Polymeric Trim Part with Integrated Form-Fitting Receptacle for Electronic Module

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electronic module systems for motor vehicles require increased installation effort and costs due to separate fastening means that need to be bonded to the trim part, complicating the assembly process.

Innovation Solution

An electronic module system where the trim part, made of polymeric material, has an integrally manufactured form-fitting receptacle for the electronic module, simplifying assembly by eliminating the need for separate fastening means and utilizing the flange area for both connection and accommodation of the module.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If separate fastening means are used to attach electronic modules to the trim part, then the electronic module can be securely fastened, but the assembly process becomes more complex and costly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecure fastening of electronic moduleVSAvoidassembly process complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The fastening function is merged into the trim part structure itself through the form-fitting receptacle. The receptacle integrates the mounting function directly into the trim part, eliminating the need for separate fastening means and reducing assembly complexity while maintaining secure attachment of the electronic module.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The flange area of the trim part is given dual functionality: it serves both as the connection area for mounting the trim part to the motor vehicle and as the accommodation area for the electronic module through the integrated form-fitting receptacle. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If separate fastening means are used to attach electronic modules to the trim part, then the electronic module can be securely fastened, but installation costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecure fastening of electronic moduleVSAvoidinstallation cost

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The fastening function is merged into the trim part structure itself through the form-fitting receptacle. The receptacle integrates the mounting function directly into the trim part, eliminating the need for separate fastening means and reducing assembly complexity while maintaining secure attachment of the electronic module.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Device complexity

If the flange area is used for both connection and accommodation of electronic modules, then assembly is simplified, but the flange area must serve dual functions

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveassembly complexityVSAvoidflange area functionality

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The flange area of the trim part is given dual functionality: it serves both as the connection area for mounting the trim part to the motor vehicle and as the accommodation area for the electronic module through the integrated form-fitting receptacle. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP3375670B1Electronic module system for a motor vehicle

Publication Date: 2019.10.16 REHAU AG & CO

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AI summary

The present invention relates to an electronic module system for a motor vehicle, comprising a fairing part (1) made of a polymeric material and at least one electronic module (2) connected to or arranged on the fairing part (1), wherein the fairing part (1) has an outer surface (3) visible when used as intended on the motor vehicle and an inner surface (4) opposite the outer surface (3), wherein a subsection (6) or a receiving area is manufactured and/or formed integrally with the fairing part (1), and the subsection (6) or the receiving area forms a positive-locking receptacle (7) for the electronic module (2).