WO2025155698A1

WO2025155698A1 - Bracket for mounting parts on vehicles

Info

Publication number: WO2025155698A1
Application number: PCT/US2025/011836
Authority: WO
Inventors: Yongquan YU
Original assignee: Tesla Inc
Current assignee: Tesla Inc
Priority date: 2024-01-16
Filing date: 2025-01-16
Publication date: 2025-07-24
Anticipated expiration: 2026-07-16

Abstract

A bracket (100) for mounting parts on vehicles can include a bracket body coupled to a body panel of a vehicle body; a central ridge (140); a plurality of channels (130a, 130b), wherein each channel comprises at least one flushness tuning rib (108a, 108b); a tuning rib gap (107a, 107b) between the central ridge and the at least one flushness tuning rib; and a clip component (110) for attaching to a plurality of vehicle trims.

Description

BRACKET FOR MOUNTING PARTS ON VEHICLES

CLAIM FOR PRIORITY

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/621,508, filed January 16, 2024, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to brackets used in vehicle manufacturing and assembly, particularly brackets for mounting various parts and components onto vehicle bodies during the manufacturing process. More specifically, the disclosure pertains to brackets that facilitate connections between components and the body in white (BIW) of a vehicle, including mounting of large plastic parts such as wheel liners, rocker panels, bumpers, tail lamp brackets, and other exterior components.

BACKGROUND

[0001] During the assembly and manufacturing process of vehicles, brackets are frequently used to mount parts onto the vehicle for later usage, especially large parts. For example, brackets may be connected to the body in white (the stage of an automobile during manufacturing where only the frame exists, before painting and other processes have been performed). These brackets can allow components such as wheel liners, rocker panels, lamps, trims, bumpers, etc. to be attached or otherwise connected to the body.

BRIEF SUMMARY

[0002] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a bracket for mounting parts on vehicles includes a bracket body coupled to a body panel of a vehicle body; a central ridge; a plurality of channels, wherein each channel comprises at least one flushness tuning rib; a tuning rib gap between the central ridge and the at least one flushness tuning rib; and a clip component for attaching to a plurality of vehicle trims. In some examples, the plurality of channels can include a first channel and a second channel. The first channel can include a first flushness tuning rib and the second channel can include a second flushness tuning rib. The first and second flushness tuning ribs can be aligned with each other and centered around the central ridge.

[0003] In some examples, the first channel can include a third flushness tuning rib and the second channel can include a fourth flushness tuning rib. In some examples, the third and fourth flushness tuning ribs can be aligned with each other and centered around the central ridge. In some examples, the clip component can reside between the first and third flushness tuning ribs and the second and fourth flushness tuning ribs. In some examples, the clip component can be centered between the first and third flushness tuning ribs and the second and fourth flushness tuning ribs.

[0004] In some examples, the clip component can include a mold-in clip that is part of the central ridge. In some examples, the mold-in clip can be configured to, in response to the bracket body receiving the plurality of vehicle trims, catch onto and hold each of the plurality of vehicle trims. In some examples, the bracket can include a first tuning rib gap between the central ridge and the first flushness tuning rib and a second tuning rib gap between the central ridge and the second flushness tuning rib. In some examples, the first and second tuning rib gaps can each be configured to receive one of the plurality of vehicle trims. In some examples, the body panel can include at least one of a rocket panel, a side body to a rear door, a side body to a rear wheel liner, a side body to a trunk, a side body to a tail lamp, or a side body to a rear bumper.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] Various objectives, features, and advantages of the disclosed subject matter can be more fully appreciated with reference to the following detailed description of the disclosed subject matter when considered in connection with the following drawings, in which like reference numerals identify like elements.

[0006] FIGS. 1 A-1I show a pin and mold-in grommet system, according to certain examples. [0007] FIG. 2 illustrates a vehicle body with example placements of a pin and mold-in grommet system, according to certain examples.

[0008] The drawings are not necessarily to scale, or inclusive of all elements of a system, emphasis instead generally being placed upon illustrating the concepts, structures, and techniques sought to be protected herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0009] The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the claimed invention or the applications of its use.

[0010] Brackets that are generally used for facilitating connections between components and the body in white (BIW) of a vehicle during the manufacturing stage suffer from various deficiencies, such as non-optimal insertion and retention force performance, a lack of water sealing capabilities, and excessive weight resulting in difficulty in handling. In addition, pins that insert into the brackets are generally pre-installed as a single assembly. In other words, the pin and bracket form a single assembly, limiting their maneuverability, flexibility, and reusability. Moreover, such single assemblies also require tooling for insertion and removal.

[0011] Embodiments of the present disclosure are therefore directed to a pin and mold-in grommet bracket system useable to mount parts on vehicles, such as large plastic parts that include wheel liners, rocker panels, bumpers, tail lamp brackets, etc. For example, the disclosed pin and mold-in grommet can be used to assemble exterior plastic shells, such as wheel liners, rocker panels, and bumpers, to a vehicle body during assembly.

[0012] In some examples, the bracket includes grommets that may be formed as a single unit (i.e., mold-in grommets). During vehicle assembly, mounting brackets designed for connecting wheel liners, rocker panels, lamps, trims, and bumpers to the vehicle BIW are first attached to the vehicle body. After these mounting brackets are secured, in some examples, pins can be initially positioned in a pre-engaged state within their corresponding mold-in grommets, where the pins are retained by the grommets to prevent displacement while maintaining an unengaged configuration. Pin spreads of the grommet hold the pin in place without fully locking it, allowing the pin to remain secure but not fully engaged, enabling the assembly team to later fully engage the pins at the appropriate manufacturing stage by pushing them further into the grommets, causing the pin spreads to lock against corresponding notches and create a strengthened connection between the bracket and vehicle body.

[0013] In certain examples, the mold-in grommets include specialized snap features configured to enable this pin engagement process, and the pin's umbrella design provides water sealing performance between the pin and grommet.

[0014] In certain examples, the mold-in grommet bracket system incorporates external snap features to provide a connection mechanism for mounting vehicle components, including vehicle trims, plastic shells (such as wheel liners, rocker panels, bumpers, and tail lamp brackets), and non-machined castings that attach to the vehicle body. The bracket system's mounting architecture may comprise a plurality of structural elements that include: a central ridge extending longitudinally along the bracket with channels formed on either side; flushness tuning ribs that are arranged in aligned pairs within these opposing channels; and tuning rib gaps, which are specifically designed spaces located between the central ridge and each flushness tuning rib that accommodate tuning ribs from vehicle trim components. These structural elements work together to ensure precise positioning and secure mounting of exterior vehicle components.

[0015] FIGS. 1A-1I show a pin and mold-in grommet system 100, according to certain examples. The system 100 includes a bracket 101, a plurality of pins 102 (herein referred to collectively as “pins 102” or individually as “a pin 102”), and a plurality of mold-in grommets 103 (herein referred to collectively as “grommets 103” or individually as “a grommet 103”). FIGS. 1 A-1I show various views and aspects of the pin and mold-in grommet system 100, wherein like reference numerals are used consistently throughout the figures to identify corresponding elements, including the bracket 101, pins 102, grommets 103, and other components of the system.

[0016] FIG. 1 A illustrates a pin and mold-in grommet system 100 that includes a bracket 101, multiple pins 102, and mold-in grommets 103. The perspective shown in FIG. 1 A may depict an exterior-facing side of the bracket 101 that may be visible from outside the vehicle, facing away from the BIW. According to certain examples, the pins 102 may be constructed from plastic material and may each include an umbrella component 105.

[0017] FIG. IB illustrates a side view of the system 100 depicting the bracket

101 in what is referred to as a “delivery condition” - the configuration in which an assembly team may receive the system with the bracket 101 already connected to a body panel 120 of a vehicle or conveyance.

[0018] In some examples, as depicted in FIG. IB, the pin 102 is retained within the mold-in grommet 103 but remains in an unengaged state. For example, the mold-in grommet 103 may feature pin spreads 104 that are designed to interact with corresponding notches 180, enabling the system 100 to achieve a locked engagement. An arrow in the figure indicates the direction for pushing the pin

102 into the grommet 103 to transition the system from this delivery condition to an engaged state.

[0019] FIG. 1C depicts the system 100 in its engaged, or “locked” configuration, which may occur after the pin 102 has been pushed into position. For example, this engagement process may involve the pin 102 being depressed, or pushed inwards towards the bracket 101, as indicated by the arrow depicted in FIG. IB. In some examples, this may cause the pin spreads 104 to undergo a deformation pattern wherein the pin spreads 104 curve outward, while the ends of the pin spreads 104 deflect inwards towards the bracket 101. The engagement is completed when the ends of each pin spread 104 travels past their corresponding notch 180 in the body panel 120, coming to rest in a position below each notch 180. This configuration creates a snap-fit connection where each pair of pin spreads 104 and notches 180 forms a mechanical interlock with the body panel 120. The notches 180 serve as retention features that prevent the pin spreads 104 from displacing to their initial position, thereby maintaining the system 100 in its secured, engaged state. In some examples, when the pin 102 is fully engaged, the umbrella 105 of the pin 102 creates an interference fit with the grommet 103, providing water sealing performance between the pin 102 and the grommet 103.

[0020] FIG. ID provides a detailed, close-up view of an engaged configuration between a pin spread 104 and notch 180, illustrating the mechanical interlock formed when the system is in its locked state, where the ends of the pin spread 104 reside below the notch 180 to form a snap feature that prevents disengagement from the body panel 120, according to certain examples.

[0021] FIG. IE illustrates the disengagement process of the system 100, where a screwdriver 106 is used to remove the pin 102 from the grommet 103, according to certain examples. For example, by applying an outward force to the pin 102 (e.g., with the screwdriver 106), the pin spreads 104 may be released from their engagement with the notches 180, enabling the pin 102 to be extracted from the grommet 103. This disengagement capability provides improved serviceability, as the pin 102 can be easily removed using a standard tool. Once the pin 102 is disengaged and removed, the entire bracket 101 can then be detached from the body panel 120, allowing for component removal and reusability without degradation.

[0022] FIG. IF illustrates the structural features of the system 100 that facilitate improved connections between vehicle components, such as trims and plastic shells (including wheel liners, rocker panels, bumpers, and tail lamp brackets). The bracket 101 incorporates a central ridge 140 that extends longitudinally along its entire length, positioned at a midpoint between the bracket's upper surface and the grommets 103 on the bottom portion. Channels 130a-b are formed on opposite sides of the ridge 140, housing various connecting components including tuning rib gaps 107a-b, flushness tuning ribs 108a-b, tuning ribs 109, and clips 110. In some embodiments, the bracket 101 features a symmetrical design with left and right configurations, where each configuration includes four flushness tuning ribs 108 with corresponding tuning rib gaps 107 formed between each flushness tuning rib 108 and the ridge 140. The flushness tuning ribs 108 are arranged in aligned pairs across opposing channels 130, with tuning ribs 109 positioned between these paired sets. The clips 110 are implemented as mold-in clips that are integrally formed as part of the ridge 140 and positioned at the midpoint between flushness tuning ribs 108. The tuning rib gaps 107 are specifically configured to receive corresponding tuning ribs from trim components or other vehicle shells, enabling secure attachment during vehicle assembly, as demonstrated in subsequent figures. This configuration provides multiple benefits including improved serviceability through easy removal and reinstallation, enhanced production ergonomics, precise gap control for maintaining quality appearances, increased joint reliability, reduced manufacturing costs, and decreased overall weight.

[0023] FIG. IF illustrates structural features of the system 100 that facilitate connections between components, such as trims and plastic shells (including wheel liners, rocker panels, bumpers, and tail lamp brackets), according to certain examples. The bracket 101 may include a central ridge 140 that extends longitudinally along its length and positioned at a midpoint between the bracket's upper surface and the grommets 103 on the bottom portion. Channels 130a-b may be formed on opposite sides of the ridge 140, housing various connecting components including tuning rib gaps 107a-b, flushness tuning ribs 108a-b, tuning ribs 109, and clips 110.

[0024] In some examples, the bracket 101 features a symmetrical design with left and right configurations, where each configuration includes four flushness tuning ribs 108 with corresponding tuning rib gaps 107 formed between each flushness tuning rib 108 and the ridge 140.

[0025] As seen in FIG. IF, the flushness tuning ribs 108 may be arranged in aligned pairs across opposing channels 130, with tuning ribs 109 positioned between these paired sets. The clips 110 are implemented as mold-in clips that are integrally formed as part of the ridge 140 and positioned at the midpoint between flushness tuning ribs 108. The tuning rib gaps 107 are specifically configured to receive corresponding tuning ribs from trim components or other vehicle shells, to provide secure attachment during vehicle assembly.

[0026] As seen in FIG. IF, in some examples, the bracket 101 includes multiple integrated components including tuning rib gaps 107a-b, flushness tuning ribs 108a-b, tuning ribs 109, and clips 110. The bracket 101 further includes channels 130a-b that are formed on opposite sides of a central ridge 140. In some embodiments, the ridge 140 extends longitudinally along the entire length of bracket 101 and is positioned at a midpoint between the bracket's upper surface and the grommets 103 located on the bottom portion. In some examples, the tuning rib gaps 107a-b, flushness tuning ribs 108a-b, tuning ribs 109, and clips 110 are arranged within the channels 130a-b to facilitate efficient and secure attachment of trim components and shells during vehicle assembly. [0027] In some examples, each clip 110 comprises a mold-in clip that is formed as part of the ridge 140. The bracket 101 includes distinct sections, with each section featuring a specific arrangement of ribs, gaps, and clips. For example, as illustrated in FIG. IF, the bracket 101 may comprise a symmetrical design with left and right configurations, wherein each configuration contains a plurality of flushness tuning ribs 108, where a tuning rib gap 107 is formed between each flushness tuning rib 108 and the central ridge 140. These tuning rib gaps are configured to receive corresponding tuning ribs from trim components or other vehicle shells, as demonstrated in subsequent FIGS. 1H-1I. Each flushness tuning rib 108 may be formed within one of the channels 130 and paired with a corresponding flushness tuning rib 108 in the opposite channel, ensuring alignment across the ridge 140. The tuning ribs 109 are positioned between the paired sets of flushness tuning ribs 108. In some examples, the mold-in clip 110 is positioned along the ridge 140 at a midpoint between the flushness tuning ribs 108.

[0028] FIG. 1G illustrates the bracket 101 in its installed configuration, where it is secured to the BIW 190 using pins 102, according to certain examples. As seen in FIG. 1G, the pins 102 have been fully pushed into the grommets 103, achieving the engaged or locked condition previously detailed in the descriptions of FIGS. 1A-1E. FIG. 1G further includes the section lines A-A and B-B, which indicate the locations of cross-sectional views illustrated in FIGS. 1H and II respectively, and as described below.

[0029] FIG. 1H provides a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of the system 100, depicting the bracket 101 after it has been mounted to the BIW 190 and various trim components have been attached using the bracket's connection features, according to certain examples. The bracket 101 may interface with multiple trim components. For example, as seen in FIG. 1H, the bracket 101 may be connected with trim 111 and trim 112. The connection mechanism utilizes the bracket 101’ s tuning rib gaps, where trim 111 includes a tuning rib 113 that is received within tuning rib gap 107a, which is formed between the flushness tuning rib 108a and the central ridge 140. Similarly, trim 112 incorporates a tuning rib 114 that engages with tuning rib gap 107b, positioned between flushness tuning rib 108b and the central ridge 140. [0030] FIG. II depicts a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B of the system 100 depicted in FIG. 1G, showing the bracket 101 mounted to the BIW 190 with attached trim components, according to certain examples. FIG. II provides a detailed view of the trim attachment mechanism, where trim 111 includes a tuning rib 113 that features a notch at its end, and trim 112 includes a tuning rib 114 with a similar notch configuration. These notched tuning ribs engage with the mold-in clip 110, which may be formed as part of the central ridge 140. The notches of tuning ribs 113 and 114 hook onto the mold-in clip 110, creating a mechanical interlock that secures the trim components in position and prevents unintended movement.

[0031] FIG. 2 illustrates various mounting locations of the pin and mold-in grommet system 100 depicted in FIG. 1 A- II, on a vehicle body 200, according to certain examples. For example, as seen in FIG. 2, the system 100a may be configured for mounting a rocker panel, the system 100b may be configured for mounting a side body to the rear door, the system 100c may be configured for mounting a side body to the rear wheel liner, the system lOOd may be configured for mounting a side body to the rear bumper, the system lOOe may be configured for mounting a side body to the tail lamp, and the system lOOf may be configured for mounting a side body to the trunk.

[0032] While various embodiments have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example and not limitation. It will be apparent to persons skilled in the relevant art(s) that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope. In fact, after reading the above description, it will be apparent to one skilled in the relevant art(s) how to implement alternative embodiments. For example, other steps may be provided, or steps may be eliminated, from the described flows, and other components may be added to, or removed from, the described systems. Accordingly, other implementations are within the scope of the following claims.

[0033] In addition, it should be understood that any figures which highlight the functionality and advantages are presented for example purposes only. The disclosed methodology and system are each sufficiently flexible and configurable such that they may be utilized in ways other than that shown. [0034] Although the term “at least one” may often be used in the specification, claims and drawings, the terms “a”, “an”, “the”, “said”, etc. also signify “at least one” or “the at least one” in the specification, claims and drawings.

[0035] Finally, it is the applicant's intent that only claims that include the express language "means for" or "step for" be interpreted under 35 U.S.C. 112(f). Claims that do not expressly include the phrase "means for" or "step for" are not to be interpreted under 35 U.S.C. 112(f).

EXAMPLES

[0023] Example 1 : A bracket for mounting parts on vehicles comprising: a bracket body coupled to a body panel of a vehicle body; a central ridge; a plurality of channels, wherein each channel comprises at least one flushness tuning rib; a tuning rib gap between the central ridge and the at least one flushness tuning rib; and a clip component for attaching to a plurality of vehicle trims.

[0024] Example 2: The subject matter of Example 1, wherein the plurality of channels comprise a first channel comprising a first flushness tuning rib and a second channel comprising a second flushness tuning rib, wherein the first and second flushness tuning ribs are aligned with each other and centered around the central ridge.

[0025] Example 3: In the subject matter of Examples 1-2, wherein the first channel comprises a third flushness tuning rib and the second channel comprises a fourth flushness tuning rib.

[0026] Example 4: In the subject matter of Examples 1-3, wherein the third and fourth flushness tuning ribs are aligned with each other and centered around the central ridge.

[0027] Example 5: In the subject matter of Examples 1-4, wherein the clip component resides between the first and third flushness tuning ribs and the second and fourth flushness tuning ribs.

[0028] Example 6: In the subject matter of Examples 1-5, wherein the clip component is centered between the first and third flushness tuning ribs and the second and fourth flushness tuning ribs. [0029] Example 7: In the subject matter of Example 1, wherein the clip component comprises a mold-in clip that is part of the central ridge.

[0030] Example 8: In the subject matter of Examples 1 and 7, wherein the moldin clip is configured to, in response to the bracket body receiving the plurality of vehicle trims, catch onto and hold each of the plurality of vehicle trims.

[0031] Example 9: In the subject matter of Examples 1-2, comprising a first tuning rib gap between the central ridge and the first flushness tuning rib and a second tuning rib gap between the central ridge and the second flushness tuning rib.

[0032] Example 10: In the subject matter of Examples 1-2 and 9, wherein the first and second tuning rib gaps are each configured to receive one of the plurality of vehicle trims.

[0033] Example 11: In the subject matter of Example 1, wherein the body panel comprises at least one of a rocker panel, a side body to a rear door, a side body to a rear wheel liner, a side body to a trunk, a side body to a tail lamp, or a side body to a rear bumper.

[0034] Example 12: A method for mounting parts on vehicles comprising: coupling a bracket body of a bracket to a body panel of a vehicle body, the bracket further comprising: a central ridge; a plurality of channels, wherein each channel comprises at least one flushness tuning rib; a tuning rib gap between the central ridge and the at least one flushness tuning rib; and a clip component for attaching to a plurality of vehicle trims; and attaching the plurality of vehicle trims to the bracket via the clip component.

[0035] Example 13: In the subject matter of Example 12, wherein the plurality of channels comprise a first channel comprising a first flushness tuning rib and a second channel comprising a second flushness tuning rib, wherein the first and second flushness tuning ribs are aligned with each other and centered around the central ridge.

[0036] Example 14: In the subject matter of Examples 12-13, wherein the first channel comprises a third flushness tuning rib and the second channel comprises a fourth flushness tuning rib.

[0037] Example 15: In the subject matter of Examples 12-14, wherein the third and fourth flushness tuning ribs are aligned with each other and centered around the central ridge. [0038] Example 16: In the subject matter of Examples 12-15, wherein the clip component resides between the first and third flushness tuning ribs and the second and fourth flushness tuning ribs.

[0039] Example 17: In the subject matter of Examples 12-16, wherein the clip component is centered between the first and third flushness tuning ribs and the second and fourth flushness tuning ribs.

[0040] Example 18: In the subject matter of Examples 12-17, wherein attaching the plurality of vehicle trims to the bracket via the clip component comprises attaching the plurality of vehicle trims to a mold-in clip that is part of the central ridge.

[0041] Example 19: In the subject matter of Examples 12-18, wherein attaching the plurality of vehicle trims to the mold-in clip comprises catching the plurality of vehicle trims onto to the mold-in clip.

[0042] Example 20: In the subject matter of Examples 12-13, wherein the bracket comprises a first tuning rib gap between the central ridge and the first flushness tuning rib and a second tuning rib gap between the central ridge and the second flushness tuning rib, the method comprising receiving, by the first and second tuning rib gaps, one of the plurality of vehicle trims.

[0043] Example 21: An apparatus comprising means to perform one or more elements of a method described in or related to any of Examples 1-20 or any other method or process described herein.

[0044] Example 24: A method, technique, or process as described in or related to any of Examples 1-23 or portions or parts thereof.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A bracket for mounting parts on vehicles comprising: a bracket body coupled to a body panel of a vehicle body; a central ridge; a plurality of channels, wherein each channel comprises at least one flushness tuning rib; a tuning rib gap between the central ridge and the at least one flushness tuning rib; and a clip component for attaching to a plurality of vehicle trims.

2. The bracket of claim 1, wherein the plurality of channels comprise a first channel comprising a first flushness tuning rib and a second channel comprising a second flushness tuning rib, wherein the first and second flushness tuning ribs are aligned with each other and centered around the central ridge.

3. The bracket of claim 2, wherein the first channel comprises a third flushness tuning rib and the second channel comprises a fourth flushness tuning rib.

4. The bracket of claim 3, wherein the third and fourth flushness tuning ribs are aligned with each other and centered around the central ridge.

5. The bracket of claim 4, wherein the clip component resides between the first and third flushness tuning ribs and the second and fourth flushness tuning ribs.

6. The bracket of claim 5, wherein the clip component is centered between the first and third flushness tuning ribs and the second and fourth flushness tuning ribs.

7. The bracket of claim 1, wherein the clip component comprises a mold-in clip that is part of the central ridge.

8. The bracket of claim 7, wherein the mold-in clip is configured to, in response to the bracket body receiving the plurality of vehicle trims, catch onto and hold each of the plurality of vehicle trims.

9. The bracket of claim 2 comprising a first tuning rib gap between the central ridge and the first flushness tuning rib and a second tuning rib gap between the central ridge and the second flushness tuning rib.

10. The bracket of claim 9, wherein the first and second tuning rib gaps are each configured to receive one of the plurality of vehicle trims.

11. The bracket of claim 1, wherein the body panel comprises at least one of a rocker panel, a side body to a rear door, a side body to a rear wheel liner, a side body to a trunk, a side body to a tail lamp, or a side body to a rear bumper.

12. A method for mounting parts on vehicles comprising: coupling a bracket body of a bracket to a body panel of a vehicle body, the bracket further comprising: a central ridge; a plurality of channels, wherein each channel comprises at least one flushness tuning rib; a tuning rib gap between the central ridge and the at least one flushness tuning rib; and a clip component for attaching to a plurality of vehicle trims; and attaching the plurality of vehicle trims to the bracket via the clip component.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the plurality of channels comprise a first channel comprising a first flushness tuning rib and a second channel comprising a second flushness tuning rib, wherein the first and second flushness tuning ribs are aligned with each other and centered around the central ridge.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the first channel comprises a third flushness tuning rib and the second channel comprises a fourth flushness tuning rib.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the third and fourth flushness tuning ribs are aligned with each other and centered around the central ridge.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the clip component resides between the first and third flushness tuning ribs and the second and fourth flushness tuning ribs.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the clip component is centered between the first and third flushness tuning ribs and the second and fourth flushness tuning ribs.

18. The method of claim 12, wherein attaching the plurality of vehicle trims to the bracket via the clip component comprises attaching the plurality of vehicle trims to a mold-in clip that is part of the central ridge.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein attaching the plurality of vehicle trims to the mold-in clip comprises catching the plurality of vehicle trims onto to the mold-in clip.

20. The method of claim 13, wherein the bracket comprises a first tuning rib gap between the central ridge and the first flushness tuning rib and a second tuning rib gap between the central ridge and the second flushness tuning rib, the method comprising receiving, by the first and second tuning rib gaps, one of the plurality of vehicle trims.