Electric Vehicle Front End Panel With Transparent Closed Fascia
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The transition from fuel-driven or hybrid cars to electric vehicles presents new design possibilities for the front fascia, as the need for cooling air intake is reduced, but existing designs fail to capitalize on this by providing innovative and aesthetically appealing alternatives to the traditional grille.
Innovation Solution
A front end panel assembly for electric vehicles featuring a partially optically transparent laminate sheet flanked by a spacing structure, which forms a closed space and can include reflective patterns, lighting modules, and electronic component integration, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional grille is used to allow cooling air flow, then the radiator cooling function is achieved, but the design flexibility and aesthetic possibilities are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the cooling function from the traditional grille structure by removing the need for air flow openings. The grille is replaced with a closed laminate panel that achieves cooling through alternative means (conduction via mounting structure to EV components), enabling complete design freedom for aesthetic purposes without compromising cooling functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical air flow system (grille openings allowing convective cooling) with a thermal conduction system where heat is transferred through the laminate mounting structure to EV components. This substitution eliminates the need for openings while maintaining cooling effectiveness.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a closed component replaces the grille, then new design possibilities are opened, but the cooling air flow function is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary thermal conduction path through the laminate mounting structure. Instead of direct air flow through openings, heat is transferred from the radiator to EV components (such as the motor controller or battery) through the laminate's mounting structure, which acts as a thermal bridge, maintaining cooling without requiring openings.
3Illumination intensity
If an optically transparent laminate is used, then aesthetic appeal and visibility are enhanced, but structural strength and protection are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite material construction with the laminate panel mounted on a rigid support structure (frame or substructure). The laminate provides aesthetic and optical properties while the supporting frame provides structural strength, creating a composite system that combines the advantages of both materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested structure where the optically transparent laminate panel is mounted within and supported by a rigid frame or substructure. The laminate is positioned in front of the frame, creating a layered assembly where the inner frame provides structural support while the outer laminate provides aesthetic and optical functionality.
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 assembly provides a visually engaging and functional front fascia that integrates lighting and electronic components, offering design flexibility and improved aesthetic appeal while maintaining structural integrity.
Implementation Method 1
The optically transparent thermoplastic substrate is transparent to at least light visible to the human eye, wherein the transmittance of visible light is above 30%
Implementation Method 2
the laminate sheet may comprise a layer that forms a pattern when light reflects on or radiates through the laminate sheet
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2~3
AI summary
The invention relates to a front end panel assembly for an electric vehicle (300), the assembly comprising an at least partially optically transparent laminate sheet (108) having side edges, comprising an optically transparent thermoplastic substrate and at least one protective layer, and a spacing structure (112) comprising a base (110) and a peripheral upstanding wall (120) extending from the base, wherein the upstanding wall connects to the laminate at at least part of the side edges of the laminate, such that a space (122) is formed and enclosed between the laminate sheet and the spacing structure, and wherein the at least one protective layer of the laminate faces away from the spacing structure.