Low Profile Switching and Lighting Integration in Vehicle Overhead Console
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional overhead console user interfaces and light sources are bulky, making it difficult to integrate them effectively within the limited packaging space of vehicle interior components without compromising storage capacity.
Innovation Solution
The integration of solid state switches and low-profile LED light sources on a movable storage compartment within the overhead console, which can be rotated between stowed and use positions, allowing for a more compact and efficient design that does not encroach on storage space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional user interfaces and light sources are integrated into the overhead console, then functional capability is improved, but packaging space and storage capacity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The user interface components (switches and light sources) are integrated directly into the surface of the storage compartment, with circuitry routed through apertures in the panel. This nesting approach allows functional elements to be embedded within the existing structural volume rather than adding separate mounting spaces, thereby maintaining storage capacity while providing accessible controls and lighting.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the third dimension by routing flexible circuits through apertures in the panel from the backside to the front surface, allowing user interface components to be mounted on the visible surface without encroaching on the storage volume behind the panel. This dimensional approach separates the functional interface layer from the storage volume layer.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional user interfaces are used in the overhead console, then control functionality is provided, but the component becomes bulky and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical switches and bulb-based lighting with solid-state electronic components. Solid state switches eliminate moving parts and mechanical complexity, while LED light sources replace bulkier traditional bulbs and reflectors. This substitution reduces overall component bulkiness while maintaining or enhancing control functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The user interface components are merged directly with the storage compartment panel structure. Switches and light sources are mounted on the panel surface with their circuitry integrated through apertures, combining the structural panel and functional interface into a single integrated assembly rather than separate components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If user interfaces and light sources are added to the storage compartment, then functionality is enhanced, but storage capacity is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The user interface components are positioned on specific localized areas of the storage compartment panel (on the visible surface), leaving the majority of the panel surface and the volume behind it available for storage. The switches and lights occupy minimal surface area while providing enhanced functionality, thus preserving overall storage capacity.
Data Source
AI summary
An interior vehicle component comprises a base and a panel coupled to the base. The panel is moveable between a first position and a second position. The panel has a first side and an opposite second side. The first side is configured to be visible to a vehicle occupant when the panel is in the first position. The second side cooperates with the base to define a cavity. The panel has an aperture extending through the first side and the second side. The panel also comprises at least one of a solid state switch and a light source supported at the first side of the panel, and a flexible circuit coupled to a backside of the at least one of the solid state switch and the light source through the aperture.