Vehicle Control Panel Piezoelectric Film Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing control panels for vehicle passenger compartments require significant manufacturing effort and added parts to optimize the use of piezoelectric films, leading to increased mass and cost, while compromising the performance of the piezoelectric elements.
Innovation Solution
Integrating a piezoelectric film between the trim element and the support element, with the support element featuring recesses under the control areas, allowing for deformation and electric current generation without degrading the piezoelectric element's performance, and using over-molding to integrate the film during manufacturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If additional parts and reinforcing elements are added to optimize piezoelectric film usage, then the performance of piezoelectric elements is improved, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support element is integrated directly into the control panel structure, merging the support function with the existing trim element. This eliminates the need for separate reinforcing elements and additional parts, reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining piezoelectric film performance through the integrated support design.
2Reliability
If additional parts and reinforcing elements are added to optimize piezoelectric film usage, then the performance of piezoelectric elements is improved, but the mass and price of the assembly increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support element is merged with the control panel structure, eliminating the need for separate reinforcing elements. This integration reduces the total mass of the assembly while maintaining the necessary support for optimal piezoelectric film performance.
3Reliability
If additional parts and reinforcing elements are added to optimize piezoelectric film usage, then the performance of piezoelectric elements is improved, but the manufacturing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support element is integrated into the control panel structure, allowing for a streamlined manufacturing process. This merger eliminates multiple assembly steps required for separate reinforcing elements, reducing manufacturing time while ensuring optimal piezoelectric film performance through the integrated support design.
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
This arrangement simplifies the manufacturing process, reduces mass and cost, and maintains the performance of the piezoelectric film, enabling efficient operation and electric signal transmission through the control areas.
Implementation Method 1
the piezoelectric element can be deformed in such a way as to provide improved operation on the control area. Indeed, as soon as a user presses on the control area, the recess under the piezoelectric element will allow for the deformation of the piezoelectric element and the creation of an electric current
Data Source
AI summary
A control panel and method of making a control panel for a dashboard of a passenger compartment of a vehicle. The control panel includes a trim element, a support element and a piezoelectric film. The trim element includes at least one control area. The piezoelectric film extends between the trim element and the support element. The support element has at least one recess facing the control area.