Mating Hole Adapter for Bumper Cover Retention Clip Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for mating vehicle components, such as bumper covers, require multiple parts and line-of-sight alignment, reducing efficiency and increasing installation time due to size mismatches between through holes and equipment.
Innovation Solution
An assembly comprising a mating hole adapter with a through hole of a specific inner diameter, a bumper cover with a larger through hole, and a retention clip with a fastener of matching outer diameter, allowing for size-independent mating and self-location for efficient installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If reduction bushing or shimming is used to reduce the diameter of a through hole, then the size mismatch between through holes and equipment is resolved, but the number of parts increases and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the reduction bushing and shimming functions into a single integrated adapter component. This adapter has a first opening that receives the fastener and a second opening that aligns with the bumper cover hole, eliminating the need for separate reduction bushing and shimming parts while achieving the same size adaptation function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If reduction bushing or shimming is used to reduce the diameter of a through hole, then the size mismatch between through holes and equipment is resolved, but installation time increases due to required line of sight alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter is designed with self-aligning features including a locator portion that engages with a corresponding feature on the bumper cover. This self-location mechanism automatically positions the adapter correctly without requiring the installer to visually align multiple components, thereby reducing installation time and eliminating the need for continuous line-of-sight adjustment.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple parts are used for mating components with different hole sizes, then size compatibility is achieved, but production line efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter serves multiple functions in a single component: it provides size adaptation through its two different opening diameters, ensures proper positioning through the locator portion, and enables fastener passage. This multi-functionality replaces what previously required multiple separate parts, streamlining the production process and improving efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments described herein generally relate to an assembly for mating a retention clip to a bumper cover. The assembly includes a mating hole adapter including a body having a through hole of a first inner diameter. The assembly further includes a bumper cover including a through hole of a second inner diameter, where the first inner diameter of the through hole of the mating hole adapter is less than the second inner diameter of the through hole of the bumper cover. The assembly further includes a retention clip including a fastener having an outer diameter that is substantially equal to the first inner diameter, where the retention clip is mated with the bumper cover by the through hole of the mating hole adapter.