Vehicle Grip Assist Handle Gap Hider for Airbag Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing interface between vehicle interior trim panels and assist grip handles obstructs the deployment of airbags, as the trim panels are securely mounted to metal structural elements with fasteners that do not easily release upon airbag deployment, potentially hindering the airbag's cushioning effect during impact events.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle grip assist handle with first and second flexible gap hiders attached to its attachment portions, which cover the assist grip openings in the trim panel, allowing the trim panel to break away from the structural element during airbag deployment without obstructing the airbag's deployment and minimizing sound from relative movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the trim panel is securely mounted to the metal structural element with fasteners, then the assist grip handle is firmly positioned, but the trim panel cannot easily release upon airbag deployment
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into two functional segments: a secure mounting portion using fasteners for firm positioning, and a releaseable portion that allows easy detachment. This segmentation enables the trim panel to be firmly mounted during normal operation but easily released when airbag deployment is required.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system transitions from a static secure connection to a dynamic releaseable connection. The interface between the trim panel and metal structural element is designed to be changeable, allowing it to switch between a firmly mounted state for assist grip functionality and a released state for airbag deployment.
2Reliability
If the assist grip handle is firmly mounted, then the grip functionality is maintained, but the interface obstructs airbag deployment
Solution Approach 1:
The assist grip handle assembly is segmented into a permanent mounting portion attached to the metal structural element and a removable trim panel portion. This allows the grip functionality to be maintained through the permanent portion while the trim panel portion can be removed or released to eliminate deployment obstruction.
Solution Approach 2:
A gap hider component is introduced as an intermediary element between the assist grip handle and the trim panel opening. This gap hider maintains the aesthetic appearance and structural integrity while creating sufficient clearance to prevent obstruction of airbag deployment, serving as a mediator between the grip functionality and deployment safety requirements.
3Ease of operation
If the trim panel is released from the structural element, then airbag deployment is enabled, but a gap appears between the trim panel and assist grip handle
Solution Approach 1:
A gap hider component serves as an intermediary element that fills the space between the trim panel and assist grip handle. This component maintains the aesthetic appearance and structural continuity even when the trim panel is released from the structural element, preventing unsightly gaps from appearing.
Solution Approach 2:
The gap hider is designed as a flexible component that can adapt to the relative movement between the trim panel and assist grip handle. This flexible structure maintains visual continuity and structural appearance while accommodating the released state of the trim panel for airbag deployment.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle grip assist handle is provided with a grip assist body and a first gap hider. The grip assist body includes a gripping portion and a first attachment portion. The first gap hider is attached to the first attachment portion of the grip assist body. The first gap hider is configured to at least partially cover a first assist grip opening in a vehicle interior trim panel when the first attachment portion of the grip assist body is positioned in the first assist grip opening.