Screwless Visor Mount Assembly Using Snap Lock Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sun visor mounting systems in vehicles require screws or fasteners, making the installation and removal process complex, time-consuming, and costly, with a high number of parts contributing to manufacturing inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A screwless mounting assembly for sun visors in vehicles, comprising an arm, inner collar, and bracket, which uses a snap lock mechanism, flexible fingers, and a removal tool to secure and remove the visor from the headliner without fasteners, reducing the complexity and time of installation and allowing for easy manufacturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If screws or fasteners are used to mount the visor to the headliner, then the mounting is secure and reliable, but the installation process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes screws and fasteners from the mounting system, extracting the time-consuming fastening operation while maintaining secure mounting through an interference-fit collar design that integrates directly with the headliner
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting collar is merged with the visor arm assembly, creating an integrated component that combines the mounting function with the structural support function, eliminating separate fasteners and reducing installation steps
2Reliability
If multiple parts are used in the mounting assembly, then the mounting is secure and functional, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting collar integrates multiple functions (structural support, rotation mechanism, and mounting interface) into a single component that works with minimal separate parts, reducing overall assembly complexity while maintaining functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting collar serves multiple purposes: it provides structural support for the visor, enables rotational movement, and interfaces with the headliner, consolidating what would traditionally require multiple specialized components into one universal part
3Productivity
If a screwless mounting system is used, then the installation is quicker and simpler, but the ease of removal for service or repositioning may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting collar is designed with preliminary features (interference fit geometry and integration points) that enable both quick installation and straightforward removal, preparing the structure for future service operations without requiring complex fastening mechanisms
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 screwless mounting assembly simplifies the installation and removal of sun visors, reduces manufacturing costs, and decreases the number of parts required, enabling quicker and more efficient assembly on the manufacturing line while maintaining aesthetic appeal.
Implementation Method 1
The bracket includes a snap lock for securing the inner collar thereto and a plurality of flexible fingers and bosses for interacting with the sheet metal or headliner of the automotive vehicle
Implementation Method 2
The inner collar includes a rib extending from an end thereof
Data Source
AI summary
A screwless visor for use in a vehicle is disclosed. The visor includes a body, and an arm having a first end and a second end with the second end arranged in the body. The arm also has an elbow arranged near the first end. The visor also includes a mounting assembly secured to the headliner. The mounting assembly includes an inner collar arranged over the first end of the arm and a bracket in contact with the inner collar. The bracket has a hook extending from a surface thereof wherein the hook is in contact with the headliner. The screwless mount assembly will allow for easier installation and removal of the visor from the headliner of the interior of an automotive vehicle.