Removable Foam Door Guard for Dent-Free Vehicle Parking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for protecting vehicles from door dents are cumbersome, difficult to install, unsightly, or cause damage, lacking a simple, low-cost, and effective solution that maintains the vehicle's appearance.
Innovation Solution
A tubular foam member with suction cups and a rubber cord, allowing easy attachment and removal, positioned along the vehicle's sides to absorb door impacts, preventing dents without marking the vehicle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a protection device is installed on the vehicle exterior, then protection against dents is improved, but the device may cause damage or marks to the vehicle exterior
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a flexible foam member that conforms to the vehicle's curved exterior surfaces. This flexible material absorbs impact forces while maintaining the vehicle's appearance and avoiding damage to the paint or bodywork.
Solution Approach 2:
The foam member is positioned in advance on the vehicle exterior at locations prone to door dings. It provides pre-positioned cushioning that absorbs impact before it can reach the vehicle body, preventing dents while being removable without causing damage.
2Reliability
If a protection device is permanently installed, then protection effectiveness is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficult installation and removal
Solution Approach 1:
The protection device transitions from a static permanent installation to a dynamic removable system. The foam member can be easily attached and removed by the user, providing flexibility while maintaining protection effectiveness during use.
Solution Approach 2:
The protection device is divided into separate components: the foam member and the mounting mechanism. This segmentation allows the foam member to be easily attached and removed independently, improving ease of operation while maintaining protection effectiveness.
3Reliability
If a bulky protection device is used, then protection against dents is improved, but the device alters the appearance of the automobile
Solution Approach 1:
The foam member is designed to be flexible and conformable, allowing it to adapt to the vehicle's existing contours rather than adding bulky protrusions. This maintains the vehicle's original appearance while providing adequate protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The foam member is positioned specifically at the outermost curvatures and bulges of the vehicle where door dings most commonly occur. This localized placement provides protection only where needed, minimizing visual impact while maintaining effectiveness.
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
Effectively prevents door dents by using a low-profile, easily attachable device that maintains the vehicle's appearance and causes no damage.
Implementation Method 1
Suction cups are attached to the opposite ends of the rubber cord, string or cable beyond the opposite open ends of the tubular member. The suction cups releasably secure the device to the vehicle exterior
Data Source
AI summary
A device for attachment to the sides of a vehicle to protect against dents when parked next to other vehicles includes an elongated tubular foam member having a hollow axial passage extending therethrough between opposite open ends. A rubber cord, string or cable extends through the axial passage and attaches to suction cups beyond the opposite open ends of the tubular foam member. The suction cups releasably secure the device to the vehicle exterior so that the tubular foam member is held and positioned generally horizontally along the side door(s) of the vehicle.