Universal Sensor Bracket for Vehicle Fascia Mounting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Mounting sensors directly to a vehicle fascia can damage the outer surface due to its contoured interior, and non-symmetrical orientations require unique bracket configurations, which complicates the installation process and affects aesthetic appeal.

Innovation Solution

A universal sensor bracket with a base that matches the fascia's shape, allowing for adjustable orientation and use across different vehicle parts, including a welding tool for secure attachment without damaging the fascia.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a sensor is mounted directly to a contoured fascia interior surface, then the sensor can be secured in place, but the outer surface of the fascia may be damaged and aesthetic appeal is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensor mounting securityVSAvoidfascia surface damage
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

A bracket is introduced as an intermediary component between the sensor and the fascia. The bracket has a base that contacts the contoured interior surface of the fascia, while the sensor is mounted to the bracket. This mediator allows the sensor to be securely mounted without direct contact between mounting hardware and the fascia exterior, preventing surface damage and maintaining aesthetic appearance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Manufacturing precision

If different bracket configurations are used for non-symmetrical sensor orientations, then proper clearance and orientation can be ensured, but device complexity and manufacturing costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensor orientation and clearanceVSAvoidbracket configuration variety
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A universal bracket design is created that can accommodate multiple sensor orientations and positions. The bracket includes a base with a contoured shape that matches the fascia interior surface, and a sensor-receiving portion that can be oriented in different directions. This single multi-functional bracket replaces the need for multiple specialized bracket configurations, reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining proper sensor clearance and orientation through its adaptable geometry.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

Enables secure, aesthetically pleasing sensor mounting on various vehicle surfaces with a single bracket design, ensuring proper clearance and orientation without damaging the fascia, simplifying the installation process.

Implementation Method 1

a base configured to be welded to an interior surface of a vehicle fascia

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectWelding: Welding

Data Source

PatentUS9004578B1Universal vehicle sensor bracket
Publication Date: 2015.04.14 FORD GLOBAL TECH LLC
  • US9004578B1 patent drawing
  • US9004578B1 patent drawing
  • US9004578B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A bracket for use in a vehicle includes a base configured to be welded to an interior surface of a vehicle fascia and configured to receive a sensor. The base has a configuration that generally matches a shape of at least a portion of the interior surface. An orientation of the sensor is based at least in part on an orientation of the base relative to the interior surface of the vehicle fascia.