Elastic Fastener Assembly for Automotive Trim Panel Gaps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for fastening objects between a car trim panel and window glass are either ineffective, damage the trim panel, or are difficult to install and remove without causing temperature-related issues.
Innovation Solution
An elastic fastener assembly comprising a U-shaped or V-shaped elastic fastener with a flange that securely fits into the gap between the trim panel and window glass, featuring an object jointer for versatile attachment and optional reinforcement with a screw for heavy objects, allowing easy installation and removal without damaging the interior.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If glue or adhesive is used to fasten an object, then the object can be easily attached, but the attachment fails when ambient temperature rises
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from chemical bonding (adhesive) to mechanical bonding (elastic fastener with flange), changing the fundamental attachment parameter from temperature-sensitive chemical adhesion to temperature-resistant elastic mechanical interlocking, thereby maintaining reliability under temperature variations
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening system is divided into separate components: the elastic fastener body and the flange, allowing the flange to be inserted into the gap between trim panel and window glass, creating a segmented mechanical attachment that avoids temperature-related failure
2Reliability
If a screw is used to fasten an object, then the object can be securely attached, but the trim panel surface is damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The harmful penetrating action of screws is extracted and replaced by a non-penetrating flange insertion method. The flange is inserted into the existing gap between trim panel and window glass without penetrating or damaging the trim panel surface, thereby maintaining attachment security while eliminating surface damage
Solution Approach 2:
The flange acts as an intermediary element that transfers the fastening force from the elastic fastener to the gap between trim panel and window glass, avoiding direct contact with and potential damage to the trim panel surface while maintaining secure attachment
3Reliability
If a screw is used to fasten an object, then the object can be securely attached, but the installation process becomes strenuous
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic fastener body automatically provides clamping force through its elastic properties, eliminating the need for manual tightening or additional fastening operations. The flange insertion into the gap creates automatic mechanical interlocking, making the installation process simple and effortless while maintaining secure attachment
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic fastener body utilizes dynamic elastic deformation to adapt to the gap dimensions and provide continuous clamping force. This dynamic mechanism allows easy insertion and automatic securing without the static, force-intensive screw tightening process
4Volume of moving object
If the gap between trim panel and window glass is small, then the car design is compact, but the elastic fastener assembly cannot be inserted
Solution Approach 1:
The flange is designed with a height dimension that allows it to be inserted through the gap from the exterior side. By utilizing the depth dimension of the gap rather than requiring lateral space, the fastener can be installed in compact gap configurations without compromising insertability
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 elastic fastener assembly provides a secure, easy-to-install, and damage-free solution for fastening objects in cars, accommodating various shapes and sizes, and can be easily dismantled without harming the car's interior, ensuring reliable attachment and detachment.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic fastener having a first piece (11) and a second piece (12)... The elastic fastener assembly further includes an object jointer (14)... made up of an elastic material
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is an elastic fastener assembly for fastening objects to gap between the car window and the trim panel. The elastic fastener assembly includes an elastic fastener having a first piece for supporting the elastic fastener assembly and a second piece serving as a fastener of the elastic fastener assembly. The second piece has an opening provided with a flange for allowing the elastic fastener to be inserted in a gap between a trim panel and a car window glass to securely fasten the elastic fastener assembly to an inner side of the trim panel. The elastic fastener assembly includes an object jointer for jointing objects. The neck of the object jointer is spaced apart from the flange by a distance longer than the thickness of the trim panel, thereby ensuring the elastic fastener assembly to be fastened to the inner side of the trim panel during the installation process.