Patent ID: 12214475

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

When a sensor retainer is installed into a vehicle body structure, care must be taken to ensure proper placement of retainer, sufficient adhesion time, and/or placement of an adhesive. Failure to do so can result in broken retainers that are unable to hold the sensor or insufficient adhesion resulting in the retainer being prone to separate from the vehicle body structure.

According to arrangements herein, a retainer installation tool can be provided to facilitate installation of a retainer into a vehicle body structure. The retainer installation tool can help to ensure proper placement of retainer, sufficient adhesion time, and/or placement of an adhesive and/or adhesion promoter. The retainer installation tool can include a central shaft extending partially within the outer casing. The retainer installation tool can include a handle operatively connected to cause rotation of the central shaft. The retainer installation tool can be configured to selectively retainably engage a retainer. The retainer installation tool can be configured to selectively disengage the retainer when the central shaft is rotated.

Detailed embodiments are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are intended only as examples. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the aspects herein in virtually any appropriately detailed structure. Further, the terms and phrases used herein are not intended to be limiting but rather to provide an understandable description of possible implementations. Various embodiments are shown inFIGS.1-8, but the embodiments are not limited to the illustrated structure or application.

It will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, where appropriate, reference numerals have been repeated among the different figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements. In addition, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments described herein. However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments described herein can be practiced without these specific details.

Referring toFIGS.1-5, an example of a retainer installation tool100is shown. The retainer installation tool100can be configured to facilitate proper installation of a retainer. The retainer can be any type of retainer and for any suitable purpose. In one or more arrangements, the retainer installation tool100can be used in connection with a retainer for holding a sonar sensor of a vehicle.

The retainer installation tool100can include an outer casing102. The outer casing102can have any suitable size, shape, and/or configuration. In one or more arrangements, the outer casing102can be substantially cylindrical in conformation. In one or more arrangements, at least a portion of the outer casing102can be hollow. The outer casing102can have an inner peripheral surface104and an outer peripheral surface106. The outer casing102can be made of any suitable material, such as metal or plastic.

The retainer installation tool100can include a handle108. The handle108can have any suitable size, shape, and/or configuration. In one or more arrangements, the handle108can be substantially cylindrical in conformation. In one or more arrangements, the handle108can extend substantially parallel to the outer casing102. The handle108can be made of a soft material for comfortable engagement by a user. In some arrangements, the handle108can include one or more ergonomic features and/or configurations.

The retainer installation tool100can include a central shaft110. The central shaft110can have any suitable size, shape, and/or configuration. In one or more arrangements, the central shaft110can be substantially cylindrical in conformation. The central shaft110can be made of any suitable material, such as metal or plastic. The central shaft110can have an axis of rotation111(FIG.3).

The central shaft110can be located within the outer casing102. In one or more arrangements, the central shaft110can be configured to include one or more features to keep the central shaft110substantially centered within the outer casing102. As an example, the central shaft110can include one or more spacers112. In the arrangements shown, the central shaft110can have two spacers112. The spacers112can be spaced apart along the axis of rotation111. In some arrangements, the spacer(s)112can include an outer rim114. The spacer(s)112can be configured so that at least a portion of the outer rim114of the spacer(s)112directly contacts or is substantially adjacent to the inner peripheral surface104of the outer casing102. Thus, the spacer(s)112can help to keep the central shaft110substantially centered within the outer casing102.

The spacer(s)112can be a unitary structure with the central shaft110. Alternatively, the spacer(s)112can be a separate structure that is operatively connected to the central shaft110. The spacer(s)112can have any suitable configuration. In one or more arrangements, the spacer(s)112can be substantially circular. In some arrangements, the spacer(s)112can be cam-like with an unequal diameter about the axis of rotation111.

The handle108can be operatively connected to cause rotation of the central shaft110. Any suitable form of operative connection can be provided. For example, the retainer installation tool100can include one or more gear tracks116. The gear track(s)116can be operatively connected to the handle108. The gear track(s)116can extend from the handle108. In one or more arrangements, the gear track(s)116can extend at substantially 90 degrees relative to the handle108.

The gear track(s)116can extend into the outer casing102and into engagement with the central shaft110. In some arrangements, the central shaft110can include one or more features for engaging with the gear track(s)116. As an example, the central shaft110can include one or more gear segment(s)118. The gear segment(s)118can include gear teeth for enmeshing engagement with gear teeth provided on the gear track(s)116. In some arrangements, the gear segment(s)118can extend substantially one quarter or more of the circumference the central shaft110.

The gear track(s)116can be biased into a non-activated position. To that end, there can be one or more biasing members associated with the gear track(s)116. For instance, the biasing members can include one or more springs117, such as is shown inFIG.5(several structures are shown in phantom lines to enable the structures within to be seen). The spring(s)117can be provided on one or more rods119, which can be fixed in position. The gear track(s)116can be configured to receive a portion of a respective one of the rods119as the handle108is moved. The rods119can be fixed to the outer casing102by, for example one or more fasteners (e.g., nuts121and screw123(FIG.1)). Thus, when the handle108is released, the gear track(s)116can be biased to return to their non-activated position by the spring(s)117.

The central shaft110can have an upper region120and a lower region122. The terms “upper” and “lower” are used for convenience to facilitate the discussion with respect to the orientation of the central shaft110inFIG.1. It will be appreciated that, in actual use, the retainer installation tool100may be oriented such that the upper region120is located below the lower region122.

One or more elements can be operatively connected to the central shaft110near the lower region122. For instance, a cam disk124can be operatively connected to the central shaft110such that, as the central shaft110rotates, the cam disk124rotates with the central shaft110. Any suitable form of operative connection between the cam disk124and the central shaft110can be used, including, for example, one or more fasteners, one or more adhesives, one or more forms of mechanical engagement, or any combination thereof, just to name a few possibilities. In some arrangements, the cam disk124and the central shaft110can be formed together as a unitary structure.

The cam disk124can cause one or more protrusions to extend into locking engagement with a retainer. Rotation of the cam disk124can cause the one or more protrusions to retract so release the retainer from the retainer installation tool100. The cam disk124can include one or more slots126. In the arrangements shown inFIG.4, the cam disk124can have two slots126. The slots126can be generally arcuate extending about the cam disk124(or about the axis of rotation111of the central shaft110).

A follower128can be received in one of the slots. At least a portion of the follower128can be configured to be received in a portion of a retainer. For instance, the follower128can include a locking protrusion129. A portion of the follower128, such as a pin130, can be received in one of the slots126of the cam disk124. WhileFIG.4shows one follower128, it will be appreciated that there can be another follower on the other side of the cam disk124, which is not visible inFIG.4.

When the central shaft110rotates, the cam disk124rotates with the central shaft110. Eventually, the pin130will reach the end of the slot126. As the cam disk124rotates further, the rotation of the cam disk124can pull the follower128with it. The locking protrusion129of the follower128can be pulled out of engagement with the retainer so as to release the retainer. As a result, the retainer can be separated from the retainer installation tool100.

The lower region122can also include a locating nose132. The locating nose132can be operatively connected to a distal end134(FIG.3) of the central shaft110. The locating nose132can have any suitable shape. For instance, the locating nose132can be substantially conic, substantially spherically blunted conic, substantially bi-conic, substantially tangent ogive, substantially spherically blunted tangent ogive substantially secant ogive, substantially elliptical, substantially parabolic, substantially cylindrical, just to name a few possibilities. The locating nose132can be sized, shaped, and/or configured to pass through a retainer and be received in an aperture in a workpiece on which the retainer will be installed. The locating nose132can help to center the retainer installation tool100(and the retainer) on the aperture in the workpiece.

The lower region122can include a lower body member136. The lower body member136can have any suitable size, shape, and/or configuration. In some arrangements, a portion of the lower body member136can have one or more part engaging surfaces138. The part engaging surface(s)138can be contoured to substantially matingly engage a workpiece on which the retainer will be installed and/or other structure near the work piece. For instance, the workpiece can be a vehicle bumper, and the part engaging surface(s)138can follow a bumper profile contour.

The lower body member136can include a plurality of apertures137(FIG.1). The apertures137can have any suitable size, shape, and/or configuration. In one or more arrangements, the apertures137can be substantially circular in cross-sectional shape. As will be explained herein, the apertures137can receive a fastener and allow movement of the fastener therein. The lower body member136can include a side enclosure portion139. The side enclosure portion139can at least partially house one or more components of the retainer installation tool100, such as light source(s)640and light detector(s)645.

The lower region122can include a platform140, as is shown inFIG.2. The platform140can have any suitable size, shape, and/or configuration. The platform140can be made of any suitable material. In one or more arrangements, the platform140can include a central aperture142(FIG.4). The central shaft110can pass through the central aperture142of the platform140.

The platform140can include a plurality of apertures, including aperture(s)141and aperture(s)143. The apertures141,143can have any suitable size, shape, and/or configuration. In one or more arrangements, the apertures141,143can be substantially circular in cross-sectional shape. As will be explained herein, the apertures141,143can receive a fastener and allow movement of the fastener therein. In one or more arrangements, the apertures143in the platform140can be substantially aligned with the apertures137in the lower body member136, and the apertures141in the platform140can be offset from the apertures137in the lower body member136.

The lower region122can include a push ring144. The push ring144can be configured to form a closed shape or a substantially closed shape. The push ring144can have any suitable size, shape, and/or configuration. In one or more arrangements, the push ring144can be substantially rectangular or substantially polygonal in shape. The push ring144can be custom configured to fit into the tight geometry of a retainer.

The push ring144can be made of any suitable material. In one or more arrangements, the push ring144can include a central aperture146. The central shaft110can pass through the central aperture146of the push ring144. The central aperture146can be sized, shaped, and/or configured to receive a retainer. The push ring144can include a plurality of apertures145. A fastener can be received in the each of the apertures145.

The retainer installation tool100can include a first plurality of fasteners148. The first plurality of fasteners148can extend between the lower body member136and the platform140. The first plurality of fasteners148can extend substantially parallel to the axis of rotation111.

The first plurality of fasteners148can include a first end150(FIG.4) and a second end152(FIG.1). The first end150of the first plurality of fasteners148can be fixed to the platform140, such as by one or more fasteners, one or more forms of mechanical engagement, one or more welds, one or more brazes, one or more forms of adhesives, or any combination thereof, just to name a few possibilities. A portion of the first plurality of fasteners148can be received in the apertures143in the platform140. The first plurality of fasteners148can be substantially fixed within the apertures143, such as by one or more fasteners (e.g., screws151inFIG.4). The first plurality of fasteners148can also be received in respective apertures137in the lower body member136. The first plurality of fasteners148can be free to move axially within the apertures137. As a result of these arrangements, relative movement between the lower body member136and the platform140can be permitted. The second end152of the first plurality of fasteners148may not be fixed to another structure and, thus, can be free to move.

The first plurality of fasteners148can be any type of fastener. In one or more arrangements, the first plurality of fasteners148can be pins, rods, bolts, screws, or other type of fastener. The first plurality of fasteners148can be substantially identical to each other, or one or more of the first plurality of fasteners148can be different from the other fasteners in one or more respects.

The first plurality of fasteners148can include any quantity of fasteners. WhileFIG.4, shows the first plurality of fasteners148as having four fasteners, it will be appreciated that there can be more fasteners or fewer fasteners. Further, the first plurality of fasteners148can include one or more biasing members, such as springs154, for biasing the lower body member136and/or the platform140to a non-compressed position. Each of the first plurality of fasteners148can pass through a respective one of the springs154.

The retainer installation tool100can include a second plurality of fasteners156. The second plurality of fasteners156can extend between the platform140and the push ring144. The second plurality of fasteners156can extend substantially parallel to the axis of rotation111.

The second plurality of fasteners156can include a first end158and a second end160, as shown inFIG.4. The first end158of the second plurality of fasteners156can be fixed to the push ring144, such as by one or more fasteners, one or more forms of mechanical engagement, one or more welds, one or more brazes, one or more forms of adhesives, or any combination thereof, just to name a few possibilities. A portion of the second plurality of fasteners156can be received in the apertures145in the push ring144.

The second plurality of fasteners156can be substantially fixed within the apertures145(FIG.4). The second plurality of fasteners156can also be received in respective apertures141in the platform140. The second plurality of fasteners156can be free to move axially within the apertures141. As a result of these arrangements, relative movement between the push ring144and the platform140can be permitted. The second end160of the second plurality of fasteners156may not be fixed to another structure and, thus, can be free to move.

The second plurality of fasteners156can be any type of fastener. In one or more arrangements, the second plurality of fasteners156can be pins, rods, bolts, screws, or other type of fastener. The second plurality of fasteners156can be substantially identical to each other, or one or more of the second plurality of fasteners156can be different from the other fasteners in one or more respects.

The second plurality of fasteners156can include any quantity of fasteners. WhileFIG.4shows the second plurality of fasteners156as having two fasteners, it will be appreciated that there can be more fasteners. Further, the second plurality of fasteners156can include one or more biasing members, such as springs162, for biasing the platform140and the push ring144to a non-compressed position. Each of the second plurality of fasteners156can pass through a respective one of the springs162.

The retainer installation tool100can be configured to selectively retainably engage a retainer. The retainer installation tool100can be configured to selectively disengage the retainer, such as by rotating the central shaft110, as will be explained further herein.

It will be appreciated that the retainer installation tool100can be used to install different types of retainers into different types of parts. To that end, the retainer installation tool100can be configured to allow different application heads can be used depending on the type of retainer being installed and/or the part into which the retainer is being installed and/or other nearby structures. The application heads of the retainer installation tool100can include the lower body member136, the platform140, the push ring144, and/or other components of the retainer installation tool100.

As will be further explained herein, the retainer installation tool100can include one or more light sources640and one or more light detectors645. In some arrangements, the light source(s)640and the light detector(s)645can be located within a portion of the lower body member136, such as in the side enclosure portion139. Further, the retainer installation tool100can include one or more timers670(seeFIG.6). The one or more timers670can be used for various purposes. For instance, the timer(s)670can be used to count from an event. For example, the event can be when the retainer installation tool100presses a retainer into or onto a receiving part with sufficient pressure or force. The timer(s)670can begin counting to ensure a sufficient curing time or setting time of any adhesives used in the installation process.

The retainer installation tool100can include one or more features for connection to another structure or item. For instance, the retainer installation tool100can include one or more features for connection to a tool balancer. To this end, the upper region120of the retainer installation tool100can include a stem164with an aperture166. A clip, carabiner, hook, loop, cable, or other structure can pass through or be received in the aperture166for connection to a tool balancer. The tool balancer can make the tool “weightless” to an operator. Also, the tool balancer can prevent the retainer installation tool from being dropped, thereby preventing damage to the retainer installation tool and/or workers. Of course, it will be appreciated that the aperture166can be used to connect the retainer installation tool100to other structures.

The retainer installation tool100can include an electrical quick connect/disconnect168. The electrical quick connect/disconnect168can be any type of electrical quick connect/disconnect, now known or later developed. In some arrangements, the electrical quick connect/disconnect168can include latching power connectors. Thus, the retainer installation tool100can be readily connected and/or disconnected to a power source.

The retainer installation tool100can include a system600. The system600can have various elements. Some of the possible elements of the system600are shown inFIG.6and will now be described. It will be understood that it is not necessary for the system600to have all of the elements shown inFIG.6or described herein. The system600can have any combination of the various elements shown inFIG.6. Further, the system600can have additional elements to those shown inFIG.6. In some arrangements, the system600may not include one or more of the elements shown inFIG.6. Further, the elements shown may be physically separated by large distances. Indeed, one or more of the elements can be located remote from retainer installation tool100. Some of the elements can be components of the retainer installation tool100while some of the elements may not be components of the retainer installation tool100.

The system600can include one or more processors610, one or more data stores620, one or more sensors630, one or more light sources640, one or more light detectors645, one or more input interfaces650, one or more output interfaces660, one or more timers670, and one or more control modules680. Each of these elements will be described in turn below.

The various elements of the system600can be communicatively linked through one or more communication networks690. As used herein, the term “communicatively linked” can include direct or indirect connections through a communication channel or pathway or another component or system. A “communication network” means one or more components designed to transmit and/or receive information from one source to another. The communication network(s)690can be implemented as, or include, without limitation, a wide area network (WAN), a local area network (LAN), the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), a wireless network, a mobile network, a Virtual Private Network (VPN), the Internet, and/or one or more intranets. The communication network(s)690further can be implemented as or include one or more wireless networks, whether short or long range. For example, in terms of short-range wireless networks, the communication network(s)690can include a local wireless network built using a Bluetooth or one of the IEEE 802 wireless communication protocols, e.g., 802.11a/b/g/i, 802.15, 802.16, 802.20, Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA), or WPA2. In terms of long-range wireless networks, the communication network(s)690can include a mobile, cellular, and or satellite-based wireless network and support voice, video, text, and/or any combination thereof. Examples of long-range wireless networks can include GSM, TDMA, CDMA, WCDMA networks or the like. The communication network(s)690can include wired communication links and/or wireless communication links. The communication network(s)690can include any combination of the above networks and/or other types of networks. The communication network(s)690can include one or more routers, switches, access points, wireless access points, and/or the like.

One or more elements of the system600include and/or can execute suitable communication software, which enables two or more of the elements to communicate with each other through the communication network(s)690and perform the functions disclosed herein.

As noted above, the system600can include one or more processors610. “Processor” means any component or group of components that are configured to execute any of the processes described herein or any form of instructions to carry out such processes or cause such processes to be performed. The processor(s)610may be implemented with one or more general-purpose and/or one or more special-purpose processors. Examples of suitable processors include microprocessors, microcontrollers, DSP processors, and other circuitry that can execute software. Further examples of suitable processors include, but are not limited to, a central processing unit (CPU), an array processor, a vector processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a programmable logic array (PLA), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), programmable logic circuitry, and a controller. The processor(s)610can include at least one hardware circuit (e.g., an integrated circuit) configured to carry out instructions contained in program code. In arrangements in which there is a plurality of processors610, such processors can work independently from each other, or one or more processors can work in combination with each other.

The system600can include one or more data stores620for storing one or more types of data. The data store(s)620can include volatile and/or non-volatile memory. Examples of suitable data stores620include RAM (Random Access Memory), flash memory, ROM (Read Only Memory), PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory), EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), registers, magnetic disks, optical disks, hard drives, or any other suitable storage medium, or any combination thereof. The data store(s)620can be a component of the processor(s)610, or the data store(s)620can be operatively connected to the processor(s)610for use thereby. The term “operatively connected,” as used throughout this description, can include direct or indirect connections, including connections without direct physical contact.

The system600can include one or more sensors630. “Sensor” means any device, component and/or system that can detect, determine, assess, monitor, measure, quantify and/or sense something. The sensor(s)630can detect, determine, assess, monitor, measure, quantify and/or sense in real-time. As used herein, the term “real-time” means a level of processing responsiveness that a user, entity, component, and/or system senses as sufficiently immediate for a particular process or determination to be made, or that enables a processor to process data at substantially the same rate as some external process or faster.

In arrangements in which there are a plurality of sensors630, the sensors630can work independently from each other. Alternatively, two or more of the sensors630can work in combination with each other. In such case, the two or more sensors630can form a sensor network. The sensor(s)630can be operatively connected to the processor(s)610, the data store(s)620, and/or other element of the system600(including any of the elements shown inFIG.6).

The sensor(s)630can include any suitable type of sensor. For instance, the sensor(s)630can include one or more sensors configured to detect, measure, or acquire data about when the retainer installation tool100is engaging a work piece. For instance, the sensor(s)630can detect the location of the retainer installation tool100relative to a work piece (e.g., a vehicle bumper). Ins some arrangements, the sensor(s)630can be configured to detect when the retainer installation tool100is contacting a work piece. The sensor(s)630can include proximity sensors, pressure sensors, positional sensors, a combination thereof, or the like.

In some arrangements, the sensor(s)630can include a switch635. The switch635can be any suitable type of switch, now known or later developed. For example, the switch635can be a snap-acting switch.

In some arrangements, when the retainer installation tool100is sufficiently compressed and/or a sufficient amount of downward pressure or force is applied on the retainer installation tool100, the switch635can be physically engaged by one or more structures of the retainer installation tool100and/or the workpiece. In one or more arrangements, the switch635can be located on the platform140. The switch635can be activated when the lower body member136contacts the switch635. The engagement of the switch635can cause one or more timers to be activated, as will be explained herein.

The system600can include one or more light sources640. The light source(s)640can be operatively positioned to emit light toward a work area of the retainer installation tool100. The light source(s)640can be configured to emit any suitable type of light. For example, in one or more arrangements, the light source(s)640can emit ultraviolet light. In other arrangements, the light source(s)640can be configured to emit polychromatic, visible light, infrared light, or light from any region of the electromagnetic spectrum.

The system600can include one or more light detectors645. The light detector(s)645can be operatively positioned to detect one or more properties of the light after the light has interacted a work area. For example, the light detector(s)645can be configured to detect one or more light signatures after the light has interacted with the work area. More particularly, the light detector(s)645can be configured to detect one or more light signatures after the light has interacted with an adhesive on the work area. The light detector(s)645can be any suitable type of light detector(s). For example, the light detector(s)645can be spectrometer(s) or detector(s) having multiple spectral filters.

The light detector(s)645can be operatively positioned to detect a light signature from the work area. In one or more arrangements, an adhesive (e.g., retainer primer glue) and/or adhesion promoter can include a substance, material, or particles to make it reflective. For instance, the adhesive and/or adhesion promoter can include an ultraviolet reflective substance, material, or particles. Thus, when an ultraviolet light is shined on it, the adhesive will reflect. The light detector(s)645can be located in the side enclosure portion139of the retainer installation tool100. The light detector(s)645can scan for a light signature (e.g., ultraviolet reflectivity) of the adhesive and/or adhesive promoter.

The system600can include one or more input interfaces650. An “input interface” includes any device, component, system, element or arrangement or groups thereof that enable information/data to be entered into a machine. The input interface(s)650can receive an input from a user (e.g., a person) or other entity. Any suitable input interface(s)650can be used, including, for example, a keypad, display, touch screen, multi-touch screen, button, joystick, mouse, trackball, microphone, gesture recognition, and/or combinations thereof.

The system600can include one or more output interfaces660. An “output interface” includes any device, component, system, element or arrangement or groups thereof that enable information/data to be presented to a user (e.g., a person) or other entity. The output interface(s)660can present information/data to a user or other entity. The output interface(s)660can include a display, an earphone, a haptic device, a projector, and/or speaker665. Examples of speakers665include, for example, electroacoustic transducers, sound chips, and sound cards. Some components of the system600may serve as both a component of the input interface(s)650and a component of the output interface(s)660.

The system600can include one or more timers670. The timer(s)670can be any suitable timer, now known or later developed. The timer(s)670can be configured to count up or down from an event or starting point. For example, the event can be when the switch635is activated. In such case, a signal can be sent to activate the timer(s)670.

The system600can include one or more modules, at least some of which will be described herein. The modules can be implemented as computer readable program code that, when executed by a processor, implement one or more of the various processes described herein. One or more of the modules can be a component of the processor(s)610, or one or more of the modules can be executed on and/or distributed among other processing systems to which the processor(s)610is operatively connected. The modules can include instructions (e.g., program logic) executable by one or more processor(s)610. Alternatively or additionally, the data store(s)620may contain such instructions.

In one or more arrangements, one or more of the modules described herein can include artificial or computational intelligence elements, e.g., neural network, fuzzy logic, or other machine learning algorithms. Further, in one or more arrangements, one or more of the modules can be distributed among a plurality of the modules described herein. In one or more arrangements, two or more of the modules described herein can be combined into a single module.

The system600can include one or more control modules680. The control module(s)680can be configured to perform various functions with respect to the retainer installation tool100.

For instance, the control module(s)680can be configured to receive input signals from the light detector(s)645. If the input signal indicates that a light signature is present, the control module(s)680can be configured to take no action or otherwise enable the retainer installation tool100to operate. Alternatively or additionally, the control module(s)680can cause an indicator to be presented to an operator that it is ok to proceed with use of the retainer installation tool100. For instance, the control module(s)680can be configured to cause the output interface(s)660to present a visual, audial, and/or haptic alert to a user.

If the input signal indicates that a light signature is not present, the control module(s)680can be configured to disable the retainer installation tool100. As a result, a user will not be able to operate the retainer installation tool100. Alternatively or additionally, the control module(s)680can cause an indicator to be presented to an operator that it is not ok to proceed with use of the retainer installation tool100. For instance, the control module(s)680can be configured to cause the output interface(s)660to present a visual, audial, and/or haptic alert to a user.

Alternatively, the control module(s)680can be configured to analyze data received from the light detector(s)645. Depending on whether the control module(s)680detects or does not detect a light signature in the data, then the control module(s)680can proceed as described above. In some arrangements, the control module(s)680can use light signature data store in the data store(s)620to compare to the received data from the light detector(s)645.

For instance, the control module(s)680can be configured to receive input signals from the timer(s)670and/or the sensor(s)630. If the input signal indicates that the retainer installation tool100has been in contact with a work piece for a sufficient period of time, the control module(s)680can cause an indicator to be presented to an operator that it is ok to proceed with separating a retainer from the retainer installation tool100. For instance, the control module(s)680can be configured to cause the output interface(s)660to present a visual, audial, and/or haptic alert to a user.

A non-limiting example of the operation of the arrangements described herein will now be presented in connection toFIGS.7-8. Referring toFIG.7, the retainer installation tool100and a retainer700are shown. To facilitate the discussion, only a lower portion of the retainer installation tool100is shown. The retainer700can have any suitable size, shape, and/or configuration. In this example, the retainer700can be for use with a sonar senor for a vehicle. The retainer700can include a sensor holder portion710. The sensor holder portion710can include one or more flanges720. Only one flange720is visible inFIG.7. However, in some arrangements, there can be a second flange in line with the flange720. The flange720can include an aperture730. The aperture730can have any size, shape, and/or configuration. In one or more arrangements, the aperture730can be substantially rectangular.

In some instances, an adhesive can be provided on a workpiece interfacing-side740of the retainer700. In some instances, the retainer700can include a backing to protect the adhesive. When ready for use, the backing can be removed to expose the adhesive.

The retainer installation tool100and/or the retainer700can be brought into contact with each other. For example, a person can manually bring the retainer installation tool100into contact with the retainer700. The locating nose132of the retainer installation tool100can be received in an aperture in the sensor holder portion710of the retainer. The locking protrusion129of the retainer installation tool100can be received in the aperture730. As a result, the retainer700can be retainably engaged by the retainer installation tool100. A user can now move around with the retainer installation tool100without concern of the retainer700becoming separated from the retainer installation tool100.

The retainer installation tool100can be used to install the retainer700on a workpiece. In one or more arrangements, the work piece can be a vehicle bumper or other vehicle body member. The workpiece can include an aperture for receiving the retainer700. An adhesive or adhesion promoter can be placed on the work piece in and/or around the aperture. The adhesive or adhesion promoter can include one or more agents, substances, particles, etc. that, when impinged upon by light, cause a light signature to be presented. The adhesive or adhesion promoter can help the adhesive on the retainer to adhere to the workpiece and/or it can help to secure the retainer to the workpiece.

The retainer installation tool100can be brought near the workpiece. The light source(s)640can be activated, such as by user input provided on the input interface(s)650. The light emitted by the light source(s)640ccan be directed toward the aperture. The light detector(s)645can acquire data about when the light emitted by the light source(s)640engages the workpiece and, more particularly, the adhesive. If the light signature is detected by the light detector(s)645and/or the control module(s)680, the control module(s)680can cause an indicator to be presented to the user, indicating that an adhesive is present. For instance, the control module(s)680can cause the output interface(s)660to emit a visual, audial, and/or haptic indicator to the user. If the light signature is not detected by the light detector(s)645and/or the control module(s)680, the control module(s)680can cause the retainer installation tool100to be deactivated or otherwise prevented from operating. In some instances, the control module(s)680can cause an indicator to be presented to the user, indicating that adhesive is not present on the workpiece.

If the retainer installation tool100indicates that an adhesive or adhesion promoter is present, then retainer installation tool100can be manipulated to insert the retainer700in the aperture in the workpiece. The paper or plastic backing can be removed from the retainer. The user can insert the locating nose132into the aperture. Once inserted, the user can press the retainer installation tool toward the workpiece.

Eventually, the retainer700can come into contact with the workpiece. The push ring144can be designed to push all around the retainer700to ensure good surface area pressure on the non-adhesive side of the retainer700and then this force is transferred to the workpiece as pressure over time is applied downward on the adhesive side and surface prepared workpiece receiving the retainer700. The central aperture of the retainer700can be aligned with the aperture in the workpiece. In some instances, a portion of the retainer700can be received in the aperture of the workpiece. The aperture in the workpiece can allow a wire harness to be operatively connected to a sensor or other component held by the retainer700.

It will be appreciated that, as the user presses down, a portion of the retainer installation tool100can be compressed. For instance, the platform140and the push ring144can move toward each other due to the second plurality of fasteners156being able to move within apertures141provided in the platform140. Likewise, the lower body member136and the platform140can move toward each other, as the first plurality of fasteners148can move within the apertures137provided in the lower body member136.

When fully pressed down, the push ring144can hold press the retainer700against the workpiece. The push ring144can provide a continuous contact surface between the retainer700and the workpiece. It will be appreciated that the part engaging surface(s)138can substantially matingly engage the workpiece.

The sensor(s)630can detect when a portion of the retainer installation tool100is in contact with the work piece. For example, the switch635can be activated when the lower body member136contacts the switch635. When detected, the timer(s)670can begin counting. The timer(s)670can continue counting while the retainer installation tool100is in contact with the workpiece. The timer(s)670can count toward a predetermined amount of time. The predetermined amount of time can correspond to a time sufficient for the adhesive to cure or set to ensure that the retainer700will be sufficiently held on the workpiece.

When the predetermined amount of time has elapsed, the control module(s)680can cause an indicator to be presented to the user, indicating that the user can release the retainer700from the retainer installation tool100. As an example, the control module(s)680can cause an audial indicator to be presented, such as by one or more speakers665of the output interface(s)660.

When the audial indicator is provided, the user can separate the retainer installation tool100from the retainer700. For instance, the user can engage the handle108and draw it toward the outer casing102of the retainer installation tool100. As a result, the gear track(s)116operatively connected to the handle108can move in the same direction as the handle108. The movement of the gear track(s)116can cause the gear track(s)116to enmeshingly engage with the gear segments118of the central shaft110, causing the central shaft110to rotate.

The rotation of the central shaft110can cause a rotation of the cam disk124. The cam disk124can physically pull the follower128and the locking protrusion129. As a result, the locking protrusion129can move out of the aperture(s)730in the retainer700. In some arrangements, the locking protrusion129can move inwardly toward the central shaft110and out of the aperture(s)730. In some arrangements, the locking protrusion129can rotate out of the aperture(s)730. Ultimately, the locking protrusion can disengage the retainer700. Thus, the retainer700is free to be separated from the retainer installation tool100.

At this point, the user can pull the retainer installation tool100away from the workpiece. Since the retainer700is disengaged from the locking protrusion129, the retainer installation tool100can separate from the retainer700. The retainer700can remain in place on the workpiece due to the adhesive.

The user can release the handle108. The gear tracks116and the handle108can return to the normal position for subsequent use, such as due to the bias of the spring(s)117.

It will be appreciated that arrangements described herein can provide numerous benefits, including one or more of the benefits mentioned herein. For example, arrangements described herein can result in manufacturing improvements. Arrangements described herein can facilitate proper retainer installation. Arrangements described herein can reduce manufacturing installation errors. Arrangements described herein can be adaptable in that a standard body can be used with different application heads to install retainers into bumpers. From a customer standpoint, arrangements described herein can facilitate the improved quality and accuracy of sonars used in vehicle safety. Arrangements described herein can lead to cost and/or weight savings over current installation tools and methods. Arrangements described herein can ensure that an adhesive or adhesion promoter are properly applied on a workpiece before installing a retainer on the workpiece. Various components of the retainer installation tool can be formed by three-dimensional printing, machined, compression molded, blow molded, vacuum formed, injection molded, or cast all out of various plastics, metals, or other materials. Arrangements described herein can avoid issues experienced with current installation tools. For instance, the retainer installation tool described herein can hold a retainer in place during the installation process. As a result, the retainer installation tool does not have to be picked up and set back down on the retainers during installation.

The flowcharts and block diagrams in the figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various embodiments. In this regard, each block in the flowcharts or block diagrams may represent a module, segment, or portion of code, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). It should also be noted that, in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the block may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession may, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved.

The systems, components and/or processes described above can be realized in hardware or a combination of hardware and software and can be realized in a centralized fashion in one processing system or in a distributed fashion where different elements are spread across several interconnected processing systems. Any kind of processing system or other apparatus adapted for carrying out the methods described herein is suited. A typical combination of hardware and software can be a processing system with computer-usable program code that, when being loaded and executed, controls the processing system such that it carries out the methods described herein. The systems, components and/or processes also can be embedded in a computer-readable storage, such as a computer program product or other data programs storage device, readable by a machine, tangibly embodying a program of instructions executable by the machine to perform methods and processes described herein. These elements also can be embedded in an application product which comprises all the features enabling the implementation of the methods described herein and, which when loaded in a processing system, is able to carry out these methods.

Furthermore, arrangements described herein may take the form of a computer program product embodied in one or more computer-readable media having computer-readable program code embodied, e.g., stored, thereon. Any combination of one or more computer-readable media may be utilized. The computer-readable medium may be a computer-readable signal medium or a computer-readable storage medium. The phrase “computer-readable storage medium” means a non-transitory storage medium. A computer-readable storage medium may be, for example, but not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. More specific examples (a non-exhaustive list) of the computer-readable storage medium would include the following: an electrical connection having one or more wires, a portable computer diskette, a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), an optical fiber, a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), a digital versatile disc (DVD), an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. In the context of this document, a computer-readable storage medium may be any tangible medium that can contain or store a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

The terms “a” and “an,” as used herein, are defined as one or more than one. The term “plurality,” as used herein, is defined as two or more than two. The term “another,” as used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. The terms “including” and/or “having,” as used herein, are defined as comprising (i.e., open language). The term “or” is intended to mean an inclusive “or” rather than an exclusive “or.” The phrase “at least one of . . . and . . . ” as used herein refers to and encompasses any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. As an example, the phrase “at least one of A, B and C” includes A only, B only, C only, or any combination thereof (e.g., AB, AC, BC, or ABC). As used herein, the term “substantially” or “about” includes exactly the term it modifies and slight variations therefrom. Thus, the term “substantially parallel” means exactly parallel and slight variations therefrom. “Slight variations therefrom” can include within 15 degrees/percent/units or less, within 14 degrees/percent/units or less, within 13 degrees/percent/units or less, within 12 degrees/percent/units or less, within 11 degrees/percent/units or less, within 10 degrees/percent/units or less, within 9 degrees/percent/units or less, within 8 degrees/percent/units or less, within 7 degrees/percent/units or less, within 6 degrees/percent/units or less, within 5 degrees/percent/units or less, within 4 degrees/percent/units or less, within 3 degrees/percent/units or less, within 2 degrees/percent/units or less, or within 1 degree/percent/unit or less. In some instances, “substantially” can include being within normal manufacturing tolerances.

Aspects herein can be embodied in other forms without departing from the spirit or essential attributes thereof. Accordingly, reference should be made to the following claims, rather than to the foregoing specification, as indicating the scope hereof.