CA2746594C - Windshield mounting system - Google Patents
Windshield mounting system Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2746594C CA2746594C CA2746594A CA2746594A CA2746594C CA 2746594 C CA2746594 C CA 2746594C CA 2746594 A CA2746594 A CA 2746594A CA 2746594 A CA2746594 A CA 2746594A CA 2746594 C CA2746594 C CA 2746594C
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- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- receiving cavity
- protrusion
- truncated cone
- mounting system
- windshield
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 description 5
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 description 5
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 description 5
- 241000083700 Ambystoma tigrinum virus Species 0.000 description 4
- 230000000712 assembly Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000000429 assembly Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 description 2
- 241001236644 Lavinia Species 0.000 description 1
- 230000000903 blocking effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- -1 but not limited to Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000000295 complement effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000011161 development Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000018109 developmental process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000013536 elastomeric material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000035939 shock Effects 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62J—CYCLE SADDLES OR SEATS; AUXILIARY DEVICES OR ACCESSORIES SPECIALLY ADAPTED TO CYCLES AND NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, e.g. ARTICLE CARRIERS OR CYCLE PROTECTORS
- B62J17/00—Weather guards for riders; Fairings or stream-lining parts not otherwise provided for
- B62J17/02—Weather guards for riders; Fairings or stream-lining parts not otherwise provided for shielding only the rider's front
- B62J17/04—Windscreens
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16B—DEVICES FOR FASTENING OR SECURING CONSTRUCTIONAL ELEMENTS OR MACHINE PARTS TOGETHER, e.g. NAILS, BOLTS, CIRCLIPS, CLAMPS, CLIPS OR WEDGES; JOINTS OR JOINTING
- F16B2/00—Friction-grip releasable fastenings
- F16B2/02—Clamps, i.e. with gripping action effected by positive means other than the inherent resistance to deformation of the material of the fastening
- F16B2/18—Clamps, i.e. with gripping action effected by positive means other than the inherent resistance to deformation of the material of the fastening using cams, levers, eccentrics, or toggles
- F16B2/185—Clamps, i.e. with gripping action effected by positive means other than the inherent resistance to deformation of the material of the fastening using cams, levers, eccentrics, or toggles using levers
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Window Of Vehicle (AREA)
- Lock And Its Accessories (AREA)
Abstract
A system for mounting a windshield to a small vehicle such as an all-terrain vehicle ("ATV"), a utility-terrain vehicle ("UTV"), or a snowmobile is disclosed. The system typically comprises a pair of receiving elements, each of them configured to be secured to the vehicle, typically the handlebar(s) thereof, and a corresponding pair of mounting elements secured to a windshield panel or panel assembly and configured to be respectively releasably received in the receiving elements. Each receiving element comprises a rotatable cam and each mounting element comprises a groove on an outwardly extending protrusion such that the cams can selectively engage the grooves in a locking engagement when the mounting elements are received in the receiving elements.
Description
Title of the Invention Windshield Mounting System Cross-Reference to Related Applications [0001] There are no cross-related applications.
Field of the Invention
Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention generally relates to mounting systems and support assemblies for securing a windshield to a vehicle. More particularly, the present invention relates to quick-release windshield mounting systems and support assemblies for small vehicles such as all-terrain vehicles ("ATV" =or "ATVs"), utility-terrain vehicles ("UTV" or "UTVs"), snowmobiles and other similar vehicles.
Background of the Invention
Background of the Invention
[0003] Nowadays, there are an ever-increasing number of people which enjoy riding all-terrain vehicles and other similar off-road vehicles, either in trails specifically designed for this activity or even on totally uncharted terrain.
[0004] In order to adapt the vehicles to the increasing variety of terrains onto which they are ridden, companies have long been offering after-market accessories such as support racks, supplementary seats, trailer hitches, track systems and so on.
[0005] Since these vehicles are generally subjected to shocks and vibrations, it is important that the accessories mounted to the vehicles be relatively fixedly mounted in order to prevent accidental failure or removal during use.
[0006] In the particular case of windshields, this is of utmost importance since the windshield generally protects the rider of the vehicle. Nevertheless, on some occasions, it is practical to be able to remove the windshield, at least temporarily, in order to avoid 10429645.4 -1-damage or for space considerations. For example, when there are low branches partially blocking a trail or when the vehicle must be stored or loaded onto a trailer for transport.
[0007] Several windshield mounting systems have thus been proposed.
However, most mounting systems require the use of tools to install and to remove the windshield panel. With these windshield mounting systems, the process of installing or removing the windshield panel can be long and even impossible when the required tools are not available.
However, most mounting systems require the use of tools to install and to remove the windshield panel. With these windshield mounting systems, the process of installing or removing the windshield panel can be long and even impossible when the required tools are not available.
[0008] More recently, in order to mitigate the aforementioned shortcomings, some quick-release windshield mounting systems have been proposed, allowing the quick installation and removal of the windshields without the use of tools. Examples of such quick-release windshield mounting systems can be seen in U.S. Patent Nos.
7,044,530;
7,360,819; and 7,543879.
7,044,530;
7,360,819; and 7,543879.
[0009] However, despite ongoing developments in the field of windshield mounting systems and more particularly in the field of quick-release windshield mounting systems, there is still a need for an improved mounting system which would allow quick and easy installation and removal of a windshield onto a small vehicle without the need for tools.
Summary of the Invention
Summary of the Invention
[0010] In accordance with the principles of the present invention, a quick-release windshield mounting system is provided. As used hereinabove and hereinafter, the term windshield panel must be construed broadly such as to encompass, in addition to regular windshield panel, any other similar apparatuses or assemblies.
[0011] The windshield mounting system in accordance with the principles of the present invention generally comprises at least one but preferably a pair of receiving elements configured to be fixedly mounted to the front portion of the vehicle.
Typically, but not necessarily, the receiving elements are configured to be mounted to the steering assembly of the vehicle and more particularly to the handle bar, or bars, thereof.
Typically, but not necessarily, the receiving elements are configured to be mounted to the steering assembly of the vehicle and more particularly to the handle bar, or bars, thereof.
[0012] The windshield mounting system also comprises at least one but preferably a pair of mounting elements secured to a windshield panel and configured to be respectively releasably coupled to the receiving elements.
[0013] Each receiving element generally comprises a receiving cavity extending into the receiving element. The receiving cavity is configured to receive a substantially complementary protrusion outwardly extending from the mounting element.
[0014] In that sense, each mounting element generally comprises the outwardly extending protrusion mentioned above and a connecting portion configured to be secured to the windshield panel.
[0015] To secure the mounting element to the receiving element, the receiving element is provided with a rotatable latch having a cam configured to selectively engage, and disengage, a groove in the protrusion of the mounting element. To position the cam in and out of engagement with the groove of the protrusion, the latch comprises an arm which extends from the cam such that the cam can be actuated (e.g. pivoted) by the user of the vehicle.
[0016] Hence, by simply actuating the cam arms of the latches, the windshield panel can easily be installed, or removed, from the vehicle, without the need for tools.
[0017] Other and further aspects and advantages of the present invention will be obvious upon an understanding of the illustrative embodiments about to be described or will be indicated in the appended claims, and various advantages not referred to herein will occur to one skilled in the art upon employment of the invention in practice. The features of the present invention which are believed to be novel are set forth with particularity in the appended claims.
10429645.4 -3-Brief Description of the Drawings
10429645.4 -3-Brief Description of the Drawings
[0018] The above and other objects, features and advantages of the invention will become more readily apparent from the following description, reference being made to the accompanying drawings in which.
[0019] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary ATV equipped with an embodiment of a windshield mounting system in accordance with the principles of the present invention.
[0020] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the windshield mounting system of Fig. 1, in an unconnected state.
[0021] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the windshield mounting system of Fig. 1, in a connected state.
[0022] Figure 4 is a perspective exploded view of the windshield mounting system of Fig. 1.
[0023] Figures 5A to 5C are cross-sectional side views of the windshield mounting system of Fig. 1, showing the mounting sequence.
Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiment
Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiment
[0024] A novel windshield mounting system will be described hereinafter. Although the invention is described in terms of specific illustrative embodiments, it is to be understood that the embodiments described herein are by way of example only and that the scope of the invention is not intended to be limited thereby.
[0025] Referring first to Fig. 1, a windshield mounting system 10, in accordance with the principles of the present invention, is configured to allow the rapid installation and removal of a windshield panel 30 to and from a small vehicle, such as an ATV 20.
10429645.4 -4-
10429645.4 -4-
[0026] Referring now to Figs. 2 and 3, in the present embodiment, the windshield mounting system 10 typically comprises a pair of receiving elements 100 and a pair of mounting elements 200. As it will be explained in more details below, the mounting elements 200 are configured to be respectively releasably received in the receiving elements 100.
[0027] The receiving elements 100 are configured to be mounted to the front or forward portion of the vehicle 20, typically to the handle bar(s) 21 thereof.
[0028] For their parts, the mounting elements 200 are configured to be mounted to the windshield panel 30. Understandably, the windshield panel 30 could be unitary or be made from a plurality of components.
[0029] Due to the inherent substantial symmetry of the vehicle 20 and of the windshield panel 30 with respect to a longitudinal axis of the vehicle 20, the left and right receiving elements 100 and left and right mounting elements 200 are also symmetrical in nature. Hence, even though only one receiving element 100 and only one mounting element 200 will be described below, the description equally applied to both left and right receiving elements 100 and mounting elements 200.
[0030] With reference to Figs. 4 and 5A, the right receiving element 100 and the right mounting element 200 will be described in more details.
[00311 The receiving element 100 generally comprises a first or coupling portion 110 and a second or receiving portion 130.
[0032] The first portion 110 is configured to mate with the handle bar 21 of the vehicle 20. In that sense, a coupling member 120 is pivotally mounted to the first portion 110 and is configured to form, with the first portion 110, a substantially cylindrical opening 115. In that sense, the first portion 110 comprises a semi-cylindrical region 112 and similarly, the coupling member 120 also comprises a semi-cylindrical region 122 10429645.4 -5-which, with the semi-cylindrical region 112, define the cylindrical opening 115 as shown in Fig. 5A.
[0033] Understandably, the opening 115 should be sized to properly circumscribe the handle bar 21 of the vehicle 20.
[0034] Referring to Fig. 5A, to provide a better engagement between the opening 115 and the handle bar 21, the semi-cylindrical region 112 and the semi-cylindrical region 122 are respectively provided with layers 114 and 124 of resilient friction and typically elastomeric material such as, but not limited to, rubber. The layers 114 and 124 typically prevent the receiving element 100 from rotating about the handle bar 21 during use.
[0035] Referring back to Figs. 4 and 5A, to secure the coupling member 120 to the first portion 110, the free end 121 of the coupling member 120 is fastened to the first portion 110, typically via a bolt and nut assembly 116. Understandably, the receiving element 100 is typically configured to be more or less permanently mounted to the handle bar 21.
[0036] For its part, the second portion 130 of the receiving element 100 is configured to receive the mounting element 200. In that sense, the second portion 130 comprises a receiving cavity 132 extending into the second portion 130. As shown in Figures 5A to 5C, the receiving cavity 132 is defined by an inner side surface 132a of the receiving element 100 and terminates inside the receiving element 100 at a terminal end surface 132b. As shown, the terminal end surface 132a is circumscribed by the inner side surface 132a.
[0037] In the present embodiment, the receiving cavity 132 is slightly tapered and has a substantially circular cross-section such as to broadly define a frustro-conical configuration. More particularly, as best shown in Fig. 5A, the receiving cavity 132 includes an upper truncated cone portion 132c at the opening 132d of the receiving cavity 132, the opening 132d being defined in an outer surface of the receiving element 10429645.4 -6-100, a narrower mid-section truncated cone portion 132e below the upper truncated cone portion 132c, and a lower truncated cone portion 132f positioned below the mid-section truncated cone portion 132e. As shown in Figs. 5A to 5C, in the present implementation, the lower truncated cone portion 132f defines a closed terminal end of the receiving cavity 132 in the receiving element 100.
[0038] As shown in Figs. 5A to 5C, each of the truncated cone portions 132c, 132e, 132f widens toward the opening 132d of the receiving cavity 132. As shown, each of the truncated cone portions 132c, 132e, 132f is defined by a corresponding part of the inner side surface 132a of the receiving cavity 132 and, as best shown in Fig. 5B, each of the corresponding parts of the inner side surface 132a has an angle 132g, 132h, 132i, respectively, relative to a central longitudinal axis 132j of the receiving cavity 132.
[0039] As shown in Fig. 5B, the angle 132g of the portion of the inner side surface 132a that defines the upper truncated cone portion 132c is larger than the angle 132h of the portion of the inner side surface 132a that defines the mid-section truncated cone portion 132e and larger than the angle 132i of the portion of the inner side surface 132a that defines the lower truncated cone portion 132f. in the present implementation, the angle 132h is smaller than the angle 132i. This configuration allows the insertion of the protrusion 230, described below, with more ease. Other configurations are however possible.
[0040] To secure the protrusion 230 once received into the cavity 132, the second portion 130 comprises a latch 140 pivotally mounted thereto and at least partially extending into the cavity 132. The latch 140 generally comprises a cam 142 and an arm 148 extending therefrom. As shown in Figs. 5A to 5C, a side cavity 100s is defined in the receiving element 100 and extends into the receiving cavity 132, and more particularly into the mid-section truncated cone portion 132e of the receiving cavity 132.
The latch 140 extends into the receiving cavity 132 via the side cavity 100s to selectively engage the protrusion 230.
[0041] As it will be described below, the cam 142 comprises an extension 144 which is configured to engage the protrusion 230. Understandably, the cam 142 is pivoted by actuating the arm 148, typically by the fingers of the user.
[0042] Still referring to Figs. 4 and 5A, the mounting element 200 will be described.
[0043] The mounting element 200 generally comprises a connecting portion configured to be fixedly mounted to the windshield panel 30, and the protrusion 230 already introduced.
[0044] In the present embodiment, the connecting portion 210 is generally configured as a fork and comprises two substantially parallel fingers 212 and defining a space 213 therebetween. The fingers 212 and 214 and the space 213 are configured to receive a plate 31 (or plate portion) extending from the windshield panel 30. The plate 31 is fastened to the mounting portion 210, typically via a bolt and nut assembly 218.
[0045] Understandably, the configuration of the connecting portion 210 could be different to accommodate other configurations of windshield panels.
[0046] The protrusion 230, which extends form the mounting portion 210, is configured to be received into the receiving cavity 132 of the second portion 130 of the receiving element 100. In that respect, the protrusion 230 is provided with a notch or groove 232. This groove 232 is typically sized to accommodate the cam extension 144.
[0047] In the present embodiment, the groove 232 fully circumscribes the protrusion 230. However, in other embodiments, the groove 232 could only partially extend along the perimeter or circumference of the protrusion 230.
[0048] Also, in the present embodiment, the protrusion 230 is slightly tapered and has a substantially circular cross-section. Hence, as best shown in Figs. 2 and 4, in the present embodiment, the protrusion 230 is generally of frustro-conical configuration.
10429645.4 -8-More particularly, and as shown in Figs. 5A to 5C, the protrusion 230 has an outer side surface 230a that defines an upper truncated cone portion 230b and a lower truncated cone portion 230c, and the groove 232 is defined in the protrusion 230 between the upper truncated cone portion 230b and the lower truncated cone portion 230c.
As shown, the lower truncated cone portion 230c extends to the free extremity of the protrusion 230 and in this implementation defines the free extremity of the protrusion 230. Also as shown, the groove 234 is defined in the lower truncated cone portion 230c and each of the upper truncated cone portion 230b and the lower truncated cone portion 230c narrows toward the free extremity of the protrusion 230.
[0049] As shown in Fig. 5A, the upper truncated cone portion 230b of the protrusion 230 is defined by a first portion 230f of the outer side surface 230a of the protrusion 230, the first portion 230f of the outer side surface 230a having an angle 230d relative to a central axis 230x of the protrusion 230, and the lower truncated cone portion 230c of the protrusion 230 is defined by a second portion 230g of the outer side surface 230a of the protrusion 230, the second portion 230g of the outer side surface 230a of the protrusion 230 having an angle 230e relative to the central axis 230x of the protrusion 230, and the angle 230d is larger than the angle 230e.
[0050] As shown in Figs. 5B and 5C, the upper truncated cone portion 230b of the protrusion 230 mates, or registers, with the upper truncated cone portion 1 32c of the receiving element 100 when the protrusion 230 is rcleasably, or removably, received in the receiving cavity 132. Similarly, as shown in Figs. 5B and 5C, the lower truncated cone portion 230c of the protrusion 230 mates, or registers, with the lower truncated cone portion 132f of the receiving element 100 when the protrusion 230 is releasably received in the receiving cavity 132. In an aspect, this stabilizes a lateral position of the projection 230 inside the receiving cavity 132 relative to the central longitudinal axis 132j of the receiving cavity 132.
[0051] Also as shown in Figs. 5B and 5C, in the present implementation, the terminal end of the projection 230 is out of contact with the terminal end surface 132b of the receiving cavity 132 when the protrusion 230 is removably received in receiving 10429645.4 -9-cavity 132 and the latch 140 is in the locked position. Also as shown in Figs.
5B and 5C, the outer side surface 230a of the protrusion 230 is out of contact with the mid-section truncated cone portion 132e and the of the inner side surface 132a of the receiving cavity 132 when the protrusion 230 is removably received in receiving cavity 132 and the latch 140 is in the locked position.
[0052] Combined with the tapered and substantially circular receiving cavity 132, the protrusion 230 can be relatively easily inserted into the cavity 132. In that sense, the tapered shape of the protrusion 230 and of the cavity 132 assists the user in aligning the protrusions 230 into the receiving cavities 132 of the receiving elements 100.
[0053] Referring to Fig. 5A, in the present embodiment, a substantially circular and elastomeric resilient ring 236 (e.g. elastomeric 0-ring) is mounted to the protrusion 230, in a small circumferential groove 234, typically located near the free extremity of the protrusion 230. This resilient ring 236 generally provides adequate tightening between the protrusion 230 and the receiving cavity 132 (see also Figs. 5B and 5C) by contacting, as best shown in Fig. 5C, the inner side surface 132a of the receiving cavity 132 when the protrusion 230 is removably received in the receiving cavity 132 and the latch 140 is in the locked position. More particularly, as shown in Fig. 5C, the resilient ring 236 is shaped to be compressed between the projection 230 and the inner surface of the receiving cavity 132 when the projection 230 is removably received in the receiving cavity 132 and the latch 140 is in the locked position. This stabilizes the lateral position of the projection 230 inside the receiving cavity 132 relative to the central longitudinal axis 132j of the receiving cavity 132.
[0054] Referring now to Figs. 5A to 5C, a method for installing, and removing the mounting elements 200, secured to the windshield panel 30, into the receiving elements 100, secured to the vehicle 20, will be described.
[0055] Referring first to Figs. 5A and 5B, the protrusions 230 of the mounting elements 200 are first inserted into the receiving cavities 132 of the receiving elements 10429645.4 -10-100. During the insertion, the latches 140 are in an open or unlocked position, i.e. the extensions 144 do not protrude inside the receiving cavities 132.
[0056] Referring now to Figs. 5B and 5C, once the protrusions 230 are fully inserted in their respective receiving cavities 132, the latches 140 are then pivoted into a closed or locked position. In the locked position, the extensions 144 of the cams 142 protrude inside the receiving cavities 132 and into the grooves 232 of the protrusions 230, thereby locking the protrusions 230 into the receiving cavities 132.
[0057] At this point, as best illustrated in Fig. 5C, to prevent the accidental unlocking of the latches 140, the arms 148 are typically each provided with a small projection or hook 149 configured to be snapped in a small notch 139 provided in each of the receiving portions 130. As shown in Figs. SA to 5C, in this implementation, to prevent the accidental unlocking of the latch 140, the notch 139 is defined an outer surface 100a of the receiving element 100, the outer surface 100a of the receiving element 100 being opposite the terminal end surface 132b of the receiving cavity 132.
The latch 140 includes a detent 149, which is also referred to as a projection or hook 149, which snap fits into the notch 139 when the latch 140 is moved into the locked position. The notch 139 thereby provides resistance to movement of the latch 140 from the locked position toward the unlocked position. Also, as shown in Fig. SC, in the present implementation the arm 148 of the latch 140 is shaped to conform to the outer surface 100a of the receiving element 100 when the latch 140 is in locked position and the detent 149 is removably received in the notch 139.
[0058] To remove the mounting elements 200 from the receiving elements, the aforementioned method is performed in reverse.
[0059] The windshield mounting system 10 in accordance with the principles of the present invention therefore allows the user of a vehicle 20 to quickly install, and remove, a windshield panel 30 on his or her vehicle 20 without the needs for tools.
10429645.4 -1 1 -[0060] While illustrative and presently preferred embodiments of the invention have been described in detail hereinabove, it is to be understood that the inventive concepts may be otherwise variously embodied and employed and that the appended claims are intended to be construed to include such variations except insofar as limited by the prior art.
10429645.4 -1 2-
[00311 The receiving element 100 generally comprises a first or coupling portion 110 and a second or receiving portion 130.
[0032] The first portion 110 is configured to mate with the handle bar 21 of the vehicle 20. In that sense, a coupling member 120 is pivotally mounted to the first portion 110 and is configured to form, with the first portion 110, a substantially cylindrical opening 115. In that sense, the first portion 110 comprises a semi-cylindrical region 112 and similarly, the coupling member 120 also comprises a semi-cylindrical region 122 10429645.4 -5-which, with the semi-cylindrical region 112, define the cylindrical opening 115 as shown in Fig. 5A.
[0033] Understandably, the opening 115 should be sized to properly circumscribe the handle bar 21 of the vehicle 20.
[0034] Referring to Fig. 5A, to provide a better engagement between the opening 115 and the handle bar 21, the semi-cylindrical region 112 and the semi-cylindrical region 122 are respectively provided with layers 114 and 124 of resilient friction and typically elastomeric material such as, but not limited to, rubber. The layers 114 and 124 typically prevent the receiving element 100 from rotating about the handle bar 21 during use.
[0035] Referring back to Figs. 4 and 5A, to secure the coupling member 120 to the first portion 110, the free end 121 of the coupling member 120 is fastened to the first portion 110, typically via a bolt and nut assembly 116. Understandably, the receiving element 100 is typically configured to be more or less permanently mounted to the handle bar 21.
[0036] For its part, the second portion 130 of the receiving element 100 is configured to receive the mounting element 200. In that sense, the second portion 130 comprises a receiving cavity 132 extending into the second portion 130. As shown in Figures 5A to 5C, the receiving cavity 132 is defined by an inner side surface 132a of the receiving element 100 and terminates inside the receiving element 100 at a terminal end surface 132b. As shown, the terminal end surface 132a is circumscribed by the inner side surface 132a.
[0037] In the present embodiment, the receiving cavity 132 is slightly tapered and has a substantially circular cross-section such as to broadly define a frustro-conical configuration. More particularly, as best shown in Fig. 5A, the receiving cavity 132 includes an upper truncated cone portion 132c at the opening 132d of the receiving cavity 132, the opening 132d being defined in an outer surface of the receiving element 10429645.4 -6-100, a narrower mid-section truncated cone portion 132e below the upper truncated cone portion 132c, and a lower truncated cone portion 132f positioned below the mid-section truncated cone portion 132e. As shown in Figs. 5A to 5C, in the present implementation, the lower truncated cone portion 132f defines a closed terminal end of the receiving cavity 132 in the receiving element 100.
[0038] As shown in Figs. 5A to 5C, each of the truncated cone portions 132c, 132e, 132f widens toward the opening 132d of the receiving cavity 132. As shown, each of the truncated cone portions 132c, 132e, 132f is defined by a corresponding part of the inner side surface 132a of the receiving cavity 132 and, as best shown in Fig. 5B, each of the corresponding parts of the inner side surface 132a has an angle 132g, 132h, 132i, respectively, relative to a central longitudinal axis 132j of the receiving cavity 132.
[0039] As shown in Fig. 5B, the angle 132g of the portion of the inner side surface 132a that defines the upper truncated cone portion 132c is larger than the angle 132h of the portion of the inner side surface 132a that defines the mid-section truncated cone portion 132e and larger than the angle 132i of the portion of the inner side surface 132a that defines the lower truncated cone portion 132f. in the present implementation, the angle 132h is smaller than the angle 132i. This configuration allows the insertion of the protrusion 230, described below, with more ease. Other configurations are however possible.
[0040] To secure the protrusion 230 once received into the cavity 132, the second portion 130 comprises a latch 140 pivotally mounted thereto and at least partially extending into the cavity 132. The latch 140 generally comprises a cam 142 and an arm 148 extending therefrom. As shown in Figs. 5A to 5C, a side cavity 100s is defined in the receiving element 100 and extends into the receiving cavity 132, and more particularly into the mid-section truncated cone portion 132e of the receiving cavity 132.
The latch 140 extends into the receiving cavity 132 via the side cavity 100s to selectively engage the protrusion 230.
[0041] As it will be described below, the cam 142 comprises an extension 144 which is configured to engage the protrusion 230. Understandably, the cam 142 is pivoted by actuating the arm 148, typically by the fingers of the user.
[0042] Still referring to Figs. 4 and 5A, the mounting element 200 will be described.
[0043] The mounting element 200 generally comprises a connecting portion configured to be fixedly mounted to the windshield panel 30, and the protrusion 230 already introduced.
[0044] In the present embodiment, the connecting portion 210 is generally configured as a fork and comprises two substantially parallel fingers 212 and defining a space 213 therebetween. The fingers 212 and 214 and the space 213 are configured to receive a plate 31 (or plate portion) extending from the windshield panel 30. The plate 31 is fastened to the mounting portion 210, typically via a bolt and nut assembly 218.
[0045] Understandably, the configuration of the connecting portion 210 could be different to accommodate other configurations of windshield panels.
[0046] The protrusion 230, which extends form the mounting portion 210, is configured to be received into the receiving cavity 132 of the second portion 130 of the receiving element 100. In that respect, the protrusion 230 is provided with a notch or groove 232. This groove 232 is typically sized to accommodate the cam extension 144.
[0047] In the present embodiment, the groove 232 fully circumscribes the protrusion 230. However, in other embodiments, the groove 232 could only partially extend along the perimeter or circumference of the protrusion 230.
[0048] Also, in the present embodiment, the protrusion 230 is slightly tapered and has a substantially circular cross-section. Hence, as best shown in Figs. 2 and 4, in the present embodiment, the protrusion 230 is generally of frustro-conical configuration.
10429645.4 -8-More particularly, and as shown in Figs. 5A to 5C, the protrusion 230 has an outer side surface 230a that defines an upper truncated cone portion 230b and a lower truncated cone portion 230c, and the groove 232 is defined in the protrusion 230 between the upper truncated cone portion 230b and the lower truncated cone portion 230c.
As shown, the lower truncated cone portion 230c extends to the free extremity of the protrusion 230 and in this implementation defines the free extremity of the protrusion 230. Also as shown, the groove 234 is defined in the lower truncated cone portion 230c and each of the upper truncated cone portion 230b and the lower truncated cone portion 230c narrows toward the free extremity of the protrusion 230.
[0049] As shown in Fig. 5A, the upper truncated cone portion 230b of the protrusion 230 is defined by a first portion 230f of the outer side surface 230a of the protrusion 230, the first portion 230f of the outer side surface 230a having an angle 230d relative to a central axis 230x of the protrusion 230, and the lower truncated cone portion 230c of the protrusion 230 is defined by a second portion 230g of the outer side surface 230a of the protrusion 230, the second portion 230g of the outer side surface 230a of the protrusion 230 having an angle 230e relative to the central axis 230x of the protrusion 230, and the angle 230d is larger than the angle 230e.
[0050] As shown in Figs. 5B and 5C, the upper truncated cone portion 230b of the protrusion 230 mates, or registers, with the upper truncated cone portion 1 32c of the receiving element 100 when the protrusion 230 is rcleasably, or removably, received in the receiving cavity 132. Similarly, as shown in Figs. 5B and 5C, the lower truncated cone portion 230c of the protrusion 230 mates, or registers, with the lower truncated cone portion 132f of the receiving element 100 when the protrusion 230 is releasably received in the receiving cavity 132. In an aspect, this stabilizes a lateral position of the projection 230 inside the receiving cavity 132 relative to the central longitudinal axis 132j of the receiving cavity 132.
[0051] Also as shown in Figs. 5B and 5C, in the present implementation, the terminal end of the projection 230 is out of contact with the terminal end surface 132b of the receiving cavity 132 when the protrusion 230 is removably received in receiving 10429645.4 -9-cavity 132 and the latch 140 is in the locked position. Also as shown in Figs.
5B and 5C, the outer side surface 230a of the protrusion 230 is out of contact with the mid-section truncated cone portion 132e and the of the inner side surface 132a of the receiving cavity 132 when the protrusion 230 is removably received in receiving cavity 132 and the latch 140 is in the locked position.
[0052] Combined with the tapered and substantially circular receiving cavity 132, the protrusion 230 can be relatively easily inserted into the cavity 132. In that sense, the tapered shape of the protrusion 230 and of the cavity 132 assists the user in aligning the protrusions 230 into the receiving cavities 132 of the receiving elements 100.
[0053] Referring to Fig. 5A, in the present embodiment, a substantially circular and elastomeric resilient ring 236 (e.g. elastomeric 0-ring) is mounted to the protrusion 230, in a small circumferential groove 234, typically located near the free extremity of the protrusion 230. This resilient ring 236 generally provides adequate tightening between the protrusion 230 and the receiving cavity 132 (see also Figs. 5B and 5C) by contacting, as best shown in Fig. 5C, the inner side surface 132a of the receiving cavity 132 when the protrusion 230 is removably received in the receiving cavity 132 and the latch 140 is in the locked position. More particularly, as shown in Fig. 5C, the resilient ring 236 is shaped to be compressed between the projection 230 and the inner surface of the receiving cavity 132 when the projection 230 is removably received in the receiving cavity 132 and the latch 140 is in the locked position. This stabilizes the lateral position of the projection 230 inside the receiving cavity 132 relative to the central longitudinal axis 132j of the receiving cavity 132.
[0054] Referring now to Figs. 5A to 5C, a method for installing, and removing the mounting elements 200, secured to the windshield panel 30, into the receiving elements 100, secured to the vehicle 20, will be described.
[0055] Referring first to Figs. 5A and 5B, the protrusions 230 of the mounting elements 200 are first inserted into the receiving cavities 132 of the receiving elements 10429645.4 -10-100. During the insertion, the latches 140 are in an open or unlocked position, i.e. the extensions 144 do not protrude inside the receiving cavities 132.
[0056] Referring now to Figs. 5B and 5C, once the protrusions 230 are fully inserted in their respective receiving cavities 132, the latches 140 are then pivoted into a closed or locked position. In the locked position, the extensions 144 of the cams 142 protrude inside the receiving cavities 132 and into the grooves 232 of the protrusions 230, thereby locking the protrusions 230 into the receiving cavities 132.
[0057] At this point, as best illustrated in Fig. 5C, to prevent the accidental unlocking of the latches 140, the arms 148 are typically each provided with a small projection or hook 149 configured to be snapped in a small notch 139 provided in each of the receiving portions 130. As shown in Figs. SA to 5C, in this implementation, to prevent the accidental unlocking of the latch 140, the notch 139 is defined an outer surface 100a of the receiving element 100, the outer surface 100a of the receiving element 100 being opposite the terminal end surface 132b of the receiving cavity 132.
The latch 140 includes a detent 149, which is also referred to as a projection or hook 149, which snap fits into the notch 139 when the latch 140 is moved into the locked position. The notch 139 thereby provides resistance to movement of the latch 140 from the locked position toward the unlocked position. Also, as shown in Fig. SC, in the present implementation the arm 148 of the latch 140 is shaped to conform to the outer surface 100a of the receiving element 100 when the latch 140 is in locked position and the detent 149 is removably received in the notch 139.
[0058] To remove the mounting elements 200 from the receiving elements, the aforementioned method is performed in reverse.
[0059] The windshield mounting system 10 in accordance with the principles of the present invention therefore allows the user of a vehicle 20 to quickly install, and remove, a windshield panel 30 on his or her vehicle 20 without the needs for tools.
10429645.4 -1 1 -[0060] While illustrative and presently preferred embodiments of the invention have been described in detail hereinabove, it is to be understood that the inventive concepts may be otherwise variously embodied and employed and that the appended claims are intended to be construed to include such variations except insofar as limited by the prior art.
10429645.4 -1 2-
Claims (47)
1) A windshield mounting system for mounting a windshield panel to a vehicle, the windshield mounting system comprising:
a) a receiving element configured to be mounted to the vehicle, the receiving element comprising a receiving cavity and a latch mounted thereto, the receiving cavity being of frustro-conical configuration, the latch being pivotable between a locked position and an unlocked position;
b) a mounting element configured to be mounted to the windshield panel, the mounting element comprising an outwardly extending protrusion configured to be releasably received into the receiving cavity of the receiving element, the protrusion being of frustro-conical configuration, the protrusion comprising a first groove and a second groove, the first groove being configured to be selectively engaged by the latch when the protrusion is received into the receiving cavity, the second groove fully circumscribing the protrusion and receiving therein a resilient ring.
a) a receiving element configured to be mounted to the vehicle, the receiving element comprising a receiving cavity and a latch mounted thereto, the receiving cavity being of frustro-conical configuration, the latch being pivotable between a locked position and an unlocked position;
b) a mounting element configured to be mounted to the windshield panel, the mounting element comprising an outwardly extending protrusion configured to be releasably received into the receiving cavity of the receiving element, the protrusion being of frustro-conical configuration, the protrusion comprising a first groove and a second groove, the first groove being configured to be selectively engaged by the latch when the protrusion is received into the receiving cavity, the second groove fully circumscribing the protrusion and receiving therein a resilient ring.
2) A windshield mounting system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the latch comprises a cam and an arm extending from the cam.
3) A windshield mounting system as claimed in claim 2, wherein the cam comprises an extension configured to extend into and engage the first groove when the latch is in the locked position, and configured to extend outside the first groove when the latch is in the unlocked position.
4) A windshield mounting system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the arm comprises a projection configured to be received into a notch provided in the receiving element.
5) A windshield mounting system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first groove fully circumscribes the protrusion.
6) A windshield mounting system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the second groove is located near a free extremity of the protrusion.
7) A windshield mounting system for mounting a windshield to a vehicle, the windshield mounting system comprising:
a) a receiving element configured to be mounted to the vehicle, the receiving element comprising a receiving cavity and a latch mounted to the receiving element, the latch being movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, the receiving cavity having an inner side surface;
b) a mounting element configured to be mounted to the windshield, the mounting element comprising an outwardly extending protrusion, the protrusion having an outer surface, a free extremity and being removably receivable in the receiving cavity, the protrusion having a first groove and a second groove defined in the outer surface of the protrusion, i) the first groove being engaged by the latch when the protrusion is removably received in the receiving cavity and the latch is in the locked position, ii) the second groove fully circumscribing the protrusion and being in the receiving cavity when the protrusion is removably received in the receiving cavity; and c) a resilient ring received in the second groove.
a) a receiving element configured to be mounted to the vehicle, the receiving element comprising a receiving cavity and a latch mounted to the receiving element, the latch being movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, the receiving cavity having an inner side surface;
b) a mounting element configured to be mounted to the windshield, the mounting element comprising an outwardly extending protrusion, the protrusion having an outer surface, a free extremity and being removably receivable in the receiving cavity, the protrusion having a first groove and a second groove defined in the outer surface of the protrusion, i) the first groove being engaged by the latch when the protrusion is removably received in the receiving cavity and the latch is in the locked position, ii) the second groove fully circumscribing the protrusion and being in the receiving cavity when the protrusion is removably received in the receiving cavity; and c) a resilient ring received in the second groove.
8) A windshield mounting system as claimed in claim 7, wherein the latch includes a cam and an arm extending from the cam, the cam being shaped such that at least a part of the cam is received in the first groove when the protrusion is removably received in the receiving cavity and the latch is in the locked position to lock the protrusion in the receiving cavity.
9) A windshield mounting system as claimed in claim 8, wherein the cam is shaped to be positioned outside of the first groove when the protrusion is removably received in the receiving cavity and the latch is in the unlocked position so as to not impede removal of the protrusion from the receiving cavity.
10) A windshield mounting system as claimed in claim 8 or 9, wherein:
a) the arm of the latch includes a projection extending from the arm of the latch;
b) a notch is defined in the receiving element; and c) the projection of the arm includes a detent extending therefrom, the detent being removably received in the notch when the latch is in the locked position and thereby providing resistance to movement of the arm from the locked position toward the unlocked position.
a) the arm of the latch includes a projection extending from the arm of the latch;
b) a notch is defined in the receiving element; and c) the projection of the arm includes a detent extending therefrom, the detent being removably received in the notch when the latch is in the locked position and thereby providing resistance to movement of the arm from the locked position toward the unlocked position.
11) A windshield mounting system as claimed in claim 10, wherein the projection of the arm snap fits into the notch when the latch is pivoted from the unlocked position into the locked position.
12) A windshield mounting system as claimed in claim 10 or 11, wherein the receiving cavity terminates inside the receiving element at a terminal end surface, the terminal end surface being circumscribed by the inner side surface of the receiving cavity, and the notch is defined in an outer surface of the receiving element, the outer surface of the receiving element being opposite the terminal end surface of the receiving cavity.
13) A windshield mounting system as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 12, wherein the first groove circumscribes the protrusion.
14) A windshield mounting system as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 13, wherein the second groove is located near the free extremity of the protrusion.
15) A windshield mounting system as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 14, wherein the resilient ring is sized to contact the inner side surface of the receiving cavity when the protrusion is removably received in the receiving cavity and the latch is in the locked position to tighten engagement of the protrusion with the receiving cavity.
16) A windshield mounting system as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 15, wherein the resilient ring is sized to be compressed in the second groove between the outer surface of the protrusion and the receiving cavity when the protrusion is removably received in the receiving cavity and the latch is in the locked position to tighten engagement of the protrusion with the receiving cavity.
17) A windshield mounting system as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 16, wherein the receiving cavity includes an upper truncated cone portion of the receiving cavity and the protrusion includes an upper truncated cone portion of the protrusion, the upper truncated cone portion of the protrusion being removably mated with the upper truncated cone portion of the receiving cavity when the protrusion is removably received in the receiving cavity.
18) A windshield mounting system as claimed in claim 17, wherein the receiving cavity is includes a lower truncated cone portion of the receiving cavity and the protrusion includes a lower truncated cone portion of the protrusion, the lower truncated cone portion of the protrusion being removably mated with the lower truncated cone portion of the receiving cavity when the protrusion is removably received in the receiving cavity.
19) A windshield mounting system as claimed in claim 18, wherein the receiving cavity includes a mid-section truncated cone portion of the receiving cavity positioned in between the upper truncated cone portion of the receiving cavity and the lower truncated cone portion of the receiving cavity, and the mid-section truncated cone portion of the receiving cavity is out of contact with the lower truncated cone portion of the protrusion when the protrusion is removably received in the receiving cavity.
20) A windshield mounting system as claimed in claim 19, wherein the receiving element has a side cavity defined therein, the side cavity extending into the mid-section truncated cone portion of the receiving cavity, and the latch extends into the receiving cavity via the side cavity.
21) A windshield mounting system as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein the upper truncated cone portion of the protrusion is farther away from the free extremity of the protrusion than the lower truncated cone portion of the protrusion.
22) A windshield mounting system as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 21, wherein the lower truncated cone portion of the protrusion extends to the free extremity of the protrusion.
23) A windshield mounting system as claimed in claim 22, wherein the lower truncated cone portion of the receiving cavity defines a closed terminal end of the receiving cavity in the receiving element.
24) A windshield mounting system as claimed in claim 23, wherein the upper truncated cone portion of the receiving cavity defines an opening of the receiving cavity, the protrusion being receivable in the receiving cavity via the opening of the receiving cavity.
25) A windshield mounting system as claimed in claim 24, wherein the upper truncated cone portion of the protrusion and the lower truncated cone portion of the protrusion narrow toward the free extremity of the protrusion.
26) A windshield mounting system as claimed in claim 24 or 25, wherein the upper truncated cone portion of the receiving cavity and the lower truncated cone portion of the receiving cavity widen toward the opening of the receiving cavity.
27) A windshield mounting system as claimed in any one of claims 24 to 26, wherein the mid-section truncated cone portion of the receiving cavity widens toward the opening of the receiving cavity.
28) A windshield mounting system as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 27, wherein:
the upper truncated cone portion of the receiving cavity is defined by a first portion of the inner side surface of the receiving cavity, the first portion having a first angle relative to a central axis of the receiving cavity;
the lower truncated cone portion of the receiving cavity is defined by a second portion of the inner side surface of the receiving cavity, the second portion having a second angle relative to the central axis of the receiving cavity; and the first angle is larger than the second angle.
the upper truncated cone portion of the receiving cavity is defined by a first portion of the inner side surface of the receiving cavity, the first portion having a first angle relative to a central axis of the receiving cavity;
the lower truncated cone portion of the receiving cavity is defined by a second portion of the inner side surface of the receiving cavity, the second portion having a second angle relative to the central axis of the receiving cavity; and the first angle is larger than the second angle.
29) A windshield mounting system as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 28, wherein the upper truncated cone portion of the receiving cavity is wider than the lower truncated cone portion of the receiving cavity.
30) A windshield mounting system as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 29, wherein the resilient ring contacts the lower truncated cone portion of the receiving cavity when the protrusion is removably received in receiving cavity and the latch is in the locked position.
31) A windshield mounting system as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 30, wherein the receiving cavity terminates within the receiving element.
32) A windshield mounting system as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 31, wherein the first groove is positioned between the upper truncated cone portion of the receiving cavity and the lower truncated cone portion of the receiving cavity when the protrusion is removably received in the cavity.
33) A windshield mounting system as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 32, wherein the first groove is positioned between the upper truncated cone portion of the protrusion and the lower truncated cone portion of the protrusion.
34) A windshield mounting system as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 33, wherein:
the upper truncated cone portion of the protrusion is defined by a first portion of the outer side surface of the protrusion, the first portion of the outer side surface of the protrusion having a third angle relative to a central axis of the protrusion;
the lower truncated cone portion of the protrusion is defined by a second portion of the outer side surface of the protrusion, the second portion of the outer side surface of the protrusion having a fourth angle relative to the central axis of the protrusion; and the third angle is larger than the fourth angle.
the upper truncated cone portion of the protrusion is defined by a first portion of the outer side surface of the protrusion, the first portion of the outer side surface of the protrusion having a third angle relative to a central axis of the protrusion;
the lower truncated cone portion of the protrusion is defined by a second portion of the outer side surface of the protrusion, the second portion of the outer side surface of the protrusion having a fourth angle relative to the central axis of the protrusion; and the third angle is larger than the fourth angle.
35) A windshield mounting system as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 34, wherein the second groove is defined in the lower truncated cone portion of the protrusion and the lower truncated cone portion of the protrusion.
36) A windshield mounting system as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 35, wherein the latch is pivotable between the locked position and the unlocked position.
37) A windshield mounting assembly, comprising:
a) a first windshield mounting system as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 36, the receiving element of the first windshield mounting system being configured to be mounted to a left side of a handle bar of the vehicle, and the mounting element of the first windshield mounting system being configured to be mounted to a left side of the windshield of the vehicle; and b) a second windshield mounting system as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 36, the receiving element of the second windshield mounting system being configured to be mounted to a right side of the handle bar of the vehicle, and the mounting element of the second windshield mounting system being configured to be mounted to a right side of the windshield of the vehicle when the receiving element of the first windshield mounting system is mounted to the left side of the handle bar and the mounting element of the first windshield mounting system is mounted to the left side of the windshield of the vehicle.
a) a first windshield mounting system as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 36, the receiving element of the first windshield mounting system being configured to be mounted to a left side of a handle bar of the vehicle, and the mounting element of the first windshield mounting system being configured to be mounted to a left side of the windshield of the vehicle; and b) a second windshield mounting system as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 36, the receiving element of the second windshield mounting system being configured to be mounted to a right side of the handle bar of the vehicle, and the mounting element of the second windshield mounting system being configured to be mounted to a right side of the windshield of the vehicle when the receiving element of the first windshield mounting system is mounted to the left side of the handle bar and the mounting element of the first windshield mounting system is mounted to the left side of the windshield of the vehicle.
38) A vehicle, comprising the windshield mounting assembly as claimed in claim 37, wherein:
a) the vehicle includes the handle bar and the windshield;
b) the receiving element of the first windshield mounting system is mounted to the left side of the handle bar;
c) the mounting element of the first windshield mounting system is mounted to the left side of the windshield;
d) the protrusion of the first windshield mounting system is removably received in the receiving cavity of the first windshield mounting system and the latch of the first windshield mounting system is in the locked position;
e) the receiving element of the second windshield mounting system is mounted to the right side of the handle bar;
f) the mounting element of the second windshield mounting system is mounted to the right side of the windshield of the vehicle; and g) the protrusion of the second windshield mounting system is removably received in the receiving cavity of the second windshield mounting system and the latch of the second windshield mounting system is in the locked position.
a) the vehicle includes the handle bar and the windshield;
b) the receiving element of the first windshield mounting system is mounted to the left side of the handle bar;
c) the mounting element of the first windshield mounting system is mounted to the left side of the windshield;
d) the protrusion of the first windshield mounting system is removably received in the receiving cavity of the first windshield mounting system and the latch of the first windshield mounting system is in the locked position;
e) the receiving element of the second windshield mounting system is mounted to the right side of the handle bar;
f) the mounting element of the second windshield mounting system is mounted to the right side of the windshield of the vehicle; and g) the protrusion of the second windshield mounting system is removably received in the receiving cavity of the second windshield mounting system and the latch of the second windshield mounting system is in the locked position.
39) A latching system for mounting a windshield onto a vehicle, comprising:
a) a male member having a first mounting portion that is mountable to one of the windshield and the vehicle and a male portion that terminates at a terminal end of the male portion and has an outer surface, a first groove defined in the outer surface and a second groove defined in the outer surface;
b) a female member having a second mounting portion that is mountable to the other one of the windshield and the vehicle and a female portion that has an inner surface defining a receiving cavity in the female portion, the receiving cavity being sized to removably receive the male portion therein;
c) a latch movably mounted to the female portion of the female member, the latch being movable between, i) a locked position in which a portion of the latch is received in the first groove of the male member when the male portion is removably received in the receiving cavity and thereby impedes removal of the male portion from the receiving cavity, and ii) an unlocked position in which the latch is disposed outside of the first groove of the male member and thereby does not impede removal of the protrusion from the receiving cavity; and c) a resilient ring received in the second groove of the male member, i) the second groove being positioned in the male member such that the resilient ring is positioned between the outer surface of the male portion and the inner surface of the female portion when the male portion is removably received in the receiving cavity, and ii) the resilient ring being shaped to be compressed by the outer surface of the male portion and the inner surface of the female portion when the male portion is removably received in the receiving cavity and the latch is in the locked position and to thereby stabilize a lateral position of the male portion inside the receiving cavity relative to a central longitudinal axis of the receiving cavity.
a) a male member having a first mounting portion that is mountable to one of the windshield and the vehicle and a male portion that terminates at a terminal end of the male portion and has an outer surface, a first groove defined in the outer surface and a second groove defined in the outer surface;
b) a female member having a second mounting portion that is mountable to the other one of the windshield and the vehicle and a female portion that has an inner surface defining a receiving cavity in the female portion, the receiving cavity being sized to removably receive the male portion therein;
c) a latch movably mounted to the female portion of the female member, the latch being movable between, i) a locked position in which a portion of the latch is received in the first groove of the male member when the male portion is removably received in the receiving cavity and thereby impedes removal of the male portion from the receiving cavity, and ii) an unlocked position in which the latch is disposed outside of the first groove of the male member and thereby does not impede removal of the protrusion from the receiving cavity; and c) a resilient ring received in the second groove of the male member, i) the second groove being positioned in the male member such that the resilient ring is positioned between the outer surface of the male portion and the inner surface of the female portion when the male portion is removably received in the receiving cavity, and ii) the resilient ring being shaped to be compressed by the outer surface of the male portion and the inner surface of the female portion when the male portion is removably received in the receiving cavity and the latch is in the locked position and to thereby stabilize a lateral position of the male portion inside the receiving cavity relative to a central longitudinal axis of the receiving cavity.
40) The latching system of claim 39, wherein the latch is pivotable between the locked position and the unlocked position.
41) The latching system of claim 39 or 40, wherein:
the inner surface of the female portion defines an upper truncated cone portion of the receiving cavity, the upper truncated cone portion defining an opening of the cavity and widening toward the opening of the cavity;
the male portion is receivable in the receiving cavity via the opening of the cavity; and the outer surface of the male portion defines an upper truncated cone portion of male portion, the upper truncated cone portion of male portion narrowing toward the terminal end of the male portion and being shaped to register with the upper truncated cone portion of the receiving cavity when the male portion is removably received in the receiving cavity and the latch is in the locked position and to thereby stabilize the lateral position of the male portion inside the receiving cavity relative to the central longitudinal axis of the receiving cavity.
the inner surface of the female portion defines an upper truncated cone portion of the receiving cavity, the upper truncated cone portion defining an opening of the cavity and widening toward the opening of the cavity;
the male portion is receivable in the receiving cavity via the opening of the cavity; and the outer surface of the male portion defines an upper truncated cone portion of male portion, the upper truncated cone portion of male portion narrowing toward the terminal end of the male portion and being shaped to register with the upper truncated cone portion of the receiving cavity when the male portion is removably received in the receiving cavity and the latch is in the locked position and to thereby stabilize the lateral position of the male portion inside the receiving cavity relative to the central longitudinal axis of the receiving cavity.
42) The latching system of claim 41, wherein:
the inner surface of the female portion defines a lower truncated cone portion of the receiving cavity, the lower truncated cone portion defining a terminal end of the cavity;
and the outer surface of the male portion defines a lower truncated cone portion of male portion, the lower truncated cone portion of male portion being shaped to register with the lower truncated cone portion of the receiving cavity when the male portion is removably received in the receiving cavity and the latch is in the locked position and to thereby stabilize the lateral position of the male portion inside the receiving cavity relative to the central longitudinal axis of the receiving cavity.
the inner surface of the female portion defines a lower truncated cone portion of the receiving cavity, the lower truncated cone portion defining a terminal end of the cavity;
and the outer surface of the male portion defines a lower truncated cone portion of male portion, the lower truncated cone portion of male portion being shaped to register with the lower truncated cone portion of the receiving cavity when the male portion is removably received in the receiving cavity and the latch is in the locked position and to thereby stabilize the lateral position of the male portion inside the receiving cavity relative to the central longitudinal axis of the receiving cavity.
43) The latching system of claim 42, wherein the upper truncated cone portion of the receiving cavity is wider than the lower truncated cone portion of the receiving cavity.
44) The latching system of claim 42 or 43, wherein the terminal end of the male portion is out of contact with the terminal end of the receiving cavity when the male portion is removably received in the receiving cavity and the latch is in the locked position.
45) The latching system of any one of claims 39 to 44, wherein the inner surface of the female portion defines a mid-section of the receiving cavity and the mid-section of the receiving cavity is out of contact with the outer surface of the male portion when the male portion is removably received in the receiving cavity and the latch is in the locked position.
46) The latching system of any one of claims 39 to 45, wherein:
the female portion includes an outer surface;
a notch is defined in the outer surface opposite the receiving cavity;
the latch includes a detent extending from a terminal end thereof; and the detent is shaped and positioned on the latch such that when the latch is in the locked position, the detent is removably received in the notch and thereby provides resistance to movement of the latch from the locked position toward the unlocked position.
the female portion includes an outer surface;
a notch is defined in the outer surface opposite the receiving cavity;
the latch includes a detent extending from a terminal end thereof; and the detent is shaped and positioned on the latch such that when the latch is in the locked position, the detent is removably received in the notch and thereby provides resistance to movement of the latch from the locked position toward the unlocked position.
47) The latching system of claim 46, wherein the latch includes an arm, and the arm is shaped to conform to the outer surface of the female portion when the latch is in locked position and the detent is removably received in the notch.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2746594A CA2746594C (en) | 2011-07-15 | 2011-07-15 | Windshield mounting system |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2746594A CA2746594C (en) | 2011-07-15 | 2011-07-15 | Windshield mounting system |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2746594A1 CA2746594A1 (en) | 2013-01-15 |
| CA2746594C true CA2746594C (en) | 2018-09-18 |
Family
ID=47553759
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2746594A Active CA2746594C (en) | 2011-07-15 | 2011-07-15 | Windshield mounting system |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2746594C (en) |
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2011
- 2011-07-15 CA CA2746594A patent/CA2746594C/en active Active
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| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2746594A1 (en) | 2013-01-15 |
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Effective date: 20160620 |