Vehicle Interior Composite Surface for Hidden Display Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle interior components lack the ability to seamlessly transition between a visible surface effect and a display of information when illuminated, failing to provide an integrated and aesthetically pleasing user interface.
Innovation Solution
A composite structure comprising a cover with a light-transmissive effect and a substrate, which presents a surface effect such as wood grain when unilluminated and displays images or information when illuminated, utilizing a light-blocking layer, light-transmissive elements, and sensors for interactive functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If a vehicle interior component provides a visible surface effect material, then aesthetic appearance is improved, but the ability to display information is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle interior component dynamically switches between two states: when the light source is off, the surface effect material is visible providing aesthetic appearance; when the light source is on, light passes through the surface effect material to illuminate the display, enabling information presentation. This dynamic state change resolves the contradiction between aesthetic appearance and display functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The surface effect material changes its optical properties based on illumination state. In the unilluminated state, it maintains its visual surface characteristics. When illuminated by the light source, it becomes translucent allowing display information to pass through. This optical property change enables the component to fulfill both aesthetic and informational functions at different times.
2Loss of information
If a display is illuminated to show information, then information visibility is improved, but the natural surface appearance is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically controls the light source to switch between illuminated and unilluminated states. When information display is needed, the light source activates allowing visibility through the surface effect material. When aesthetic appearance is prioritized, the light source remains off preserving the natural surface look. This temporal separation resolves the contradiction.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a composite structure integrates both surface effect and display, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the surface effect material with the display structure into a single integrated component. The surface effect material serves dual purposes: as the visible aesthetic surface when unilluminated and as a translucent layer allowing display illumination when lit. This merging reduces overall system complexity compared to having separate aesthetic and display components.
Solution Approach 2:
The surface effect material is designed to perform multiple functions: providing aesthetic appearance in the unilluminated state and enabling light transmission for display in the illuminated state. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby managing complexity while enhancing versatility.
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
Enables a seamless transition between a natural surface appearance and informative display, enhancing the user interface with clarity and visibility, suitable for various vehicle interior components.
Implementation Method 1
The cover may comprise a material configured to provide a light-transmissive effect
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle interior component is disclosed. The component provides a user interface with a display/image when illuminated. The component comprises a composite structure with a cover material providing a light-transmissive effect and a surface providing a surface effect (grain/wood texture) visible when the display is off. The image is presented at the cover surface when the display is on. The cover may comprise a wood veneer with backing (paper, fiber material, etc.). The composite structure may comprise a mask layer and a lens, filter, colorant, etc. The user interface may include a sensor. The light source may comprise a display panel, LED/array, module, etc. The image is visible at the user interface when display functionality is in operation; when display functionality is not in operation the surface effect of the cover (e.g. wood texture) is visible with substantially no indication of display functionality.