Flexible 3D Grille Display Assembly for EV Airflow and Styling
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Solution Overview
Problem
All-electric vehicles lack a functional grille that can provide both aesthetic appeal and functional air circulation, as traditional grilles are obsolete for electric motors.
Innovation Solution
A flexible three-dimensional display assembly using electrically interconnected light emitting elements secured to a flexible lattice fixture and display bezel, which can be mounted on a vehicle grille to provide visual design and air circulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If a traditional grille is used to provide air circulation, then air flow is improved, but aesthetic appeal and visual design are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the air circulation function of a traditional grille with the aesthetic display function of LED elements into a single integrated assembly. The grille structure serves dual purposes: allowing air flow through its open framework while simultaneously supporting visually appealing LED patterns that enhance the vehicle's appearance.
Solution Approach 2:
The grille assembly is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides air circulation for cooling, displays aesthetic visual patterns through integrated LED elements, and serves as a structural component of the vehicle front. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by making the same structure serve both practical and aesthetic purposes.
2Shape
If a display assembly is added to the grille, then aesthetic appeal is improved, but device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The display elements are merged directly into the grille structure itself, eliminating the need for separate display components. The LED elements are integrated within the grille framework, allowing the same structure to serve both as air circulation pathways and as the display medium, thereby reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs flexible circuit boards to connect the LED elements, allowing the display assembly to conform to the grille's shape and layout. This flexibility simplifies installation and integration compared to rigid display structures, reducing the complexity of adapting the display to various grille designs.
3Shape
If light emitting elements are integrated into the grille, then aesthetic appeal is improved, but manufacturing complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The display assembly is segmented into modular LED elements that can be independently manufactured and then assembled into the grille structure. This segmentation allows for standardized production of individual components followed by relatively simple assembly, reducing overall manufacturing complexity compared to producing a fully integrated custom component.
Solution Approach 2:
Flexible circuit boards are used to interconnect the LED elements, allowing the display pattern to be configured in various shapes and layouts without requiring complex rigid circuit board design and manufacturing. This flexibility simplifies the manufacturing process by enabling easier adaptation to different grille designs.
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 offers a visually appealing display while maintaining airflow, conforming to curved surfaces, and enhancing optical efficiency through strategic light reflection and alignment.
Implementation Method 1
electrically interconnected light emitting elements
Implementation Method 2
The flexible lattice fixture is secured to the substrate of the display bezel such that the pairs of light emitting elements are maintained in optical alignment with corresponding pairs of apertures of the display bezel
Data Source
AI summary
A flexible three dimensional display assembly is provided. The flexible display assembly includes electrically interconnected light emitting elements, a flexible lattice fixture and a display bezel. The light emitting elements are electrically interconnected by a system of conductors. The light emitting elements are coupled to the flexible lattice fixture by an arrangement of structurally interconnected framing cells that receive pairs of the light emitting elements. The flexible lattice fixture is secured to the substrate of the display bezel such that the pairs of light emitting elements are maintained in optical alignment with corresponding pairs of apertures of the display bezel.