Caliper Cover Mounting System for Adjustable Brake Dust Venting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing caliper cover systems for motor vehicles are difficult to install and remove, often require specialized tools, and do not allow for adjustment to accommodate different caliper sizes or positions, leading to unsightly brake dust and heat issues.

Innovation Solution

A caliper cover system with pair of mounts that engage securely on both sides of the caliper above the rotor path, featuring a biased frictional engagement and adjustable design to fit various caliper sizes, allowing for easy installation and adjustment without contacting the brake pads, and a curved design to vent dust rearward.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If caliper covers are glued to the caliper, then the cover is securely attached, but it becomes unsafe and hard to remove

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment strengthVSAvoidease of removal
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The caliper cover system is divided into separate components: the caliper cover itself and the caliper, connected through a removable mounting mechanism rather than permanent adhesion. This segmentation allows the cover to be securely attached during operation yet easily removed when needed, resolving the contradiction between strong attachment and ease of removal.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting system transitions from a static permanent bond (glue) to a dynamic removable connection using clips and mounting members. This dynamic mounting mechanism allows the cover to be securely fixed during normal operation but can be easily detached by applying force to release the clips, thus resolving the contradiction between secure attachment and ease of removal.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Device complexity

If a single mount is used for the caliper cover, then the structure is simple, but there is no adjustment for the cover closer or further from the wheel

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting structure complexityVSAvoidposition adjustability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting member incorporates an adjustable mechanism that allows the caliper cover position to be dynamically changed. The mounting member can be positioned at different locations along the caliper, enabling the cover to be adjusted closer or further from the wheel as needed, while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure through the use of standardized mounting components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting member serves multiple functions: it secures the caliper cover to the caliper, provides adjustable positioning, and accommodates different caliper sizes and configurations. This multi-functionality allows a single mounting design to achieve both structural simplicity and position adaptability across various applications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Shape

If the caliper cover is positioned close to the wheel, then it provides better coverage, but it may contact the interior of the wheel

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoverage extentVSAvoidinstallation flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The adjustable mounting mechanism allows the caliper cover position to be dynamically optimized for each installation scenario. The user can adjust the cover distance from the wheel to achieve maximum coverage while preventing contact with the wheel interior, providing both good coverage and installation flexibility through the same mounting system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

The system enables easy and secure engagement of the caliper cover, reducing brake dust visibility and heat issues, while accommodating different caliper sizes and positions, making it accessible to a wider range of users without requiring specialized tools.

Implementation Method 1

a threaded member, configured for threaded engagement with a support member

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThreaded engagement: Screw

Implementation Method 2

a frictional and secure engagement not easily dismounted once so engaged

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS10066687B2Caliper cover
Publication Date: 2018.09.04 MGP CALIPER COVERS LLC
  • US10066687B2 patent drawing
  • US10066687B2 patent drawing
  • US10066687B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A caliper cover having a first support member and second support member engaged on a first mount and second mount affixed to opposite sides of a brake caliper. The first and second mounts are held engaged by the fixed spacing of the first and second member. Enhanced engagement is provided through a declining gap formed between opposing first and second portions of the mounts.