Elastomeric License Plate Frame with Compression Openings for Impact Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing license plate frames provide minimal protection to both the license plate and the vehicle, particularly in the event of incidental contact with external forces, as they do not effectively absorb or distribute impact forces.
Innovation Solution
A license plate frame design featuring a base portion with fastener openings for securing the frame to a vehicle and a perimeter portion with compression openings that allow for deflection upon impact, constructed from materials like vulcanized rubber or PVC, enabling the frame to act as a bumper and absorb impact forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a traditional rigid license plate frame is used, then the frame provides structural support and mounting capability, but it offers minimal impact protection and transmits impact forces to the vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The frame transitions from a purely rigid structure to a semi-rigid structure by incorporating elastomeric material, changing the mechanical parameters to provide both structural support and impact absorption. The elastomeric material allows the frame to deform elastically under impact while maintaining sufficient rigidity for mounting the license plate.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame is constructed as a composite structure combining rigid components (for structural support and mounting) with elastomeric components (for impact absorption). This composite approach allows the frame to simultaneously provide structural integrity and cushioning protection against impacts.
2Loss of energy
If the frame is made completely rigid for structural support, then mounting stability is improved, but impact forces are not absorbed and are transmitted to the vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The elastomeric material is pre-installed in the frame structure to provide cushioning before impact occurs. This pre-positioned cushioning material is designed to deform and absorb impact energy when contact occurs, protecting the vehicle from impact forces while maintaining mounting stability through the rigid portions of the frame.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the frame uses thick solid material for protection, then impact resistance is improved, but the frame weight and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The frame utilizes thin elastomeric material layers that provide impact protection through elastic deformation rather than through mass or thickness. The elastomeric coating or insert absorbs impact energy through material flexibility, achieving protection without requiring thick solid material or complex structural designs.
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 frame effectively reduces damage to both the license plate and the vehicle by absorbing and distributing impact forces, enhancing protection against incidental contacts with other objects.
Implementation Method 1
The perimeter portion is constructed from an elastomeric material or other cushioning material, enabling the frame to act as a bumper and absorb impact forces
Implementation Method 2
The perimeter portion includes a plurality of walls, the plurality of walls includes a first wall, and the first wall includes at least one compression opening
Data Source
AI summary
A license plate frame includes a base portion and a perimeter portion. The base portion includes a plurality of fastener openings, and each of the plurality of fastener openings is configured to receive a fastener for securing the license plate frame and a license plate to a vehicle. The perimeter portion is connected to and extends outwardly from the base portion. The perimeter portion includes a plurality of walls, the plurality of walls includes a first wall, and the first wall includes at least one compression opening.