Universal Mudguard Locking Device with Separated Fixing Rings

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing locking/unlocking devices for vehicle mudguards are expensive and heavy due to the need for customization for each mudguard model, and they lack adaptability to different sizes and curvatures.

Innovation Solution

A universal locking/unlocking device featuring two mechanically separated fixing rings with adaptable crosspieces and flexible stop means, allowing shape coupling with various mudguard guides, enabling easy mounting on different sized mudguards with snap-on coupling.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If customization is implemented for each mudguard model, then reliability of mounting is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting reliabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal locking/unlocking device with fixing rings and crosspieces that can be used across multiple mudguard models. The fixing rings are designed with adaptable geometry to accommodate different guide configurations, eliminating the need for model-specific customizations while maintaining reliable mounting through standardized components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting device is divided into separate functional components including fixing rings, crosspieces, and stop means that can be independently configured. This segmentation allows the same basic components to be adapted to different mudguard models without requiring complete customization, reducing overall device complexity while preserving mounting reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If heavy-duty locking mechanisms are used, then mounting reliability is improved, but device weight increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting reliabilityVSAvoiddevice weight
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism incorporates dynamic elements such as movable crosspieces and flexible stop means that can adapt to different mounting conditions. This dynamic design allows the mechanism to achieve reliable locking through intelligent geometry and movement rather than relying solely on increased mass, thereby maintaining reliability while reducing weight.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If model-specific locking devices are manufactured, then adaptability to each model is improved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodel adaptabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs universal fixing rings and crosspieces that can be used across multiple mudguard models. The design incorporates adaptable geometric features that allow the same components to fit different guide configurations, achieving model-specific adaptability through a standardized platform rather than through separate custom-designed devices for each model.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Ease of manufacture

If simplified universal mounting system is used, then manufacturing cost and weight are reduced, but adaptability to various sizes and curvatures may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing costVSAvoidsize and curvature adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The universal mounting system incorporates adjustable parameters including the geometry of crosspieces and the positioning of stop means that can be modified to accommodate different guide configurations. By changing these geometric parameters within the universal design framework, the system maintains adaptability to various sizes and curvatures while keeping manufacturing costs low through standardized production processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentEP4230507A1Locking/unlocking device for vehicle mudguards and mudguard assembly
Publication Date: 2023.08.23 DOMAR

AI summary

A locking/unlocking device (4) for a mudguard (8) of vehicles (12), comprising a first fixing ring (16) comprising a first annular portion (20) delimiting a first cylindrical seat (24) of longitudinal axis (X-X), adapted to accommodate a support rod (26) for said mudguard (8) and provided with first fixing means (28) to said mudguard (8), wherein said first fixing means (28) comprise a first slide (30), adapted to obtain a shape coupling with a first guide (32) of said mudguard (8), and first stop means (34) of said first slide (30) on the first guide (32), a second fixing ring (66) comprising a second annular portion (70) adapted to accommodate said support rod (26) for said mudguard (8) and provided with second fixing means (72) to said mudguard (8), wherein said second fixing means (72) comprise a second slide (76), adapted to obtain a shape coupling with a second guide (80) of said mudguard (8), and second stop means (82) of said second slide (76) on the second guide (80). Said second fixing ring (66) is mechanically separated from said first fixing ring (16). [Fig. 1]