Description:
FORM 2
THE PATENTS ACT 1970
(39 of 1970)
&
THE PATENTS RULES, 2003
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See section 10 and rule 13)

1. TITLE OF THE INVENTION
A SEALING ASSEMBLY FOR A VEHICLE DOOR

2. APPLICANTS

NAME : ALP Nishikawa Company Private Limited
NATIONALITY : IN
ADDRESS : Plot No. 32 (HUDA), Sector-18, Gurugram-122015, Haryana, India

2. PREAMBLE TO THE DESCRIPTION

COMPLETE

The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a sealing assembly, and more particularly, to a sealing assembly for a vehicle door configured to ensure continuous sealing along complex door geometry, including around a door handle, thereby providing visual continuity, sealing effectiveness and protection against water ingress.

BACKGROUND
[0002] In an automotive industry, sealing assemblies are used in vehicles to prevent ingress of water, dust, and other environmental contaminants. These assemblies also contribute to noise insulation and maintaining the structural durability of vehicle doors. Generally, these assemblies are mounted along the peripheral edge of a vehicle door, at the interface between the door and body panel, to establish an effective and continuous seal.
[0003] However, conventional sealing assemblies generally provide sealing between the door and body panel, with no integration in a region around the door handle. In particular, in concealed or contoured door handle regions, sealing provisions are often absent, thereby increasing the risk of water and dust ingress.
[0004] Furthermore, some of the conventional sealing assemblies utilize multiple seal components but do not employ a combination of multiple extrusion profiles and joint molds to form a continuous, conforming sealing structure. Additionally, absence of precise integration between these components may result in misalignment, waviness, or poor conformity to the three-dimensional contours of the vehicle door. Such deficiencies adversely affect both the sealing performance and the aesthetic quality of the assembly.
[0005] Therefore, there exists a need to address this problem by providing an improved sealing assembly for the vehicle door that ensures structural continuity and conformity to complex door geometries including regions around the door handle.

SUMMARY

[0006] The present invention provides a sealing assembly for a vehicle door. The assembly includes a plurality of sealing components. In an embodiment, the plurality of sealing components includes a plurality of extrusion profiles and a plurality of joint molds. These components are configured to form a continuous sealing along a door inner panel. Thereafter, the sealing assembly includes a plurality of clips. In an embodiment, the plurality of clips is configured to secure the sealing components to the door inner panel.
[0007] In an embodiment, the plurality of extrusion profiles includes at least three extrusion profiles, and the plurality of joint molds includes at least two joint molds.
[0008] In an embodiment, a first extrusion profile includes a notched section to enable seamless integration with a first joint mold.
[0009] In an embodiment, each joint mold is configured to seal gaps between two adjacent extrusion profiles.
[0010] In an embodiment, each joint mold provides structural continuity and a flexible joint between the two adjacent extrusion profiles to accommodate door frame contours and movement.
[0011] In an embodiment, each extrusion profile and each joint mold is made of rubber or elastomeric material configured to provide sealing against environmental elements and water ingress.
[0012] In an embodiment, the sealing assembly is configured to conform to a three-dimensional geometry of the vehicle door, including a door handle region, to ensure visual continuity, sealing effectiveness, and protection against environmental ingress.
[0013] In an embodiment, the sealing assembly is integrated around a concealed door handle.
[0014] In an embodiment, the concealed door handle is positioned above a waist line of the vehicle door.
[0015] In an embodiment, the concealed door handle includes a slot for receiving a handle lever for actuation.
[0016] In an embodiment, the sealing assembly is configured to be applied in a rear vehicle door.
[0017] In an embodiment, the plurality of clips includes at least six clips configured to secure the extrusion profiles and the joint molds to the door inner panel via a set of holes.
[0018] In an embodiment, the set of holes comprises at least six holes, including four holes having a diameter between 5 mm and 6mm, and two holes having a diameter less than 18.5mm.
[0019] In an embodiment, the plurality of clips includes at least four standard clips and two special clips.
[0020] In an embodiment, the sealing assembly is pre-assembled as a modular unit for ease of installation onto the vehicle door.
[0021] A primary objective of the present invention is to provide a sealing assembly for a vehicle door that forms a continuous seal along a door inner panel, thereby preventing ingress of water, dust, and other environmental contaminants.
[0022] A further objective of the present invention is to integrate a plurality of extrusion profiles and joint molds in such a manner that gaps between adjacent extrusion profiles are effectively sealed, ensuring structural continuity and uniform sealing performance.
[0023] Yet another objective of the present invention is to provide a sealing assembly configured to conform to the three-dimensional geometry of the vehicle door, including complex areas around a door handle region, so as to maintain visual continuity and sealing effectiveness.
[0024] Yet another objective of the present invention is to provide the sealing assembly that can be integrated around a concealed door handle, including those positioned above the waist line of a vehicle door, while maintaining sealing integrity and aesthetic appearance.
[0025] Yet another objective of the present invention is to provide a secure and precise fixation of both extrusion profiles and joint molds to the door inner panel using a plurality of clips and a set of mounting holes, ensuring stability under repeated use and environmental exposure.
[0026] Yet another objective of the present invention is to provide a modular, pre-assembled sealing unit for ease of installation and to reduce assembly time during vehicle manufacturing.
[0027] Yet another objective of the present invention is to utilize rubber or elastomeric materials for the extrusion profiles and joint molds to ensure long-term flexibility, durability, and resistance to environmental factors such as temperature variation, UV exposure, and mechanical wear.
[0028] The foregoing summary is provided for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described earlier, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate exemplary embodiments, and together with the description, serve to explain the disclosed principles. The same numbers are used throughout the figures to reference like features and components, wherein:
[0030] FIG. 1 illustrates a pictorial representation of a sealing assembly for a vehicle door, in accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0031] FIG. 2 illustrates a pictorial representation of a plurality of sealing components, in accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0032] FIG. 3 illustrates a pictorial representation of a set of holes on a door inner panel for securing the extrusion profiles and the joint molds, in accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure; and
[0033] FIG. 4 illustrates a pictorial representation of the sealing assembly integrated on the door inner panel around a door handle, in accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0034] The foregoing shall be more apparent from the following more detailed description of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0035] To be better understood by those skilled in the art, the present invention is described in the following description with reference to the attached drawings.
[0036] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art that these specific details are only exemplary and not intended to be limiting.
[0037] It is to be understood that various omissions and substitutions of equivalents may be made as circumstances may suggest or render expedient to cover various applications or implementations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
[0038] Further, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of clarity of the description and should not be regarded as limiting.
[0039] Furthermore, in the present description, references to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The appearance of the phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of other embodiments.
[0040] Further, the terms “a” and “an” used herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced items. Moreover, various features are described which may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by others. Similarly, various requirements are described, which may be requirements for some embodiments but not for other embodiments.
[0041] In an automotive industry, sealing involves strategic application of specialized sealing materials or seals to close gaps, joints, or interfaces between adjacent vehicle components. The primary function of these seals is to act as a protective barrier, preventing the intrusion of external elements such as water, dust, air, noise, or heat.
[0042] Effective sealing is important for passenger comfort, maintaining structural integrity of vehicle body, and ensuring long-term reliability. The seals are generally made of flexible and durable materials such as rubber or elastomeric compounds. These materials are selected due to their long-lasting elasticity, chemical stability, and resistance to environmental stressors including ultraviolet radiation, ozone exposure, temperature fluctuations, and corrosive agents.
[0043] These materials possess excellent barrier properties, ensuring internal cabin remains insulated from noise, moisture, and particulate matter. By forming a tight seal around structural interfaces such as door frames, window openings, and panel joints, the seals play a critical role in the vehicle's overall durability, aerodynamics, and user experience.
[0044] A sealing assembly is a system of interrelated sealing elements collectively designed to conform to the complex geometry of a vehicle door to provide effective protection and insulation for specific sections of the vehicle.
[0045] In modern vehicles, where design complexity and styling demands are high, sealing assemblies must not only perform essential functions such as preventing water ingress, dust penetration, and noise transmission but also meet secondary objectives including visual integration and ease of installation.
[0046] The present invention provides an advanced sealing assembly that effectively meets both functional and aesthetic requirements, ensuring reliable long-term performance while maintaining consistency with the vehicle’s overall design.
[0047] In the present invention, the sealing assembly is provided at the vehicle door, including around the junction of the rear door handle region. This sealing assembly not only provides environmental protection at this critical interface but also incorporates functional features such as slots for actuating door handle lever without compromising sealing integrity.
[0048] Referring to FIG. 1, a pictorial representation of the sealing assembly for the vehicle door is disclosed.
[0049] As illustrated, the sealing assembly (100) includes a plurality of sealing components (102). The plurality of sealing components (102) is configured to conform to a three-dimensional geometry of the vehicle door, including a door handle region. In an embodiment, the plurality of sealing components (102) includes a plurality of extrusion profiles (102a) and a plurality of joint molds (102b) configured to form a continuous sealing along a door inner panel, which is explained in detail in FIG. 2.
[0050] Referring to FIG. 2, a pictorial representation of the plurality of sealing components (102) is disclosed, in accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. As disclosed, the plurality of extrusion profiles (102a) includes at least three extrusion profiles and the plurality of joint molds (102b) includes at least two joint molds. Each joint mold is configured to bridge and seal gaps between two adjacent extrusion profiles. In other words, each joint mold provides structural continuity and a flexible joint between two adjoining extrusion profiles to accommodate door frame contours and movement.
[0051] In an exemplary embodiment, a first extrusion profile is positioned along a first section of a door frame and is connected at one end to a first joint mold. The first extrusion profile may include a notched or L-shaped cut section at its end to enable precise and seamless integration with the first joint mold.
[0052] Further, a second extrusion profile is positioned in the door handle region and is connected on one side to the first joint mold and on the opposite side to the second joint mold. Similarly, a third extrusion profile is connected to the second joint mold and extends along the remaining section of the door frame, thereby completing the continuous sealing arrangement.
[0053] In an exemplary embodiment, each extrusion profile (102a) and each joint mold (102b) is made of rubber or elastomeric material configured to provide sealing against environmental elements and water ingress. More specifically extrusion profile (102a) is made of ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber (EPDM). The joint mold (102b), which is used to bridge and flexibly connect adjacent extrusion profiles, is also composed of a compatible elastomeric material, preferably EPDM, to ensure homogeneous bonding and mechanical performance throughout the sealing assembly.
[0054] In another exemplary embodiment, the extrusion profiles (102a) and the joint molds (102b) may also be made from materials including thermoplastic elastomer, natural rubber, and silicone rubber, depending on specific performance requirements or cost considerations.
[0055] In yet another exemplary embodiment, the extrusion profiles (102a) and the joint molds (102b) may also be made from materials which provide properties such as ease of processing, good balance of flexibility, weather resistance, flame retardancy, and recyclability while maintaining flexibility and sealing performance.
[0056] The sealing assembly (100) further includes a plurality of clips (104). The plurality of clips (104) is configured for securing the plurality of sealing components (102) to a door inner panel. These clips play a critical role in maintaining positional accuracy and long-term stability of the sealing components (102) under dynamic loading conditions such as door opening/closing, vibrations, and thermal expansion.
[0057] In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of clips (104) includes at least six clips for securing the extrusion profiles (102a) and the joint molds (102b) to the door inner panel. The plurality of clips (104) includes at least four standard clips and two special clips.
[0058] These clips (104) are inserted through a set of holes on the door inner panel to create a secure and reliable mechanical interface. These clips (104) may have design such as, but not limited to, barbs, locking tabs, or flexible legs that expand upon insertion, ensuring retention and vibration resistance without the need for additional fasteners or adhesives.
[0059] The positioning and configuration of each hole on the door inner panel for securing the extrusion profiles and the joint molds are described in detail with reference to FIG. 3.
[0060] Referring to FIG. 3, a pictorial representation of the set of holes (302) on the door inner panel is disclosed, in accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. As disclosed, multiple holes are positioned along the vertical region of the door inner panel. In an exemplary embodiment, the set of holes (302) comprises at least six holes, including four holes having a diameter between 5 mm and 6mm, and two holes having a diameter less than 18.5mm. In another exemplary embodiment, the set of holes (302) may comprise at least six holes, including four holes with a diameter of 5.2 mm and two holes with a diameter of 18 mm.
[0061] It is important to note that the proper placement of these holes is essential to ensure accurate alignment of the sealing components (102) and to prevent misfit or functional degradation over time. Therefore, placement of the set of holes is optimized to balance structural integrity, ease of assembly, and alignment with the outer door panel.
[0062] In an exemplary embodiment, the standard clips are installed in hole 1, hole 2, hole 4, and hole 5, which correspond to the four holes having a diameter between 5 mm and 6 mm or specifically 5.2mm. On the other hand, the special clips, which may have unique locking mechanisms or geometries, are used in hole 3 and hole 6. These holes, having a diameter of 18mm or less than 18.5 mm, are typically located in areas with increased curvature, complex contours, or localized stress concentrations, necessitating improved retention performance.
[0063] FIG. 3 further illustrates a door handle (304) integrated within structure of the vehicle door. In an exemplary embodiment, the door handle (304) is a concealed-type handle, which means it is not prominently visible from the exterior surface of the vehicle door, thereby contributing to a sleek and streamlined appearance. This design enhances the vehicle's overall aesthetics, aerodynamics, and security.
[0064] The door handle (304) is strategically positioned above the waistline of the vehicle door. The waistline refers to the horizontal contour or character line that generally runs along the side of the vehicle, typically at or slightly below window level.
[0065] In an embodiment, the door handle (304) includes a slot (306) to receive a handle lever. The handle lever serves as an actuation interface for operating door mechanism. The handle lever may be either pulled or pressed by the user, thereby initiating the actuation mechanism, which enables opening or closing of the door. It is important to note that the slot (306) is required to be precisely dimensioned and positioned to allow the handle lever to remain flush with the door surface in its resting position, thereby maintaining concealed appearance of the door handle.
[0066] Referring to FIG. 4, a pictorial representation of the sealing assembly (100) integrated on the door inner panel around the door handle is disclosed, in accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, the sealing assembly (100) is configured to be applied to a rear vehicle door.
[0067] As disclosed, the door inner panel (402) forms the structural framework of the vehicle door. It provides support for various components, including the sealing components (102), the plurality of clips (104), the set of holes (302), the handle (304), and the slot (306). In this sectional view, the door inner panel (402) acts as a base onto which the sealing components (102), the door handle (304), and the slot (306) are mounted.
[0068] It is important to note that the door handle (304) is positioned externally on the door but is mechanically connected through the inner panel. This placement ensures ergonomic operation while maintaining secure fixation using concealed mounting points on the inner panel. Furthermore, the door handle (304) is integrated with the sealing components (102) to prevent ingress of water, dust, or noise into the vehicle interior.
[0069] Consequently, the sealing assembly (100) ensures effective protection against water ingress, even at the critical interface around the door handle, while still allowing full actuation of the handle. Further, the present invention eliminates the need for separate protective covers, reduces part count, and improves long-term durability of both the handle mechanism and the sealing assembly.
[0070] It has thus been seen that the sealing assembly (100) for the vehicle door, according to the present invention, achieves the purposes highlighted earlier. Such a sealing assembly (100) can in any case, undergo numerous modifications and variants, all of which are covered by the same innovative concept, moreover, all of the details may be replaced by elements that are technically equivalent. The scope of protection of the invention is therefore defined by the attached claims.

Dated 1st day of September, 2025
Ankush Mahajan
Agent for the Applicant (IN/PA-1523)
OF Global Institute of Intellectual Property Pvt. Ltd. , Claims:We Claim:
1. A sealing assembly (100) for a vehicle door, comprising:
a plurality of sealing components (102) including a plurality of extrusion profiles (102a) and a plurality of joint molds (102b) configured to form a continuous sealing along a door inner panel (402); and
a plurality of clips (104) configured for securing the sealing components (102) to the door inner panel (402.

2. The sealing assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of extrusion profiles (102a) comprises at least three extrusion profiles, and the plurality of joint molds (102b) comprises at least two joint molds.

3. The sealing assembly (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein a first extrusion profile (102a) includes a notched section to enable seamless integration with a first joint mold (102b).

4. The sealing assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each joint mold (102b) is configured to seal gaps between two adjacent extrusion profiles (102a).

5. The sealing assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each joint mold (102b) provides structural continuity and a flexible joint between the two adjacent extrusion profiles (102a) to accommodate door frame contours and movement.

6. The sealing assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each extrusion profile (102a) and each joint mold (102b) is made of rubber or elastomeric material configured to provide sealing against environmental elements and water ingress.

7. The sealing assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sealing assembly (100) is configured to conform to a three-dimensional geometry of the vehicle door, including a door handle region, to ensure visual continuity, sealing effectiveness, and protection against environmental ingress.

8. The sealing assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sealing assembly (100) is integrated around a concealed door handle (304).

9. The sealing assembly (100) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the concealed door handle (304) is positioned above a waist line of the vehicle door.

10. The sealing assembly (100) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the concealed door handle (304) comprises a slot (306) for receiving a handle lever for actuation.

11. The sealing assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sealing assembly is configured to be applied in a rear vehicle door.

12. The sealing assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of clips (104) comprises at least six clips configured for securing the extrusion profiles (102a) and the joint molds (102b) to the door inner panel (402) via a set of holes (302).

13. The sealing assembly (100) as claimed in claim 12, wherein the set of holes (302) comprises at least six holes, including four holes having a diameter between 5 mm and 6mm, and two holes having a diameter less than 18.5mm.

14. The sealing assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of clips (106) comprises at least four standard clips and two special clips.

15. The sealing assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sealing assembly (100) is pre-assembled as a modular unit for ease of installation onto the vehicle door.

Dated 1st day of September, 2025

Ankush Mahajan
Agent for the Applicant (IN/PA-1523)
OF Global Institute of Intellectual Property Pvt. Ltd.