What is this invention?

Vehicle assemblies with loose layered build components

In recent years, automotive assembly has become increasingly complex as automakers strive to improve the quality and consistency of their products. One way they've done this is by using loose layered build components that are easier to move around during manufacturing so that parts can be properly aligned and assembled into a finished vehicle without issue. One such component is the locating feature, which helps keep different layers of a car's build together while still permitting them to move relative to each other. For example, if you're assembling a door panel, for example, one layer might include screws that need to go into another layer above it. The locating feature on those screws would allow you to securely fasten the top layer in place while also allowing movement up and down along the screw shafts for proper alignment when installing them.

One or more of the loose layered build components in a vehicle assembly may include locating features that allow it to be located and supported relative to other components while still permitting movement in at least one direction during the assembly process.

What are some key features of the invention?

• Vehicle assemblies
• Loose layered build components
• Locating features
• Supporting the component relative to other components of assembly

What are some similar inventions on the market?

Some similar products that may be of interest to automotive assembly include T-slot fasteners and Rivet Headers. Both of these types of components are used to attach different layers or parts together, but they differ in a few ways. With T-slots, for example, you can move the component around while it's being installed so that it's perfectly aligned with other parts on the same chassis. Rivet headers, on the other hand, are more permanent and require special tools to install them correctly.

How could this be used?

Vehicle assemblies may include a plurality of loose layered build components. One or more of the loose layered build components may include locating features for locating and supporting the component relative to other components of the assembly while still permitting movement of the component or one of the other components in at least one direction during the assembly process. For example, vehicle assemblies may include a dashboard that is assembled from several loosely stacked pieces that are attached with fasteners. The fasteners allow for movement in at least one direction but keep each piece securely connected to its neighbors so that they don't shift around while being installed. This type of construction allows for quick and easy installation without having to worry about screws coming loose and causing damage to delicate surfaces.

What are some things to look out for with this?

The use of locating features could create risks associated with the movement of the feature and/or other components within the assembly process. Additionally, if a locating feature becomes damaged or fails during assembly, it could lead to errors in the finished product.

What are the overall impressions of this invention?

Overall, I think the product is well made and provides a good solution for attaching different layers or parts together.

Final comment expressed in a poem (written by an A.I.)

Vehicle assemblies are quite complex
With a plurality of loose layered build components
One or more of these may include locating features
To support the component and still permit movement during assembly

Who owns this patent?

FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC

Document Number: 11214313