Door Edge Guard Positioning Template with Cutout and Stop

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a lack of uniformity in the installation of door edge guards for vehicles, as they are typically fitted by individual installers based on visual judgment rather than standardized methods.

Innovation Solution

A template system is introduced, featuring a main body with a cutout to fit over a known fixed position on the vehicle, such as a door handle, and a stop to position one end of the door edge guard, optionally using adhesive or magnets for secure placement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If door edge guards are fitted by individual installers based on visual judgment, then installation flexibility is maintained, but installation uniformity and precision deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation precisionVSAvoidinstallation system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A template is introduced as an intermediary tool between the installer and the door edge guard. The template includes a body with positioning features that interface with fixed reference points on the vehicle, and extension members that define the precise location for the door edge guard installation, thereby eliminating the need for installer visual judgment while maintaining simplicity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The template is pre-configured with positioning features and extension members during manufacturing, so that when the installer uses it, the correct position is already determined. This preliminary preparation of positioning information resolves the contradiction by providing precision without requiring complex installation systems

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Manufacturing precision

If a template system is introduced to standardize door edge guard installation, then installation uniformity improves, but installation complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation uniformityVSAvoidtemplate system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The template is segmented into distinct functional components: a body portion with positioning features that interface with vehicle reference points, and extension members that protrude to define the door edge guard location. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, achieving uniformity without excessive complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The template body is designed with positioning features that can interface with fixed reference points on different vehicle types, making the template universally applicable. The extension members provide the positioning function while the body provides attachment and alignment functions, achieving multi-functionality with a single device

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

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

This method ensures consistent and accurate positioning of door edge guards, enhancing installation precision and uniformity across different vehicles.

Implementation Method 1

A preferred form of the invention also includes an easily removed adhesive on the vehicle side of the template or a double sided magnet

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdhesive: Adhesive

Implementation Method 2

A preferred form of the invention also includes an easily removed adhesive on the vehicle side of the template or a double sided magnet

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetism: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS8709180B2Method and apparatus for positioning door edge guard
Publication Date: 2014.04.29 ADELL GRP LLC
  • US8709180B2 patent drawing
  • US8709180B2 patent drawing
  • US8709180B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A template for positioning a door edge guard on a vehicle is disclosed. The template includes a main body, an edge, which can form a cutout, which aligns with an item of known fixed position on the vehicle, such as a door handle, and a stop extending from the main body of the template to position one end of the door edge guard. The template is taped onto the vehicle or an easily removed adhesive is used or the template is magnetic. A method for positioning a door edge guard on a vehicle, includes the steps of creating a template having a main body, a cutout formed in the main body to fit over an item of known fixed position on the vehicle, and a stop extending from the main body, positioning the template so that the cutout fits over the item of known fixed position on the vehicle and the stop extends to the edge of the door, which is to receive the door edge guard, and positioning the door edge guard on the edge of the door so the one end of the door edge guard abuts the stop. In a preferred method, the item of known fixed position on the vehicle is the door handle that is on the door to which the door edge guard is applied. A preferred method also includes either taping the template in place or including an easily removed adhesive on the vehicle side of the template.