Vehicle Trim Panel Grooved Edge Coating Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trim panels for motor vehicles face challenges in achieving a satisfactory peripheral finish, both aesthetically and in terms of robustness, particularly in the corners, where the existing coatings and edges do not provide a secure and visually appealing integration.
Innovation Solution
A trim panel design featuring a core with a grooved back face and a folded edge on the face coating, where the free edge of the folded coating is inserted into the groove, creating a secure and aesthetically pleasing peripheral finish, and a method for producing this panel involving molding a polyurethane foam core with a groove and applying coatings that match the groove's geometry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If the back coating is applied flat without following the groove geometry, then the manufacturing process is simpler, but the peripheral finish is aesthetically poor and less robust
Solution Approach 1:
The back coating is designed with local quality variation: it follows the groove geometry in specific peripheral zones to achieve aesthetic finish, while maintaining simpler application processes in other areas. This localized adaptation to the groove profile ensures robust peripheral appearance without requiring complex manufacturing throughout the entire coating process.
2Reliability
If the free edge of the face coating is left exposed, then the manufacturing process is simpler, but the panel is easily accessible and removable by users
Solution Approach 1:
The free edge of the face coating is inserted into the groove on the back face, creating a nested structure where one component (face coating edge) is placed within another (groove). This nesting provides mechanical interlocking that prevents accidental removal while maintaining a clean aesthetic appearance, without requiring additional complex fastening mechanisms.
3Shape
If the face coating edge is folded back and inserted into the groove, then the peripheral finish is more aesthetic and robust, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The groove is pre-formed on the back face before the face coating is applied, and the back coating is first applied to follow the groove geometry. This preliminary preparation creates a ready-received structure that guides the subsequent folding and insertion of the face coating edge, making the complex assembly process more manageable and repeatable.
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 visually appealing and robust peripheral finish that is difficult to access or remove accidentally, enhancing both appearance and durability of the panel.
Implementation Method 1
the free edge of said second edge being inserted into said groove so as to be masked
Implementation Method 2
said core having a face face coated with a bonded face coating and a face back coated with a bonded back coating
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The invention relates to a trim panel (1) for a motor vehicle, said panel comprising a core (2), said core having a front face (3) covered with a front cover (4) glued and a back face (5) covered with a back cover (6) glued, said faces being connected to each other by an edge (7); said back face having a groove (8) on at least a part of its periphery; said back cover having a first peripheral edge (20) extending on either side of said groove, fitting into it and conforming to the geometry of said groove; said front cover having a second peripheral edge (21) folded against said back face, so as to cover said edge and a part of said first peripheral edge, the free edge (22) of said second edge being inserted into said groove so as to be hidden.