Bendable Auto Interior Display Cover Support for Smooth Curvature
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automotive interior display systems face challenges in dynamically changing their shape while maintaining support and integrity, particularly in withstanding headform impact tests (HIT) without breaking.
Innovation Solution
A dynamically bendable cover panel system with a frame structure that supports the panel, featuring a first frame portion for one panel portion, a second frame portion for another panel portion, and a hinge portion coupling these frame portions to induce a smooth curvature in the flexible panel portion between them.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the cover substrate is made dynamically bendable to change shape, then the adaptability and aesthetic appeal are improved, but the structural integrity and resistance to shattering deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is divided into multiple portions (first frame portion, second frame portion, hinge portion) that can move independently relative to each other. This segmentation allows the cover substrate to bend dynamically while each frame portion maintains structural integrity, preventing shattering during shape transitions.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge portion acts as an intermediary element between the first and second frame portions. It mediates the transition between straight and bent configurations, providing controlled movement while maintaining support for the cover substrate, thereby preventing uncontrolled deformation and shattering.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the first frame portion is articulated to an off-angle relative to the second frame portion, then the dynamic shape change is achieved, but the support stability deteriorates as the first portion becomes cantilevered
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge portion serves as a stable intermediary connection between the first and second frame portions. Even when articulated at off-angles, the hinge provides a defined pivot point that maintains structural stability, preventing the first frame portion from becoming completely unsupported or cantilevered without control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the angular parameter between frame portions dynamically. The hinge portion enables controlled variation of the angle between the first and second frame portions, allowing smooth transitions between configurations while maintaining stability throughout the range of motion.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the cover substrate is allowed to bend naturally, then the flexibility is improved, but the curvature control deteriorates resulting in discontinuities and aesthetic issues
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge portion acts as a control intermediary that dictates the bending path of the cover substrate. By designing the hinge with specific geometric constraints, the system controls the curvature to be smooth and continuous, preventing natural bending discontinuities while maintaining flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge portion is designed to induce a specific curvature in the flexible panel portion, creating smoothly connected arc segments between the first and second panel portions. This controlled curvature ensures aesthetic appeal and eliminates discontinuities that would result from uncontrolled natural bending.
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 system allows for smooth, aesthetically pleasing curvature of the cover substrate while providing sufficient support to meet HIT requirements, preventing shattering and ensuring continuous functionality.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible panel portion connecting the first and second panel portions
Data Source
AI summary
A display assembly for an automotive interior comprises a dynamically bendable cover panel having first and second panel portions a flexible panel portion connecting the first and second panel portions, a display positioned adjacent the first and second panel portions, and a frame that supports the cover panel and comprises a first frame portion for supporting the first panel portion, a second frame portion for supporting the second panel portion, and a hinge portion coupling the first frame portion and the second frame portion, the hinge portion configured to induce a curvature having smoothly connected arc segments in the flexible panel portion between the first panel portion and the second panel portion when the second frame portion is articulated relative to the first frame portion from a straight position to a deployed position.