Multi-Layer Vehicle Cover With Integrated Light Transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motor vehicle interior covering devices lack the ability to create an attractive ambient light while being easy to manufacture and providing sufficient stability, with a need for flexibility in the direction of movement and inflexibility transversely to it.
Innovation Solution
A covering device composed of multiple layers, including a transparent upper layer, a supporting lower layer, and a light-transporting middle layer, which can be illuminated by light conduction or reflection, with the option of incorporating sensory layers for additional functions, and a rib-like structure for stability and flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a roller blind-like cover device is used with light guides and illuminated actuating elements, then ambient lighting and design possibilities are improved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the cover device with the light guide structure into a single integrated unit. The light guide is embedded within the cover itself, eliminating the need for separate illumination components and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining ambient lighting functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover device serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical coverage for the storage compartment, acts as a light guide for ambient illumination, and includes integrated actuators for movement control. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid structure is used for the cover device, then stability and structural integrity are improved, but flexibility in the direction of movement deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible membrane or thin film structure for the cover that can bend and deform in the direction of movement. This flexible structure is supported by a rigid framework that maintains stability perpendicular to the movement direction, allowing the cover to roll or fold while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover device is divided into segmented sections or panels that can move relative to each other. This segmentation allows the structure to flex in the movement direction while maintaining overall stability through the interconnected rigid elements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the cover device is designed with multiple layers for lighting and structural functions, then functionality and design possibilities are improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functional layers into an integrated multi-layer structure where the light guide layer, cover layer, and support structure are manufactured as a single assembled unit. This approach maintains functional versatility while simplifying manufacturing through standardized assembly processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes variations in material properties and layer parameters (such as transparency, thickness, and rigidity) to achieve different functional zones within the cover device. By carefully selecting and positioning layers with specific parameters, the device achieves multiple functions without requiring complex additional components.
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 device effectively generates ambient light, is easy to produce, and provides stability and flexibility, allowing for compact storage and various functional implementations, such as switch and information functions.
Implementation Method 1
at least one light-transporting layer (12) between the upper layer (10) and the lower layer (11), which allows light rays to be transported through it
Implementation Method 2
which allows light rays to be transported through it or by means of which light rays can be reflected
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The invention relates to a covering device (1) for covering a region in the interior of a motor vehicle. In the installed position, the covering device (1) can be moved in a movement direction into a covering position covering the region and into an uncovering position uncovering the region. At least part of the covering device (1) can be illuminated. According to the invention, the covering device (1) consists of a plurality of layers (10, 11, 12) at least in some regions. The plurality of layers comprises at least one upper layer (10), which faces a user in the installed state and is light-transmissive at least in some regions, at least one supporting lower layer (11), and at least one light-transporting layer (12), which is held between the upper layer (10) and the lower layer (11). Light beams (L) can be transported through the layer (12) toward the upper layer (10). Furthermore, the layers (10, 11 and 12) are fixedly joined to one another.