MAGNETIC AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR DEVICE, AND RELATED METHODS

Abstract

The present invention relates to a magnetic device comprising a housing with multiple compartments and an adjustable fastener. The housing includes a first compartment bordered by a first opening and a flange, a second compartment bordered by a second opening, and a third compartment adjacent to a second wall. The adjustable fastener is retained in the first compartment and includes a plate with a recess and a protruding structure with a receiving chamber. The protruding structure is partially retained in the second compartment and has a track. The device further includes a retaining structure with a compartment and a rod with a guide rail that engages with the track of the protruding structure. Additionally, one or more magnets are retained in the compartment of the retaining structure. The magnetic device provides adjustable and secure magnetic attachment for various applications.

Description

FIELD

The present invention relates to a device in the automotive repair field. The present invention relates to the field of classification including but not limited to: B24B—machines, devices, or processes for grinding or polishing; dressing or conditioning of abrading surfaces; feeding of grinding, polishing, or lapping agents; B24D—tools for grinding, buffing or sharpening; B24D 15/023—hand tools or other devices for non-rotary grinding, polishing, or stropping rigid; with rigidly-supported operative surface using in exchangeable arrangement a layer of flexible material B24D 15/02—hand tools or other devices for non-rotary grinding, polishing, or stropping rigid; with rigidly-supported operative surface.

BACKGROUND

There are many scenarios in which cleaning automotive and industrial surfaces uses various conventional methods including sanding and sand blasting. For fine automotive repair, this process is labor intensive process. Existing approaches may not be suitably efficient or effective. Accordingly, there is a need for improved magnetic automotive repair device, and related methods. The present invention addresses this unmet need.

Previous approaches to automotive sanding devices have typically involved fixed configurations that limit the adjustability and versatility of the device. These devices often consist of a sanding block with a handle, but lack the ability to easily modify the stability and control during the sanding process. This limitation can be problematic when trying to achieve precision in paint removal. In some existing sanding devices, the housing is a simple structure with a single structure for retaining sandpaper.

SUMMARY

In general, the disclosure provides for an improved magnetic automotive repair device. The magnetic device relates to the automotive repair field. In one aspect, the magnetic device, and related methods relate to a magnetic hand held device used to sand materials off of metal panels such as filers and polyester fillers. For example, the magnetic sanding device is configured for automotive paint removal, employing the use of magnets in conjunction with a sanding block. The magnetic sanding device features magnets that securely attach the sanding block to the metal surface of an automobile. The primary purpose of this magnetic connection is to enhance stability and control during the sanding process. By firmly adhering to the metal surface, the sanding block can effectively and efficiently remove paint from the vehicle, providing a smoother and more controlled sanding experience. This mechanism helps ensure precision in paint removal, making the magnetic sanding device a valuable tool in automotive refinishing and restoration processes.

Conventional sanding blocks devoid of magnetic integration suffer from inherent limitations in stability and control during automotive paint removal procedures. The absence of a magnetic connectivity feature undermines the block's capacity to establish a consistent and secure attachment to the metal surface of the automobile. This deficiency in secure affixation leads to erratic movements and unintended shifts during the sanding process, especially when addressing expansive or contoured surfaces. The resultant lack of stability compromises the precision and uniformity of the paint removal, potentially introducing irregularities in surface texture. Consequently, the absence of magnets in conventional sanding blocks necessitates a heightened level of manual dexterity and expertise on the part of the operator to maintain optimal control throughout the sanding operation. This inherent instability may result in suboptimal paint removal outcomes, requiring additional corrective measures and potentially elongating the refinishing process. Contrastingly, a magnetic sanding device may mitigate these challenges by virtue of their magnetic connectivity, ensuring a steadfast bond between the sanding block and the automotive metal surface. This enhancement in stability facilitates a more controlled and uniform sanding experience, thereby mitigating the aforementioned issues associated with conventional sanding blocks.

The present invention overcomes the limitations of previous sanding blocks devoid of magnetic integration by providing a housing with multiple compartments, an adjustable fastener with a recess and protruding structure, and a retaining structure configured to retain one or more magnets, with a rod and guide rail. These components work together to allow for easy adjustment and positioning of the one or more magnets within the magnetic sanding device, providing a versatile and customizable magnetic field configuration. Other objects, features, and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present disclosure may be better understood, and its numerous features and advantages made apparent to those skilled in the art by referencing the accompanying drawings. The use of the same reference symbols in different drawings indicates similar or identical items.

FIG. 1 is a top perspective view illustrating a housing of a magnetic sanding device in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 2 is a top plan view illustrating the housing of the magnetic sanding device of FIG. 1 in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 3 is a side plan view illustrating the housing of the magnetic sanding device of FIGS. 1 and 2 in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view illustrating the housing of the magnetic sanding device of FIGS. 1-3 in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 5 is a sectional view illustrating an adjustable fastener connected to a retaining structure within the housing of the magnetic sanding device of FIGS. 1-4 in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 6 is a side cut-away view illustrating an adjustable fastener connected to a retaining structure retaining a plurality of magnets within the housing of the magnetic sanding device of FIGS. 1-5 in accordance with some embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIGS. 1-6 illustrate example system and processes for employing a magnetic attachment system with one or more adjustable magnets retained in a housing of a sanding block. The product is compatible with smaller screwdrivers to a certain extent, albeit not optimally. Uniform width and height dimensions are maintained, with differences only in length and the curvature of the pad. Consistency in height is achieved through an identical magnet assembly and a mechanism involving the rotation of an identical disc to modulate magnetic strength. Clockwise rotation of the disc results in a reduction of magnetic attraction, with a maximum permissible rotation of slightly less than 360 degrees, facilitated by integrated stops to constrain the magnet assembly.

Fabricated from any material such as, high-impact acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, for example, a housing of the magnetic attachment system incorporates a plurality of ribs to ensure structural rigidity and strength. The initially rounded anti-split details can be adjusted for sharper configurations. The top of the pad is flattened to form a circle, with surface indicia details recessed to eliminate tactile interference during sanding. In the initial position, magnetic attraction is at full strength. Each 90-degree clockwise turn diminishes magnet attraction, with a full clockwise turn elevating the magnet by approximately 5 mm, resulting in a threefold increase in distance above the metal.

Detents are omitted as they are deemed unnecessary; user visibility into the disc's position is prioritized. An O-ring is configured to restrict rotation and seals the unit against water ingress. A spring retaining clip is incorporated to prevent inadvertent disc dislodgement. The top and bottom parts are permanently joined through ultrasonic welding, offering a cost-effective alternative to other assembly methods. Ceramic magnets, projected to be economically sourced, are affixed to the plastic holder's interior surface, aligning flush with the outer walls. To mitigate potential vibration or rattling of the magnet assembly, an internal foam pad or, more effectively, the integrated O-ring is proposed as a solution. This meticulous design emphasizes cost-efficiency without compromising functionality or durability, leveraging the economic viability of ceramic magnets and the optimization of the assembly process. Moreover, the integration of a magnetic attachment system of FIG. 1 with one or more adjustable magnets retained in the housing of the sanding block may address some challenges including, but not limited to, the limitations in stability and control during automotive paint removal procedures, for example.

FIG. 1 illustrates an example adjustable fastener 108 implemented in a magnetic device 100 in accordance with some embodiments. The magnetic device 100 includes a housing 102 with a first wall 104 located opposite a second wall 106. The first wall 104 has a radial curvature 122. Surface indicia 110 is disposed at the first wall 104 of the housing 102. The surface indicia 110 may be any visual indicator such as one or more recessed, a number, a marking, and/or a letter to indicate the position of magnets within the housing 102. One or more protruding members 112 are disposed at one or more side walls 114 of the housing 102. A protruding member of the one or more protruding members 112 has a substantially planar end 116. The protruding member of the one or more protruding members 112 has a substantially tapered end 118. An adjustable fastener 108 is disposed at the first wall 104. The adjustable fastener 108 is configured to rotated via a recess 120, as described in FIG. 2.

FIG. 2 illustrates the adjustable fastener 108 with a first plate wall 200 of a plate 202 implemented in the magnetic device 100 of FIG. 1 in accordance with some embodiments. At least a portion of the first wall 104 of the housing 102 of the magnetic device 100 has a substantially planar portion 204 and circular shaped portion. This design choice serves a dual purpose: aesthetic uniformity and functional usability during sanding operations. Surface indicia 110 is positioned on the substantially planar portion 204 on the magnetic device 100 are recessed to ensure they do not protrude, providing a smooth and even surface for sanding. In the initial position, the arrow is in alignment with the value 1 when the disc is not rotated, the magnetic attraction is at full strength. The flattened and recessed design of the portion of the first wall 104 of the housing 102 of the magnetic device 100 enhances the efficacy of sanding activities by preventing any protruding details from interfering with the sanding process. This configuration ensures a consistent and uninterrupted contact between the pad and the surface being sanded.

In an embodiment, the magnetic device 100 described herein utilizes an adjustable fastener 108 to be rotated in increments. For example, each 90-degree clockwise turn of the adjustable fastener 108 results in a reduction of the magnetic attraction compared to the previous position. This incremental reduction allows users to precisely control the strength of the magnetic field based on their specific requirements during the sanding process. A full clockwise turn of the disc causes the magnet to be raised by about 5 mm, for example. This adjustment significantly increases the distance between the magnet and the metal surface, making the magnetic attraction three times weaker than in the lowest position. This capability provides users with a versatile tool that can be adapted to different requirements and surfaces. The user is afforded clear visibility into the position of the disc, allowing for direct observation and control. This transparency enhances the user experience, allowing for intuitive adjustments without the need for detents, contributing to the overall efficiency and user-friendliness of the product.

Further, in implementations the magnetic device 100 incorporates an adjustable fastener 108 with the recess 120 disposed at the first plate wall 200 of a plate 202 where the degree of clockwise rotation directly correlates with a reduction in magnetic attraction. An object such as a screwdriver, for example, may be inserted into recess 120 to facilitate the rotation of the adjustable fastener 108. As the adjustable fastener 108 is turned more clockwise, the magnetic force diminishes incrementally. The rotational range is constrained, with the maximum allowable rotation being slightly less than a full 360 degrees. This limitation is implemented through stops strategically placed within the system to ensure that the magnet assembly is fully constrained within defined parameters. The stops serve as physical barriers or a limiting mechanism that prevents the adjustable fastener 108 from exceeding the predetermined range of rotation. By imposing these constraints, the rotational movement is controlled, allowing the user to modulate the magnetic attraction within a specified and predictable range. This feature enhances the precision and predictability of the magnetic force adjustment, contributing to the overall functionality and user control of the device. The magnetic device 100, further includes one or more protruding members 112 disposed at one or more side walls 114 of the housing 102 as shown in FIG. 3.

FIG. 3 illustrates an example housing 102 of the magnetic device 100 with one or more protruding members 112 with a substantially planar end 116 and a substantially tapered end 118. The substantially planar portion 204 is parallel with the second wall 106. An abrasive element 300 is disposed at the second wall 106 of the housing 102. In some aspects, the abrasive element 300 is composed of a layer of sandpaper 304 disposed over a layer of adhesive 302. In an embodiment, the curvature of the abrasive element 300 is configured to contour around a radiused edge of the housing 102 as shown in FIG. 4.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example housing 102 of the magnetic device 100 with one or more radiused edges 400. The second wall 106 of the housing 102 is configured to receive the abrasive element 300. For example, the abrasive element 300 (FIG. 3) is intended to align with and abut the substantially planar end 116 of the one or more protruding members 112, also known as “ribs” 112. This alignment facilitates optimal contact and adherence of the sandpaper for effective sanding. The distinction between the second wall 106 configured for precise sandpaper alignment and the first wall 104 with a radial curvature 122 configured to be grasped by a user is evident. In an embodiment, the cumulative length of the flat bottom, along with the two radii may align with the width of the sandpaper (not shown). This corresponds to the side where the sandpaper is precisely positioned along the bottom ribs. These ribs feature a sandpaper stop surface located precisely at the tangency point of the radius. On this particular side, the ribs are elevated along the side wall above the radius, presenting an approximately 45-degree edge. The housing 102 may have an adjustment mechanism, as shown in FIG. 5 configured to alter the position of the magnetic components retained within the housing 102.

FIG. 5 illustrates an example housing 102 of the magnetic device 100 including the adjustable fastener 108 to implement the adjustment of a retaining structure 502. A sealing structure such as, an O-ring 500 is disposed at an outer perimeter surface of the adjustable fastener 108. The O-ring 500 is configured to limit rotational movement of the retaining structure 502 within the housing 102 and to seal the interior of the housing 102 against water ingress. Additionally, a resilient member (not shown), such as spring retaining clip, may be implemented to thwart the unintended dislodgment of at least a portion of the adjustable fastener 108. To facilitate assembly, an arrow indicator 504 is incorporated on a wall surface of the retaining structure 502 to ensure the correct orientation during installation of the retaining structure 502 into a compartment of the housing 102. The integration of one or more magnets, as shown in FIG. 6, is implemented into the retaining structure 502.

FIG. 6 illustrates the example housing 102 of the magnetic device 100 comprising one or more magnets 600. A first opening 602 is disposed through the first wall 104 of the housing 102. The housing 102 has a first compartment 604. The first opening 602 borders the first compartment 604. A flange 606 is disposed at an outer perimeter edge 608 of an inner wall surface 610 of the first compartment 604 and disposed below the first opening 602 to form a second opening 612. The second opening 612 borders the second compartment 614. A third compartment 616 is adjacent to the second wall 106. The adjustable fastener 108 includes the plate 202 with a first plate wall 200 located opposite a second plate wall 618. The plate 202 is retained in the first compartment 604 of the housing 102. A recess 120 is disposed at the first plate wall 200 of the plate 202. A protruding structure 620 extends from the second plate wall 618 of the plate 202. The protruding structure 620 is partially retained in the second compartment 614. The protruding structure 620 has a receiving chamber 622 and a track 624 disposed at an inner wall surface 626 of the receiving chamber 622 of the protruding structure 620. The retaining structure 502 comprises a compartment 628 located opposite a rod 630 with a guide rail 632 configured to rotatably engage with the track 624 of the protruding structure 620. One or more magnets 600 are retained in the compartment 628 of the retaining structure 502.

Typically, the one or more magnets 600 are securely affixed to the retaining structure 502, aligning substantially parallel to the second wall 106. To counteract potential issues related to vibration or rattling within the magnet assembly, an embodiment includes incorporating an absorbing material (not shown). The absorbing material acts as a dampening element configured to absorb and dissipate vibrations to ensure a stable and noise-free operation of the magnetic device 100. However, it is noted that the O-ring 500 itself is a viable solution to counteract these concerns.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to the magnetic device 100, further including: the O-ring 500 is disposed between a portion of the protruding structure 620 of the adjustable fastener 108 and a wall surface of the second compartment 614.

Note that not all of the activities or elements described above in the general description are required, that a portion of a specific activity or device may not be required, and that one or more further activities may be performed, or elements included, in addition to those described. Still further, the order in which activities are listed are not necessarily the order in which they are performed. Also, the concepts have been described with reference to specific embodiments. However, one of ordinary skill in the art appreciates that various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as set forth in the claims below. Accordingly, the specification and figures are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure.

Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described above with regard to specific embodiments. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any feature(s) that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as a critical, required, or essential feature of any or all the claims. Moreover, the particular embodiments disclosed above are illustrative only, as the disclosed subject matter may be modified and practiced in different but equivalent manners apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings herein. No limitations are intended to the details of construction or design herein shown, other than as described in the claims below. It is therefore evident that the particular embodiments disclosed above may be altered or modified and all such variations are considered within the scope of the disclosed subject matter. Accordingly, the protection sought herein is as set forth in the claims below.

Claims

1. A magnetic device comprising:

a housing comprising: a first wall located opposite a second wall; a first opening disposed through the first wall; a first compartment, the first opening bordering the first compartment; a flange disposed at an outer perimeter edge of an inner wall surface of the first compartment and disposed below the first opening to form a second opening; a second compartment, the second opening bordering the second compartment; and a third compartment adjacent to the second wall;

an adjustable fastener comprising: a plate with a first plate wall located opposite a second plate wall, the plate is retained in the first compartment of the housing; a recess disposed at the first plate wall of the plate; a protruding structure extending from the second plate wall of the plate, the protruding structure partially retained in the second compartment, the protruding structure has a receiving chamber; and a track disposed at an inner wall surface of the receiving chamber of the protruding structure;

a retaining structure comprising: a compartment; and a rod with a guide rail configured to rotatably engage with the track of the protruding structure; and

one or more magnets retained in the compartment of the retaining structure.

2. The magnetic device of claim 1, further comprising:

an abrasive element disposed at the second wall of the housing.

3. The magnetic device of claim 2, wherein the abrasive element composed of a layer of sandpaper disposed over a layer of adhesive.

4. The magnetic device of claim 1, further comprising:

surface indicia disposed at the first wall of the housing.

5. The magnetic device of claim 4, wherein the surface indicia is composed of one or more recesses.

6. The magnetic device of claim 1, further comprising:

a sealing structure disposed between a portion of the protruding structure of the adjustable fastener and the second compartment.

7. The magnetic device of claim 1, wherein the first wall has a radial curvature.

8. The magnetic device of claim 1, further comprising:

one or more protruding members disposed at one or more side walls of the housing.

9. The magnetic device of claim 8, further comprising:

a protruding member of the one or more protruding members has a substantially planar end.

10. The magnetic device of claim 8, further comprising:

a protruding member of the one or more protruding members has a substantially tapered end.

11. A magnetic device comprising:

a housing comprising: a first wall located opposite a second wall;

an adjustable fastener disposed at the first wall;

a retaining structure disposed at the second wall, a portion of the retaining structure is configured to rotatably engage a portion of the adjustable fastener; and

one or more magnets retained in a compartment of the retaining structure.

12. The magnetic device of claim 11, further comprising:

an abrasive element disposed at the second wall of the housing.

13. The magnetic device of claim 12, wherein the abrasive element composed of a layer of sandpaper disposed over a layer of adhesive.

14. The magnetic device of claim 11, further comprising:

surface indicia disposed at the first wall of the housing.

15. The magnetic device of claim 14, wherein the surface indicia is composed of one or more recesses.

16. The magnetic device of claim 11, further comprising:

a sealing structure disposed at a portion of the adjustable fastener.

17. The magnetic device of claim 11, further comprising:

one or more protruding members disposed at one or more side walls of the housing.

18. The magnetic device of claim 17, further comprising:

a protruding member of the one or more protruding members has a substantially planar end.

19. The magnetic device of claim 17, further comprising:

a protruding member of the one or more protruding members has a substantially tapered end.

20. The magnetic device of claim 11, wherein the first wall has a radial curvature.