Vehicle Trim Light Pipe Pocket for Flush Illumination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing interior trim components with illuminated features often result in uneven appearance surfaces and risk damage to light pipes during installation due to protruding light piping designs.
Innovation Solution
A light-pipe pocket with translucent material is integrated between trim panels, secured by seams that are concealed on the appearance surface, allowing a light conductive strip to be inserted after assembly, maintaining a flush appearance and preventing damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a protruding light piping design is used to provide illuminated features, then illumination function is achieved, but the appearance surface becomes uneven and the light pipe is at risk of damage during installation
Solution Approach 1:
The light pipe is nested within a recessed pocket structure in the trim panel, allowing the illumination function to be integrated while maintaining a flush appearance surface. The pocket accommodates the light pipe without protruding, resolving the contradiction between illumination function and surface evenness
Solution Approach 2:
The recessed pocket structure is pre-formed in the trim panel before light pipe installation, creating a protective cavity that prevents damage during assembly. This preliminary structural preparation allows safe insertion while maintaining the desired flush appearance
2Illumination intensity
If a protruding light piping design is used, then illumination function is achieved, but the light pipe is at risk of damage during installation
Solution Approach 1:
The recessed pocket structure serves as a protective cushioning structure that absorbs installation forces and prevents damage to the light pipe during assembly. The pocket provides a safe receiving space that protects the light pipe from mechanical damage
Solution Approach 2:
By nesting the light pipe within the recessed pocket, the structure provides inherent protection during installation, reducing the risk of damage while maintaining the illumination function
3Ease of manufacture
If seams are visible on the appearance surface, then assembly structure is simple, but the aesthetic appearance is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The seam lines are extracted from the appearance surface by routing them into the recessed pocket structure. This separates the functional assembly seams from the aesthetic appearance surface, maintaining both assembly simplicity and visual evenness
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 provides a durable, aesthetically pleasing illuminated trim component with a smooth appearance surface, as the light pipe is recessed and can be inserted safely post-assembly, avoiding damage and ensuring evenness.
Implementation Method 1
A light conductive strip is inserted in the central tunnel of the pocket. Light from the light source is visible through the translucent material of the central tunnel.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle seat is provided having first and second trim panels having an outer appearance surface. An illumination trim portion separates the first and second trim panels. The illumination portion has a pocket formed of translucent material and has first and second lateral flaps disposed on opposite sides of a central tunnel. A first seam secures the illumination portion to the first trim panel and to the first lateral flap. A second seam secures the illumination portion to the second trim panel and to the second lateral flap. A light conducting strip is inserted in the central tunnel of the pocket. A light source is in communication with the light conducting strip. Light from the light source is visible through the translucent material of the central tunnel.