A multifunctional switch mounting bracket structure and automobile

By designing a multi-functional switch mounting bracket structure, and utilizing the fixing points and clips of the bracket and cover plate, the problem of cover plate deformation caused by improper fixing of the multi-functional switch to the driver's airbag was solved, ensuring the floating horn function and vehicle safety.

CN118876875BActive Publication Date: 2025-10-31CHERY AUTOMOBILE CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202410762781.1
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-06-13
Publication Date
2025-10-31
Estimated Expiration
2044-06-13

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Improperly securing the multi-function switch to the driver's airbag can cause the cover to deform, affecting the function of the floating horn and the vehicle's appearance, and may also compromise safety.

Method used

Design a multi-functional switch fixing bracket structure, including a bracket and a cover plate. The bracket is provided with multiple fixing points and buckles, and the multi-functional switch is fixed by screws. The bracket provides stable support and cushioning to prevent the cover plate from deforming.

Benefits of technology

It effectively prevents the cover from deforming due to the weight and operating force of the multi-function switch, ensures the normal functioning of the floating horn, and improves the integrity and safety of the vehicle's internal structure.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

This invention belongs to the field of automotive parts technology and discloses a multi-functional switch mounting bracket structure and an automobile. The multi-functional switch mounting bracket structure includes a cover plate, a bracket, and a multi-functional switch. The multi-functional switch is installed below the cover plate, and the bracket is installed below the multi-functional switch. The bracket is used to support the multi-functional switch. This invention changes the multi-functional switch from being placed on the steering wheel to being placed on the driver's airbag cover plate. The multi-functional switch is fixed and supported by the driver's airbag cover plate and the bracket installed below the multi-functional switch, avoiding deformation of the cover plate due to the weight of the multi-functional switch and its use, which would affect the appearance and the floating horn function.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of automotive parts technology, specifically relating to a multifunctional switch fixing bracket structure and an automobile. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of automotive electronics and intelligence, multi-function switches are gradually integrating multiple control functions into a single switch, thereby reducing the number of switches and operational complexity. The mounting bracket structure has also been optimized accordingly to accommodate this integrated design. To improve the strength and durability of the bracket, manufacturers are using higher-grade materials, such as high-strength plastics and aluminum alloys, which not only have high strength but also excellent corrosion resistance and wear resistance. For ease of production and maintenance, some automakers have designed switches and mounting brackets as detachable modules. This design allows for replacement or repair by simply replacing the entire module, rather than replacing the switch or bracket separately. However, because multi-function switches integrate multiple functions, the installation precision requirements for their mounting brackets are correspondingly increased. Improper installation may affect the reliability and lifespan of the switch.

[0003] As users have increasingly higher demands for car appearance, novel styling has become a highlight in steering wheel and airbag design. Integrating multi-function switches, commonly found on steering wheels, into the driver's airbag is an innovative and bold attempt. It aims to improve driving convenience and safety while maintaining the overall simplicity of the steering wheel. However, because the airbag is a moving and safety component, it must also meet both aesthetic and functional safety requirements. Since airbags inflate rapidly in emergencies to protect passengers, the integrated switches must function normally under these extreme conditions without interfering with the inflation process. Furthermore, because airbags are moving and safety components, their design and manufacturing must comply with stringent safety standards and regulations. Therefore, high-quality materials and advanced processes are required during design and manufacturing to ensure the airbag functions properly under various conditions, providing reliable protection for passengers.

[0004] In vehicle design, cleverly integrating a multi-function switch into the driver's airbag not only improves ease of operation but also effectively saves interior space. However, this design also presents some challenges. If the multi-function switch relies solely on the airbag cover for fixation, potential problems may arise in certain situations. Since airbags typically occupy a large area in the lateral direction of a vehicle, they must possess sufficient structural strength to ensure rapid and effective deployment in an emergency. However, when installing a multi-function switch on it, the weight of the switch itself and various forces that may be generated during use must be considered.

[0005] Over time, and with frequent driver operation, the weight of the multi-function switch gradually exerts continuous pressure on the cover. This pressure, combined with various forces applied by the driver during use, can cause minor deformation of the cover. While this deformation may seem insignificant, its cumulative effect over time can negatively impact the appearance of the airbag. More importantly, this deformation can also affect the function of the floating horn. The floating horn is typically installed in a location within the airbag to provide a clear audible warning to the driver in emergencies. However, if the deformation of the cover causes a change in the position of the floating horn, the sound may no longer be accurately directed at the driver, or it may even be distorted or weakened, thus affecting the driver's judgment and reaction in an emergency.

[0006] Therefore, when designing a driver airbag that integrates a multi-function switch, we must fully consider how to effectively secure the multi-function switch to prevent it from adversely affecting the airbag cover and floating horn. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the above-mentioned problems and provide a multi-functional switch fixing bracket structure and automobile, which can reliably fix the multi-functional switch on the driver's airbag while solving the problem of cover plate deformation under stress.

[0008] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0009] This invention provides a multi-functional switch mounting bracket structure, including a cover plate, a multi-functional switch disposed below the cover plate, a bracket disposed below the multi-functional switch, the bracket being connected to the cover plate, and a plurality of horn contacts disposed on the bracket, the bracket being used to support the multi-functional switch.

[0010] A further improvement of the present invention is that a number of protruding buckles are provided in the middle of the bracket, which are used to fix the connecting wires at the left and right ends of the multi-function switch.

[0011] A further improvement of the present invention is that the number of the latches is 4 and the number of the horn contacts is 4.

[0012] A further improvement of the present invention is that the bracket is provided with a first bracket fixing point, a second bracket fixing point, a third bracket fixing point, a fourth bracket fixing point, a fifth bracket fixing point, a sixth bracket fixing point, a seventh bracket fixing point and an eighth bracket fixing point;

[0013] The first and second bracket fixing points are located at one end of the bracket, the third and fourth bracket fixing points are located at the other end of the bracket, the fifth and sixth bracket fixing points are located below the middle of the bracket, and the seventh and eighth bracket fixing points are located above the middle of the bracket.

[0014] A further improvement of the present invention is that the cover plate and the bracket are fixed by the fifth bracket fixing point, the sixth bracket fixing point, the seventh bracket fixing point and the eighth bracket fixing point.

[0015] A further improvement of the present invention is that the multi-functional switch is provided with a first switch fixing point, a second switch fixing point, a third switch fixing point, a fourth switch fixing point, a fifth switch fixing point and a sixth switch fixing point;

[0016] The first, second, and fifth switch fixing points are located at one end of the multi-function switch, while the third, fourth, and sixth switch fixing points are located at the other end of the multi-function switch.

[0017] A further improvement of the present invention is that the bracket and the multi-function switch are fixed by a first switch fixing point, a second switch fixing point, a third switch fixing point, a fourth switch fixing point, a first bracket fixing point, a second bracket fixing point, a third bracket fixing point, and a fourth bracket fixing point.

[0018] A further improvement of the present invention is that the cover plate and the multi-function switch are fixed by the fifth switch fixing point and the sixth switch fixing point.

[0019] A further improvement of the present invention is that the cover plate and the bracket, the bracket and the multi-function switch, and the cover plate and the multi-function switch are all fixedly connected by screws.

[0020] The present invention also provides an automobile, including the above-mentioned multi-functional switch fixing bracket structure, wherein the cover plate is an airbag cover plate.

[0021] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following beneficial effects:

[0022] This invention features a multi-functional switch positioned beneath a cover plate, with a bracket below the switch. This bracket not only provides stable support for the multi-functional switch but also offers some cushioning. The multi-functional switch is placed on the cover plate of the driver's airbag, and is secured and supported by both the airbag cover plate and the bracket below it. This design not only prevents deformation of the cover plate due to gravity and use but also ensures that the floating horn function remains unaffected, reducing the force exerted by the switch on the cover plate.

[0023] This invention also provides a vehicle including the aforementioned multi-function switch mounting bracket structure. In this vehicle, the airbag cover is significantly reinforced. Through the bracket's stable support of the multi-function switch, the cover can resist the gravity and operating forces generated by the switch, effectively preventing cover deformation due to prolonged use or improper operation. This not only ensures the integrity of the vehicle's internal structure but also further enhances the safety of the driver and passengers. Attached Figure Description

[0024] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of the present invention and should not be regarded as a limitation on the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0025] Figure 1 This is a side view of the multi-function switch and the driver's airbag cover;

[0026] Figure 2 This is an overall schematic diagram of the multi-functional switch and its bracket;

[0027] Figure 3 These are detailed design drawings of the support structure;

[0028] Figure 4 This is a detailed structural design diagram of a multi-functional switch;

[0029] Figure 5 This is a 3D structural diagram of the multi-functional switch and the driver's airbag cover.

[0030] The components are: 1. Cover plate; 2. Bracket; 21. First bracket fixing point; 22. Second bracket fixing point; 23. Third bracket fixing point; 24. Fourth bracket fixing point; 25. Fifth bracket fixing point; 26. Sixth bracket fixing point; 27. Seventh bracket fixing point; 28. Eighth bracket fixing point; 3. Multifunctional switch; 31. First switch fixing point; 32. Second switch fixing point; 33. Third switch fixing point; 34. Fourth switch fixing point; 35. Fifth switch fixing point; 36. Sixth switch fixing point; 4. Buckle; 5. Horn contact. Detailed Implementation

[0031] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. The components of the embodiments of the present invention described and shown in the accompanying drawings can generally be arranged and designed in various different configurations.

[0032] Therefore, the following detailed description of the embodiments of the invention provided in the accompanying drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention, but merely to illustrate selected embodiments of the invention. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the invention without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of the invention.

[0033] It should be noted that similar labels and letters in the following figures indicate similar items. Therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it does not need to be further defined and explained in subsequent figures.

[0034] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted that if terms such as "upper," "lower," "horizontal," or "inner" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, or the orientation or positional relationship commonly used when the product of the invention is in use, they are only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of the present invention. Furthermore, terms such as "first" and "second" are only used to distinguish descriptions and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0035] Furthermore, the use of the term "horizontal" does not imply that the component must be absolutely horizontal, but rather that it can be slightly tilted. For example, "horizontal" simply means that its direction is more horizontal than "vertical," and does not mean that the structure must be completely horizontal, but can be slightly tilted.

[0036] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "set," "install," "connect," and "link" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the present invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0037] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings:

[0038] Example

[0039] As mentioned in the background technology, the current multi-function switch has some problems, such as: the multi-function switch is only fixed by the driver's safety bag cover, and the cover will deform due to the weight of the multi-function switch and its use, which will affect the appearance and the floating horn function, etc. Therefore, a new structure needs to be found to solve this problem.

[0040] To address the aforementioned technical problems, embodiments of the present invention provide a multifunctional switch mounting bracket structure and an automobile.

[0041] like Figure 1 As shown, this embodiment provides a multi-functional switch fixing bracket structure, including a cover plate 1, a bracket 2 and a multi-functional switch 3. The multi-functional switch 3 is disposed below the cover plate 1, and the bracket 2 is disposed below the multi-functional switch 3. The bracket 2 can not only stably support the multi-functional switch 3, but also has a certain buffering capacity.

[0042] In this embodiment, as Figure 2 As shown, several protruding buckles 4 are provided in the middle of the bracket 2. The buckles 4 are used to fix the connecting wires at the left and right ends of the multi-function switch 3.

[0043] In this embodiment, several speaker contacts are provided on the bracket 2.

[0044] In this embodiment, as Figure 3 As shown, the bracket 2 is provided with a first bracket fixing point 21, a second bracket fixing point 22, a third bracket fixing point 23, a fourth bracket fixing point 24, a fifth bracket fixing point 25, a sixth bracket fixing point 26, a seventh bracket fixing point 27, and an eighth bracket fixing point 28. The bracket fixing points work together to ensure that the bracket 2 can be fixedly connected to the cover plate 1 and the multi-function switch 3, so as to realize the fixed support function of the bracket 2 for the multi-function switch 3.

[0045] In this embodiment, the cover plate 1 and the bracket 2 are fixed by the fifth bracket fixing point 25, the sixth bracket fixing point 26, the seventh bracket fixing point 27 and the eighth bracket fixing point 28.

[0046] In this embodiment, as Figure 4 As shown, a first switch fixing point 31, a second switch fixing point 32, a third switch fixing point 33, a fourth switch fixing point 34, a fifth switch fixing point 35, and a sixth switch fixing point 36 are provided on the multi-function switch 3.

[0047] In this embodiment, the bracket 2 and the multi-function switch 3 are fixed by the first switch fixing point 31, the second switch fixing point 32, the third switch fixing point 33, the fourth switch fixing point 34, the first bracket fixing point 21, the second bracket fixing point 22, the third bracket fixing point 23, and the fourth bracket fixing point 24.

[0048] In this embodiment, the cover plate 1 and the multi-function switch 3 are fixed by the fifth switch fixing point 35 and the sixth switch fixing point 36.

[0049] In this embodiment, the cover plate 1 and the bracket 2, the bracket 2 and the multi-function switch 3, and the cover plate 1 and the multi-function switch 3 are all tightened and fixed by screws.

[0050] The invention will be further explained below with reference to a set of examples and accompanying drawings:

[0051] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, four horn contacts are provided on the bracket 2, and four clips 4 are provided in the middle of the bracket 2. The clips 4 can clamp and fix the connecting wires at both ends of the multi-function switch 3, so as to prevent the multi-function switch 3 from moving under long-term use, which would cause the cover plate 1 to deform.

[0052] For example Figure 3 As shown, bracket 2 is provided with a first bracket fixing point 21, a second bracket fixing point 22, a third bracket fixing point 23, a fourth bracket fixing point 24, a fifth bracket fixing point 25, a sixth bracket fixing point 26, a seventh bracket fixing point 27, and an eighth bracket fixing point 28. Among them, the first bracket fixing point 21 and the second bracket fixing point 22 are located at one end of bracket 2, the third bracket fixing point 23 and the fourth bracket fixing point 24 are located at the other end of bracket 2, the fifth bracket fixing point 25 and the sixth bracket fixing point 26 are located at the lower middle part of bracket 2, and the seventh bracket fixing point 27 and the eighth bracket fixing point 28 are located at the upper middle part of bracket 2. The bracket fixing points work together to ensure that bracket 2 can be fixedly connected to cover plate 1 and multi-function switch 3, so as to realize the fixed support function of bracket 2 for multi-function switch 3.

[0053] like Figure 4 As shown, the multi-function switch 3 is provided with a first switch fixing point 31, a second switch fixing point 32, a third switch fixing point 33, a fourth switch fixing point 34, a fifth switch fixing point 35, and a sixth switch fixing point 36; wherein the first switch fixing point 31, the second switch fixing point 32, and the fifth switch fixing point 35 are located at one end of the multi-function switch 3, and the third switch fixing point 33, the fourth switch fixing point 34, and the sixth switch fixing point 36 are located at the other end of the multi-function switch 3.

[0054] like Figure 5As shown, the multi-function switch 3 is located between the cover plate 1 and the bracket 2. The connecting wires at both ends of the multi-function switch 3 pass through the holes at both ends of the bracket 2 and engage with the buckles 4 on the bracket 2. The first bracket fixing point 21 on the bracket 2 coincides with the first switch fixing point 31 on the multi-function switch 3. The second bracket fixing point 22 on the bracket 2 coincides with the second switch fixing point 32 on the multi-function switch 3. The third bracket fixing point 23 on the bracket 2 coincides with the third switch fixing point 33 on the multi-function switch 3. The fourth bracket fixing point 24 on the bracket 2 coincides with the fourth switch fixing point 34 on the multi-function switch 3. Screws are provided at all the coinciding points to tighten and fix the multi-function switch 3 to the bracket 2.

[0055] For example Figure 5 As shown, a first cover plate fixing point and a second cover plate fixing point are provided on the cover plate 1, and a fifth switch fixing point 35 and a sixth switch fixing point 36 are provided on the multi-function switch 3. The first cover plate fixing point and the fifth switch fixing point are in the same position, and the second cover plate fixing point and the sixth switch fixing point 36 are in the same position. Screws are provided at the overlapping points to tighten and fix the cover plate 1 and the multi-function switch 3.

[0056] In summary, this embodiment provides a multi-functional switch mounting bracket structure with a simple assembly process. It not only has superior performance and attractive appearance, but also ensures that the cover plate 1 will not deform due to the weight of the multi-functional switch 3 and its use, thereby affecting the normal functionality and safety of the vehicle. This design not only improves the overall safety of the vehicle, but also brings passengers a more reassuring and comfortable driving experience.

[0057] This embodiment also provides a car with a multi-functional switch mounting bracket. The car adopts a multi-functional mounting bracket structure, in which the multi-functional switch 3 is placed below the cover plate 1 of the car's airbag, and the bracket 2 provides fixed support for the multi-functional switch 3.

[0058] In summary, this invention provides a multifunctional switch mounting bracket structure and an automobile, which has the following advantages compared to existing multifunctional switch mounting structures:

[0059] The core purpose of the multi-functional switch mounting bracket structure of this invention is to securely fix the multi-functional switch 3 to the cover plate 1 of the driver's airbag. By introducing this unique bracket structure 2, this invention effectively solves various problems that may be encountered during the installation of the multi-functional switch 3.

[0060] Firstly, the design purpose of the fixed bracket 2 is to provide stable and secure support for the multi-function switch 3, preventing it from shifting or shaking due to gravity or operating force during driver use. This stability not only ensures the reliability of the multi-function switch 3, but also avoids inconvenience or safety hazards to the driver caused by the movement of the multi-function switch 3.

[0061] Secondly, the bracket 2 also plays a crucial protective role. Traditional installation methods may cause the airbag cover 1 to deform due to the weight of the multi-function switch 3 and the pressure during use. This deformation not only affects the aesthetic harmony of the vehicle's interior but may also interfere with the function of components such as the floating horn. However, the fixed bracket structure of this invention effectively prevents the cover 1 from deforming by dispersing and reducing the force exerted by the multi-function switch 3 on the cover 1, thereby ensuring both the aesthetics and functionality of the vehicle's interior.

[0062] Furthermore, the fixed bracket structure of this invention possesses high flexibility and adaptability. It can be customized according to different vehicle models and the specific dimensions of the multi-function switch 3, ensuring accurate and stable installation. Simultaneously, the material of the bracket 2 has been carefully selected, ensuring sufficient strength and durability while also considering lightweight and cost-effectiveness.

[0063] In summary, the multifunctional switch mounting bracket structure of the present invention not only provides drivers with a convenient and safe operating experience, but also effectively improves the overall performance and quality of the vehicle interior through its unique support and protection functions.

[0064] Many embodiments and applications beyond the examples provided will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the foregoing description. Therefore, the scope of this teaching should not be determined by reference to the foregoing description, but rather by reference to the foregoing claims and the full scope of their equivalents. For purposes of completeness, all articles and references, including patent applications and publications, are incorporated herein by reference. The omission of any aspect of the subject matter disclosed herein in the foregoing claims is not intended as a waiver of that subject matter, nor should it be construed as an indication that the applicant has not considered that subject matter as part of the disclosed inventive subject matter.

[0065] The above content provides a further detailed description of the present invention. It should not be construed that the specific embodiments of the present invention are limited to this. For those skilled in the art, several simple deductions or substitutions can be made without departing from the concept of the present invention, and all such deductions or substitutions should be considered to fall within the scope of protection of the present invention as defined by the submitted claims.

Claims

1. A multifunctional switch fixing bracket structure, characterized in that, Includes a cover plate (1), a multi-function switch (3) is provided below the cover plate (1), a bracket (2) is provided below the multi-function switch (3), the bracket (2) is connected to the cover plate (1), a number of horn contacts (5) are provided on the bracket (2), and the bracket (2) is used to support the multi-function switch (3). The bracket (2) is provided with a first bracket fixing point (21), a second bracket fixing point (22), a third bracket fixing point (23), a fourth bracket fixing point (24), a fifth bracket fixing point (25), a sixth bracket fixing point (26), a seventh bracket fixing point (27), and an eighth bracket fixing point (28); the first bracket fixing point (21) and the second bracket fixing point (22) are located at one end of the bracket (2), the third bracket fixing point (23) and the fourth bracket fixing point (24) are located at the other end of the bracket (2), the fifth bracket fixing point (25) and the sixth bracket fixing point (26) are located below the middle of the bracket (2), and the seventh bracket fixing point (27) and the eighth bracket fixing point (28) are located above the middle of the bracket (2); The multi-function switch (3) is provided with a first switch fixing point (31), a second switch fixing point (32), a third switch fixing point (33), a fourth switch fixing point (34), a fifth switch fixing point (35), and a sixth switch fixing point (36); the first switch fixing point (31), the second switch fixing point (32), and the fifth switch fixing point (35) are located at one end of the multi-function switch (3), and the third switch fixing point (33), the fourth switch fixing point (34), and the sixth switch fixing point (36) are located at the other end of the multi-function switch (3).

2. The multifunctional switch fixing bracket structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bracket (2) has several protruding buckles (4) in the middle, which are used to fix the connecting wires at the left and right ends of the multi-function switch (3).

3. The multifunctional switch fixing bracket structure according to claim 2, characterized in that, The number of the buckles (4) is 4, and the number of the horn contacts (5) is 4.

4. The multifunctional switch fixing bracket structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cover plate (1) and the bracket (2) are fixed by the fifth bracket fixing point (25), the sixth bracket fixing point (26), the seventh bracket fixing point (27) and the eighth bracket fixing point (28).

5. The multifunctional switch fixing bracket structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bracket (2) and the multi-function switch (3) are fixed by the first switch fixing point (31), the second switch fixing point (32), the third switch fixing point (33), the fourth switch fixing point (34), the first bracket fixing point (21), the second bracket fixing point (22), the third bracket fixing point (23), and the fourth bracket fixing point (24).

6. The multifunctional switch fixing bracket structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cover plate (1) and the multi-function switch (3) are fixed by the fifth switch fixing point (35) and the sixth switch fixing point (36).

7. The multifunctional switch fixing bracket structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cover plate (1) and bracket (2), the bracket (2) and multi-function switch (3), and the cover plate (1) and multi-function switch (3) are all fixedly connected by screws.

8. A car, characterized in that, The multifunctional switch fixing bracket structure includes any one of claims 1-7, wherein the cover plate (1) is an airbag cover plate.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

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    CN104554077A

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