Grounded Conductive Trim Ring for Console Proximity Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Consoles with conductive decorative trim components interfere with proximity switches' activation fields, disrupting their functionality.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle console with a polymeric, electrically conductive trim ring grounded to the circuit board, using a two-shot molding process with improved ABS material containing carbon nanotubes and carbon black for low surface resistivity, ensuring the trim ring does not disrupt the activation field.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If conductive decorative trim components are used in the console, then visual appeal and conductivity are improved, but interference with proximity switch activation fields occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful effect of conductive trim interfering with activation fields by grounding the trim ring to a reference potential. This eliminates the interference while preserving the conductive material's visual appeal and decorative function. The harmful electrical interference is transformed into a beneficial grounded conductive path that prevents field disruption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the electrical parameter of the trim ring by establishing a fixed reference potential through grounding. This parameter change (from floating conductive potential to grounded reference potential) eliminates the interference with the activation field while maintaining the trim's conductive and aesthetic properties.
2Reliability
If polymeric material with carbon nanotubes and carbon black is used for the trim ring, then electrical conductivity and low surface resistivity are improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a composite polymeric material containing carbon nanotubes and carbon black to achieve the desired electrical conductivity and low surface resistivity in the trim ring. This composite material approach allows the polymeric trim to be both aesthetically pleasing and electrically conductive when grounded, resolving the contradiction between material performance and manufacturing complexity.
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 grounded trim ring maintains the activation field integrity, allowing seamless operation of proximity switches without interference, while being visually appealing and cost-effective.
Implementation Method 1
The proximity sensor is a capacitive sensor
Implementation Method 2
The trim ring is made of a polymeric material and is electrically conductive and grounded
Implementation Method 3
The acryloninitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) comprising approximately 0.5% to approximately 2% volume multi-walled carbon nanotubes and approximately 4% to approximately 6% volume high aspect ratio carbon black
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle console includes a trim ring disposed over a periphery of a housing. The trim ring includes a polymeric material and is electrically conductive and grounded. A proximity switch assembly is retained in the housing. The proximity switch assembly includes a proximity sensor proximate a sensing pad for generating an activation field. The sensing pad is proximate the trim ring.