An instrument panel applique assembly

Abstract

This utility model relates to the field of decorative panel assemblies, and discloses a dashboard decorative panel assembly, comprising a base layer, a middle layer, and a skin layer sequentially composited from bottom to top. The base layer is a PC / ABS material upper decorative panel body with a buckle structure on its back for fixing to the dashboard body and positioning grooves on its surface. The middle layer is a 3D mesh fabric, and the skin layer is double-stitched PVC leather. The three layers are composited into one unit. In this utility model, the base layer is injection molded from PC / ABS material, which combines high strength and weather resistance. The 3D mesh fabric of the middle layer, with its double-layer mesh and X-90° vertical monofilament structure, provides excellent cushioning elasticity and breathability. The double-stitched PVC leather of the skin layer, by corresponding to the positioning grooves, avoids sewing misalignment. The three-layer composite design structurally improves the integrity and durability of the decorative panel.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of decorative panel assemblies, and more particularly to a decorative panel assembly for an instrument panel. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of the automotive industry, consumers' requirements for truck cab interiors have shifted from basic functionality to a focus on comfort, aesthetics, and safety. As the core visual component of the cab, the dashboard's trim panel assembly's texture, feel, and structural stability have become key considerations in interior design. Modern automotive interiors not only need to meet the driver's visual aesthetic needs but also need to consider environmental standards, ease of assembly, and structural reliability during long-term use. Traditional trim panel structures and processes are gradually becoming inadequate to meet these diverse performance requirements.

[0003] Existing dashboard trim panels have significant shortcomings in practical applications: First, traditional substrates are mostly injection molded from a single material, resulting in limited structural strength and weather resistance. The simple back support structure makes them prone to deformation during vehicle vibrations, and assembly relies on complex tools or bolts, leading to inefficiency. Second, the intermediate layer material typically lacks a three-dimensional support structure, resulting in a hard feel, insufficient elasticity, and poor breathability and moisture permeability, failing to meet the requirements for a comfortable touch. Furthermore, traditional processes involve high levels of chemical reagents, failing to meet environmental standards, and the structural design cannot meet the strength requirements of passenger-side airbag deployment tests, thus failing to balance safety and functionality. Utility Model Content

[0004] To overcome the above deficiencies, this utility model provides a dashboard trim panel assembly, which aims to improve the problems of limited structural strength of traditional substrates and lack of three-dimensional support structure in the intermediate layer, thus solving the problems mentioned in the background art.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution: an instrument panel trim assembly, comprising a base layer, an intermediate layer and an outer skin layer sequentially laminated from bottom to top. The base layer is an upper trim panel body made of PC / ABS material, with a buckle structure on its back for fixing to the instrument panel body and a positioning groove on its surface. The intermediate layer is a 3D mesh fabric, and the outer skin layer is double-stitched PVC leather. The three layers are laminated into one unit.

[0006] As a further description of the above technical solution:

[0007] The 3D mesh fabric has a double-layer mesh structure, with monofilaments arranged vertically at X-90° to form a three-dimensional support structure.

[0008] As a further description of the above technical solution:

[0009] The double sutures of the epidermis correspond to the positioning grooves of the substrate layer to prevent the sutures from shifting.

[0010] As a further description of the above technical solution:

[0011] The back of the substrate layer is provided with a T-shaped reinforcing rib network, which is composed of T-shaped reinforcing ribs orthogonally distributed in the transverse and longitudinal directions.

[0012] As a further description of the above technical solution:

[0013] The height of the T-shaped reinforcing rib is 3-5mm to enhance the deformation resistance and structural stability of the substrate layer.

[0014] As a further description of the above technical solution:

[0015] The substrate layer surface is provided with an activated adhesive layer for fixing the intermediate layer, so as to enhance the bonding strength between the substrate layer and the intermediate layer.

[0016] As a further description of the above technical solution:

[0017] The positioning groove has serrated protrusions on its groove wall edge, with a protrusion height of 0.3-0.5mm, which improves the reliability of fixing.

[0018] As a further description of the above technical solution:

[0019] The snap-fit ​​structure is a T-shaped or L-shaped snap-fit ​​component protruding from the back of the substrate layer, used to form a snap-fit ​​engagement with the slot of the instrument panel body to achieve rapid assembly.

[0020] This utility model has the following beneficial effects:

[0021] 1. In this utility model, the base material layer is firstly injection molded from PC / ABS material, which has both high strength and weather resistance. The back buckle structure can be quickly snapped onto the dashboard body, improving assembly efficiency. The surface positioning groove is fixed by precisely limiting the middle layer (3D mesh fabric) and using activated adhesive, ensuring accurate positioning when the three-layer structure is composited. The 3D mesh fabric of the middle layer, with its double-layer mesh and X-90° vertical monofilament structure, provides excellent cushioning elasticity and breathability, improving tactile comfort. The double-stitched PVC leather of the outer layer corresponds to the positioning groove to avoid sewing deviation. After hot pressing, it forms a high-resilience soft-touch surface. At the same time, the composite structure of PVC material and 3D mesh reduces the content of chemical reagents, meeting environmental protection requirements. The three-layer composite design structurally improves the integrity and durability of the decorative panel.

[0022] 2. In this utility model, the T-shaped reinforcing rib network on the back of the substrate layer is orthogonally distributed, which enhances the resistance to deformation and effectively resists the vibration during vehicle operation. The serrated protrusions on the edge of the positioning groove increase the contact area with the intermediate layer, improve the fixation reliability, and prevent the layers from separating. The buckle structure adopts a T-shaped or L-shaped design, and the structure protruding from the back facilitates precise matching with the dashboard slot, enabling tool-free and quick installation. The activated adhesive layer strengthens the bonding strength between the substrate and the intermediate layer, avoiding delamination during long-term use. In addition, the high-density three-dimensional support structure of the 3Dmesh fabric (800 times the density of conventional springs) combined with the double-stitched process of the surface layer gives the decorative panel both cushioning protection and aesthetics. The weakening-free design meets the requirements of the passenger airbag deployment test, while the overall structure is scratch-resistant, which can extend the service life of the dashboard, taking into account both safety and practicality. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a dashboard decorative panel assembly proposed in this utility model;

[0024] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the substrate layer structure of a dashboard decorative panel assembly proposed in this utility model;

[0025] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the skin layer structure of a dashboard decorative panel assembly proposed in this utility model;

[0026] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the intermediate layer structure of a dashboard decorative panel assembly proposed in this utility model.

[0027] Legend:

[0028] 1. Substrate layer; 2. Intermediate layer; 3. Skin layer; 4. Snap-fit ​​structure; 5. Positioning groove. Detailed Implementation

[0029] The technical solutions of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present utility model, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of the present utility model.

[0030] Reference Figure 1-4This utility model provides an embodiment of an instrument panel trim assembly, comprising a base layer 1, an intermediate layer 2, and an outer skin layer 3, sequentially composited from bottom to top. The base layer 1 is a PC / ABS material upper trim panel body, with a snap-fit ​​structure 4 on its back for fixing to the instrument panel body, and a positioning groove 5 on its surface. The intermediate layer 2 is a 3D mesh fabric, and the outer skin layer 3 is double-stitched PVC leather. The three layers are composited into one unit. This trim assembly achieves its function through the three-layer composite structure of the base layer 1, intermediate layer 2, and outer skin layer 3: the base layer 1 is injection molded from PC / ABS material, and the back... The snap-fit ​​structure 4 can be snapped onto the dashboard body. The surface positioning groove 5 fixes the middle layer 2 (3D mesh fabric) with activated adhesive. The double-stitched PVC leather of the outer skin layer 3 is punched and sewn, and then corresponds to the position of the positioning groove 5 and is hot-pressed together. During operation, the snap-fit ​​structure 4 enables quick tool-free installation, the positioning groove 5 precisely limits the middle layer 2, and the hot-pressing process makes the three layers tightly bonded. The PC / ABS substrate takes into account both strength and weather resistance. The snap-fit ​​assembly improves efficiency. The three-layer composite structure solves the problems of high cost and hard touch of traditional slush molding process. Hot-pressing composite enhances the overall firmness and meets the requirements of interior aesthetics and durability.

[0031] The 3D mesh fabric features a double-layer mesh structure. The monofilaments are arranged vertically at an X-90° angle to form a three-dimensional support structure, with a density 800 times that of a conventional spring structure. During operation, when pressed, the vertical monofilaments provide cushioning through elastic deformation. The double-layer mesh creates breathable channels, achieving moisture permeability and significantly improving the feel of the decorative panel, giving the surface a soft and elastic texture. Simultaneously, the breathability enhances the comfort of the cab environment. The three-dimensional support structure can also withstand minor impacts, protecting the base layer 1 and solving the problem of insufficient elasticity in traditional PVC adsorption processes. The double seams of the outer layer 3 correspond to the positioning grooves 5 of the base layer 1 to prevent seam misalignment during the sewing process. The positioning groove 5 physically limits the seam. During hot-pressing, the alignment of the seam and the positioning groove 5 ensures that the outer skin layer 3 is precisely bonded to the middle layer 2 and the substrate layer 1. This structural alignment achieves precision control in processing, avoiding the problem of skewing seams in traditional manual wrapping and improving appearance consistency. Simultaneously, the cooperation between the seam and the positioning groove 5 enhances the fixing strength of the outer skin layer 3, preventing wrinkles or displacement during long-term use. The back of the substrate layer 1 is equipped with a T-shaped reinforcing rib network. This network consists of horizontally and vertically orthogonally distributed T-shaped reinforcing ribs, forming a grid-like support structure. During vehicle vibration, the orthogonal layout of the reinforcing ribs disperses stress, suppressing bending deformation of the substrate layer 1. The structural mechanics enhances rigidity, solving the problem of easy deformation due to the single back support of traditional substrates, thus extending the service life of the decorative panel. Simultaneously, the reinforcing ribs do not add excessive weight, balancing lightweight design with strength requirements. The T-shaped reinforcing ribs are 3-5mm high to enhance the deformation resistance and structural stability of the substrate layer. This size allows the reinforcing ribs to provide sufficient support strength during injection molding without affecting the assembly space of substrate layer 1. During operation, the 3-5mm rib height forms a reasonable bending section modulus, effectively resisting deformation caused by vibration. The quantitatively optimized reinforcing rib structure, compared to traditional non-quantitative designs, improves deformation resistance, ensuring the decorative panel remains flat during long-term use and does not affect the instrument's appearance. The overall assembly precision of the panel; the surface of the substrate layer 1 is provided with an activated adhesive layer for fixing the intermediate layer 2, which enhances the bonding strength between the substrate layer and the intermediate layer. The adhesive penetrates into the mesh structure of the 3D mesh fabric, and after curing, it forms a dual effect of mechanical locking and chemical bonding. Through the cross-linking reaction between the adhesive molecules and the PC / ABS substrate and 3D mesh fibers, the interlayer bonding force is enhanced, which solves the problem of weak bonding between the intermediate layer and the substrate in traditional processes, prevents delamination in humid and hot environments, and improves the durability of the decorative panel. At the same time, the activated adhesive is environmentally friendly and has low volatility, which meets the safety standards for automotive interiors; the groove wall edge of the positioning groove 5 is provided with serrated protrusions with a protrusion height of 0.3-0.The 5mm thickness enhances fixing reliability and increases the contact area with the intermediate layer 2. During operation, the serrated protrusions and adhesive work together to prevent the intermediate layer 2 from sliding within the positioning groove 5. Compared to smooth groove walls, the serrated structure improves fixing reliability by approximately 50%, ensuring that the 3D mesh fabric does not shift during hot-pressing and long-term use, guaranteeing the stability of the three-layer structure and avoiding uneven tactile issues caused by intermediate layer displacement. The snap-fit ​​structure 4 is a T-shaped or L-shaped snap-fit ​​protruding from the back of the substrate layer 1, used to form a snap-fit ​​with the slot of the instrument panel body, enabling rapid assembly. During installation, the snap-fit ​​elastically deforms and resets after being inserted into the slot, achieving rapid engagement. Utilizing the elastic deformation of the plastic and the geometric limit of the slot, tool-less assembly is achieved. Compared to traditional bolt fixing, this improves assembly efficiency and facilitates disassembly. Furthermore, the protrusion design of the snap-fit ​​structure 4 avoids interference with internal piping of the instrument panel, ensuring installation compatibility and solving the problems of low efficiency and easy interference in traditional assembly processes.

[0032] Working principle: The decorative panel assembly achieves installation and positioning through the coordinated operation of three layers: the T-shaped or L-shaped buckle structure 4 on the back of the base material layer 1 protrudes from the surface and forms a snap-fit ​​with the slot of the instrument panel body to achieve quick assembly; the positioning groove 5 on its surface has 0.3-0.5mm serrated protrusions on its edge, and the middle layer 2 (3D mesh fabric) is fixed in the groove by the activated adhesive layer. The serrated protrusions increase the contact area and improve the reliability of fixing. The double seam of the skin layer 3 corresponds to the positioning groove 5 of the base material layer 1. During hot pressing, the positioning groove 5 restricts the displacement of the seam and ensures that the skin layer 3 is precisely aligned with the base material layer 1 and the middle layer 2. The three layers are combined into one by hot pressing to form a stable decorative panel assembly.

[0033] The T-shaped reinforcing rib network (rib height 3-5mm) on the back of the substrate layer 1 enhances the substrate's resistance to deformation and resists vibrations during vehicle operation through orthogonally distributed transverse and longitudinal reinforcing ribs. In the double-layer mesh structure of the intermediate layer 2, monofilaments are arranged vertically at X-90° to form a three-dimensional support, with a density 800 times that of conventional spring structures, providing cushioning protection and excellent tactile feel while achieving breathability and moisture permeability. The double-stitched PVC leather of the outer layer 3 is heat-pressed to form a highly resilient soft-touch surface. The PVC material combined with 3D mesh fabric reduces the content of chemical reagents, meeting environmental protection and flame retardant requirements. The non-weakening design ensures that it maintains structural integrity during the passenger-side airbag deployment test, balancing safety and aesthetics.

[0034] Finally, it should be noted that the above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present utility model and is not intended to limit the present utility model. Although the present utility model has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art can still modify the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments or make equivalent substitutions for some of the technical features. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present utility model should be included within the protection scope of the present utility model.

Claims

1. A dashboard trim panel assembly, comprising a substrate layer (1), an intermediate layer (2), and a skin layer (3) sequentially laminated from bottom to top, characterized in that: The substrate layer (1) is a PC / ABS material upper trim panel body, with a buckle structure (4) on the back for fixing to the dashboard body, and a positioning groove (5) on the surface. The middle layer (2) is a 3D mesh fabric, and the outer skin layer (3) is double-stitched PVC leather. The three layers are combined into one.

2. An instrument panel fascia assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The 3D mesh fabric has a double-layer mesh structure, with monofilaments arranged vertically at X-90° to form a three-dimensional support structure.

3. An instrument panel decor assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The double sutures of the epidermal layer (3) correspond to the positioning grooves (5) of the substrate layer (1) to prevent the sutures from shifting.

4. An instrument panel decor assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The substrate layer (1) has a T-shaped reinforcing rib network on its back, which is composed of T-shaped reinforcing ribs orthogonally distributed in the transverse and longitudinal directions.

5. An instrument panel decor assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that: The height of the T-shaped reinforcing rib is 3-5mm to enhance the deformation resistance and structural stability of the substrate layer.

6. An instrument panel decor assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The substrate layer (1) has an activated adhesive layer on its surface for fixing the intermediate layer (2) to enhance the bonding strength between the substrate layer and the intermediate layer.

7. An instrument panel decor assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that: The positioning groove (5) has serrated protrusions on the edge of the groove wall, and the height of the protrusions is 0.3-0.5mm, which improves the reliability of fixing.

8. An instrument panel decor assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The snap-fit ​​structure (4) is a T-shaped or L-shaped snap-fit ​​piece protruding from the back of the substrate layer (1), which is used to form a snap-fit ​​engagement with the slot of the instrument panel body to achieve quick assembly.

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