Adjustable Datum Pin Assembly for Vehicle Gap Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for securing bumper covers, fenders, and roof spoilers to vehicle structures lack adjustability, making it difficult to achieve precise gaps with the hood or trunk lid, as they provide no 'play' in the temporary securement mechanism and are unidirectional, limiting the ability to adjust the gap before permanent fixation.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable datum pin assembly with a fixed lower portion and a translatable upper portion, resisted by a friction mechanism, allowing for adjustability via a track-and-rail mechanism and optional locking mechanism, enabling the securement of vehicle components with precise gap control before permanent attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If fixed post structures or tab structures are used for temporary securement, then the vehicle component can be held in place, but no adjustability is provided for the gap between the component and hood/trunk lid
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the fixed post structure into a dynamic adjustable datum pin assembly with a translatable upper portion that can move vertically along the lower portion. This allows the gap between the bumper cover and hood to be adjusted by translating the upper portion relative to the lower portion, providing adaptability while maintaining temporary securement functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The datum pin assembly is divided into two separate portions: a fixed lower portion coupled to the vehicle structure and a movable upper portion that interfaces with the bumper cover. This segmentation allows independent adjustment of the upper portion to control the gap, while the lower portion remains anchored to provide stability.
2Ease of operation
If tab structures are used for temporary securement, then the component can be snugged against the vehicle structure, but unidirectional movement prevents subsequent adjustment away from the structure
Solution Approach 1:
The upper portion of the datum pin assembly is designed to move bidirectionally relative to the lower portion along the vertical axis. This allows the bumper cover to be both snugged against the vehicle structure and subsequently adjusted away from it, enabling gap verification and adjustment before permanent securement.
3Manufacturing precision
If temporary spacers are fitted and re-fitted to ensure precise gap, then gap precision can be achieved, but the securement mechanism lacks the play needed for adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the temporary spacer function with the temporary securement function into a single integrated adjustable datum pin assembly. The upper portion acts as both the securement element and the adjustable reference that defines the gap, eliminating the need for separate spacer components and reducing overall system complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Provides a degree of adjustability to ensure precise gap widths between vehicle components and the hood or trunk lid, allowing for desired positioning before permanent securement, enhancing manufacturing precision and aesthetics.
Implementation Method 1
Relative translation of the translatable upper portion with respect to the fixed lower portion is resisted via an intervening friction mechanism or the like, such that a sufficient actuating force is required to translate the translatable upper portion with respect to the fixed lower portion.
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable datum pin assembly for temporarily affixing a bumper cover, fender, side panel, roof spoiler, or the like (i.e., a vehicle component) to an associated vehicle structure, the adjustable datum pin assembly including: a fixed lower portion adapted to be coupled to the associated vehicle structure; a translatable upper portion translatably coupled to the fixed lower portion, wherein the translatable upper portion includes an attachment structure adapted to be coupled to the bumper cover, fender, side panel, roof spoiler, or the like; and a friction mechanism disposed between the translatable upper portion and the fixed lower portion adapted to resist translation of the translatable upper portion with respect to the fixed lower portion.