Motor Vehicle Mudguard Aerodynamic Flap Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for attaching a mudflap to a vehicle mudguard are complex, costly, and require multiple fixing zones, making them unsuitable for small spaces and increasing manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
A mudguard assembly featuring a semicircular partition with a protruding fixing lug and a sleeve around it, allowing for a robust and simplified attachment of the mudflap using complementary tapered surfaces and bosses, reducing the number of screws and assembly operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a complex fixing device with multiple screws and fixing zones is used to attach the mudflap, then the attachment robustness is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing system is segmented into two functional parts: the fixing lug integrated into the mudguard partition and the sleeve integrated into the mudflap. This segmentation allows each component to have a specific, simplified function while together providing a robust attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The sleeve is fitted over the fixing lug, creating a nested structure where one component (sleeve) contains another (fixing lug). This nesting provides a secure fit and robust attachment while simplifying the overall fixing mechanism compared to multiple separate fasteners.
2Stability of the object's composition
If multiple fixing zones on the vehicle structure are used, then the attachment stability is improved, but the ease of operation and assembly time worsen
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple fixing functions are merged into a single integrated fixing lug structure. The fixing lug combines the functions of positioning, support, and attachment in one component, eliminating the need for multiple separate fixing zones and simplifying the assembly process.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing lug serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, defines the attachment position, enables the nesting of the sleeve, and facilitates both X and Z direction fixing. This multi-functionality reduces the number of components and assembly steps while maintaining attachment stability.
3Reliability
If a complex fixing device with multiple components is used, then the attachment robustness is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing lug and sleeve are each integrated into single-piece structures (mudguard partition and mudflap respectively), reducing the number of separate components that need to be manufactured and assembled. This merging of functions into integrated components lowers manufacturing complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing lug and sleeve are designed to work together in a self-contained manner, with the sleeve fitting over the fixing lug without requiring additional fasteners or complex assembly operations. This self-service design reduces manufacturing and assembly costs while providing robust attachment.
Data Source
Figure 1~3
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AI summary
The subject of the invention is a motor vehicle comprising front wheels and rear wheels disposed in wheel arches provided with mudguards (6). The rear mudguards are equipped with aerodynamic flaps (12). They each comprise a half-tubular partition (18) which delimits an internal space intended to receive a wheel of the vehicle. The partition comprises a fastening tab (26) fastened to the body of the vehicle. The flap (12) forms a wall downwardly extending the partition of the the mudguard (6). Said flap comprises a sleeve (34) which is fitted around the fastening tab and which is locked in position between the partition (18) and a transverse arm of the body of the vehicle. Said sleeve is fastened with the aid of the same screw that clamps the fastening tab (26) to the transverse arm.