Vehicular Overhead Console Flexible PCB Layout for Modular Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle systems with multiple electronic components and control units are complex and difficult for drivers to manage, leading to reduced effectiveness and increased complexity in processing and communication.
Innovation Solution
A vehicular overhead console system that integrates primary and secondary printed circuit boards (PCBs) with flexible PCBs, allowing for efficient communication and housing of electronic components such as sensors, light sources, and user inputs, thereby simplifying control and information presentation to the driver.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple electronic components and control units are integrated into the overhead console, then the functionality and control capability are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The overhead console is divided into multiple modular sections, each housing specific electronic components and control units. The console body is segmented to accommodate different functional modules independently, allowing for easier assembly, maintenance, and reduced overall complexity while maintaining comprehensive functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The overhead console is designed as a multi-functional integration platform that combines lighting controls, sunroof controls, entertainment system controls, and sensor arrays within a single unified structure. This universal design allows one device to perform multiple functions, improving versatility without proportionally increasing complexity.
2Ease of operation
If multiple electronic components are housed in a single console, then the control interface is simplified for the driver, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The console is manufactured as modular sections that can be assembled independently. Each module contains specific electronic components pre-assembled and tested, then integrated into the final console structure. This segmentation simplifies manufacturing processes while maintaining a unified control interface for the driver.
Solution Approach 2:
Electronic components and sub-assemblies are nested within the console structure in a hierarchical manner. Smaller functional units are integrated into larger modules, which are then incorporated into the main console body. This nested arrangement simplifies the control interface presentation while managing manufacturing complexity through standardized nesting protocols.
3Ease of operation
If advanced driver assist systems and electronic modules are integrated, then the driver control and understanding is improved, but the processing and communication complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple processing units and communication modules are merged into a centralized control architecture within the overhead console. This consolidation allows for unified processing of data from various sensors and actuators, simplifying the interface presented to the driver while managing internal processing complexity through integrated communication protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
A centralized control unit acts as an intermediary between various electronic modules and the driver interface. This mediator processes and coordinates communication between sensors, actuators, and display elements, simplifying the driver's interaction with complex systems while managing internal processing and communication workflows.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicular overhead console module includes a base portion configured to attach at an interior portion of a vehicle, a primary printed circuit board (primary PCB) accommodated by the base portion, and a secondary printed circuit board (secondary PCB) accommodated by the base portion and spaced from the primary PCB. The secondary PCB is electrically connected to an electronic component accommodated by the base portion and includes electronic circuitry associated with the electronic component. Electronic circuitry of the primary PCB includes a processor for processing electronic signals received from the secondary PCB. The primary PCB and the secondary PCB are secured at the base portion via one or more press-fit pins of the base portion. A flexible electrical connection electrically connects the primary PCB and the secondary PCB and flexes to conform to an inner surface of the base portion.