Decorative Carrier Covering With Mold-Based Connecting Layer Separation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for covering carrier elements with decorative elements are prone to production errors and variations, leading to aesthetically unsatisfactory results due to manual separation processes.

Innovation Solution

A method involving a mold with a recess that compresses and separates a connecting layer from a positioning body, allowing for automated and reproducible attachment of decorative layers to a support element, using movable compression elements and heating to melt and remove the connecting layer.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If manual separation of the connecting layer from the positioning body is used, then the process is simpler, but production errors and variations increase leading to aesthetically unsatisfactory results

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocess simplicityVSAvoidproduction consistency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical separation process with an automated compression mechanism. The compression element applies controlled force to compress the connecting layer between the positioning body and the carrier element, automatically separating them without manual intervention. This substitution of manual operation with a mechanical automation system resolves the contradiction by maintaining process simplicity while dramatically improving production consistency and eliminating human error.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the physical state and mechanical properties of the connecting layer through controlled compression. By applying specific compression forces and pressures through the compression element, the connecting layer transitions from an attached state to a separated state. This parameter-based control (force, pressure, compression ratio) enables precise and repeatable separation, resolving the contradiction between simple process design and high manufacturing precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Manufacturing precision

If automated compression separation is implemented, then manufacturing precision and reproducibility improve, but device complexity increases due to additional compression elements and control systems

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproduction consistencyVSAvoidmold structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the compression separation function directly into the mold structure itself. The compression element is integrated as part of the mold assembly, combining the forming and separation operations into a single unified device. This integration reduces overall system complexity by eliminating separate automated separation equipment while maintaining high manufacturing precision through the built-in compression mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The mold structure is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as the forming tool for the decorative element and as the separation mechanism. The same mold that forms the decorative element also provides the compression action for separating the connecting layer. This universal design approach reduces device complexity by making the existing mold structure perform multiple functions without requiring additional specialized equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If the connecting layer is compressed to separate it from the positioning body, then separation reliability improves, but the connecting layer may damage the decorative layers during compression

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveseparation reliabilityVSAvoidpotential damage to decorative layers
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by positioning the compression element to exert force specifically on the connecting layer at the separation interface, rather than applying uniform compression across the entire decorative element. The compression is localized to where the connecting layer contacts the positioning body, ensuring reliable separation while minimizing stress and potential damage to the decorative layers in other areas.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements beforehand cushioning by designing the compression process to gradually increase pressure on the connecting layer before complete separation occurs. The compression element applies controlled, progressive force that prevents sudden shocks or excessive stresses that could damage the decorative layers. This cushioning approach ensures separation reliability while protecting the integrity of the decorative finish.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

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 method achieves high reproducibility and product quality by automating the separation process, ensuring consistent aesthetic appearance and reducing manual labor, while eliminating the need for perforations or breaking points in the connecting layer.

Implementation Method 1

separating the end of the bonding layer from the positioning body coupled to the bonding layer by compressing the recess

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCompression: Compression

Implementation Method 2

heating the separated end, i.e., the end of the bonding layer separated from the positioning body and located between the first and second decorative layers

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHeating: Heating

Implementation Method 3

such that the bonding layer is at least partially melted

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMelting: Melting

Data Source

PatentEP4644187A1Method for covering a carrier element with a decorative element and forming tool
Publication Date: 2025.11.05 FAURECIA INNENRAUM SYSTEME GMBH
  • EP4644187A1 patent drawingFigure 1~7
  • EP4644187A1 patent drawing
  • EP4644187A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for covering a carrier element 1 with a decorative element 2 is proposed, comprising the steps of: - providing a decorative element 2 comprising a positioning body 30, a first and a second decorative layer 21, 22, and a connecting layer 40 coupled to the positioning body 30, wherein at least one end 41, 42 of the connecting layer 40 projects from the positioning body 30 and the positioning body 30 is arranged on a first side 21A, 22A of the first and second decorative layers 21, 22, respectively; - arranging the decorative element 2 on a first mold half 110 of a mold 100 such that the positioning body 30 coupled to the connecting layer 40 is received in a recess 130 of the first mold half 110; - arranging a carrier element 1 on a second mold half 120 of the mold 100;- Joining the first and second mold halves 110, 120 such that the carrier element 1 is at least partially covered by at least one of the two decorative layers 21, 22; - Separating the end 41, 42 of the connecting layer 40 from the positioning body 30 coupled to the connecting layer 40 by compressing the recess 130.;