Rolling diaphragm system for deflating weatherstrips

摘要

A deflatable sealing member forms a weatherstrip to seal a closure opening for a vehicle. The sealing member includes a sealed tubular section to provide tight interference engagement between the closure and the vehicle body. A rolling diaphragm pump deflates the sealing member during closing of the closure. Upon deflation, the sealing member collapses to a reduced cross section. This permits easier closing of the closure and avoids compression shock, common on vehicles having tight fitting weatherstriping. An atmospheric vent valve vents the sealing member to the atmosphere upon closing. As a result, the inherent resiliency of the sealing member returns it to full cross section, restoring the desired tight interference engagement. A vacuum limiter valve is provided to limit the level of vacuum within the pump in order to maintain the closing force below a desired maximum.