Vehicle Console Tray Elastic Overlay for Noise Dampening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicle interior storage solutions, such as console trays, often result in noise due to shifting articles, which is mitigated by using rubber mats or padding, but these are not aesthetically pleasing and inappropriate as visible design elements.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle interior trim assembly comprising three members, where the third member is more elastic and overlays the second member, providing a mounting structure that engages with the first member to absorb noise and maintain aesthetic appeal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If rubber mats or padding are used inside storage locations to dampen noise, then noise from moving articles is reduced, but aesthetic appearance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from conventional rubber/padding to a plastic material with elastomeric properties (polymer with rubber-like characteristics). This allows the material to provide noise dampening through its elastomeric nature while maintaining visual appeal through plastic material aesthetics and design flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a composite material approach by creating a plastic material that incorporates elastomeric properties, effectively combining the noise-dampening characteristics of rubber with the aesthetic and structural advantages of plastic materials in a unified composition
2Object-affected harmful factors
If elastic material is used to overlay the trim member, then noise dampening is improved, but the complexity of the assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the elastic trim member with the mounting structure by integrating mounting features directly into the elastic member itself. The mounting structures are formed as integral parts of the elastic trim member, eliminating separate fastening components and simplifying the overall assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic trim member serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides noise dampening through its elastomeric properties, acts as a structural component with integrated mounting features, and maintains aesthetic appearance. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components
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 elastic trim member effectively dampens noise from shifting articles while maintaining a visually appealing design, enhancing passenger comfort without compromising aesthetics.
Implementation Method 1
the third trim member is more elastic than the first and second trim members and is coupled to and at least partially overlays the second trim member... The elastic trim member effectively dampens noise from shifting articles
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle interior trim assembly comprises first, second and third trim members. The first trim member has a first surface which includes a first mounting structure. The second trim member is positioned adjacent to the first trim member such that a first peripheral edge of the first trim member faces a second peripheral edge of the second trim member. The third trim member is more elastic than the first and second trim members and is coupled to and at least partially overlays the second trim member. The third trim member has a second surface including a second mounting structure, and a third peripheral edge of the third trim member extends beyond the second peripheral edge of the second trim member such that the second mounting structure of the third trim member engages the first mounting structure of the first trim member.