Trim Removal Tool Curved Tip for Clipless Window Belt Molding

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional tools are inefficient in removing window belt molding, particularly clip-less types that fasten to a downward pointing flange in the car door frame, due to their design and the shape of existing tools, which makes it difficult to release the upward pointing flange without damaging the molding.

Innovation Solution

A trim removal tool with a triangular shaped head and wedge edges that fits between the car door and molding, allowing for easy release and removal by maneuvering between the door and molding, and featuring a curved tip to hook under the molding, reducing the risk of damage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If conventional squared tools are used to remove window belt molding, then the tool structure is simple, but the tool cannot effectively release the upward pointing flange of clip-less window belt molding without damaging it

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to release upward pointing flangeVSAvoidtool head shape complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The tool head features a curved tip instead of a squared end, allowing it to hook under the upward pointing flange of the window belt molding. This curved geometry enables the tool to effectively engage with and release the flange from the downward pointing flange on the door frame without causing damage to the molding.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

2Productivity

If the upward pointing flange is released without additional tools, then the removal process is simple, but the flexible molding easily 'unzips' itself from the door frame with minimal upward force

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveremoval efficiencyVSAvoidcontrol over release process

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The tool is designed to perform preliminary action by engaging the upward pointing flange and gradually working it away from the downward pointing flange on the door frame. The curved tip hooks under the flange and applies controlled force to initiate release, preventing the molding from accidentally 'unzipping' itself while maintaining control over the release process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The tool acts as an intermediary between the user and the window belt molding. The curved tip of the tool head serves as a mediator that can hook under the upward pointing flange and apply controlled force to release it from the door frame, preventing uncontrolled 'unzipping' while enabling complete removal.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If periodic recessions are added to the door frame flange to prevent accidental unzipping, then the molding is protected from damage, but the removal process becomes very difficult without additional tools

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprevention of accidental unzippingVSAvoiddifficulty of removal

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The tool with its curved tip acts as an intermediary that can navigate the periodic recessions in the door frame flange. The curved geometry allows the tool to hook under the upward pointing flange and apply sufficient force to overcome the rip-stop effect of the recessions, enabling complete removal of the molding while the recessions continue to prevent accidental unzipping during normal operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS9505111B2Trim removal tool and method

Publication Date: 2016.11.29 LISLE CORP

AI summary

Embodiments described herein are configured to release and remove window belt molding.