Elastic Exterior Trim Structure for Adjustable Aerodynamic Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing exterior trims for motor vehicles are not sufficiently simple in construction and do not maintain a high-value appearance when adjusted, and textiles used as exterior trim parts deform significantly at high speeds.
Innovation Solution
The exterior trim part consists of a shape-retaining subcomponent and an elastic subcomponent seamlessly integrated through a two-component injection molding process, allowing the trim surface to be reversibly changed by applying force, enhancing both simplicity and aesthetic appeal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a winding shaft with membrane material is used to change trim surface area, then the trim surface can be adjusted, but the construction becomes elaborate and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state and properties of the material from rigid membrane wound on a shaft to elastic material that can reversibly change its area. The elastic material's ability to stretch and retract provides the needed adaptability without requiring complex winding mechanisms, thus resolving the contradiction between adjustability and construction complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an elastic material as a flexible thin film that can reversibly change its surface area through elastic deformation. This flexible approach replaces the rigid winding shaft mechanism, achieving trim surface adjustment while maintaining simple construction and seamless integration with the vehicle body.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple shape-retaining subcomponents connected at bending points are used, then position adjustment is achieved, but the construction becomes complex and may accumulate dirt
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple subcomponents into a seamless integrated structure where the elastic material continuously connects different regions. This eliminates discrete connection points and bending hinges that would accumulate dirt, while still allowing position adjustment through the elastic material's deformation capabilities.
3Shape
If textile is stretched over a mesh structure, then exterior trim is formed, but the textile deforms considerably at high driving speeds
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a composite structure combining a shape-retaining subcomponent (providing structural stability) with an elastic material layer (providing aerodynamic surface). This composite approach allows the trim to maintain its shape at high speeds while still enabling controlled deformation for position adjustment, resolving the contradiction between form and shape retention.
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 solution enables a seamless, simple, and aesthetically pleasing exterior trim that can be adjusted to improve aerodynamics and reduce dirt accumulation, while maintaining structural integrity and appearance.
Implementation Method 1
the further subcomponent is formed from an elastic material, the trim surface of which can be reversibly or flexibly changed by applying force
Data Source
AI summary
An exterior trim for a motor vehicle includes an exterior trim part having a central shape-retaining subcomponent and a first elastic subcomponent connected on a first side of the central shape-retaining subcomponent and a second elastic subcomponent connected on a second side of the central shape-retaining subcomponent. The central shape-retaining subcomponent is adjustable from a first position into a second position and the first elastic subcomponent and a first trim surface of the first elastic subcomponent and the second elastic subcomponent a second trim surface of the second elastic subcomponent are adjustable.