Adjustable Lifter Plate Assembly for Multi-Axis Window Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing window regulator lifter plate assemblies in vehicles, particularly in convertibles, face challenges in adjusting the position of the door window to achieve a reliable seal with the roof due to manufacturing variations, as they only allow adjustment along a single axis, complicating access to the adjustment mechanism.
Innovation Solution
The development of lifter plate assemblies with adjustable movement along multiple axes (z-axis, y-axis, and x-axis) to facilitate the insertion of an adjustment tool, enabling the positioning of the window's top edge into a reliably sealed relation with the roof, with features like beveled gears and multiple tool-receiving features accessible from different orientations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single-axis adjustment mechanism is used, then the structure is simple, but the accessibility of the adjustment mechanism is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a single-axis adjustment mechanism to a multi-axis adjustment mechanism, adding dimensional complexity to improve accessibility. The adjustment mechanism now accepts tools inserted along multiple axes (front, side, and top directions), resolving the contradiction by embracing dimensional expansion rather than avoiding it.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment mechanism is designed to perform multiple functions by accepting adjustment tools from different orientations and directions. This multi-functional capability allows the same mechanism to be accessed and operated from various positions, improving ease of operation without requiring multiple separate adjustment systems.
2Ease of operation
If the adjustment mechanism is made accessible from multiple directions, then the ease of operation improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple adjustment access points and tool-receiving features into a single integrated adjustment mechanism. Rather than creating separate adjustment systems for different directions, the mechanism merges these functions into one unified structure that accepts tools from multiple orientations, improving accessibility while controlling complexity through integration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple tool-receiving features are provided for different axes, then the versatility of adjustment improves, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism is segmented into distinct tool-receiving features, each optimized for specific axes of access. This segmentation allows for modular design and assembly, where each feature can be manufactured and positioned independently, improving versatility while managing manufacturing complexity through systematic division of functions.
Data Source
AI summary
A lifter plate assembly for holding a window of a motor vehicle door assembly and facilitating adjustable movement of the window along a vertical direction, and method of construction thereof are provided. The lifter plate assembly includes a main body having a rail guide hook for sliding receipt of a window regulator rail. A window holder is fixed to the main body for fixed receipt of an edge of the window. A cable holder is coupled to the main body via an adjustment mechanism for fixed attachment to at least one cable. The adjustment mechanism is adjustable via a plurality of tool-receiving features to move the main body and the window holder relative to the cable holder along the vertical direction. Each tool-receiving feature is accessible along separate first, second and third axes from one another.