Windshield Quick Attach System for UTV ROPS

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing windshield attachment systems for utility task/terrain vehicles (UTVs) lack a quick and secure method for rollover protection structures, particularly for laminated windshields, which is essential for safety and ease of use.

Innovation Solution

A quick attach and release system utilizing extrusions with dowel pins, angled slots, and a bulb seal to securely fasten the windshield to pillars, allowing for easy installation and removal with a threaded knob for secure positioning.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a traditional windshield attachment system is used, then the windshield can be securely attached to the pillar, but the attachment and detachment process is time-consuming and complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of attachment and detachmentVSAvoidtime required for attachment and detachment

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment system is divided into separate modular components: an extrusion with connection tabs that attaches to the windshield, a clamp with slots that engages the extrusion, and a threaded rod that secures the connection. This segmentation allows each component to be independently manufactured and assembled, enabling quick attachment and detachment without complex integrated structures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The clamp incorporates angled slots that allow dynamic adjustment and movement during the attachment process. As the threaded rod is tightened, the slots guide the extrusion into proper alignment and draw it toward the pillar, providing a dynamic attachment mechanism that adapts to positioning requirements while maintaining security.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Productivity

If a quick-release mechanism is implemented, then the attachment and detachment process becomes fast and simple, but the security and reliability of the connection may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvespeed of attachment and detachmentVSAvoidsecurity of windshield connection

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The extrusion is pre-attached to the windshield with sealant and mounting adhesive before the clamp is applied. This preliminary bonding ensures that the windshield is securely anchored to the extrusion prior to final clamping, maintaining reliability while enabling quick release when needed. The pre-applied sealant also ensures watertight sealing is established before the quick-release mechanism engages.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The threaded rod acts as an intermediary that translates simple rotational motion into secure linear clamping force. By threading through both the clamp and extrusion, it provides a reliable mechanical connection that maintains security during operation while allowing quick release when the rod is removed. The angled slots serve as intermediaries that guide alignment and distribute forces during attachment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If multiple connection points and sealing elements are added, then the security and watertight seal are improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecurity and sealing of connectionVSAvoidcomplexity of attachment system

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The extrusion serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural attachment points with connection tabs, incorporates sealing surfaces for the bulb seal, and includes positioning features with integrated slots. The clamp similarly performs multiple roles: clamping the extrusion, guiding alignment through angled slots, and providing mounting points for threaded rods. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, maintaining reliability while controlling complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The connection tabs are integrated directly into the extrusion structure rather than being separate components. The bulb seal is combined with the extrusion assembly, with the seal tab forming an integral part of the sealing system. This merging of functions into unified components simplifies the overall device while ensuring secure and watertight connections through coordinated design of multiple features within each component.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS11613168B2Windshield quick attach and release system

Publication Date: 2023.03.28 TAYLOR MADE GROUP LLC

AI summary

An attach and release system for securing a windshield to a pillar includes an extrusion that is securable to the windshield adjacent the pillar. The extrusion has a connection tab and a seal tab. A bulb seal is connected to the seal tab, and a clamp includes a pillar section securable to the pillar and a connector section securable to the connection tab. The system and method facilitate windshield installation and removal and are suited for a utility task/terrain vehicle (UTV) as part of its rollover protection structure (ROPS).