U.S. patent application number 15/585566 was filed with the patent office on 2017-08-17 for windscreen installation apparatus and method.
This patent application is currently assigned to Belron Hungary Kft - Zug Branch. The applicant listed for this patent is Belron Hungary Kft - Zug Branch. Invention is credited to Christopher Davies, William Finck.
Application Number | 20170232582 15/585566 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 43401716 |
Filed Date | 2017-08-17 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170232582 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Finck; William ; et
al. |
August 17, 2017 |
Windscreen Installation Apparatus and Method
Abstract
Apparatus for use in handling windscreens for example for
installation in a vehicle, includes a windscreen anchor assembly
comprising a windscreen anchor device and a support arm extending
away from the windscreen anchor device. A mount assembly is
provided for supporting the windscreen anchor assembly. The mount
assembly includes a mount structure for engaging with the support
arm such that the support arm can slide bodily in its longitudinal
direction with respect to the mount structure.
Inventors: |
Finck; William; (Brentwood,
GB) ; Davies; Christopher; (Kidwelly, GB) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Belron Hungary Kft - Zug Branch |
Zug |
|
CH |
|
|
Assignee: |
Belron Hungary Kft - Zug
Branch
Zug
CH
|
Family ID: |
43401716 |
Appl. No.: |
15/585566 |
Filed: |
May 3, 2017 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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13874714 |
May 1, 2013 |
9643475 |
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15585566 |
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PCT/GB2011/052130 |
Nov 2, 2011 |
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13874714 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
29/281.4 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B25B 11/007 20130101;
B60J 1/005 20130101; Y10T 29/49826 20150115; B62D 65/06 20130101;
Y10T 29/53974 20150115; Y10T 29/53991 20150115; Y10T 29/53978
20150115 |
International
Class: |
B25B 11/00 20060101
B25B011/00; B62D 65/06 20060101 B62D065/06; B60J 1/00 20060101
B60J001/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Nov 3, 2010 |
GB |
1018558.5 |
Dec 15, 2010 |
GB |
1021286.8 |
Feb 14, 2011 |
GB |
1102518.6 |
Claims
1. A mount assembly for use in handling windscreens, for example
for installation in a vehicle, the mount assembly comprising a
vehicle anchor device for securing to the vehicle and an elongate
arm extending from the anchor device, wherein the elongate arm is
mounted with respect to the anchor device enabling the arm to be
moved between alternative mounting configurations.
2. A mount assembly according to claim 1, wherein the arm is
configured to be secured in the alternative mounting
configurations, and in the alternative mounting configurations the
arm extends in opposed directions from the anchor device.
3. A mount assembly according to claim 1, wherein the arm is
pivotable or rotatable about an upright rotational axis.
4. A mount according to claim 1, wherein the vehicle anchor device
comprises a side glass anchor device enabling securing of the mount
assembly to the vehicle side glass.
5. A mount according to claim 1, wherein the vehicle anchor device
comprises a suction device.
6. A mount according to claim 1, for use in combination with a
windscreen anchor assembly comprising a windscreen anchor device
and an elongate support arm extending away from the windscreen
anchor device, wherein the mount assembly includes a mount
structure for engaging with the support arm such that the support
arm can slide in its longitudinal direction with respect to the
mount structure.
7. A mount according to claim 6, wherein the mount structure is
supported with respect to the anchor device on a rotatable or
pivotable mounting to enable the mount structure to be moved
between a dropped down and a raised up position.
8. A mount assembly for use in handling windscreens, the mount
assembly comprising a vehicle anchor device for securing to the
vehicle and a mount structure for engaging with a support arm of
windscreen anchor assembly, wherein the mount structure is
supported with respect to the anchor device on a rotatable or
pivotable raising and lowering mounting to permit the mount
structure to be moved between a dropped down and a raised up
position.
9. A mount assembly according to claim 8, wherein the axis of
rotation of the mounting is substantially horizontal.
10. A mount assembly according to claim 8, wherein an elongate arm
extends from the anchor device and the axis of rotation of the
mounting is substantially aligned with or parallel to the
longitudinal direction of the arm.
11. A mount assembly according to claim 8, wherein an elongate arm
extends away from the raising and lowering mounting to the mount
structure which is spaced from the raising and lowering
mounting.
12. A mount assembly according to claim 8, wherein the raising and
lowering mounting is rotatable between a series of successively
rotationally spaced positions.
13. A mount assembly according to claim 8, wherein the raising and
lowering mounting is configured to be secured in the desired
position.
14. A mount assembly according to claim 8, wherein the raising and
lowering mounting comprises a meshing gear lock arrangement
enabling securing engagement of gear parts in different arcuate
positions.
15. An apparatus for use in handling windscreens for example for
installation in a vehicle, the apparatus comprising a windscreen
anchor assembly comprising a windscreen anchor device and an
elongate support arm extending away from the windscreen anchor
device, the elongate support arm being dismantle-able into more
than one piece for stowage, the anchor device and a dismantled arm
part being provided with means for attaching to one another for
stowage.
16. Apparatus according to claim 15, wherein, in the stowed
configuration, the dismantled rod arm part attached to the
windscreen anchor device and a remaining fixed arm part, are of
approximately the same length.
17. Apparatus according to claim 15, wherein in the stowed
configuration the dismantled arm part attached to the windscreen
anchor device and a remaining fixed arm part, are arranged in
substantially side by side relationship.
18. Apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the two arm parts are
provided with complementary end connections to enable connection
together, and the end connection of the dismantle-able rod arm part
is used to connect with a complementary connection provided on the
anchor device.
19. Apparatus according to claim 18, wherein the arrangement
includes a connection actuator positioned at the end of one of the
rod arm parts.
20. Apparatus according to claim 19, wherein a connection element
provided with displaceable detents is provided at an end of one of
the rod arm parts for connection with the anchor device for
storage.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a divisional of U.S. application Ser.
No. 13/874,714, filed on May 1, 2013, which is a continuation of
international application serial no. PCT/GB2011/052130, filed on
Nov. 2, 2011, which claims priority from GB 1018558.5, filed on
Nov. 3, 2010, GB 1021286.8, filed on Dec. 15, 2010, and GB
1102518.6, filed on Feb. 14, 2011, all of which are hereby
incorporated by reference in their entireties.
FIELD
[0002] The present invention relates to a windscreen installation
apparatus and method.
STATE OF THE ART
[0003] Various apparatus enabling a single technician to handle a
windshield, for example for positioning in the windscreen aperture
or open frame of a vehicle is known and disclosed in EP 1826044, EP
1923243, US7610666 and DE 202007016885. Such apparatus is
particularly suited for use in situations of mobile use, where for
example a single technician typically visits a vehicle that has a
windscreen that needs replacement. In such situations an apparatus
that is convenient to transport and assemble and also easily used
by a lone technician has a significant benefit. However the
apparatus of the present invention is also suitable for use in a
workshop or depot.
[0004] In both arrangements disclosed in EP 1826044, EP 1923243 and
US7610666 a side window glass anchor is used to mount a pivot
structure to a side window glass of the vehicle. A windscreen
securing structure has an arm which is arranged to engage at one
end with the pivot pin of the pivot structure on the side window
glass anchor, and also to carry an anchor for securing to the
windshield. The windscreen can be manipulated for positioning by
the technician supported at one side by the technician and at the
other by the arm mounted on the pivot pin of the side glass anchor.
The anchors are typically pump actuated sucker devices as known in
the art. In the arrangement of EP 1826044 and EP 1923243, the arm
of the windscreen securing structure is telescopic to enable
extension. In the arrangement of U.S. Pat. No. 7,610,666 the
windscreen anchors are slidable along a rod comprising the arm.
[0005] The prior art arrangements suffer drawbacks in terms of
complexity of construction, weight and also potential for damage
during their use life. An improved arrangement has now been
devised.
SUMMARY
[0006] According to a first aspect, the present invention provides
apparatus for use in handling windscreens for example for
installation in a vehicle, the apparatus comprising: [0007] a
windscreen anchor assembly comprising a windscreen anchor device
and an elongate support arm extending away from the windscreen
anchor device; [0008] a mount assembly for supporting the
windscreen anchor assembly, wherein the mount assembly includes a
mount structure for engaging with the support arm such that the
support arm can move (preferably slide) in its longitudinal
direction with respect to the mount structure.
[0009] The entire support arm is designed to move bodily, in its
entirety, with respect to the mount structure and in the
longitudinal direction of the support arm.
[0010] Therefore, according to an alternative aspect, the invention
provides apparatus for use in handling windscreens for example for
installation in a vehicle, the apparatus comprising: [0011] a
windscreen anchor assembly comprising a windscreen anchor device
and an elongate support arm extending away from the windscreen
anchor device; [0012] a mount assembly for supporting the
windscreen anchor assembly, wherein the mount assembly includes a
mount structure for engaging with the support arm such that the
support arm can move bodily, in its entirety, with respect to the
mount structure and in the longitudinal direction of the support
arm .
[0013] It is preferred that the engagement between the mount
structure and the support arm is sliding engagement, preferably
such that the support arm slides longitudinally past or through the
mount structure.
[0014] Preferably, the engagement between the mount structure and
the support arm is such that the arm may be lowered into an
engagement position with the mount structure, and also preferably
raised or lifted out of an engagement position with the mount
structure. The mount structure preferably has an upper opening
through which the support arm may enter into the structure to be
seated for sliding engagement.
[0015] The arrangement is beneficially such that the mount
structure acts as a guide for guiding the sliding movement of the
support arm.
[0016] In a preferred embodiment, the mount structure may comprise
a yoke or saddle structure having opposed upstanding sides or side
elements for guiding and retaining the opposed sides of the support
arm of the windscreen anchor assembly.
[0017] In a preferred embodiment, the mount structure permits the
elongate arm of the windscreen anchor assembly to be rotated or
pivoted about the location of connection to the mount structure.
Beneficially, the mount structure is rotatably mounted in order to
achieve this result.
[0018] It is preferred that the elongate support arm of the
windscreen anchor assembly is of circular cross section in the
region of interaction with the mount structure. This enables the
support arm to be easily rotated about its longitudinal axis when
engaged with the mount structure, in addition to being slidable in
the direction of its length.
[0019] In a preferred embodiment, the elongate support arm of the
windscreen anchor assembly is an elongate rod. The support arm
preferably engages with the mount structure at a point along the
length of the support arm spaced from the opposed ends of the
arm.
[0020] The elongate support arm of the windscreen anchor assembly
is preferably provided with a stop inhibiting an end of the arm
from sliding past the mount structure. The stop may engage with the
mount structure at one extreme limit of sliding movement. In one
embodiment the stop may be a spherical stop device.
[0021] In a preferred the windscreen anchor device is mounted in a
fixed position on the elongate support arm.
[0022] In a certain embodiment, the elongate support arm of the
windscreen anchor assembly may be in two or more part form arranged
to engage end to end.
[0023] In a preferred arrangement, the mount assembly includes a
vehicle anchor device enabling securing of the mount assembly to
the vehicle. In a preferred arrangement, the mount assembly may
include a side glass anchor device enabling securing of the mount
assembly to the vehicle side glass.
[0024] Typically, the side glass anchor device may comprise a
suction device, as may the windscreen anchor device. Pump actuation
suction devices may be used, as known in the art.
[0025] In one embodiment, the mount assembly may include an arm
portion connected at one end to carry the mount structure and at a
second end to a rotatable mount comprising the mount assembly.
[0026] According to a further aspect, the present invention
provides mount assembly for use in handling windscreens, for
example for installation in a vehicle, the mount assembly
comprising a vehicle anchor device for securing to the vehicle and
an elongate arm extending from the anchor device, wherein the
elongate arm is rotatably mounted with respect to the anchor device
enabling the arm to be moved between alternative mounting
configurations.
[0027] It is preferred that means is provided for securing the arm
in the alternative mounting configurations. A brake handle,
securing bolts or other mechanical means may be used for this
purpose.
[0028] Beneficially, in the alternative mounting configurations the
arm extends in opposed directions from the anchor device.
[0029] It is preferred that the arm is pivotable or rotatable about
a substantially upright rotational axis.
[0030] In a preferred realisation of the invention, the vehicle
anchor device comprises a side glass anchor device enabling
securing of the mount assembly to the vehicle side glass.
Beneficially, the vehicle anchor device comprises a suction
device.
[0031] Preferably, the mount is intended for use in combination
with a windscreen anchor assembly comprising a windscreen anchor
device and an elongate support arm extending away from the
windscreen anchor device; wherein the mount assembly includes a
mount structure for engaging with the support arm such that the
support arm can slide in its longitudinal direction with respect to
the mount structure.
[0032] It is preferred that mount structure is supported with
respect to the anchor device on a rotatable or pivotable mounting
to enable the mount structure to be moved between a dropped down
and a raised up position.
[0033] According to a further aspect, the present invention
provides a mount assembly for use in handling windscreens, for
example for installation in a vehicle, the mount assembly
comprising a vehicle anchor device for securing to the vehicle and
a mount structure for engaging with a support arm of windscreen
anchor assembly, wherein the mount structure is supported with
respect to the anchor device on a rotatable or pivotable raising
and lowering mounting to enable the mount structure to be moved
between a dropped down and a raised up position.
[0034] It is preferred that the axis of rotation of the raising and
lowering mounting is substantially horizontal.
[0035] Preferably, an elongate arm extends from the anchor device
and the axis of rotation of the mounting is substantially aligned
with or parallel to the longitudinal direction of the arm.
[0036] Beneficially, an elongate arm extends away from the raising
and lowering mounting to the mount structure which is spaced from
the raising and lowering mounting.
[0037] It is preferred that the raising and lowering mounting is
rotatable in an index-wise between a series of successively
rotationally spaced positions.
[0038] The arrangement preferably includes securing means for
securing the raising and lowering mounting in the desired
position.
[0039] In a preferred embodiment, the raising and lowering mounting
may be provided in series with a side to side rotational mounting
enabling the mount structure to be moved from side to side.
[0040] According to an alternative aspect, the invention provides
apparatus for use in handling windscreens for example for
installation in a vehicle, the apparatus comprising a windscreen
anchor assembly comprising a windscreen anchor device and an
elongate support arm extending away from the windscreen anchor
device, the elongate arm being dismantle-able into more than one
piece for stowage, the anchor device and a dismantled arm part
being provided with means for attaching to one another for
stowage.
[0041] It is preferred that, in the stowed configuration, the
dismantled arm part attached to the windscreen anchor device and a
remaining fixed arm part, are of approximately the same length.
[0042] It is preferred that, in the stowed configuration the
dismantled arm part attached to the windscreen anchor device and a
remaining fixed arm part, are arranged in substantially side by
side relationship.
[0043] Beneficially, the two arm parts are provided with
complementary end connections to enable connection together, and
the end connection of the dismantle-able arm part is used to
connect with a complementary connection provided on the anchor
device.
[0044] According to an alternative aspect, the invention provides a
method of installing a windscreen in a vehicle the method
comprising: [0045] setting in position a windscreen anchor assembly
comprising a windscreen anchor device secured to the windscreen and
an elongate support arm extending away from the windscreen anchor
device; [0046] setting in position a mount assembly for supporting
the windscreen anchor assembly, wherein the mount assembly includes
a mount structure for engaging with the support arm; [0047]
engaging the support arm with the mount structure at a point along
the length of the support arm spaced from the opposed ends of the
arm such that the support arm can slide in its longitudinal
direction with respect to the mount structure in order to position
the windscreen in the vehicle windscreen opening.
[0048] Specific embodiments of the invention will now be further
described, by way of example only, with reference to the
accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0049] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of exemplary
apparatus in accordance with the invention.
[0050] FIG. 2 is a view similar to the view of FIG. 1 showing the
apparatus in a limited movement position.
[0051] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a slightly different
embodiment of apparatus in accordance with the invention.
[0052] FIGS. 4 and 5 are side and end views of the embodiment of
FIG. 3.
[0053] FIG. 6 is a schematic view of the windscreen support
assembly with the support arm separated in-two.
[0054] FIG. 7 is a schematic sectional view showing the connection
between the two pieces of the support arm of the arrangement of
FIG. 5.
[0055] FIGS. 8A and 8B are perspective sectional views showing the
connection of FIG. 7.
[0056] FIG. 9 is a perspective expanded view of an alternative
embodiment of anchor device for apparatus in accordance with the
invention;
[0057] FIGS. 10a to 10c are views of an alternative embodiment of
windscreen anchor device for apparatus in accordance with the
invention (showing the two-piece support rod arrangement in a
stowed configuration);
[0058] FIGS. 11a to 11c are views of an alternative embodiment of
windscreen anchor device for apparatus in accordance with the
invention (showing the two-piece support rod arrangement in a
stowed configuration);
[0059] FIG. 12 is a schematic perspective view of an alternative
embodiment of anchor device for implementation of the
invention;
[0060] FIGS. 13 and 14 are detailed views of the apparatus of FIG.
12 in alternate configurations;
[0061] FIGS. 15 and 16 are schematic views of an alternative
embodiment of windscreen anchor device for implementation of the
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0062] Referring to the drawings, and initially to FIGS. 1 and 2,
there is shown windscreen installation apparatus 1 in the form of
windscreen anchor assembly 2 cooperating with a side window mount
assembly 3 which in the embodiment shown is arranged to be mounted
to a side window of a vehicle as in the prior art arrangement
disclosed in EP 1923243.
[0063] The side window mount assembly 3 is generally similar to the
arrangement disclosed in EP 1923243 (Particularly FIG. 11 of that
document) and comprises a swing arm 4 rotatably mounted to a
connecting arm 5 by means of a pivot hub 7.
[0064] The connecting arm 5 has a bracket 8 which connects to a
pump actuated sucker device 9 which, when pump actuated, grips onto
the side window of the vehicle to mount the mount assembly 3. The
bracket 5 is capable of being released from a locking position to
pivot downwardly, when required, to finally position the windscreen
in the window aperture of the vehicle. This facility is described
in the prior art disclosure of EP 1923243.
[0065] The mount assembly 3 differs substantially from the
arrangement shown in EP 1923243 in that in place of a pivot rod (or
pin as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,610,666) an improved mount
structure 11 is provided having a U-shaped mount structure (that
could be as described as a yoke, rollock or saddle structure)
having opposed upstanding sides 11a, 11b and an open upper portion
11c. The mount structure 11 is rotatably mounted to the spar 12
extending upwardly from the swing arm 4 such that the mounting
structure 11 can rotate about an upright or vertical axis defined
by spar 12.
[0066] The windscreen anchor assembly 2 comprises a pump action
vacuum sucker device 14 similar to the device 9 which is mounted by
a bracket 15 to an elongate rigid support arm rod 16. The end of
the support arm rod 16 distal from the suction device 14 is
provided with a spherical stop member 17. The rod is of two-part
construction arranged to be connected at a fixing joint 18 partway
along the length.
[0067] As can be seen from the drawings, the support arm rod 16 can
be lowered into the mount structure 11 via the open upper portion
11c to be received between the upstanding walls 11a, 11b. In this
position the support arm rod 16 engages with the mounting structure
11 between the opposed ends of the rod 16 such that the rod 16 can
slide lengthwise in contact with the base of the U-shaped mount
structure 11 whilst remaining supported in the mount structure 11.
The support arm rod 16 moves bodily, in its entirety, in the
longitudinal direction of the rod (arrow A of FIG. 2) through and
past the mount structure 11. The mount structure 11 can also rotate
on its rotatable mounting 7 with respect to the spar 12 (arrow B in
FIG. 2) and in addition because the rod 16 is of generally circular
cross section the rod can also rotate about its own axis seated on
the mounting structure 11 (arrow C in FIG. 2). In FIG. 2 the
apparatus is shown with the elongate support arm rod 16 extended to
its limit position in one direction in which the spherical stop
member 17 is approaching contact with the side of the mount
structure 11. The spherical stop member 17 therefore prevents the
elongate support arm 16 from being slidingly moved out of
engagement with the mount structure 11.
[0068] The mount structure could include a pulley wheel or roller
mounted for rotation and upon which the support arm rests for
sliding movement. In most situations however sliding directly on
the mounting structure is sufficient.
[0069] In use the side window mount assembly 3 is mounted to the
side window of the vehicle, and the windscreen anchor assembly 2 is
mounted to the windscreen in a similar manner to the arrangement
disclosed in the prior art EP 1826044, EP 1923243 and also U.S.
Pat. No. 7,610,666.
[0070] It is then necessary for a technician undertaking the
operation to lower the support arm rod 16 into position in which
the support arm rod 16 is received somewhere along its length
intermediate the upstanding walls 11a, 11b of the mount structure
11.
[0071] The arrangements disclosed in the prior art documents EP
1826044, EP 1923243 and also U.S. Pat. No. 7,610,666 require the
technician to position the aperture of the windscreen anchor
assembly over the mounting pin on the side window mount. This is
difficult to do at a distance when holding the full combined weight
of the windscreen and support apparatus. The present invention
provides an improvement over the prior art in that targeting of the
engagement between the support arm 16, and the mount structure 11
is significantly more straightforward and requires less fine
targeting than positioning of the engagement pin and aperture in
the prior art.
[0072] When positioned, such that the support rod 16 is received in
the mount structure 11, manipulation for positioning of the
windscreen by the technician is also readily achieved because of
the multi-directional movement facilitated by moving bodily the
support rod, by sliding relative to the mount structure 11;
rotation of the support rod 16 about its own axis; and also the
facility for the mount structure 11 to rotate along the vertical
axis defined by the upright spar 12. Additionally, the support arm
rod 16 can pivot in the vertical plane about the mount structure
11.
[0073] In view of the fact that there are no engineered bearings
constraining movement of the support arm rod 16 (compared to the
engineered support blocks 68 of U.S. Pat. No. 7,610,666) or the
telescopic arrangement disclosed in EP 1826044, the device of the
present invention can be lighter in weight and also more robust
than the prior art devices. For example, if the support arm rod 16
of the windscreen anchor assembly of the present invention were to
be damaged by becoming dented, bent to a slight degree, then
operation of the device would not be significantly impaired. The
apparatus would still work satisfactorily, the support arm rod 16
sliding in a satisfactory manner in the mount structure 11 enabling
perfectly satisfactory use to be achieved.
[0074] Compare this to the potential for damage to the telescoping
rod of EP 1826044 or EP1923243 which could easily result in the
inability to continue to use the telescoping device. Similarly,
potential damage to the rod upon which the bearings carrying the
sucker devices of U.S. Pat. No. 7,610,666 may also result in an
arrangement that could easily become inoperable.
[0075] As shown most clearly in FIG. 3, the support arm 18 may be
provided with a friction or resistance portion 35 which is arranged
to slide less easily past the mount structure 11. When the friction
portion 35 contacts the mount structure 11 the increased friction
means that the swing arm 4 will more readily pivot about pivot arm
107. The friction portion 35 can be used in this way and when the
user desires the high friction portion 35 should pass through the
mount 11, an additional push or nudge can be given to the rod 16 to
move the friction portion past the mount 11.
[0076] The high friction portion can be a relatively higher
friction material or component secured at the desired position
along the length of the rod, or alternatively could, for example,
be a knurled portion of the rod. Additionally, or alternatively, a
change in rod section or step could provide such a facility, for
example, being a waisted section, or a step section in the diameter
of the rod. The higher friction or step section is typically
provided relatively close to the stop member 17 end of the rod
16.
[0077] The support arm rod 16 of the present apparatus can be
dismantled by the connection joint 18. As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 a
connector portion 20 of the first part of the rod 16a is received
within a female connector 21 of a second rod part 16b. The
connector portion 20 includes an insert 24 into the interior of rod
portion 16a, the insert 24 having a collar 25 receiving an insert
26 which has an external screw thread.
[0078] The connector 21 has a female insert 27 which receives a
further insert 28 having an internal threaded bore 31 for mating
with the threaded insert 26. A bearing portion 29 is provided for
close fitting engagement with the collar 25. This provides for
rigid connection by screw thread and also that any bending motion
is taken up in contact between the collar 25 and the bearing
surface 29.
[0079] FIGS. 15 and 16 show an alternative arrangement for two
parts 416a and 416b of the windscreen anchor rod 416. In this
embodiment, the part 416b which is provided with end stop member
417 is also provided with a male connector 420 having an engagement
pin 426 extending outwardly from an engagement collar 425. The
engagement pin is a component having a pair of spring mounted
detents 424 which are capable of being biased from a `normal`
externally projecting position as shown in FIGS. 15 and 16 to a
position in which the detents are retracted to lie flush with the
outer surface of the anchor rod 416b. A retraction mechanism
comprises a retraction rod 492 which extends along the entire
length of the anchor rod 416b and through a bar 495 in the end stop
member 417 to an actuator end 493 which projects into a recess 494
in the end stop member 417. Pressing the actuator rod end 493
causes the retraction rod 492 to move and actuate a mechanism
internally of the pin 426 to retract the detents 424.
[0080] The female connector end 421 of the rod part 416a is
provided with a collar insert 428 arranged to provide an abutment
surface against engagement collar 425 or rod part 16b the surfaces
425 and 428 are tapered to improve the engagement fit between the
two parts. The collar insert 428 has a constriction 427 arranged to
permit the engagement pin 426 to extend therethrough, but only if
the detents 424 are retracted. When the pin 426 is inserted past
the constriction 427 and the detents are allowed to spring back
outwardly, the pin is secured and the two parts 416a and 416b are
connected.
[0081] The arrangement enables the user to connect and disconnect
the two rod parts 416a, 416b by pressing the actuator end 493 at
the stop member 417 end of the rod in a quick and convenient
manner.
[0082] In FIG. 9 an alternative embodiment of side window anchor
assembly 103 is shown which can be used to replace the side window
anchor assembly 3 of the preceding figures. In this embodiment
modifications have been made to provide further advantageous
technical enhancements to the device. In particular, in the
embodiments shown the connecting arm 105 is mounted to the pump
actuated sucker device 109 via a mounting boss 160 which is
rotatably mounted to the bracket 108. The bracket 108 may be
provided with a mounting spigot (not shown) upon which the central
bore 161 of the sucker boss 160 is received. The connecting arm 105
can pivot between two extreme positions (for example 180 degrees
apart) to extend either in the direction shown in FIG. 9 away from
the sucker device 109, or in the opposite direction. This enables
the side window anchor assembly 103 to be set up so as to be
mounted either to the passenger side window or the driver side
window depending upon the user's preference.
[0083] When the arm 105 is pivoted to the required orientation
during set up (or prior to set up) the arm 105 can be secured in
the required position. This may be achieved by use of a clamping
cap 170 to be secured with bolts mounted on top of the sucker boss
160. Alternatively the mounting spigot (not shown) on which the
bore 161 sits may have an upper threaded portion which can thread
into a portion in the cap enabling the cap to rotationally clamp
down on the boss 160 to secure it in the required position.
Clearly, various means for securing the sucker boss 160 in position
can be envisaged. The important fact is that the arm 105 can be
pivoted to extend in either of two opposed directions away from the
sucker device 109.
[0084] In the arrangement of the preceding figures, the spar 12 is
provided with a pivot hub 7 which permits the swing arm 4 to pivot
side to side about a vertical axis. Similarly, in the arrangement
of FIG. 9 a pivot hub 107 is provided which is rotatable about the
vertical axis X enabling the swing arm 104 to correspondingly pivot
via its connection to the pivot hub 107 in a side to side fashion.
However, in the arrangement of FIG. 9 additionally spar 112
comprises a raising and lowering index hub 150 which is rotatable
about the longitudinal axis of the connecting arm 105. This
provides for raising and lowering of the mount 111. In order to
achieve this, a plate 193 is secured to the connecting arm 105 and
a brake disc 195 and index wheel 180 is mounted on the arm 105. The
index wheel 180 has a series of peripheral index recesses or
apertures to receive the end of an index pin 190. The index wheel
rotates within a cylindrical housing 155 formed on the index hub
150. The index wheel 180 and the disc 195 are clamped tightly
between the housing 155 and the plate 193. The housing 155 also
holds the index pin 190. The index pin 190 is spring loaded and can
be pulled out of engagement with the index recesses on the index
wheel 180 to permit the index hub to be rotated about the axis of
the connecting arm 105. When the desired position is reached the
index pin can be released and returns into engagement with the
index wheel securing the index hub in the required position,
rotationally oriented with respect to the axis of the connecting
arm 105. A cam and handle arrangement 175 includes a cam 176 which
is received in a slot 178 in the index wheel 180 for fine
adjustment of the index wheel to ensure that the index pin can
fully engage in the relevant selected index recess in the index
wheel 180. This angular adjustment of the index hub 150 with
respect to the orientation of the axis of the connecting arm 105 is
useful in setting up the device in the appropriate position in the
field on the side window of the vehicle.
[0085] Furthermore, this feature can be used in order to ease
lowering of the edge of the windscreen into position. In this case,
with the user holding the rod 16 close to the end stop 17, the
index pin 190 can be released and the mounting structure 111 can be
rotated downwardly (direction of arrow Y) so as to no longer
provide a hindrance to the edge of the glass being lowered into the
vehicle windscreen aperture. The prior art achieves this effect in
a significantly different way in that the present arrangement
provides an advantageous means of achieving this which is
effectively designed into the side window anchor assembly. The
arrangement of the present invention effectively provides a
rotatable or pivotable mounting to enable the mounting structure
111 to be moved between a dropped down and a raised up
position.
[0086] The pivot hub 107 is provided with a receiving aperture 196
for receiving a securing pin 198 providing that the arm 104 can be
fixed to prevent rotation about the vertical axis X should this be
required, or preferred, for particular circumstances of
operation.
[0087] In FIGS. 12 to 14, a further alternative embodiment of side
window anchor assembly 303 is shown which can be used in place of
the side window anchor assemblies of the previously described
embodiments. The side window anchor assembly 303 is generally more
similar to the arrangement 103 of FIG. 9 in that it can be adapted
for use on passenger or driver side glass (by reversing the
direction of connecting arm 305) and a raising and lowering index
hub 350 is provided to enable the swing arm pivot hub 307 to pivot
about the longitudinal axis of the connecting arm 305 (in the
direction of arrow X in FIG. 12).
[0088] In this embodiment, the raising and lowering index hub 350
is provided at the sucker device 309 side of the connecting arm
305, being mounted to the sucker bracket 308. The connecting arm
305 is mounted to have an end rotationally mounted in an end
bearing 327 secured to a mounting platform 330 by a frame 357. The
frame 357 has an internal surface provided with an arcuate geared
rail 372, a locking gear 380 and locking cam 376 assembly mounted
to the end of the connection arm 305. The locking gear 380 is fixed
to rotate with the end of the connecting arm 305, the locking cam
376 is rotatable and connected to an actuation handle 392. The
locking cam 376 is provided with a cam recess 377 radially
positioned adjacent the cam handle 392. When the cam handle 392 is
turned to the horizontal positions (as shown in FIG. 13) the cam
recess 377 is not adjacent the locking gear 380 and the locking
gear 380 is forced upwardly into engagement with the gear rail 372
by the cam portion of the locking cam 376. The gear teeth of the
rail 372 and locking gear 380 are in meshed engagement in this
position, and the arm 305 is held against rotation. The locking
gear 380 is constrained to move linearly only. When the cam handle
392 is turned to the vertical position (as shown in FIG. 14) the
cam recess 377 is adjacent the locking gear 380 and the locking
gear drops down into the cam recess 377 (a biasing spring--not
shown--is provided for this purpose). With the locking gear 380 in
the dropped down position, gear teeth of the rail 372 and locking
gear 380 are out of meshed engagement, and the connecting arm 305
can rotate in its mounting bearing 327 (arrow X in FIG. 12)
enabling the swing arm pivot hub 307 to provide the drop down
facility for the mount 111. As shown in FIG. 15, the locking gear
380 and locking cam both rotate with the connecting arm 305. The
locking gear 380 can engage with the fixed gear rail 372 over a
range of angular orientations. This enables the technician to
adjust the position for set up on different vehicles. The rotatable
bearing 327 may be provided with a damping arrangement to damp the
motion of the connecting arm 305. This prevents uncontrolled drop
down and the risk of damage to the vehicle.
[0089] In the embodiment of FIGS. 13 to 15, the side window anchor
assembly can be reversed for use on the opposed side of the vehicle
by unfastening the mounting platform 330 and reversing the mounting
position through 180 degree and re-securing to the bracket 308.
Typically mounting screws or bolts are provided for this
purpose.
[0090] As described earlier, the windscreen support rod 16 is
provided in two-part form with a connection joint 18. In the
arrangement shown in FIGS. 10a and 10b the windscreen anchor
assembly 202 has the ability to dismantle to enable storage with
the support rod 116 dismantled into its separate parts 216a and
216b. The fixed, distal end of the rod 216a extends outwardly from
the sucker device 214 via a plastic moulding shroud 276. The female
connector 221 at the end of the rod part 216b is arrangement to
cooperatively releasably engage with a receiving socket 285 mounted
to the suction device mounting bracket 215. The receiving socket
285 is provided with a male threaded shaft 289 to screw threadingly
mate with the female connector 21 of the second rod part 216b. The
end of the rod 216b can first be past via a supporting collar 286
also provided on the mounting bracket 215. In the position shown,
the extension rod part 216b is securely mounted to the sucker
device 214 extending in side by side relationship to the fixed rod
part 216a. For operational purposes the fixed rod part 216a extends
outwardly at an inclined angle (of approximately 7 degrees). In the
arrangement shown in FIG. 10a the extension rod part 216b is not
inclined at that angle, but rather extends horizontally.
[0091] The arrangement provides a convenient means for storing the
extension rod part 216b in a configuration in which the overall
size of the unit is minimised for storage or stowage. The
arrangement effectively provides a windscreen anchor assembly
comprising a windscreen anchor suction device 214 and an elongate
support arm extending away from the windscreen anchor device, the
elongate arm being dismantle-able into pieces 216a 216b for
stowage, the anchor device 214 and a dismantled arm part 216b being
provided with means 221 285 for attaching to one another for
stowage.
[0092] In certain circumstances it is envisaged that means other
than a threaded connection between the extension rod part 216b and
the fixed rod part 216a may be provided, such as a bayonet fitting
or other quick release fitting. In such circumstances the means for
receiving the end of the extension rod part 216b on the suction
device mounting bracket will correspondingly need to be adapted to
provide the required secure connection with the end of the
extension rod part 216b. Referring to FIGS. 11a to 11c it has been
shown as generally similar to the arrangements shown in FIGS. 10a
to 10c. However, in the arrangement shown the extension rod bracket
285 is configured and orientated to receive the extension rod part
216b at the inclined angle corresponding to the angle of
inclination of the fixed rod part 216a.
[0093] The apparatus has proved convenient to use and robust and
also significantly lighter and less expensive to manufacture than
the prior art arrangements known.
[0094] The apparatus has primarily been described with a side
window anchored mount, however it will be appreciated that in its
broadest scope alternative mounts could be used such as a floor
mounted mount or a vehicle roof mounted mount.
* * * * *