Modular Half-Mudguard With Integrated Engagement Means
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mudguards are heavy, costly, and complex, requiring large-scale production systems and frequent maintenance due to multiple fixing means, and often provide ineffective protection and aerodynamic issues during vehicle operation.
Innovation Solution
A modular mudguard design consisting of detachable half-mudguards with engagement and grip means, allowing for easy assembly and versatility, eliminating the need for small parts and enabling manual installation without tools, while maintaining structural simplicity and aesthetic appeal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional single-piece metallic or plastic mudguards are used, then protection function is provided, but the molds are very large and heavy requiring large-scale production systems which increases production costs
Solution Approach 1:
The mudguard is divided into multiple separate elements (first element, second element, and optional third element) that can be produced using smaller, lighter molds. These segmented elements are then assembled together to form the complete mudguard, eliminating the need for large-scale production systems while maintaining the protection function.
2Ease of manufacture
If modular mudguards with multiple construction elements are used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but multiple fixing means and small parts are required which increase production time and installation time
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing function is merged into the mudguard elements themselves through integrated engagement means (protrusions and recesses) that are formed as part of the elements during molding. This eliminates the need for separate fixing means such as screws, nuts, and washers, thereby reducing both production time and installation time while maintaining the modular advantage.
3Ease of manufacture
If modular mudguards with multiple fixing means are used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but frequent maintenance is required due to rapid wear of fixing means
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement means (protrusions and recesses) are integrated as integral parts of the mudguard elements, eliminating separate fixing means that are subject to wear. This merging of the fixing function into the structure itself significantly reduces maintenance requirements and improves reliability.
4Reliability
If mudguards dedicated to specific vehicle applications are used, then fixation to specific vehicle types is optimized, but versatility across different vehicle types is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The mudguard elements are designed with universal engagement means that can adapt to different vehicle types and wheel configurations. The modular nature allows the same basic elements to be combined in different arrangements and fixed to various vehicle chassis types, providing both reliable fixation and broad versatility.
5Adaptability or versatility
If flexible blade is used in mudguard, then adaptability to vehicle maneuvers is improved, but protection effectiveness during normal driving is reduced and aerodynamics deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The mudguard incorporates movable and adjustable elements that can adapt their position during vehicle operation. The engagement means allow elements to be positioned optimally for normal driving to ensure protection and good aerodynamics, while still accommodating vehicle maneuvers through controlled movement rather than complete flexibility.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4a
Figure 4b
AI summary
A mudguard (1) for vehicles, which is constituted by at least one first half-mudguard (2) that has, on at least one first free end (3) which, during use, is arranged above a tire substantially at approximately the diameter of the tire at right angles to the ground, engagement means (4a) and grip means (5a) for optional detachable coupling with a separate and identical second half-mudguard (6), which is also provided with engagement means (4b) and grip means (5b), or with a finishing end portion (7), optionally associated with a chassis of the vehicle, or with a flat element (26) or with a strip (27) for lateral protection. Each one of the engagement means (4a, 4b) is arranged adjacent respectively to each one of the grip means (5a, 5b) so that each one affects approximately half of the transverse extent of the respective first free end (3).