Vehicle Interior Cover Structure With Illuminated Touch Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle interior components lack an effective and aesthetically pleasing user interface system that integrates input and output devices while ensuring compatibility with various vehicle systems.
Innovation Solution
A composite structure for a vehicle interior component featuring a cover structure with a cover base and a cover layer, integrated with a user interface system that includes a light display and an input device, such as a sensor or switch, to provide a seamless interaction with vehicle occupants.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a user interface system is integrated into the vehicle interior component, then user interaction capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the user interface system directly into the vehicle interior component by combining the cover structure with input devices (touch sensors, buttons) and output devices (light displays, LEDs). This merging approach allows the component to serve dual purposes: structural coverage and user interaction interface, thereby improving user interaction capability while managing device complexity through integration rather than addition of separate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover structure is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it serves as a protective cover, an structural element, and a substrate for the user interface system. The integration of light displays and input devices into the cover enables it to function as both a mechanical component and an interactive interface, embodying the universality principle by making one component serve multiple purposes.
2Illumination intensity
If a light-transmissive cover layer is used to transmit light from the light source, then illumination effectiveness is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cover structure employs a light-transmissive cover layer with specific optical properties in the regions where light transmission is required, while other portions may have different properties. This local differentiation allows optimized light transmission effectiveness in critical areas without requiring the entire component to meet stringent manufacturing precision standards, thereby balancing illumination effectiveness with manufacturability.
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 proposed solution enhances user interaction by providing a visually appealing and functional user interface that is integrated seamlessly into the vehicle interior, facilitating control of various vehicle systems while maintaining a cohesive design.
Implementation Method 1
The cover layer may be configured to transmit light from the light source between the core of the cover base and the perimeter of the cover base
Implementation Method 2
The actuator may be configured to deform the cover layer between the core of the cover base and the perimeter of the cover base
Data Source
AI summary
A component for a vehicle interior may comprise a composite structure comprising a cover structure comprising a cover base, a cover layer and a cover surface; and a user interface system to present a user interface at the cover surface. The user interface system may comprise a light display and/or input device and/or actuator to provide feedback at the cover surface. The user interface may comprise the input device. The cover layer may cover at least a portion of the cover base. The cover base may comprise a core and a perimeter. The cover layer may be light-transmissive. The cover base may be opaque. The cover layer may form an illuminated border around the core. The cover layer may deform between the core and the perimeter. The cover structure may be integrally-formed. The cover layer may be molded on the cover base.