Overcenter Latch Clip Assembly for Tool-Free Windshield Mounting

The patent replaces traditional mechanical clamp systems requiring tools with a spring-loaded pin mechanism that uses elastic deformation and mechanical advantage. The spring provides automatic locking force when the pin is inserted, eliminating the need for tools while maintaining secure attachment. This substitution transforms a tool-dependent mechanical system into a self-actuating system based on elastic energy storage.

The spring-loaded pin mechanism is designed to be self-locking upon insertion. The spring automatically engages with the roll cage aperture and windshield aperture, creating a secure connection without requiring additional fastening operations. The system serves itself by using the insertion motion to compress the spring, which then maintains the locked position through its elastic force.

The patent merges multiple separate hardware components (pin, spring, locking features) into a single integrated assembly. The spring-loaded pin mechanism functions as one unified component that performs both the fastening and locking functions simultaneously. This integration eliminates the possibility of losing individual hardware pieces like nuts, bolts, or washers, as all functional elements are contained within the single pin assembly.

The spring-loaded pin mechanism is designed to be completely removable and reusable. When the windshield needs to be removed, the entire pin assembly is extracted as one unit and can be stored for future use. The spring maintains its elastic properties and can be reused indefinitely, ensuring no functional components are discarded or lost during the installation and removal cycles.

The patent extracts the securing function from a wrap-around clamp design and relocates it to discrete pin insertion points. Instead of requiring the clamp to encircle the entire roll cage member, the spring-loaded pins are inserted through specific apertures in both the windshield and roll cage. This extraction allows the roll cage surface to remain exposed and accessible for door installation while maintaining secure windshield attachment at the aperture locations.

The windshield mounting system is segmented into discrete, localized attachment points rather than a continuous wrap-around structure. Multiple spring-loaded pins are positioned at separate apertures distributed around the windshield perimeter, providing secure attachment at specific locations while leaving the intervening roll cage surfaces available for door mounting and flush closure.