Universal License Plate Mounting System with Biasing Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing license plate mounting systems are limited in their ability to accommodate the varying sizes and mounting standards of license plates across different states, leading to increased manufacturing and inventory costs due to the need for multiple model numbers to comply with diverse DMV registration requirements.
Innovation Solution
A license plate mounting system comprising a backing plate with oversized holes and a tool-less connecting outer frame, which can accommodate multiple hole sizes and spacings, including L-slots or T-slots, and incorporates a biasing element like a spring or neoprene foam to secure the license plate and reduce vibration, allowing for universal fitment across at least 47 states.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple model numbers are used to address different DMV registration compliant issues and mounting standards, then compliance with various state license plate standards is improved, but manufacturing and inventory cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The license plate mounting system uses a universal backing plate design with oversized holes that can accommodate multiple hole sizes and spacings, allowing a single model to comply with various state DMV registration standards. This eliminates the need for multiple model numbers and reduces manufacturing and inventory costs while maintaining adaptability to different license plate mounting requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The backing plate incorporates oversized holes that can adapt to different fastener sizes and spacings by changing the effective parameters of the mounting configuration. This allows the same backing plate to work with various license plate standards without requiring multiple specialized designs, thereby reducing complexity and cost.
2Strength
If traditional fastener connections are used to secure the frame to the backing plate, then connection strength is improved, but visibility of fastener heads outside the frame increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener heads are extracted from the visible exterior space and positioned entirely within the frame cavity. The tool-less connection mechanism allows fasteners to be secured from the interior side, eliminating visible fastener heads while maintaining connection strength through proper fastener engagement with the backing plate.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening mechanism is nested within the frame structure, with fastener heads positioned inside the frame cavity rather than protruding outward. This nested arrangement maintains secure connection strength while achieving a clean exterior appearance without visible fasteners.
3Stability of the object's composition
If rigid mounting is used to secure the license plate, then mounting stability is improved, but vibration between license plate and frame increases
Solution Approach 1:
A biasing element is incorporated into the mounting system to provide beforehand cushioning between the license plate and the frame. This cushioning element absorbs vibrations and prevents harmful vibrations while maintaining secure mounting stability, addressing the contradiction between rigid mounting and vibration reduction.
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 system effectively secures license plates of varying sizes and standards without visible fasteners, reducing manufacturing and inventory costs while ensuring compliance with multiple DMV regulations by providing a universal fitment solution that minimizes vibration and enhances durability.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing element, such as a spring
Implementation Method 2
a biasing element, such as a spring
Implementation Method 3
the biasing element will help eliminate vibration between license plate and the frame
Data Source
AI summary
A license plate mounting system for a vehicle is provided. The mounting system can comprise an outer frame and a backing plate. The outer frame and backing plate assembly can be configured to receive and maintain a license plate. The outer frame can include a plurality of tabs and slots to engage with the backing plate. The backing plate can include a plurality of tabs and recesses to engage with the outer frame.