Airbag Lining Element With Hidden Predetermined Breaking Points
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for creating a predetermined breaking region in airbag lining elements are either expensive and time-consuming, or they result in an aesthetically unpleasing visible side, as they require additional machinery and processes that increase production costs.
Innovation Solution
A lining element with a dimensionally stable backing layer featuring a decorative layer on the visible side and a multiplicity of predetermined breaking points arranged along a breaking line, which are integrated during production to create a seamless, cost-effective, and aesthetically pleasing surface, allowing the airbag to break through without visible weakening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If retrospective methods (thermal or mechanical machining) are used to create predetermined breaking regions, then the breaking function is achieved, but production costs and time increase due to additional machines and working steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by creating the breaking points during the initial production process of the lining element, rather than adding them later. The thermoplastic adhesive is applied in a pattern that creates predetermined breaking points during the lamination process itself, eliminating the need for subsequent machining operations and reducing production time and costs
2Productivity
If integral methods are used to weaken the lining element during production, then production time is reduced, but the predetermined breaking contour becomes visible on the decorative layer which is aesthetically unpleasing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making the breaking points visible only on the rear side of the lining element, while the front side maintains a continuous, aesthetically pleasing decorative surface. The adhesive pattern is applied locally in such a way that it creates breaking points without compromising the visual appearance of the visible side
Solution Approach 2:
The patent resolves the aesthetic conflict by moving the breaking points to another dimension - specifically, to the rear side of the lining element. This allows the breaking function to be achieved while the front side maintains its aesthetic appearance, effectively separating the functional and aesthetic requirements into different spatial dimensions
3Shape
If additional machines and working steps are used to produce an aesthetic surface, then visual quality is improved, but production costs and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the breaking point creation process with the existing lamination process by using the thermoplastic adhesive pattern as the breaking point generator. This eliminates the need for separate machines and working steps to create breaking points, while still achieving both functional and aesthetic requirements through the integrated adhesive application process
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables a cost-efficient and aesthetically flawless production of airbag lining elements with controlled breaking points, ensuring the airbag functions effectively while maintaining a visually appealing design.
Implementation Method 1
The adhesive tape comprises a thermoplastic adhesive
Implementation Method 2
a multiplicity of regularly spaced predetermined breaking points is formed along the or in each case a predetermined breaking line. The predetermined breaking line is a one-dimensional profile of a predetermined break on the visible side of the backing layer, wherein the predetermined breaking points weaken the thickness D of the lining element or the backing layer such that the lining element breaks along the predetermined breaking line when loaded as intended
Data Source
AI summary
A lining element for use in a vehicle in order to cover an airbag includes a dimensionally stable backing layer with a first predetermined breaking region which is delimited from a surrounding region and/or from a second predetermined breaking region by at least one predetermined breaking line, where a plurality of regularly spaced predetermined breaking points are disposed along the predetermined breaking line.