Summary: Inspired by Corey Hart's 80s hit "Sunglasses at Night," a young inventor conceptualized the windshield sun shade. This article delves into the journey of transforming a whimsical idea into a practical invention, highlighting the challenges and breakthroughs along the way. Discover the fascinating backstory, the evolution of the design, and some intriguing statistics about sun shades that you might not know.
Every great invention has a muse, and for this story, it was Canadian-born 80s pop star Corey Hart. His song "Sunglasses at Night" ignited the idea for the windshield sun shade, a concept that would eventually become a staple for car owners everywhere.
The 1980s were a time of vibrant culture and iconic fashion. Think side ponytails, parachute pants, and acid-wash jeans. Rubik’s cubes, hair bands, and movies like "Pretty in Pink" defined the era. It was during this colorful decade that the idea for "car sunglasses" was born.
It was a warm June evening in 1984. I was driving my 1983 Firebird down the highway, windows down, music blaring, and a cigarette dangling from my lips. As Corey Hart's "Sunglasses at Night" played, a thought struck me: "What if cars had sunglasses?" This idea was the seed that would grow into the windshield sun shade.
At 17, living in my parents' basement and working at a local bar, my resources were limited. Earning $4.75 an hour, I had just enough money for cardboard, markers, and tape. My first design was inspired by Bob Dylan's iconic shades. The prototype was stylish but impractical, as it didn't sit flush on the windshield and fell apart quickly.
Despite my enthusiasm, the initial designs were flawed. The cardboard constructions were fragile, and sunlight still penetrated the windshield. Frustrated, I threw one of my designs in a fit of rage, and it landed on the dashboard through the open window. This accidental discovery led to a breakthrough: placing the shade inside the car.
By moving the shade inside, I eliminated weather-related issues and achieved a better fit. This simple yet effective change transformed the concept from a whimsical idea into a practical solution.
Although I didn't pursue the sun shade design further, choosing instead to chase a career in music, the potential for success was undeniable. Windshield sun shades have since become a common accessory, protecting car interiors from the sun's harsh rays.
From a whimsical idea inspired by an 80s pop song to a practical invention, the journey of the windshield sun shade is a testament to creativity and perseverance. While I didn't capitalize on the idea, the impact of sun shades on car comfort and protection is undeniable. So next time you use a sun shade, remember its quirky origin story and the young inventor who dared to dream.
This article is a tribute to the innovative spirit of the 80s and the enduring practicality of a simple yet effective idea. Whether you're a fan of Corey Hart or just someone who appreciates a cooler car interior, the windshield sun shade is a small but significant invention that has stood the test of time.
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