehicle's tires. Lastly, an aerodynamic influence factor is determined which represents the total air resistance of the vehicle and any implement such as a trailer being towed by the vehicle. These factors are summed to produce a tractive effort value representative of the total tractive effort that would be required to move the vehicle at a designated speed.

Abstract: A sunroof assembly for an automotive vehicle employs a fixed roof panel, a rear sunroof panel, a front sunroof panel, a rear sunshade, and a front sunshade. Another aspect of the present invention includes adjustable fastening together of the tracks. A modular sunroof assembly is also provided.

Abstract: A device for actuating an angularly displaceable motor vehicle element such as a tailgate element, especially a rear spoiler having an arrangement for displacing it between a retracted rest position and a raised working position and in which a control element (13, 16) interacts with cam track (7) based on linear relative motion between them parallel to the first swivel axis (18) of a motor vehicle element (3) as the element is actuated.

Abstract: A vehicle shield device is provided for mounting on a front of a vehicle. The vehicle shield device has a hood protector portion and a fender protector portion for protecting portions of the hood and the fender from contact with airflow. The vehicle shield further includes an airflow deflector portion extending from a back edge of the hood protector portion for deflecting airflow away from a windshield of the vehicle. The hood protector portion, the fender protector portions, and the airflow deflector portion cooperate to form a continuous airflow engaging surface extending across a portion of the front of a vehicle.

Abstract: An airfoil for a sports vehicle is mounted near the rear of the hood. It has several joined panels of various angles designed to direct the flow of air upwardly, and partially to the side, in front of the windshield. Details are shown for clips to fasten the airfoil to the hood.

Abstract: A device for mounting accessories such as roof racks, luggage racks, spoilers or wings to the exterior surface of vehicles such as recreational vehicles, motorhomes, or conversion vans. The device includes a tapered mounting foot having attached thereto a mounting plate which permits generally vertical access to downwardly projecting mounting screws used to attach the accessory mounting plate to the exterior surface of the vehicle. The downwardly projecting screws engage a corresponding set of pre-drilled mounting holes in the vehicle exterior, while a second set of upwardly extending screws secure the mounting plate to the tapered foot of the accessory. Accordingly, the accessory is easy to install and remove, and can be easily retrofitted to existing vehicles without disturbing interior appointments such as upholstery, headliner, or wood trim.

Abstract: Disclosed is a device to remove moisture from a side view mirror and adjacent side window of a vehicle. The device increases mirror clarity and can be installed on a side view mirror housing at the factory or as an after factory installation. The device prevents moisture from interfering with the operator's visual use of the mirror by utilizing the cleansing effects of existing air flow about the mirror housing during vehicle movement when it redirects the air flow past the mirror surface. The device also uses the air flow to prevent the build up of moisture on the adjacent side window of the vehicle. The device can be adapted to accommodate any existing vehicle mirror design that is incorporated into the door frame or in close proximity. The device is a semi-rigid mirror attachment that mounts on the mirror housing without obstructing the operator's field of vision.

Abstract: A motorcycle windshield fairing including a transparent fairing removably connected to the motorcycle and extending upwardly and rearwardly from an upper end of the existing windshield on the motorcycle. A first connector on the rearward face of the fairing is selectively connectable to a plurality of receiving members on the windshield, to permit longitudinal adjustment of the fairing on the windshield. A support arm extends between the upper rearwardly end of the fairing and the motorcycle, and is pivotally connected at each end and is extensible to permit selective pivotal movement of the fairing to change the angle of attack.

Abstract: A rear spoiler attached to the roof of an automobile is so designed that the ratio of outflow width to inflow width is 0.5.about.0.9 while the vehicle velocity ratio is made 30 or greater.

Abstract: An anti-buffet screen device for an open motor vehicle has associated a heat-transfer device with it, said device extending over at least a portion of its active surface and being made flat, especially a radiator device.

Abstract: A system for mounting a front hood deflector to a vehicle does not require drilling of the hood to install fasteners. The molded plastic deflector body is retained on the hood by at least one mounting clip which adheres to the hood and includes biasing properties for maintaining solid contact against the vehicle body. The biasing clip also acts on the shield body to frictionally engage the shield retarding removal of the body from the clip. A tab formed in the mounting clip engages the plastic shield after closing the hood to prevent withdrawal of the shield after closing the hood.

Abstract: A vehicle shield device is provided for mounting on a front of a vehicle. The vehicle shield device has a hood protector portion and a fender protector portion for protecting portions of the hood and the fender from contact with airflow. The vehicle shield further includes an airflow deflector portion extending from a back edge of the hood protector portion for deflecting airflow away from a windshield of the vehicle. The hood protector portion, the fender protector portions, and the airflow deflector portion cooperate to form a continuous airflow engaging surface extending across a portion of the front of a vehicle.

Abstract: A fastener assembly for fastening a vehicle hood shield to a vehicle hood, the hood shield having a mounting flange with spaced apart slots therein and the hood having spaced apart mounting apertures. The fastener assembly includes an insert or plug which has a head and legs depending from the head and receivable in the hood apertures. The insert or plug also has lugs for receipt in the hood shield slots. A screw fastener screwed into the insert or plug causes the legs to move outwardly and engage a hood mounting aperture and also serves to secure the hood shield to the insert or plug and thus the hood.

Abstract: Today when most passenger cars are fabricated without frames, many people are using vans and sports utility vehicles to pull trailers. These vehicles have improved efficiency and apparent power when equipped with a wind deflector. A wind deflector for such vehicles is disclosed which comprises a top member which is mounted on the rear portion of the vehicle and two side members having front side portions which extend downwardly from the top member along the sides of the vehicle. All said members curve outwardly from the front side portions thereof away from the vehicle. All members are molded from semi rigid plastic and have spaced braces on the rear interior side portion thereof. The top and side members are matably fitted together and releasably held together by buckles. The wind deflector is removably mounted on the vehicle using hook bolts, straps and bars which are fastened to the frame beneath the vehicle.

Abstract: The invention concerns a vehicle having a deflecting surface (6) attached to the vehicle in front of at least one front place (4, 5), which is concave with a concavity facing forwards, which extends overall at least essentially in the transverse direction of the said vehicle so as to receive a relative air current (10) when the vehicle is moving, and which has an upper trailing edge pointing upwards; and at least one wing (7) fixed in the relative air current (10) immediately upstream, facing and adjacent to the deflecting surface (6). The deflecting surface (6) and the wing(s) (7) extend below the lower horizontal plane (8) passing through the standard zone (11) in which the eyes are situated and are adapted to form an air flow (9) deflected upwards able to act as an air screen in front of the said standard zone (11) in which the eyes are situated in which the air is at least essentially still.

Abstract: A fixing assembly for vehicle hood protectors, including a bracket of strip-like form having a flange which is secured to the underside of a vehicle hood, a locating groove which receives the lower edge of the hood lip and a mounting flange which extends outwardly of the hood and to which the hood protector is mounted. The flange which is secured to the underside of the hood has a slot provided with saw-tooth configurations on opposite sides, the slot being arranged to receive an expandable plug which is provided with complementary saw-tooth configurations, such that it may be located at one of a series of positions along the slot. The plug is receivable in an aperture in the underside of the hood to secure the flange and thus the bracket to the hood.

Abstract: Retaining clips for vehicle hood protectors for securing hood protectors to the hood of a motor vehicle and including first and second gripping portions which may be located on opposite sides of a leading end of the vehicle hood for gripping the hood. A screw fastener is provided to urge the gripping portions towards each other to clamp the gripping portions to the hood. The hood protector may be secured to the retaining clip by screw fasteners or by a resilient gripping member.