Flat Aerodynamic Cover Attachment Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aerodynamic cover attachment assemblies require recesses for attachment, which hinder aerodynamic performance and complicate molding, especially when using plastic covers.
Innovation Solution
An attachment assembly featuring a flat aerodynamic cover with first and second clips that clamp the cover at a prescribed height without needing a recess, using a flange and tubular member configuration to secure the cover to the vehicle body panel, allowing smooth airflow and simplified molding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a recess is formed in the aerodynamic cover at the attachment position, then the aerodynamic cover can be attached to the body panel, but the aerodynamic performance is hindered due to air flow changes
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is divided into two separate clips (first clip and second clip) that attach to opposite surfaces of the aerodynamic cover. This segmentation allows the cover itself to remain flat without recesses, while the clips provide the attachment function separately.
Solution Approach 2:
The first and second clips act as intermediary elements between the aerodynamic cover and the body panel. Instead of attaching directly to the cover (which would require a recess), the clips mediate the attachment process by clamping the cover and securing it to the panel, thus preserving the cover's flat aerodynamic surface.
2Reliability
If a deep recess is formed in the aerodynamic cover for attachment, then the cover can be secured at the prescribed height, but the molding process becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment function is segmented from the cover structure and implemented through separate first and second clips. This eliminates the need for complex deep recesses in the molded cover, simplifying the molding process while maintaining secure attachment through the clip mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The clips serve as intermediary attachment elements that provide the necessary security without requiring complex features in the cover itself. The first clip attaches to the upper surface and the second clip to the lower surface, together providing reliable attachment while keeping the cover design simple and easy to mold.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If clips are used to attach the aerodynamic cover, then the cover can be secured without recesses, but the attachment structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The clips are designed with specific local features (latching pawls, hollow tubular shapes, flanges) that provide the necessary attachment function only where needed. The first clip has a latching pawl for engaging the stud bolt, and the second clip has a flange for clamping, creating a complex attachment mechanism only at the attachment points while keeping the rest of the cover simple and aerodynamic.
Data Source
AI summary
An attachment assembly for an aerodynamic cover includes a substantially flattened aerodynamic cover adapted to be located on a body panel with a predetermined height (H) form the body panel; a first clip; and a second clip. The first clip comprises a flange and a shank adapted to engage with a stud on the body panel. The second clip includes a flange and a tubular body adapted to receive the shank therein and connect the shank therewith. The first and second clips are connected to each other in a manner that the aerodynamic cover is sandwiched and held between the flange. Thus, the aerodynamic cover is located on the body panel with the predetermined height (H) form the body panel.