Snowmobile Windshield Stabilizer Using Suction Cups and Nylon Fence
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing windshield mounting assemblies for vehicles like motorcycles and snowmobiles are either too heavy and bulky for smaller vehicles, or too lightweight and unstable for high-speed use, and struggle to adapt to diverse windshield shapes and sizes, often leading to stress concentrations and localized failures.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight, adjustable windshield stabilizing assembly using spaced suction cups connected by a nylon fence, with a central hook attachment, allowing for flexible support and easy adjustment on various handlebars, and accommodating windshields of different shapes and sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If sturdy windshield mounting assemblies are used for heavier vehicles, then strength and stability are improved, but weight and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting assembly is divided into separate components: a handlebar clamp, a vertical support post, and a windshield fastening element. These modular segments can be independently adjusted and positioned, providing strength where needed while reducing overall weight compared to a single heavy rigid structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting assembly incorporates adjustable elements including a telescopic vertical support post with multiple positioning holes and a rotatable fastening element. This dynamic design allows the structure to adapt to different windshield sizes and positions, maintaining strength while using lighter materials than fixed rigid assemblies.
2Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable mounting assemblies are designed for universal adaptability, then versatility is improved, but structural strength deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting assembly is designed with a standardized handlebar clamp and adjustable support post that can accommodate various windshield shapes and sizes. The vertical post features multiple positioning holes at different heights and angles, while the fastening element can be oriented in different directions, enabling universal adaptability without compromising structural integrity through proper material selection and joint design.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable components including the telescopic post with positioning holes and the rotatable fastening element allow the assembly to dynamically adapt to different windshield configurations. This adjustability is achieved through controlled mechanical connections that maintain strength while enabling versatility across different vehicle and windshield types.
3Strength
If multiple mounting holes are created in the windshield, then load distribution is improved, but stress concentrations at holes increase
Solution Approach 1:
A rubber cushion or sleeve is positioned between the fastening element and the windshield mounting holes. This intermediary component distributes the clamping force over a larger area of the windshield, reducing stress concentrations at the hole edges while maintaining secure attachment. The compliant material deforms to conform to the windshield surface, further dispersing localized stresses.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If rubber cushions are added to reduce bearing force, then windshield protection is improved, but mounting assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A simple rubber cushion or sleeve is inserted between the fastening element and the windshield holes. This single intermediary component effectively reduces bearing forces and protects the windshield without requiring complex mechanisms. The cushion is easily installed and removed, adding minimal complexity while providing significant protection against stress concentrations and vibration damage.
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 solution provides a sturdy, cost-effective, and adaptable windshield support that reduces stress concentrations, enhances maneuverability, and allows for easy adjustment and disassembly, making it suitable for diverse vehicles and environments.
Implementation Method 1
The suction cups are most compatible with plastic which bonds easily to the plastic windshield
Data Source
AI summary
A windshield stabilizing apparatus comprising two pairs of suction cup assemblies adjustably connected to a horizontal elongated tether or nylon fence which pivotally connects to the right and left sides of the snow mobile windshield adding lateral support increasing stability and rigidity. By connecting each side of the windshield, added stability is achieved for the rider at high and low speeds. The stabilizing device can be disconnected by the release of the tether hook located in the middle of the tension tether.