Segmented Vehicle Trim Fastener Assembly to Prevent Interference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fasteners for vehicle trims are too long, causing interference with other components mounted between panels, leading to aesthetic issues and potential device malfunctions due to gaps and foreign substance ingress.
Innovation Solution
A fastener assembly with a reduced length, featuring first and second coupling protrusions and a fastening part that allows secure coupling without interference, utilizing ultrasonic welding and elastic deformation to prevent separation and seal gaps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a long fastener is used to securely couple the trim to the panel, then the coupling strength is improved, but the fastener interferes with other components mounted between the panel and trim
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener is divided into two separate members: a first member coupled to the trim and a second member coupled to the panel. These members are connected through coupling protrusions that engage with each other, allowing the fastener to be segmented into shorter sections that avoid interfering with components mounted between the trim and panel while maintaining secure coupling strength.
2Reliability
If a long fastener is used to ensure secure attachment, then the reliability of the trim-to-panel connection is improved, but gaps form due to interference with mounted components
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the fastener into two members with coupling protrusions, the fastener can achieve secure attachment without requiring excessive length, thereby preventing gap formation between the trim and panel while maintaining attachment reliability.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the fastener length is reduced to avoid interference, then the interference with other components is eliminated, but the coupling strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented fastener design with coupling protrusions allows each member to be shorter and avoid interference while the engagement between protrusions maintains the necessary coupling strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling protrusions are designed to nest within each other, with the protrusion from one member fitting into a corresponding recess in the other member, creating a secure mechanical connection that maintains strength despite the reduced overall fastener length.
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
Prevents interference with other components, maintains assembly convenience, and seals gaps to prevent foreign substance ingress, ensuring reliable and aesthetically pleasing trim-to-panel connections.
Implementation Method 1
a first member coupled to a vehicle trim and having a first coupling protrusion formed on a surface of the first member directed toward a panel and a second member coupled to the panel and having a second coupling protrusion formed on a surface of the second member directed toward the trim, the second coupling protrusion being coupled to the first coupling protrusion
Implementation Method 2
utilizing ultrasonic welding and elastic deformation to prevent separation
Data Source
AI summary
An embodiment fastener assembly for a vehicle includes a first member coupled to a vehicle trim and including a first coupling protrusion on a surface of the first member directed toward a panel and a second member coupled to the panel and including a second coupling protrusion on a surface of the second member directed toward the vehicle trim, the second coupling protrusion being coupled to the first coupling protrusion, wherein the first member and the second member are coupled to each other by coupling of the first coupling protrusion to the second coupling protrusion.