Polymeric Holding Device Spring Section for Trim Panel Detachment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing holding devices for electronic units in motor vehicles face issues with detachment due to operational deformations and vibrations, leading to incorrect sensor signals as the joining sections are spaced far apart, causing tensile loads that can result in detachment from the trim panel, which is not easily recognizable.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a spring section with a U-shaped or wavy cross-section in the connecting element that allows expansion parallel to the trim part's longitudinal direction, along with a deflector panel that bends outwards to prevent detachment and protect the electronics unit from environmental influences, and using a multi-component injection molding process with laser-weldable materials for enhanced stability and joinability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the joining sections are spaced far apart to accommodate the minimum distance requirement, then the electronic unit has adequate protection from vibrations and deformations, but the trim part experiences tensile loads during operational deformation that can cause detachment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a spring section with elastic material properties into the connecting element, changing the mechanical parameters of the connection system. This spring section allows the connecting element to expand in length parallel to the longitudinal direction of the trim part, compensating for tensile loads during operational deformation and maintaining connection strength while preserving the minimum distance for vibration protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a multi-component injection molding process where the spring section is formed from a further polymeric material with more elastic material properties than the main polymeric material of the holding device. This composite structure combines the rigidity needed for structural support with the elasticity required to absorb tensile loads, resolving the contradiction between connection strength and vibration protection.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the holding device is attached to the inside of the trim part, then the electronic unit is protected from environmental influences, but detachment during operational deformation is not easily recognizable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a visual indicator element that changes its appearance or position when detachment occurs. This indicator is arranged such that it remains hidden when properly attached but becomes visible when detachment happens, allowing users to easily detect installation status without compromising the protective enclosure for the electronic unit.
3Reliability
If the joining sections are spaced far apart, then the electronic unit maintains minimum distance from trim part, but the area between joining sections is susceptible to inward deformation during operational deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a deflector panel that extends towards the inside of the trim part and is bent outwards relative to the receiving section. This flexible panel deflects outwards when the trim part deforms inwards, protecting the electronic unit from operational deformation while allowing the joining sections to maintain their spaced arrangement for vibration protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The deflector panel acts as a protective barrier that is positioned in advance to shield the electronic unit from harmful deformations. By extending towards the inside of the trim part and bending outwards, it creates a cushioning effect that prevents direct transmission of operational deformations to the electronic unit, while maintaining the minimum distance for vibration protection.
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 solution enhances connection strength to the trim part, reduces the risk of detachment, and ensures accurate sensor signals by compensating for tensile loads and protecting the electronics unit from deformations and environmental factors, while allowing for cost-effective mass production.
Implementation Method 1
the spring section allows the connecting element to expand in length parallel to the direction of longitudinal extension of the lining part
Implementation Method 2
the deflector panel extends towards the inside of the trim part when the holding device is assembled and is bent outwards relative to the receiving section, so that the deflector panel deflects outwards when the trim part is deformed inwards
Implementation Method 3
using a multi-component injection molding process with laser-weldable materials for enhanced stability and joinability
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The holding device has a receiving section (3) with a fastening unit (4) for attaching electronic unit in or on receiving section. A joining section (5) has a connecting element (8) to the receiving section, where connecting element is formed such that electronic unit has minimum distance defined to an interior of covering unit in mounted state of holding device. The connecting element has a suspension section (21), which permits longitudinal expansion of connecting element parallel to a longitudinal extension direction of covering unit. The holding device is made from a polymeric material.