Windshield Repair Bridge With Articulating Tool Arm
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing windshield repair apparatuses face challenges in ease of use, accessibility, removal of impurities, application of pressure, and minimizing waste, while aiming for an optically invisible repair site.
Innovation Solution
A windshield repair apparatus featuring a support bridge with a suction cup, an articulating arm for tool and light attachment, and a quick connect feature, allowing for precise application of repair material and pressure, along with a mechanism for mechanical engagement and visibility enhancement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional windshield repair apparatus is used, then the repair can be performed, but the ease of operation and accessibility to the break site is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is divided into distinct functional modules: a bridge structure for positioning, an injector for material delivery, a suction cup for mounting, and an articulating arm for tool holding. Each module performs a specific function and can be independently adjusted or replaced, improving ease of operation while maintaining manageable complexity through functional segmentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulating arm provides dynamic positioning capability, allowing tools and lights to be moved to optimal positions around the break site. The injector is also made moveable for inspection and positioning adjustments. This dynamic adaptability enhances accessibility and ease of operation without requiring a completely complex reconfiguration system.
2Ease of operation
If the injector is fixed in position, then the structure is simple, but visual access and inspection of the repair site is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The injector is designed to be moveable rather than fixed, allowing it to be repositioned for both inspection of the repair site and proper positioning during the repair process. This dynamic capability provides excellent visual access and operational flexibility without requiring a completely complex adjustable mechanism.
3Loss of substance
If repair material is applied without precise control, then the application process is simple, but material waste increases
Solution Approach 1:
The injector delivers repair material directly to the break site with precise localization. The bridge structure positions the injector immediately adjacent to the break area, and the injection mechanism applies material only where needed through controlled delivery. This localized application minimizes material waste while maintaining ease of operation through the pre-positioned bridge structure.
4Manufacturing precision
If the repair site is not properly illuminated, then the setup is simpler, but the quality of repair deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The articulating arm serves multiple functions: it can hold tools, hold lights, or provide structural support. By incorporating a light holder capability into the existing articulating arm structure, the apparatus provides illumination without requiring a separate dedicated lighting system, thus improving repair quality while minimizing additional complexity.
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 apparatus facilitates efficient and visually imperceptible windshield repairs by providing improved accessibility, precise application, and reduced material waste, enhancing the overall repair process.
Implementation Method 1
a suction cup for mounting the bridge to the windshield
Data Source
AI summary
A windshield repair apparatus includes a bridge for holding an injector adjacent to a break area of a windshield. The bridge includes a suction cup for mounting the bridge to the windshield. An articulating arm mounts to the bridge for holding equipment, such as a flashlight, a tool holder, and/or a sun blocker. The bridge includes a pivotally mounted arm which allows for pivotal movement of the injector away from the break area, and a registration system which allows for accurate replacement of the injector over the break area following pivotal movement back toward the break area. The arm also is pivotally moveable toward and away from the windshield and is controlled by a threaded adjustment mechanism. The injector is also threadably adjustable vertically relative to the windshield. The articulating arm includes a quick connect/disconnect feature.