Sliding Windscreen Support Arm for Lighter Installation Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing windscreen installation apparatuses are complex, heavy, and prone to damage, making them inefficient and costly for use by a single technician in mobile or workshop settings.
Innovation Solution
A windscreen installation apparatus featuring a windscreen anchor assembly with an elongate support arm and a mount assembly that allows the support arm to slide bodily along a mount structure, enabling easier positioning and handling of windscreens.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If a windscreen anchor assembly with an elongate support arm and a mount assembly allowing the support arm to slide bodily along a mount structure is used, then the apparatus becomes lighter and more robust, but the complexity of construction may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is divided into distinct modular components: a windscreen anchor assembly with an elongate support arm, and a separate mount assembly with a mount structure. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for weight and strength, while the sliding connection between them provides the necessary functionality without requiring a fully integrated complex structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The support arm is designed to slide bodily along the mount structure in a dynamic manner, allowing movement and adjustment during operation. This dynamic sliding mechanism replaces static rigid connections, enabling the apparatus to adapt to different positions and orientations while maintaining structural integrity with reduced weight.
2Ease of operation
If the support arm can move bodily along the mount structure, then the ease of operation improves, but the reliability may worsen due to potential for damage
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding connection between the support arm and mount structure is designed with inherent protective features that cushion against damage before it occurs. The gradual sliding motion allows for controlled movement and reduces the risk of sudden impacts or misalignment that could cause damage, while still providing ease of positioning during operation.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus for use in handling windscreens for example for installation in a vehicle, includes a windscreen anchor assembly comprising a windscreen anchor device and a support arm extending away from the windscreen anchor device. A mount assembly is provided for supporting the windscreen anchor assembly. The mount assembly includes a mount structure for engaging with the support arm such that the support arm can slide bodily in its longitudinal direction with respect to the mount structure.