Dash Panel Pass-Through Element Integrating Sound Conduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manufacturers face the challenge of producing multiple front dash panel models or a single model with an additional opening and plug to accommodate vehicles with and without sound enhancers, leading to increased manufacturing and warehousing costs.
Innovation Solution
A pass-through element for the motor vehicle front dash system that includes a body portion with a central web, a conductor pass-through member, and a sound enhancing element, allowing engine sound to be conducted from the engine compartment to the passenger compartment without requiring an additional opening or designated plug.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manufacturers produce multiple front dash panel models to accommodate vehicles with and without sound enhancers, then the adaptability is improved, but the manufacturing complexity and warehousing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The pass-through element is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as a structural component of the front dash panel, provides a passage for electrical conductors through its central web, and incorporates a sound enhancing element that can condition engine sound. This multi-functional design allows a single panel model to accommodate both vehicles with and without sound enhancers, eliminating the need for multiple panel variants.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the conductor pass-through function and the sound enhancement function into a single integrated pass-through element. The sound enhancing element is incorporated directly into the pass-through structure, combining what would traditionally be separate components (conductor passage and sound enhancement apparatus) into one unified element that simplifies manufacturing and assembly.
2Device complexity
If a single front dash panel model with an additional opening and plug is produced, then the manufacturing complexity is reduced, but the adaptability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The pass-through element maintains a universal design that works for both configurations. The sound enhancing element can be activated or deactivated based on vehicle requirements, allowing the same panel model to serve vehicles with or without sound enhancement capabilities, thus maintaining adaptability while simplifying manufacturing.
3Adaptability or versatility
If an additional opening is provided in the front dash panel for sound enhancers, then the adaptability is improved, but the structural integrity and aesthetic appearance may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The sound enhancing element is integrated into the existing pass-through structure rather than requiring a separate opening. The sound enhancing element utilizes the central web area alongside the conductor pass-through member, allowing sound conditioning functionality to be added without creating additional openings that would compromise the panel's structural integrity or aesthetic appearance.
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
Enables a single front dash panel design to accommodate both vehicles with and without sound enhancers, reducing manufacturing and warehousing costs while providing enhanced engine sound experience to passengers.
Implementation Method 1
The sound enhancing element is configured and disposed to conduct motor vehicle engine sound from an engine compartment to a passenger compartment through the motor vehicle front of dash system
Data Source
AI summary
A pass-through element for a motor vehicle front of dash panel system includes a body portion having an outer edge that surrounds a central web. A conductor pass-through member is provided in the central web, and a sound enhancing element provided in the central web alongside the conductor pass-through member. The sound enhancing element is configured and disposed to condition and conduct motor vehicle engine sound from an engine compartment to a passenger compartment through the motor vehicle front of dash system.