Vehicle Window Regulator Flange and Bumper Design

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Solution Overview

Problem

The installation of vehicle windows can result in scratching due to limited clearance between the window regulator and door support members during the process of moving the window into its shipping position, as conventional window regulators lack sufficient protection and strength without the flange.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a window regulator with a carrier plate, lifter attachment portions, and a window protection system that includes angled flanges and bumpers extending beyond the distal edge of the flange, made from injection-molded plastic, to prevent scratching by providing additional clearance and support during installation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the window regulator is moved closer to the door support members to reduce clearance, then the window can be installed more easily, but the window may be scratched during installation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of window installationVSAvoidwindow scratching

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

A plastic bumper is introduced as an intermediary element between the window regulator and the window glass. The bumper extends beyond the distal edge of the flange to provide a protective barrier that contacts the window first, preventing direct contact between the metal regulator components and the window glass during installation, thereby eliminating scratching while maintaining ease of installation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The plastic bumper is positioned in advance on the window regulator to cushion and absorb contact forces during window installation. By having the bumper extend beyond the flange's distal edge, it creates a protective buffer zone that prevents harmful contact before scratching can occur

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

2Ease of operation

If the flange is removed to increase clearance, then the window regulator has less protection, but the window can move more freely during installation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewindow movement freedomVSAvoidregulator structural strength

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The plastic bumper is applied locally at the critical contact points where the window regulator interacts with the window glass during installation. This localized protection allows the flange to be minimized or removed for increased clearance, while the bumper provides targeted strength and protection exactly where needed during the installation process

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS11499356B2Vehicle window regulator with window protection system

Publication Date: 2022.11.15 NISSAN MOTOR CO LTD

AI summary

A window regulator comprises: a carrier plate having a front surface and a rear surface, the carrier plate configured to be attached to a guide rail with the rear surface facing the guide rail; a first lifter attachment portion spaced from a second lifter attachment portion, the first lifter attachment portion and the second lifter attachment portion integral with the carrier plate and each having a lifter aperture configured to receive a window lifter; a flange extending at an angle along a length of an edge of the front surface of the carrier plate; and a window protection system proximate to the first lifter attachment portion and the second lifter attachment portion. At least a part of the window protection system is configured to extend beyond a distal edge of the flange in a front-facing direction.