Vehicle Multipart Component Connecting Profile Element Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-part vehicle components, especially those made of plastic, face challenges in achieving stability under various stresses while maintaining a visually appealing appearance, as conventional connections are either not suitable for heavier loads or result in unsightly screws and limited durability.
Innovation Solution
A component comprising a carrier element, a cover element, and a connecting profile element with multiple connecting regions that extend externally, providing high stability through a tool-free assembly and featuring barb-like fixing elements and a transverse web for wear protection and additional functions like lighting or mounting, made from materials like aluminum or reinforced plastics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional clips or expansion clips are used to connect carrier element and cover element, then the connection is visually appealing and tool-free assembly is achieved, but the connection cannot withstand heavier loads or high actuation forces
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting profile element is divided into multiple functional segments: connecting regions for engagement with carrier and cover elements, a transverse web for lateral stability, and external extension regions for additional functionality. This segmentation allows each part to specialize in specific functions while working together to achieve both ease of assembly and high strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting profile element combines features of different connection types: it integrates clip-like engagement regions for tool-free assembly with structurally robust transverse webs and external extensions for high load-bearing capacity. This composite approach merges the advantages of simple clipping with the strength of more complex connection structures.
2Strength
If screws are used to connect carrier element and cover element, then high stability and load-bearing capacity are achieved, but the appearance is impaired by visible screws
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting profile element is extracted from the interior of the component and extended to the exterior surface. This relocation serves dual purposes: it provides the structural stability of a robust connection system while positioning the connection features at the boundary where they can form aesthetic design elements rather than visible defects.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection regions, which would normally be hidden defects or functional elements, are extended to the exterior surface where they become visible design features. The transverse webs and external extensions that provide structural strength are simultaneously transformed into aesthetic elements that enhance the component's appearance rather than detract from it.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the connecting profile element extends to the outside of the component, then high stability in multiple directions is achieved and additional functions are enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting profile element is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical connection between carrier and cover elements, ensures multi-directional stability through transverse webs, enables additional functions (lighting, mounting, design features) through external extensions, and maintains tool-free assembly. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each function.
4Ease of manufacture
If plastic materials are used for carrier element and cover element, then cost is reduced and visual appeal is maintained, but the component cannot withstand increased forces or high actuation loads
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting profile element is positioned at critical locations where high strength is needed, while the carrier element and cover element can remain as cost-effective plastic components. This local application of enhanced strength characteristics allows the overall component to withstand high forces while maintaining the cost and aesthetic advantages of plastic construction in non-critical areas.
Data Source
Figure 1~4
Figure 5~7
Figure 8~11
AI summary
The component (1) has a covering element (4) connected with a carrier element (3). A connection profile element (2) connects the carrier and covering elements with one another and has two connection areas (6) arranged opposite to each other. The areas are engaged into a connection area (7) of the carrier element and into a connection area (8) of the covering element. The profile element passes till to an outer side of the component between the carrier and covering elements or forms a part of a surface of the component. A lighting element i.e. LED strip, is arranged in a groove.