Development of a Rain Visor for Automobiles

Authors' Class Standing

Katharine Miley, Freshman

Lead Presenter's Name

Katharine Miley

Faculty Mentor Name

Jason Kring

Abstract

Title: Development of a Rain Visor for Automobiles

Lead Author: Katharine Miley

ABSTRACT

With heavy rain, automobile drivers’ visibility is limited and accidents are more ubiquitous. Although windshield wipers are effective for light rain, they are often insufficient in heavy downpours that are common in regions such as Florida. This study aims to solve this problem by developing a protective visor above the windshield. It would be made out of plastic and curved up at the top, much like a gutter, to decrease excess rain runoff. It would be attached to the car's roof by hinges, which would allow for the visor to be stored on top of the car when not in use. Using an iterative design approach, whereby a prototype design is tested, redesigned, then tested again, I will start with a computer model of the device and eventually create a functioning example for real-world testing. Ultimately, this device would improve visibility and safety for drivers during a rainstorm.

Location

Flight Deck

Start Date

9-4-2014 10:00 AM

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Apr 9th, 10:00 AM

Development of a Rain Visor for Automobiles

Flight Deck

Title: Development of a Rain Visor for Automobiles

Lead Author: Katharine Miley

ABSTRACT

With heavy rain, automobile drivers’ visibility is limited and accidents are more ubiquitous. Although windshield wipers are effective for light rain, they are often insufficient in heavy downpours that are common in regions such as Florida. This study aims to solve this problem by developing a protective visor above the windshield. It would be made out of plastic and curved up at the top, much like a gutter, to decrease excess rain runoff. It would be attached to the car's roof by hinges, which would allow for the visor to be stored on top of the car when not in use. Using an iterative design approach, whereby a prototype design is tested, redesigned, then tested again, I will start with a computer model of the device and eventually create a functioning example for real-world testing. Ultimately, this device would improve visibility and safety for drivers during a rainstorm.