Unified Headlamp Interface Element for Versatile Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motor vehicle lighting systems face complexity in assembly due to the need to accommodate both headlamps with and without protective glass, requiring different mounting mechanisms which complicates manufacturing and compatibility across vehicle versions.
Innovation Solution
A common interface element is introduced, featuring indexing elements and slots that cooperate with the bumper and headlamps, regardless of the presence of protective glass, allowing for simplified assembly and compatibility with both types of headlamps by providing a unified mounting solution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If different mounting mechanisms are used for headlamps with and without protective glass, then compatibility with both headlamp types is achieved, but assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single mounting structure that can accommodate both headlamps with protective glass and those without. The mounting structure includes a retention member and a support element that work together to secure both types of headlamps using the same assembly mechanism, eliminating the need for different mounting solutions for different headlamp configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting structure is segmented into distinct functional components: a retention member for securing the headlamp to the vehicle body, and a support element for holding the protective glass when present. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while working together in a unified assembly system that handles both headlamp types.
2Device complexity
If a unified mounting structure is used for both headlamp types, then assembly complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different headlamp configurations may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting structure incorporates dynamic elements that allow adjustment and adaptation during assembly. The retention member can accommodate variations in headlamp positioning and dimensions, while the support element can be configured to hold protective glass when present or simply secure the headlamp housing when glass is absent. This dynamic capability enables a single structure to adapt to different headlamp configurations without compromising assembly simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the mounting structure have specialized local properties: the retention member features gripping surfaces and positioning elements optimized for securing headlamp housings, while the support element has specific geometric features for holding protective glass. This local quality optimization ensures that each part of the unified structure performs its function effectively for both headlamp types.
Data Source
Figure 1~2a
Figure 2b~3
AI summary
The invention relates to a motor vehicle comprising at least one front headlamp (2a), the vehicle comprising an interface element (7), the interface element comprising: - at least one aperture (70, 72) cooperating with an indexing element (28, 30) of complementary shape arranged: on a housing of the headlamp (2) or on a bodywork element such as a radiator grille when the vehicle is equipped with headlamps (2) without a protective lens; or on a protective lens (26) when the vehicle is equipped with headlamps comprising a protective lens, - at least one indexing element (70a, 72a) cooperating with an indexing element of complementary shape provided on a bumper that covers the interface element (7).