Transparent Vehicle Part Paint Etching for Concealed Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for manufacturing transparent vehicle parts face issues with color matching, precision of patterns, and visibility of underlying elements when light sources are off, which detract from vehicle aesthetics.
Innovation Solution
A method involving applying a single-coat paint layer followed by partial laser etching in a predefined pattern to create a residual paint layer that conceals underlying elements and matches vehicle paintwork.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a film with opaque pattern is overmolded onto the transparent part, then the light transmission pattern is improved, but color matching with vehicle paintwork deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from film to paint, and changes the application method parameter from overmolding to spray painting, thereby achieving both precise patterns through laser engraving and perfect color matching through paint formulation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical film overmolding process with a chemical paint application process followed by laser engraving, eliminating the color matching issues inherent in film applications while maintaining pattern precision
2Ease of manufacture
If masking is applied to decorate the transparent part, then the light transmission pattern is improved, but the precision of the pattern deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual masking process with automated laser engraving technology, which uses optical fields instead of mechanical masking to achieve highly precise pattern rendering on the painted surface
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the pattern application method from mechanical masking to laser-based selective paint removal, enabling precise control of pattern dimensions and edges through laser parameter adjustment
3Manufacturing precision
If laser irradiation removes full thickness of paint layer in pattern area, then the pattern precision is improved, but the visibility of underlying elements when light source is off deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by removing only a portion of the paint layer thickness in the pattern area rather than complete removal, creating a semi-transparent effect that maintains pattern precision while concealing underlying elements when the light source is off
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different paint layer treatments to different areas: partial removal in the pattern area for aesthetic effect, and complete retention in non-pattern areas for full concealment, thereby achieving local optimization of both visibility and aesthetics
4Ease of manufacture
If multiple coating steps are applied to the transparent part, then the color matching is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the color matching function and pattern formation function into a single integrated process: applying one coat of paint that serves both purposes, then using laser engraving to create the pattern, thereby eliminating the need for multiple separate coating steps
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 method provides precise pattern rendering, avoids color mismatching, and ensures that underlying elements are concealed when light sources are off, enhancing vehicle aesthetics while maintaining light transmission.
Implementation Method 1
partially irradiating the paint layer with laser radiation so as to etch the paint layer in a predefined pattern
Data Source
AI summary
A method for manufacturing a vehicle part includes: applying a paint layer to one face of a transparent or translucent part; and partially irradiating the paint layer with laser radiation so as to etch the paint layer in a predefined pattern and in part of its thickness.