Anti-projection Mud Flap With Single Grid Water Channeling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing anti-projection devices for road vehicles are ineffective in channeling and evacuating water, are difficult to clean, and have complex and costly manufacturing processes due to their multi-component structure.
Innovation Solution
A simplified anti-splash flap with a single grid permeable wall, arranged in a staggered pattern, that channels water through parallel evacuation channels, reducing material usage and manufacturing complexity while maintaining mechanical rigidity and effectiveness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a multi-component structure with two grids (flat and corrugated) is used, then water channeling effectiveness is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of two separate grids (flat and corrugated) into a single integrated grid structure. The single grid combines the water capture capability of the flat surface with the channeling effectiveness of corrugated patterns, eliminating the need for multiple components while maintaining water evacuation performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The single grid is segmented into multiple functional zones: an outer peripheral region that captures water projections and an inner region with radially oriented channels that evacuate water. This segmentation allows different parts of the same component to perform different functions, replacing the need for multiple separate components.
2Reliability
If a multi-component structure with two grids is used, then water channeling effectiveness is improved, but manufacturing time and precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
By combining the functions of two grids into one, the manufacturing process is simplified from requiring two separate welding stages to a single integration process. The single grid can be manufactured as one piece or pre-assembled unit, significantly reducing assembly time and precision requirements.
3Reliability
If bristles or spikes are added to synthetic material, then water interception capability is improved, but ease of cleaning deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a grid structure with inherent porosity and open channels that allows water to pass through while preventing mud and debris from accumulating. The radially oriented channels and open architecture prevent clogging, making the device easy to clean or self-cleaning through gravitational drainage.
4Reliability
If solid plates are used in anti-projection devices, then water capture effectiveness is improved, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces heavy solid plates with a lightweight grid structure made of thin synthetic material. The grid maintains structural integrity and water capture effectiveness through its geometric design and radial channel configuration, while being significantly lighter than solid plate alternatives.
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 single-grid design efficiently captures and drains water, is easy to clean, and simplifies the manufacturing process, ensuring high effectiveness and cost savings while meeting official requirements.
Implementation Method 1
a permeable wall in the form of a grid, extending generally parallel to the solid wall and delimiting with this solid wall a water channeling space
Implementation Method 2
channeling space, this anti-splash flap being essentially characterized in that the permeable wall, made in the form of a grid
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6~13
AI summary
The mud flap (5) has a solid wall (6) and a permeable wall (7) that is in a form of grid, where the wall (7) extends parallel to the solid wall (6) and defines a water channeling space. The wall (7) has cells (8) that are arranged along parallel lines and at longitudinal edges (9). Bases (8a) of the cells are connected to the solid wall by welding. Stiffeners are in a form of rods engaged in the water channeling space, where the rods are extended in all or a part of total height of the flap. An independent claim is also included for a method for manufacturing an anti-sail mud flap.