Door assembly module and method
US6174016A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 15, 1999 |
| Grant date | Jan 16, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 15, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE05B83/16
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
This invention relates to a system and method for providing a single module which has a plurality of integrally-molded features and components which are mounted on a door of a vehicle. In a preferred embodiment, the module is used to provide a support capable of supporting a plurality of tailgate components, such as a windshield wiper motor, electric door latches and illumination system for illuminating a license plate, stop light and even a cargo area of the vehicle. The system and method provide a module platform having at least one integrally-molded handle which permits an operator to pick up the module with its various components integrally-molded in or mounted thereon and situate the module directly onto the door, thereby substantially reducing the number of assembly steps and assembly time required in the past. The module includes a plurality of molded features such as guide and aligning wedge wings which align the module on the door and which are also capable of housing and securing a plurality of wires. A latch docking station is also integrally-molded into the module to house a plurality of electronic mounting latches during transportation. The one-piece module also has an…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.