Glass Trim Element for Vehicle Pillars

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing exterior vehicle trim elements, particularly at the A-, B-, and C-pillars, are prone to scratches and UV degradation, leading to a loss of aesthetic appeal and durability.

Innovation Solution

A glass trim element with a thermoplastic or duroplastic support member, offering enhanced scratch resistance and aesthetic qualities, which can be customized with features like lighting, logos, and touch functionalities, and is designed to withstand weathering.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Shape

If plastic or metal trim elements are used to cover exterior vehicle parts, then aesthetic appearance is improved, but scratch resistance and UV durability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaesthetic appearanceVSAvoidscratch resistance and UV durability

Core Design Contradiction:

ShapeVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The trim element combines a plastic support member (providing structural integrity and mounting capability) with a glass cover part (providing scratch resistance and UV durability). This composite structure allows each material to contribute its superior properties, resolving the contradiction between aesthetic appearance and durability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

2Ease of manufacture

If traditional plastic materials are used for exterior trim, then ease of manufacture is improved, but resistance to weathering and chemical degradation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemanufacturing simplicityVSAvoidweathering and chemical resistance

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The glass cover part is fixed to the plastic support member using adhesive, creating a composite structure that maintains manufacturing simplicity while dramatically improving weathering and chemical resistance. The glass layer protects against UV degradation and chemical attack.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

3Reliability

If glass is used for the cover part, then scratch resistance and weathering resistance are improved, but mechanical impact strength may deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvescratch resistance and weathering resistanceVSAvoidimpact strength

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The combination of glass and plastic creates a composite structure where the plastic support member absorbs impact energy through deformation, protecting the glass cover from direct impact forces. This resolves the contradiction by allowing the glass to provide surface hardness while the plastic provides impact absorption.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

Data Source

PatentUS11364860B2Exterior glass trim element for vehicle

Publication Date: 2022.06.21 AGC GLASS EUROPE SA

AI summary

An exterior trim element for a motor vehicle which includes a cover part made of glass disposed on a support member.