Deformable Trim Panel with Movable Support Element

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Solution Overview

Problem

Vehicle trim elements, such as door panels, face a dilemma where either the appearance is unsatisfactory due to a movable support element or comfort is compromised by a fixed, integrated support surface, failing to adapt to passenger morphology and seat position.

Innovation Solution

A trim element with a deformable panel and movable support element, controlled by an actuator and control device, allowing the support surface to be positioned in various areas, maintaining a harmonious appearance while adapting to passenger and seat adjustments.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a movable support element is provided to adapt the support surface position to passenger morphology and seat position, then the ergonomics and comfort are improved, but the appearance is degraded because the support element is not harmoniously integrated into the door panel

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability of support surface positionVSAvoidappearance continuity of door panel

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The support element is positioned inside the trim panel cavity, nested within the door panel structure. The trim panel is deformable to marry the contour of the support element, creating a nested configuration where the support element is housed within the panel while the deformable panel maintains a continuous outer surface, resolving the contradiction between movability and appearance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The trim panel is designed with deformable properties, allowing it to flex and marry the contour of the support element when the support surface is in different positions. This flexibility enables the panel to adapt to the support element's position while maintaining appearance continuity from the outside.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

2Shape

If the support surface is fixed and integrated into the door panel, then the appearance continuity is maintained, but the comfort is reduced since the position cannot be adapted to passenger morphology and seat position

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveappearance continuity of door panelVSAvoidadaptability of support surface position

Core Design Contradiction:

ShapeVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The support element is made movable between different positions within the trim panel, transforming the static support surface into a dynamic one. The actuator enables the support element to translate along guides, allowing the support surface position to be adjusted dynamically to adapt to different passenger morphologies and seat positions while the deformable panel maintains appearance continuity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The trim panel serves multiple functions: it provides the outer aesthetic surface, houses the movable support element, and deforms to maintain appearance continuity. The support element itself becomes multi-functional, serving as both a structural component and an adjustable support surface that adapts to different usage scenarios.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the support element is made movable between different positions, then the ergonomics are improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for actuators and control devices

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability of support surface positionVSAvoidcomplexity of actuation system

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system can automatically adjust the support element position based on seat position detection, with the control device commanding the actuator to position the support element appropriately. This self-service capability reduces the need for manual intervention and integrates seamlessly with the vehicle's existing control systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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

Enhances ergonomics and comfort by allowing customizable support surface positioning without compromising aesthetic continuity, accommodating diverse passenger morphologies and seat configurations.

Implementation Method 1

the trim panel being deformable to marry at least part of the contour of the support element in all positions of the support element

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS10696200B2Trim element comprising a support surface positionable in a plurality of positions

Publication Date: 2020.06.30 FAURECIA INTERIEUR IND

AI summary

A trim element having a trim panel that includes an inner face and an outer face and at least one support element extending over the inner face and protruding toward the outer face such that the trim panel marries at least part of the contour of the support element in order to form a support surface on the outer face. The support element can be positioned in a plurality of positions relative to the trim panel, which is deformable to marry at least part of the contour of the support element so that the support surface can be positioned in a plurality of areas of the outer face.