Vehicle Interior Trim Ultrasonic Sensor Integration
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing interior trim parts in vehicles face challenges in detecting user interventions without compromising the visually continuous decorative surface, as capacitive proximity sensors have limited range and fail to recognize non-conductive materials like prostheses, limiting the effectiveness of the 'vanishing effect' and illumination functionality.
Innovation Solution
Integration of an ultrasonic sensor with full surface contact behind a decorative layer, where the layer itself functions as the ultrasonic sensor membrane, allowing for detection of user interventions within a larger monitored space without disrupting the continuous surface appearance, using a thinned region capable of ultrasonic vibration and connected to an ultrasonic generator and control electronics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If capacitive proximity sensors are used to detect user interventions, then the decorative surface can maintain its continuous appearance, but the detection range is very limited and non-conductive materials cannot be identified
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces capacitive sensors with ultrasonic sensors that use acoustic waves instead of electrical fields for detection. This substitution enables the system to detect both conductive and non-conductive materials (such as prostheses) and extends the detection range beyond the limitations of capacitive technology, while maintaining the continuous decorative surface appearance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameter from electrical capacitance to ultrasonic acoustic properties. By using ultrasonic waves with frequencies above human hearing, the system achieves broader material detection capability and extended range while the decorative layer thickness is optimized (less than 3mm) to transmit these ultrasonic waves effectively.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the decorative layer is made thinner to enable ultrasonic vibration, then ultrasonic sensor functionality is achieved, but the structural integrity and aesthetic appearance may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a thinned region only in the specific area where ultrasonic sensor functionality is required, while the rest of the decorative layer maintains its original thickness and structural integrity. This localized thinning allows the decorative element to function as an ultrasonic membrane in the sensor region without compromising the overall strength and appearance of the entire component.
3Shape
If ultrasonic sensors are integrated behind a closed surface, then the continuous decorative appearance is maintained, but the sensors require full surface contact connection which complicates the integration process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the decorative layer with the ultrasonic sensor membrane function, eliminating the need for separate sensor housings or openings. The decorative element itself serves dual purposes: maintaining aesthetic appearance and functioning as the ultrasonic sensing membrane, thereby simplifying the overall structure despite the full surface contact requirement.
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
Enables the identification of user interventions up to 1 meter away, maintaining the visual integrity of the decorative surface while enhancing functionality, such as controlled illumination of symbols or compartments, and reducing the number of parts and production costs.
Implementation Method 1
an ultrasonic sensor which comprises an ultrasonic generator and, preferably, control electronics for control and evaluation; The ultrasonic generator is connected with full surface contact to the side of the composite that faces away from the viewing side, in the thinned region
Implementation Method 2
using an ultrasonic sensor as a proximity sensor and connecting this ultrasonic sensor with full surface contact to the back side of the interior trim part
Implementation Method 3
the interior trim part, or a part thereof, functions as a membrane of the ultrasonic sensor. As a result, the continuously closed surface of the decorative element can be maintained
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an interior trim part of a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, comprising a composite having a carrier (30) and a decorative element (10) on one side of the carrier, the decorative element comprising a viewing side (11) visible to an observer from the interior (100) of the vehicle comprising a substantially continuously closed surface at least in a partial region (B1), characterized in that the composite is thinner within the partial region (B1) facing away from the viewing side perpendicular to the viewing side, and is capable of ultrasonic vibration in the thinned region (B1), and by an ultrasonic sensor having an ultrasonic transducer, wherein the ultrasonic transducer is connected to the side of the composite facing away from the viewing side (11) over the entire surface of the thinned area (B1).