Profiled Clip for Motor Vehicle Seat Trim Connection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for forming motor vehicle seat trim elements with a foam layer on their rear surface face challenges in securely connecting these elements to cover parts, particularly in achieving a strong and flexible attachment that accommodates varying shapes and thicknesses.

Innovation Solution

A connection system comprising profiled clips with longitudinal teeth and notches, along with a harpoon and cord, is used to securely attach the trim element to the cover part, allowing for flexibility in shape and thickness variations while providing a strong and uniform attachment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional connection methods are used to attach trim element to cover part, then structural stability is achieved, but flexibility to accommodate varying shapes and thicknesses is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveflexibility to accommodate varying shapes and thicknessesVSAvoidstrength of attachment

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The connection element incorporates a spring mechanism that provides dynamic adjustment capability. The spring allows the connection element to adapt to varying thicknesses and shapes of the trim element and cover part while maintaining secure attachment through elastic deformation, thus achieving both flexibility and strength.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The connection element utilizes changes in elastic parameters through the spring mechanism to accommodate different geometric parameters of the trim element and cover part. By allowing elastic deformation, the system can adjust to varying shapes and thicknesses while maintaining reliable connection force.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Strength

If multiple separate connection elements are used to secure the trim element, then connection strength is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection strengthVSAvoidnumber of connection components

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention merges multiple connection functions into a single integrated connection element. This one-piece structure combines the gripping jaws, spring mechanism, and attachment features into one component that performs all necessary connection functions, reducing complexity while maintaining connection strength.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The connection element is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides gripping, spring-loaded adjustment, and secure attachment capabilities. This universal design eliminates the need for multiple separate components while achieving the required connection strength through integrated functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Strength

If a rigid connection system is used to ensure strong attachment, then connection strength is improved, but adaptability to varying foam densities and shapes is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveattachment strengthVSAvoidaccommodation of varying foam densities and shapes

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The connection element employs flexible elastic components including a spring mechanism that can deform to accommodate varying foam densities and shapes. This flexibility allows the rigid gripping jaws to maintain strong attachment while the elastic elements adapt to the specific geometry and material properties of the trim element and cover part.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Data Source

PatentUS10023086B2Connection of a motor vehicle seat trim element to a cover part

Publication Date: 2018.07.17 FAURECIA SIEGES D AUTOMOBILE SA

AI summary

An element of connection between a trim element of a motor vehicle seat element and a cover part, wherein the connection element has a profiled shape having, in cross-section a first jaw and a second jaw intended to pinch together an edge of the trim element and an edge of the cover part, the connection element being one piece.