Rear Window Closing Clip Using Levered Flip Closure

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing solutions fail to provide an efficient method for closing the rear window of soft-tops on SUVs and similar vehicles due to the tension in the soft top material, leading to difficulty in securing the window in a closed position without causing damage.

Innovation Solution

A rear window closing clip comprising a securing plate, a base with a hook, and a securing screw that uses a flipping motion to leverage the window closure, preventing tearing or wear on the soft top material.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the soft top is extended to cover the vehicle top, then the vehicle can be covered, but the tension in the soft top makes it difficult to close the rear window

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of closing rear windowVSAvoidtension in soft top
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

A closing clip is introduced as an intermediary device between the window and the soft top. The clip has a first leg that engages with the window and a second leg that engages with the soft top, mediating the force transmission and enabling window closure despite the soft top tension

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The closing clip is divided into multiple functional segments: a first leg for window engagement, a second leg for soft top engagement, and a body connecting them. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function independently, resolving the force conflict between window closure and soft top tension

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Productivity

If force is applied to close the window against soft top tension, then the window can be closed, but tearing or wear may occur on the soft top

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveefficiency of window closureVSAvoidtearing or wear on soft top
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The closing clip acts as a mediator that distributes the closing force across multiple contact points (window edge and soft top) rather than concentrating it on a single point, preventing tearing and wear on the soft top material

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The clip design inherently cushions the closing action by using its articulated structure to gradually engage the window and soft top, preventing sudden force application that could cause damage

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

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

Facilitates easy and efficient closure of the rear window while minimizing wear on the soft top, ensuring a secure and damage-free operation.

Implementation Method 1

a base and a securing screw. The window fold will be secured by a hook in the base and held into the clip by the securing plate which is attached the base using a securing screw

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical Fastener: Screw

Implementation Method 2

The window fold will be secured by a hook in the base

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical Fastener: Hook

Implementation Method 3

The window will be closed using flipping motion of the base adding leverage to the action. This smooth action prevents any tearing or undo wear on the soft top window

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLever: Lever

Data Source

PatentUS20240351405A1Rear Window Clip
Publication Date: 2024.10.24 GOLDWITZ BRIAN
  • US20240351405A1 patent drawing
  • US20240351405A1 patent drawing
  • US20240351405A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The current invention is a rear window closing clip that can be used to assist in closing the rear window of soft tops for SUV and similar vehicles. The clip will consist of a securing plate, a base and a securing screw. The window fold will be secured by a hook in the base and held into the clip by the securing plate which is attached the base using a securing screw. The window will be closed using flipping motion of the base adding leverage to the action. This smooth action prevents any tearing or undo wear on the soft top window.