Vehicle Trim Panel Fastener With Slot Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicle interior components, such as center console trim panels, are prone to dislodgment during normal vehicle operation due to increased occupant interaction and reduced clearance space under instrument panels, leading to potential interference with existing instrument panels during installation.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle interior assembly featuring a main body with a side surface slot and top surface aperture, combined with a side trim panel having a projection that engages a fastener to securely attach to the main body, allowing for rigid fixation and installation without interference from existing instrument panels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If center console trim panels are designed to extend under instrument panels to increase storage space and features, then productivity and functionality are improved, but the risk of dislodgment increases and installation becomes difficult due to reduced clearance space
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system is divided into separate components: a fastener part with engagement features that attaches to the main body, and a trim panel with a projection that interfaces with the fastener. This segmentation allows the trim panel to be securely fastened while enabling tool access through the slot in the main body for installation and removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastener part acts as an intermediary between the main body and the trim panel, providing a secure mechanical connection. The fastener includes engagement features that receive the projection from the trim panel, creating a reliable attachment mechanism that prevents dislodgment while allowing controlled installation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If center console trim panels extend under instrument panels, then functionality is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to reduced clearance for tool access
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener engagement features are positioned to access the projection from a direction that does not require removing the trim panel. The slot in the main body provides access to the fastener from the front, allowing tool insertion without needing to reach under the instrument panel, thus solving the accessibility problem while maintaining the extended design.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional fastening methods are used for trim panels, then ease of manufacture is maintained, but reliability deteriorates due to increased risk of dislodgment during normal operation
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener and trim panel projection are designed with asymmetric engagement features that provide secure attachment in the intended direction while preventing dislodgment. The projection fits into the fastener engagement features in a specific orientation, creating a reliable connection that resists forces during normal vehicle operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement features include rounded or curved surfaces that facilitate easy insertion during assembly while providing secure retention during use. The curved geometry of the projection and engagement features allows for tolerant alignment during manufacturing while ensuring reliable attachment.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle interior assembly includes a main body, a side trim panel and a fastener part. The main body has a side surface through which a slot is defined and a top surface through which a fastener receiving aperture is defined. The fastener receiving aperture extends through the top surface to an inner cavity of the main body that is accessible through the slot. The side trim panel at least partially covers the side surface of the main body. The side trim panel has a projection that extends away from an inner surface of the side trim panel into the slot defined by the side surface. The fastener part extends through the fastener receiving aperture defined by the top surface and engages the projection to fixedly couple the side trim panel to the main body.