Vehicle engine compartment louver carrier with integrated ducting

Abstract

A carrier for an automobile with integrated active ducting, and a method of making a louver therefor. The carrier includes at least one aperture, and at least one louver rotatably mounted in the aperture. Also attached to the carrier is an actuator, and the actuator is connected to the louver. The actuator is operable for moving the louver between an open position and a closed position such that when the louver is in the open position, air flow passes through the aperture.

Claims

1. A component for a vehicle having integrated active ducting, comprising: at least one aperture; at least one louver rotatably mounted in said at least one aperture, wherein said at least one louver has a body portion formed of thermoplastic material, a support spine formed of metal and integrally formed within said body portion, said support spine operable for increasing the rigidity of said body portion; a first seal connected to said body portion; and a second seal connected to said body portion said first seal and said second seal operable for providing a sealing function when said at least one louver is in said closed position; a first lip formed as part of said body portion, the first lip extends behind and supports the first seal; a second lip formed as part of said body portion on an opposite side of each of said at least one louver in relation to the first lip, the second lip extends behind and supports the second seal; and an actuator connected to said at least one louver, operable for moving said at least one louver between an open position and a closed position such that when said at least one louver is in said open position, air flow passes through said at least one aperture, and when said at least one louver is in said closed position, air flow is substantially prevented from moving through said at least one aperture.

2. The component for a vehicle having integrated active ducting of claim 1, further comprising: a link mechanism, said at least one louver pivotally connected to said link mechanism; and an actuator connected to said link mechanism operable for moving said link mechanism such that said link mechanism repositions said at least one louver.

3. The component for a vehicle having integrated active ducting of claim 1, further comprising at least one connecting portion operable for rotatably connecting a first end of said at least one louver to said component.

4. The component for a vehicle having integrated active ducting of claim 3, said at least one connecting portion further comprising: a body portion; a pin formed as part of said body portion, said pin operable for extending into at least one mounting aperture formed as part of a mounting portion of said at least one aperture; a drive pin, said link mechanism pivotally connected to said body portion by said drive pin; at least one connecting plate formed as part of said body portion; and at least one locking apparatus formed as part of said at least one connecting plate operable for providing a connection between said at least one connecting plate and at least one louver such that as said link mechanism is moved by said actuator, said link mechanism applies a force to said drive pin, causing said body portion, said at least one connecting plate, and at least one louver to pivot.

5. The component for a vehicle having integrated active ducting of claim 4, said at least one louver further comprising: at least one square-shaped aperture located in proximity to said first end, said at least one square-shaped aperture operable for receiving a portion of said at least one locking apparatus, connecting said at least one connecting portion to said first end of said at least one louver; a notch formed on said first end in proximity to said at least one square-shaped aperture, said at least one connecting portion disposed in said notch when said at least one connecting portion is connected to said first end of said at least one louver; and a pin formed on a second end of said at least one louver operable for being received into a recess formed in an outer wall of said at least one aperture such that said at least one louver is rotatably mounted in said at least one aperture.

6. The component for a vehicle having integrated active ducting of claim 5, said at least one aperture further comprising a plurality of upper apertures and a plurality of lower apertures.

7. The component for a vehicle having integrated active ducting of claim 6, said mounting portion further comprising an upper vertical mount formed as part of said component and dividing at least two of said plurality of upper apertures.

8. The component for a vehicle having integrated active ducting of claim 7, said mounting portion further comprising a lower vertical mount formed as part of said component and dividing at least two of said plurality of lower apertures.

9. The component for a vehicle having integrated active ducting of claim 1, said at least one louver further comprising a slip coat, a portion of said slip coat connected to said first seal, and a portion of said slip coat connected to said second seal, operable for reducing friction between objects that come in contact with either of said first seal or said second seal.

10. The component for a vehicle having integrated active ducting of claim 9, said first seal further comprising a first flap and said second seal further comprising a second flap, said first flap and said second flap operable for providing a sealing function when said at least one louver is in said closed position, a portion of said slip coat connected to said first flap, and a portion of said slip coat connected to said second flap.

11. The component for a vehicle having integrated active ducting of claim 9, said at least one louver further comprising: at least two hollow sections formed as part of said body portion; a central hollow section formed as part of said body portion in between said at least two hollow sections; said first seal further comprising a spring seal connected to said body portion in proximity to one of said at least two hollow sections; and said second seal further comprising a reaction seal connected to said body portion in proximity to one of said at least two hollow sections.

12. The component for a vehicle having integrated active ducting of claim 9, further comprising: said at least one louver further comprising a plurality of louvers operable for being rotatably mounted in said at least one aperture; wherein each one of said plurality of louvers includes the first seal further comprising a spring seal; wherein each one of said plurality of louvers includes the second seal further comprising a reaction seal; each said spring seal further comprises a recessed portion, said first lip of one of said plurality of louvers disposed in said recessed portion of said respective spring seal one of said plurality of spring seals; each said reaction seal further comprises a recessed portion, said second lip of one of said plurality of louvers disposed in said recessed portion of said respective reaction seal; each spring seal further comprising a flexible portion, a portion of said slip coat connected to said flexible portion; and each reaction seal further comprising an elongated portion, a portion of said slip coat connected to said flexible portion; wherein said flexible portion of one of said plurality of louvers is operable for selectively contacting said elongated portion of another of said plurality of louvers when said plurality of louvers are moved to said closed position.

13. The component for a vehicle having integrated active ducting of claim 1, said at least one louver further comprising: said first seal further comprising a first bulb-style seal connected to said body portion; and said second seal further comprising a second bulb-style seal connected to said body portion, said first bulb-style seal and said second bulb-style seal operable for providing a sealing function when said at least one louver is in said closed position.

14. The component for a vehicle having integrated active ducting of claim 13, further comprising: said at least one louver further comprising a plurality of louvers operable for being rotatably mounted in said at least one aperture; said first bulb-style seal further comprising a plurality of first bulb-style seals, each of said plurality of louvers having one of said plurality of first bulb-style seals; and said second bulb-style seal further comprising a plurality of second bulb-style seals, each of said plurality of louvers having one of said plurality of second bulb-style seals; wherein one of said plurality of first bulb-style seals of one of said plurality of louvers is operable for selectively contacting one of said plurality of second bulb-style seals of another of said plurality of louvers when said plurality of louvers are moved to said closed position.

15. The component for a vehicle having integrated active ducting of claim 1, said at least one louver further comprising: said first seal further comprising a first whisker-style seal connected to said body portion; and said second seal further comprising a second whisker-style seal connected to said body portion, said first whisker-style seal and said second whisker-style seal operable for providing a sealing function when said at least one louver is in said closed position.

16. The component for a vehicle having integrated active ducting of claim 15, further comprising: said at least one louver further comprising a plurality of louvers operable for being rotatably mounted in said at least one aperture; said first whisker-style seal further comprising a plurality of first whisker-style seals, each of said plurality of louvers having one of said plurality of first whisker-style seals; and said second whisker-style seal further comprising a plurality of second whisker-style seals, each of said plurality of louvers having one of said plurality of second whisker-style seals; wherein one of said plurality of first whisker-style seals of one of said plurality of louvers is operable for selectively contacting one of said plurality of second whisker-style seals of another of said plurality of louvers when said plurality of louvers are moved to said closed position.

17. The component for a vehicle having integrated active ducting of claim 1, further comprising at least one wire extending through said louver operable for controlling the coefficient of linear thermal expansion of said at least one louver.

18. The component for a vehicle having integrated active ducting of claim 17, said at least one wire having an outer surface with a defined texture operable for securing the connection between each of said plurality of wires and said plurality of louvers.

19. The component for a vehicle having integrated active ducting of claim 18, said defined texture of said at least one wire being one selected from the group consisting of a ribbed surface, a knurled surface, and a ridged surface.

20. The component for a vehicle having integrated active ducting of claim 1, further comprising of claim 1, wherein said component is one selected from the group consisting of a carrier, a fan shroud, radiator housing and washer fluid container.

21. The component for a vehicle having integrated active ducting of claim 1, said component operable for connection with a vehicle support structure.

22. The component for a vehicle having integrated active ducting of claim 21, said vehicle support structure further comprising one selected from the group consisting of a body-in-white and a chassis.

23. A carrier having integrated ducting, comprising: a plurality of upper apertures formed as part of said carrier; a plurality of lower apertures formed as part of said carrier; a plurality of louvers, a portion of said plurality of louvers mounted in each of said plurality of upper apertures, and a portion of said plurality of louvers mounted in each of said plurality of lower apertures, said plurality of louvers operable for movement between an open position and a closed position wherein said plurality of louvers each have a body portion formed of thermoplastic material, a support spine formed of metal and integrally formed within said body portion, said support spine operable for increasing the rigidity of the body portion; a first seal and a second seal on each body portion of the plurality of louvers; a first lip formed by the body portion of each of said plurality of louvers, wherein the first seal is connected to the first lip so that the first lip extends behind a portion of the first seal and supports the first seal and a second lip formed by the body portion of each of the plurality of louvers on an opposite side of each of said plurality of louvers in relation to the first lip, wherein the second seal is connected the second lip so that the second lip extends behind a portion of the second seal and supports the second seal; an upper vertical mount dividing said plurality of upper apertures; a lower vertical mount dividing said plurality of lower apertures; a plurality of connecting portions, one of said plurality of connecting portions operable for connection with a first end of one of said plurality of louvers, one or more of said plurality of connecting portions operable for connection with said upper vertical mount, and one or more of said plurality of connecting portions operable for connection with said lower vertical mount; a link mechanism connected to each of said plurality of louvers; an actuator connected to said link mechanism operable for moving said link mechanism such that said plurality of louvers are moved between said open position and said closed position; and a slip coat connected to each of said plurality of louvers, said slip coat operable for reducing friction between one of said plurality of louvers and another of said plurality of louvers, preventing binding between each of said plurality of louvers.

24. The carrier having integrated ducting of claim 23, each of said plurality of connecting portions further comprising: a pin formed as part of said body portion, operable for extending into one of a plurality of upper mounting apertures formed as part of said upper vertical mount for connection with said upper vertical mount, or for extending into one of a plurality of lower mounting apertures formed as part of said lower vertical mount for connection with said lower vertical mount; a drive pin, said link mechanism pivotally connected to said body portion by said drive pin; a first connecting plate formed as part of said body portion; a first locking apparatus formed as part of said first connecting plate operable for providing a connection between said first connecting plate and one of said plurality of louvers; a second connecting plate formed as part of said body portion; and a second locking apparatus formed as part of said second connecting plate, operable for providing a connection between said second connecting plate and one of said plurality of louvers such that as said link mechanism is moved by said actuator, said link mechanism applies a force to said drive pin, causing said body portion, said first connecting plate, said second connecting plate, and at least one of said plurality of louvers to pivot.

25. The carrier having integrated ducting of claim 24, each of said plurality of louvers further comprising: a plurality of square-shaped apertures formed in proximity to said first end, one of said plurality of square-shaped apertures operable for receiving said first locking apparatus formed as part of said first connecting plate and another of said plurality of square-shaped apertures operable for receiving said second locking apparatus formed as part of said second connecting plate to connect one of said plurality of connecting portions to said first end of one of said plurality of louvers; a notch formed on said first end in proximity to said plurality of square-shaped apertures, said notch having a first side surface of a first depth and a second side surface of a second depth, one of said plurality of connecting portions disposed between said first side surface and said second side surface when said one of said plurality of connecting portions is connected to one of said plurality of louvers; a support surface formed as part of said notch adjacent said first side surface and said second side surface, said support surface being in contact with said body portion of one of said plurality of connecting portions when one of said plurality of connecting portions is connected to said first end of one of said plurality of louvers; and a pin formed on a second end of each of said plurality of louvers, said pin operable for rotatable connection in one of said plurality of upper apertures or one of said plurality of lower apertures.

26. The carrier having integrated ducting of claim 23, each of said plurality of louvers further comprising: said second seal of one of said plurality of louvers selectively in contact with said first seal of another of said plurality of louvers when said plurality of louvers are in a closed position; wherein said slip coat is disposed on said first seal and said second seal, said slip coat operable for reducing friction between said first seal of one of said plurality of louvers and said second seal of another of said plurality of louvers as said plurality of louvers are changed between said open position and said closed position.

27. The carrier having integrated ducting of claim 23, each of said plurality of louvers further comprising: at least two hollow sections formed as part of said body portion; a central hollow section formed as part of said body portion between said at least two hollow sections; wherein each said first seal is a spring seal connected to said first lip, each said spring seal having a recessed portion and a flexible portion, said first lip is operable for being received into said recessed portion of said spring seal; wherein each said second seal is a reaction seal connected to said second lip, each said reaction seal having a recessed portion and an elongated portion, said second lip is operable for being received into said recessed portion of said reaction seal; and wherein said flexible portion of one of said plurality of louvers is operable for selectively contacting said elongated portion of another of said plurality of louvers when said plurality of louvers are moved to said closed position.

28. The carrier having integrated ducting of claim 23, each of said plurality of louvers further comprising: wherein each said first seal is a first bulb-style seal connected to said body portion; and wherein each said second seal is a second bulb-style seal connected to said body portion, and said first bulb-style seal of one of said plurality of louvers is operable for selectively contacting said second bulb-style seal of another of said plurality of louvers when said plurality of louvers are moved to said closed position; and wherein said slip coat is connected to each of said first bulb-style seal and said second bulb-style seal for reducing friction between said first bulb-style seal of one of said plurality of louvers and said second bulb-style seal of another of said plurality of louvers when said plurality of louvers are moved to said closed position.

29. The carrier having integrated ducting of claim 23, each of said plurality of louvers further comprising: wherein each said first seal is a first whisker-style seal having an arcuate portion and a flexible portion, part of said body portion operable for being received into said arcuate portion of said first whisker-style seal; and wherein each said second seal is a second whisker-style seal having an arcuate portion and a flexible portion, part of said body portion operable for being received into said arcuate portion of said second whisker-style seal; and wherein said slip coat is disposed on said first whisker-style seal and said second whisker-style seal, said slip coat operable for reducing friction between said first flexible portion of said first whisker-style seal of one of said plurality of louvers and said flexible portion of said second whisker-style seal of another of said plurality of louvers as said plurality of louvers are changed between said open position and said closed position.

30. The carrier having integrated ducting of claim 23, said carrier operable for connection with one selected from the group consisting of a body-in-white, a chassis, and a frame.

31. A method for making a louver used for an integrated active ducting system, comprising the steps of: providing a body portion formed of thermoplastic material; providing a support spine formed of metal and integrally formed within the body portion; providing first seal connected to said body portion; providing a second seal connected to said body portion; providing a slip coat, a portion of said slip coat connected to said first seal, and a portion of said slip coat connected to said second seal; providing a first lip formed as part of said body portion, said first seal connected to said first lip such that the first lip extends behind and supports the first seal; providing a second lip formed as part of said body portion, said second seal connected to said second lip on an opposite side of the louver in relation to the first lip such that the second lip extends behind and supports the second seal; and coextruding said body portion, the support spine, said first seal, said second seal, and said slip coat simultaneously such that said body portion, the support spine, said first seal, said second seal, and said slip coat are connected together to form a single louver.

32. The method for making a louver used for an integrated active ducting system of claim 31, further comprising the steps of: simultaneously forming a first end on said louver and cutting said body portion, said first seal, said second seal, and said slip coat; and simultaneously forming a second end on said louver and cutting said body portion, said first seal, said second seal, and said slip coat such that as said first end and said second end are formed on said louver, said body portion, said first seat, said second seal, and said slip coat are cut to a desired length.

33. The method for making a louver used for an integrated active ducting system of claim 32, further comprising the steps of: providing a plurality of louvers; and simultaneously cutting said second end of one of said plurality of louvers and cutting said first end of another of said plurality of louvers as said plurality of louvers are cut to said desired length.

34. The method for making a louver used for an integrated active ducting system of claim 32, further comprising the steps of: providing at least one square-shaped aperture formed as part of said first end of said buyer; providing a connecting portion operable for connection with said at least one square-shaped aperture; providing a notch formed as part of said first end in proximity to said at least one square-shaped aperture; connecting said at least one connecting portion to said first end such that said at least one connecting portion is disposed in said notch; and providing a pin formed as part of said second end of said louver operable for being received into a recess formed in an outer wall of said at least one aperture such that said at least one louver is rotatably mounted in said at least one aperture.

35. The method for making a louver used for an integrated active ducting system of claim 31, further comprising the steps of reducing friction between objects that come in contact with either of said first seal or said second seal with said slip coat.

36. The method for making a louver used for an integrated active ducting system of claim 31, further comprising the steps of: providing said first seal further to be further comprised of a first flap; providing said second seal further comprising a second flap; connecting a portion of said slip coat to said first flap; connecting a portion of said slip coat to said second flap; and providing a sealing function with said first flap and said second flap when said at least one louver is in said closed position.

37. The method for making a louver used for an integrated active ducting system of claim 31, further comprising the steps of: providing at least two hollow sections formed as part of said body portion; providing a central hollow section formed as part of said body portion in between said at least two hollow sections; providing said first seal to be further comprised of a spring seal connected to said body portion in proximity to one of said at least two hollow sections; and providing said second seal to be further comprised of a reaction seal connected to said body portion in proximity to one of said at least two hollow sections.

38. The method for making a louver used for an integrated active ducting system of claim 37, further comprising the steps of: providing a recessed portion formed as part of said spring seal; disposing said first lip of one of said plurality of louvers in said recessed portion of said spring seal; providing a recessed portion formed as part of said reaction seal; disposing said second lip of one of said plurality of louvers in said recessed portion of said reaction seal; providing a flexible portion formed as part of said spring seal; extruding said spring seal such that a portion of said slip coat connected to said flexible portion; and providing an elongated portion formed as part of said reaction seal; and extruding said reaction seal such that a portion of said slip coat is connected to said reaction portion.

39. The method for making a louver used for an integrated active ducting system of claim 31, further comprising the steps of; increasing the rigidity of said body portion through the use of said support spine.

40. The method for making a louver used for an integrated active ducting system of claim 31, further comprising the steps of: providing said first seal to be further comprised of a first bulb-style seal connected to said body portion; providing said second seal to be further comprised of a second bulb-style seal connected to said body portion, extruding said first bulb-style seal such that a portion of said slip coat connected to said first bulb-style seal; and extruding said second bulb-style seal such that a portion of said slip coat is connected to said second bulb-style seal.

41. The method for making a louver used for an integrated active ducting system of claim 31, further comprising the steps of: providing said first seal to be further comprised of a first whisker-style seal connected to said body portion; providing said second seal to be further comprised of a second whisker-style seal connected to said body portion; coextruding said first whisker-style seal such that a portion of said slip coat is connected to said first whisker-style seal; and coextruding said second whisker-style seal such that a portion of said slip coat is connected to said second whisker-style seal.

42. The method for making a louver used for an integrated active ducting system of claim 31, further comprising the steps of connecting said louver to one selected from the group consisting of a carrier, a fan shroud, radiator housing and washer fluid container.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) The present invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein:

(2) FIG. 1 is a first front perspective view of a carrier having integrated active ducting, according to the present invention;

(3) FIG. 2 is a first rear perspective view of a carrier having integrated active ducting, according to the present invention;

(4) FIG. 3 a second front perspective view of a carrier having integrated active ducting, according to the present invention;

(5) FIG. 4 a second rear perspective view of a carrier having integrated active ducting, according to the present invention;

(6) FIG. 5 is perspective view of a louver used as part of active integrated ducting, according to the present invention;

(7) FIG. 6 is an enlarged perspective view of an end of a louver used as part of active integrated ducting, according to the present invention;

(8) FIG. 7A is a side view of an end of a louver used as part of active integrated ducting, according to the present invention;

(9) FIG. 7B is a side view of another end of a louver used as part of active integrated ducting, according to the present invention;

(10) FIG. 7C is a perspective view of the end of the louver shown in FIG. 7B, according to the present invention;

(11) FIG. 8A is a perspective view of several louvers used as part of active integrated ducting in a closed position, according to the present invention;

(12) FIG. 8B is an enlarged perspective view of the louvers used as part of active integrated ducting in a closed position shown in FIG. 8A, according to the present invention;

(13) FIG. 8C is an enlarged perspective view of connecting portions attached to a set of louvers used as part of active integrated ducting in a closed position, according to the present invention;

(14) FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a connecting portion attached to a louver used as part of active integrated ducting, according to the present invention;

(15) FIG. 10 a second perspective view of a connecting portion attached to a louver used as part of active integrated ducting, according to the present invention;

(16) FIG. 11 is a first perspective view of a connecting portion operable for attachment to a louver used as part of active integrated ducting, according to the present invention;

(17) FIG. 12 is a second perspective view of a connecting portion operable for attachment to a louver used as part of active integrated ducting, according to the present invention;

(18) FIG. 13 is a third perspective view of a connecting portion operable for attachment to a louver used as part of active integrated ducting, according to the present invention;

(19) FIG. 14A is a sectional side view taken along lines 14A-14A of FIG. 5;

(20) FIG. 14B is an enlarged view of the circled portion shown in FIG. 14A;

(21) FIG. 15A is a sectional side view of an alternate embodiment of louvers used as part of active integrated ducting, according to the present invention;

(22) FIG. 15B is an enlarged view of the circled portion of FIG. 15A;

(23) FIG. 16A is an enlarged view of another alternate embodiment of a louver used as part of active integrated ducting, according to the present invention;

(24) FIG. 16B is a sectional side view of the alternate embodiment of the louvers shown in FIG. 16A used as part of active integrated ducting, according to the present invention;

(25) FIG. 17 is a sectional side view of yet another alternate embodiment of a louver used as part of active integrated ducting, according to the present invention;

(26) FIG. 18 is an exploded view of a fascia having active integrated ducting, with the fascia operable for connection with a vehicle support structure, according to the present invention; and

(27) FIG. 19 is an exploded view of a carrier having active integrated ducting, with the carrier operable for connection with a vehicle support structure, according to the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

(28) The following description of the preferred embodiment(s) is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its application, or uses.

(29) An embodiment of a carrier having integrated active ducting is shown in the Figures generally at 10. The carrier 10 is a single molded component, and includes various ports, flanges, support members, and the like operable for connection with the various components located inside an engine compartment, such as a radiator, fan shroud, washer fluid container, the vehicle chassis, body-in-white (BIW), and other similar components. While the carrier 10 is molded as shown, it is within the scope of the invention that the carrier 10 is operable to be molded having other shapes such that the carrier 10 of the present invention is able to be used with different types of vehicles.

(30) The carrier 10 includes several apertures 12 which function as ducting and are operable for allowing air flow therethrough. The ducting also includes a set of louvers 14 mounted within each of the apertures 12. The louvers 14 are operable to be in a first or open position to allow airflow through the apertures 12, or in a second or closed position to prevent airflow through the apertures 12, or any position therebetween.

(31) The apertures 12 are broken up into two groups, upper apertures, generally shown at 16, and lower apertures, generally shown at 18. Dividing the upper apertures 16 is a mounting portion in the form of an upper vertical mount 20, and dividing the lower apertures 18 is another mounting portion in the form of a lower vertical mount 22. Connected to the lower vertical mount 22 is an actuator 24; there is also a linkage system, generally shown at 26, which is connected to both vertical mounts 20,22. The linkage system 26 includes a link mechanism 28 operable for movement controlled by the actuator 24. The link mechanism 28 is pivotally connected to a connection surface on at least one end of the louvers 14. In this embodiment, the connection surface is a first end 32 of the louver 14. A group of connecting portions 30 is connected to the louvers 14 on the first end 32. The connecting portions 30 and louvers 14 mounted in the lower apertures 18 are substantially the same as the connecting portions 30 and louvers 14 mounted in the upper apertures 16. The connecting portions 30 are each rotatably connected to the mounts 20,22 as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4. The louvers 14 are also rotatably connected to the apertures 12 on a second end 34.

(32) In one embodiment, shown in FIGS. 5-7A and 8A-8B, the second end 34 of each of the louvers 14 includes a pin 36 which extends into a recess 38 formed as part of an outer wall 40 of the upper apertures 16 and a recess 42 formed as part of an outer wall 44 of the lower apertures 18. Referring again to the Figures generally, the upper vertical mount 20 also includes a set of upper mounting apertures 46 used for receiving a pin 48 formed as part of each of the connecting portions 30. Each of the connecting portions 30 also includes a flange or body portion 50 having a drive pin 52 which is pivotally connected to the link mechanism 28. The lower vertical mount 22 includes a set of lower mounting apertures 54, which are also operable for receiving a respective pin 48 formed as part of each of the connecting portions 30.

(33) Referring now to FIGS. 7B-7C, 8C, and 9-13, each of the connecting portions 30 has a first connecting plate 56 which is substantially parallel to a second connecting plate 58. The first connecting plate 56 has a first rounded portion 60, as well as a first square-shaped aperture 62 and a first locking apparatus 64. The second connecting plate 58 has a second rounded portion 66, a second square-shaped aperture 68, and a second locking apparatus 70. Each of the connecting plates 56,58 is connected to the body portion 50 such that a part of the body portion 50 forms a rear wall 72 adjacent each of the connecting plates 56,58.

(34) Each locking apparatus 64,70 includes a contact surface 74 and a retention surface 76, and each locking apparatus 64,70 is operable for being selectively disposed in a corresponding square-shaped aperture 78 formed as part of the first end 32 of each of the louvers 14 when a connecting portion 30 is connected to the first end 32 of a louver 14. In this embodiment, there are two square-shaped apertures 78 formed as part of each louver 14, but it is within the scope of the invention that more or less apertures 78 may be used with more or less locking apparatuses 64,70.

(35) The first end 32 of each louver 14 has a notch, generally shown at 80, with the notch 80 having a first depth 82, a second depth 83, and a desired height 84. Each notch 80 also includes a support surface 86 and side surfaces 88. To attach the connecting portion 30 to the first end 32 of a louver 14, each connecting portion 30 is positioned such that the louver 14 is disposed between the connecting plates 56,58 and a corner 90 of the support surface 86 contacts the contact surface 74 of a respective locking apparatus 64,70. A force is then applied to the connecting portion 30 to force the rear wall 72 toward the support surface 86. This in turn causes the contact surfaces 74 to move along the respective corners 90, and the connecting plates 56,58 to deflect, allowing the contact surfaces 74 to then move along the outer surface of the louver 14 until each locking apparatus 64,70 is in alignment with a respective aperture 78. At which point each locking apparatus 64,70 then moves into one of the apertures 78, the connecting plates 56,58 are no longer deflected, and return to their original positions. Once a locking apparatus 64,70 is located in an aperture 78, the retention surface 76 is then in contact with an inner surface 92 of an aperture 78, preventing the connecting portion 30 from becoming detached from the louver 14.

(36) When it is desired to detach the connecting portion 30 from the louver 14, an object (such as a screwdriver, for example) is inserted through the first square-shaped aperture 62, the corresponding square-shaped aperture 78 formed as part of the louver 14 in alignment with the first square-shaped aperture 62, and pressed against the contact surface 74 of the second locking apparatus 70 to cause the second connecting plate 58 to deflect. Additionally, an object is also inserted through the second square-shaped aperture 68, through a corresponding square-shaped aperture 78 formed as part of the louver 14 in alignment with the second square-shaped aperture 68, and pressed against the contact surface 74 of the first locking apparatus 64, thereby causing the first connecting plate 56 to deflect. Once each of the connecting plates 56,58 deflects sufficiently, the locking apparatuses 64,70 are removed from the apertures 78, and the connecting portion 30 is able to be pulled away from the louver 14.

(37) When the connecting portion 30 is connected to a louver 14, there is a rounded portion 94 formed as part of the louver 14 which is received into a first semi-circular recess 96 formed as part of the first rounded portion 60 and a second semi-circular recess 98 formed as part of the second rounded portion 66. This in combination with the connecting plates 56,58 ensures that the connecting portion 30 and louver 14 rotate together when connected to one another.

(38) Each louver 14 has a first lip 100 and a second lip 102; the first lip 100 is connected to and used for supporting a first flap 104, and the second lip 102 is used for supporting a second flap 106. The flaps 104,106 are used for providing control of the airflow through the apertures 12. When the louvers 14 are in the closed position, the second flap 106 of one louver 14 is in contact with a first flap 104 of an adjacent louver 14, best seen in FIGS. 8A-8C.

(39) Referring again to FIGS. 5-8C and 14A-14B, extending through each louver 14 is a pair of wires 108 which function to control the coefficient of linear thermal expansion (CLTE) of the louvers 14. Each wire 108 has an outer surface with a defined texture to provide a more secure connection between the wires 108 and the louver 14. The textured surface may be a ribbed, knurled, ridged, or any other type of surface suitable for providing a proper grip between the wires 108 and louvers 14 as they are coextruded.

(40) The actuator 24 is operable to control the movement of the connecting portions 30 through the use of the link mechanism 28 being connected to each drive pin 52. The actuator 24 is operable to be actuated mechanically, hydraulically, electrically, through vacuum actuation, lost motion actuation, or by any other suitable method. The actuator 24 is controlled to move the connecting portions 30, which rotate the louvers 14 such that the louvers 14 are opened to a desired position. The louvers 14 are operable to be positioned between the fully open position to maximize the amount of airflow through the apertures 12, or to the fully closed position as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, substantially reducing or eliminating air flow around the radiator, engine, and other components under the hood of a vehicle.

(41) The actuator 24 is also operable to move the louvers 14 to positions between the fully open and fully closed positions as may be desired or selected, or required for optimum temperature control. The link mechanism 28, the connecting portions 30, and the louvers 14 are all connected such that they move substantially in unison. When looking at FIGS. 3 and 4, the louvers 14 are in the closed position. When the actuator 24 is actuated, the link mechanism 28 is moved upwardly, causing the drive pin 52 of each connecting portion 30 to rotate relative to the link mechanism 28, and each of the pins 48 disposed in the upper mounting apertures 46 and the lower mounting apertures 54 rotate as well. Similarly, each of the pins 36 located in the recesses 38,42 of the respective outer walls 40,44 rotate as well. Because the link mechanism 28 is a solid member, this in turn rotates all of the louvers 14 substantially in unison.

(42) As the vehicle travels, and the louvers 14 are in at least a partially open position, air flow passes through the apertures 12 and removes heat from the various components located behind the carrier 10. In one particular embodiment, a radiator is disposed behind the carrier 10 such that when the louvers 14 are opened, air flow transfers heat away from the radiator, and the coolant flowing through the radiator is reduced in temperature.

(43) If it is desired to reduce or substantially eliminate air flow around the various components of the engine (for the purpose of bringing the engine up to the desired temperature after a cold start), the actuator 24 is actuated to move the louvers 14 to the closed position, which then prevents air flow through the apertures 12.

(44) In one embodiment, the louvers 14 shown in FIGS. 3-14B are formed using a coextrusion process. The louvers 14 are made of a type of thermoplastic material such as, but not limited to, polypropylene (PP). The wires 108 are made of a metal (such as aluminum or steel), and the flaps 104,106 are made of a Thermoplastic Vulcanizates (TPV), but it is within the scope of the invention that other types of Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPE) may be used. The louvers 14 may optionally include a slip coat 109 (shown in FIGS. 5-7B, 8A-8B, and 9-10). The slip coat 109 reduces the friction between the flaps 104,106, limits binding between the louvers 14 from ice formation on the surface of the flaps 104,106, and improves wear resistance to dirt and debris during cycling.

(45) The louvers 14, wires 108, flaps 104,106, and slip coat 109 are coextruded together, and each louver 14 is then cut to the desired length to fit the carrier 10 shown in FIGS. 1-4. However, it is within the scope of the invention that the louvers 14 may be cut to any desired length to fit any carrier, or to fit into any size aperture different from the apertures 12. It is also within the scope of the invention that the louvers 14 may be used in other various locations which are part of a vehicle.

(46) Part of the present invention includes the process for creating the louvers 14. One step in the process involves extruding a louver blank used to form the louvers 14, and another step in the process involves forming the ends 32,34 of the louvers 14. In one embodiment, the louver blank used to form the louvers 14 is extruded using a dual durometer. As the louvers 14 are extruded into a louver blank and cut, in one embodiment a stamping process may be used to form each end 32,34 of each louver 14 and cut the louvers 14 to the desired length simultaneously. This provides the advantage over cutting the louvers 14 to the desired length, and then stamping the ends 32,34 as a separate operation.

(47) The notch 80 and the apertures 78 are formed in the first end 32 as the louver 14 is cut to the desired length, and the pin 36 is formed in the second end 34 as the louver 14 is cut to the desired length. Cutting the louver blank and stamping the ends 32,34 simultaneously reduces the steps in the manufacturing process, and also allows for greater flexibility in the applications in which the louvers 14 are used since they may be cut to any desired length. In an alternative embodiment, as the second end 34 is formed on one louver 14, the first end 32 may be formed on the subsequent louver 14 by using a single stamping die.

(48) Additionally, because the louvers 14 are coextruded, the wires 108, flaps 104,106, and the slip coat 109 are formed as part of the louver 14 during the extrusion process, which eliminates the step of forming the flaps 104,106 and slip coat 109 as separate components and attaching the flaps 104,106 and slip coat 109 during separate manufacturing processes. Another advantage of coextruding the louvers 14 is that the louvers 14, wires 108, flaps 104,106, and slip coat 109 are all cut to the same length simultaneously, which eliminates attempting to cut the louver 14, flaps 104,106, and the slip coat 109 to the same length and then assemble them together (which would require a tolerance to account for the louver 14, flaps 104,106, and slip coat 126 not being cut to exactly the same length).

(49) Shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B is another embodiment of louvers, shown generally at 110, which are operable with the carrier 10 to function as an integrated ducting system according to the present invention. The louvers 110 in this embodiment have a body portion 112 which is made of PP, but it is within the scope of the invention that other types of thermoplastics may be used. The body portion 112 includes a pair of hollow sections 114 and a central hollow section 116 to reduce the overall amount of material used. One of the hollow sections 114 is part of a first lip 118, and another of the hollow sections 114 is part of a second lip 120. Connected to the first lip 118 is a first or spring seal 122, and connected to the second lip 120 is a second or reaction seal 124. Each of the seals 122,124 are made of a TPV material in a similar manner as compared to the previous embodiment.

(50) As with the previous embodiment, each of the seals 122,124 has a slip coat 126 which reduces the friction between the seals 122,124, limits binding between the louvers 110 from ice formation on the surface of the seals 122,124, and improves wear resistance to dirt and debris during cycling.

(51) Also similar to the previous embodiment, there is a pair of wires 128 which function to control the coefficient of linear thermal expansion (CLTE) of the louvers 110. Each wire 128 also has an outer surface with a defined texture to provide a more secure connection between the wires 128 and the louver 110 similar to the previous embodiment.

(52) The body portion 112 of each louver 110 is coextruded with the seals 122,124, the slip coat 126, and the wires 128. This allows all the components to be cut to any desired length, and may be used with the carrier 10, or integrated with other automotive parts to provide desired cooling. The ends of the louvers 110 shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B may be shaped similar to the ends 32,34 of the louvers 14 of the previous embodiment, and be connected to connecting portions 30 for allowing the louvers 110 to pivot relative to the carrier 10 substantially in unison.

(53) In can be seen in FIGS. 15A and 15B that the seals 122,124 are not identical. The first seal 122 includes a recessed portion 130 which surrounds the end of the first lip 118 and also has a flexible portion 132. The slip coat 126 on the first seal 122 extends onto the flexible portion 132, and selectively contacts the slip coat 126 coextruded to the second seal 124. Essentially, the slip coat 126 coextruded to the second seal 124 functions at least in part as a contact surface or reaction surface to the flexible portion 132. The second seal 124 also has a recessed portion 134 which is connected to the end of the second lip 120; the recessed portion 134 is formed with an elongated portion 136, and the slip coat 126 coextruded with the second seal 124 covers the recessed portion 134 and the elongated portion 136.

(54) As the actuator 24 operates to move the link mechanism 28, thereby rotating the louvers 110 substantially in unison, the slip coat 126 of both the first seal 122 and the second seal 124 contact each other when the louvers 110 are in the closed position. More specifically, the flexible portion 132 flexes and is positioned as shown in FIG. 15B when the louvers 110 are in the closed position and the first seal 122 is in contact with the second seal 124. The flexible portion 132 is shown in phantom depicts the position of the flexible portion 132 when the first seal 122 is not in contact with the second seal 124. The slip coat 126 along the elongated portion 136 of the second seal 124 contacts the slip coat 126 along the flexible portion 132 of the first seal 122 when the louvers 110 are in the closed position.

(55) Referring now to FIGS. 16A and 16B, louvers according to another embodiment of the preset invention are shown generally at 138. Similar to the previous embodiment, the louvers 138 each have a body portion 140 made of a thermoplastic material, such as PP. However, this embodiment also includes a support member or support spine 142 for providing increased strength. The support spine 142 is made of metal, such as but not limited to steel or aluminum, and in addition to providing strength, the support spine 142 also functions to control the CLTE of the louvers 138 (essentially performing the same function as the wires 108,128 of the previous embodiments).

(56) The louvers 138 of this embodiment also have a first seal 144 and a second seal 146. The seals 144,146 are bulb-style seals, and are made of a TPV material, and each have a slip coat 148 for reducing friction and limiting binding between the louvers 138 when ice forms on the louvers 138, also improving the resistance to wear and debris during cycling.

(57) The first seal 144 includes a first rounded segment 150, a first flat segment 152, a second rounded segment 154, and a second flat segment 156. The second flat segment 156 functions as a contact surface for a first rounded segment 158 of the second seal 146 mounted on an adjacent louver 138. The second seal 146 also includes a first flat segment 160, a second rounded segment 162, and a second flat segment 164. The various segments 150,152,154,156 of the first seal 144 and the various segments 158,160,162,164 of the second seal 146 are flexible, and deflect when the louvers 138 are in the closed position, and the first rounded segment 158 of the second seal 146 is pressed against the second flat segment 156 of the first seal 144. Each of the seals 144,146 include open sections 166 which help to reduce the amount of material used to produce the seals 144,146 and also increase the flexibility of the seals 144,146.

(58) The louvers 138 of this embodiment are also suitable for mounting in the apertures 12, and may be cut to have ends similar to the first end 32 and second end 34 of the louvers 14 of the first embodiment. The louvers 138 of this embodiment may be cut to any length to be suited for use with any size aperture or location on a vehicle. Furthermore, because the body portion 140, the support spine 142, the seals 144,146, and the slip coat 148 are all coextruded together, the construction of the louvers 138 is simplified and more efficient.

(59) Another embodiment of a louver for use with the carrier 10 to create integrated active ducting is shown in FIG. 17 generally at 168. The louver 168 of this embodiment also has a body portion 170 and a support spine 172. The body portion 170 and support spine 172 function in a similar manner to the previous embodiments, and are made of substantially the same materials, but the are shaped differently. The louvers 168 of this embodiment also include seals, but the seals of this embodiment are whisker-style seals. There is a first whisker-style seal 174 and a second whisker-style seal 176. Each of the seals 174,176 includes an arcuate portion 178 which is bonded to the body portion 170, and a flexible portion 180 integrally formed with the arcuate portion 178. There is a slip coat 182 connected to each of the flexible portions 180 of the seals 174,176 which functions in a similar manner to the slip coats 126,148 described in the previous embodiments to reduce friction between the louvers 168, limit the effect of ice formation on the surfaces of the seals 174,176, as well as improve wear resistance to dirt and debris.

(60) When the louvers 168 of this embodiment are in operation, each louver 168 is rotated between an open position and a closed position. When in the closed position, the flexible portions 180 of the respective seals 174,176 contact one another and deflect to prevent air flow between the louvers 168. As with the previously described embodiments, the body portion 170, support spine 172, seals 174,176, and slip coat 182 are all coextruded simultaneously to reduce manufacturing time, and increase efficiency.

(61) It should be appreciated that all of the embodiments of the present invention provide the advantages of increased efficiency during manufacturing because of the use of coextrusion, and that the louvers 14,110,138,168 may be cut to any length to suit any size aperture for any vehicle. While the louvers 14,110,138,168 have been described for use with the carrier 10, the louvers 14,110,138,168 may be used with other vehicle components as well. An example of this is shown in FIG. 18, where the louvers 14 of the first embodiment have been incorporated for use with a fascia 184. The fascia 184 is connected to a vehicle support structure, such as a body-in-white (BIW) component or chassis. Referring to FIG. 19, the carrier 10 is shown as being connectable to the BIW structure 186. However, it is within the scope of the invention that any of the louvers 14,110,138,168 may be connected to any structure as may be necessary so as to control air flow around various vehicle components, such as components in the engine compartment of a vehicle, and therefore control cooling. The louvers 14,110,138,168 may be incorporated into components such as, but not limited to, fenders, the hood, fascia, bumpers, ground effects, and the like.

(62) The description of the invention is merely exemplary in nature and, thus, variations that do not depart from the gist of the invention are intended to be within the scope of the invention. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention.