Vehicle Trim Composite Layer for Sharp Backlit Images
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for creating light effects in vehicle interior trim parts using composite layers with translucent materials result in faint, imprecise, and blurred images due to diffraction and interference, lacking sharpness and readability, and failing to adequately highlight the natural material's visual aspect or allow customization.
Innovation Solution
A composite covering layer for vehicle interior trim parts comprising a rigid substrate, a fibrous support layer, and a thin translucent natural or mineral material layer, with strategically placed openings for light passage that define image shapes, allowing direct light transmission and precise image formation, enhanced by adhesion layers and optional ablation for increased brightness and sharpness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If backlighting is applied through multiple translucent layers, then light transmission is achieved, but diffraction effects and blurred edges occur resulting in imprecise images
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the light transmission path by introducing a precisely positioned opaque mask layer with cutouts that define image boundaries. This mask layer is positioned between the light source and translucent layers, dividing the light path into controlled segments that prevent diffraction spreading and enable sharp image edges while maintaining light transmission through the designated openings.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by creating regions of different optical properties within the composite structure. The opaque mask layer provides localized light blocking in specific areas while allowing light transmission in other areas through precisely defined cutouts. This local differentiation of light transmission properties enables sharp image boundaries and precise symbol formation without compromising overall light transmission.
2Illumination intensity
If translucent natural material layers are used, then aesthetic appeal and natural material visualization are achieved, but image precision and readability are reduced due to light diffusion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an opaque mask layer as an intermediary element between the light source and the translucent natural material layers. This intermediary mask layer with precisely defined cutouts controls light transmission patterns, creating sharp image boundaries and readable symbols. The mask acts as a mediator that shapes the light before it passes through the translucent material, enabling both aesthetic natural material visualization and precise image formation.
3Stability of the object's composition
If multiple layers are assembled for light transmission, then composite structure is formed, but light diffusion and interference cause blurred boundaries
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-defining the light transmission pattern in the opaque mask layer before light passes through the translucent layers. The mask layer is prepared in advance with precisely positioned cutouts that establish sharp image boundaries. This preliminary structuring of light paths prevents subsequent diffusion and interference from blurring edges, maintaining both composite layer stability and edge sharpness.
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 solution achieves clear, bright, and sharply defined light images with high contrast, effectively showcasing the natural material while maintaining the 'secret until illuminated' effect, and allows for customization of the rendering and integration of light sources for enhanced functionality.
Implementation Method 1
allowing direct light transmission and precise image formation
Implementation Method 2
the substrate material and the support layer material are such as to block the diffusion and transmission of light
Implementation Method 3
said substrate and support layer have through openings forming, by concordant association, passages of light, opening onto the thin translucent layer, the sections of which define the shapes of the constituent elements of the luminous image
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a part (1) of interior trim of a motor vehicle, comprising a rigid substrate (2) forming the body of said part (1) and a composite covering layer (3) covering said substrate (2) to form at least the apparent face of said part (1), said composite layer (3) comprising at least a support layer (4), preferably in the form of a film or of fibrous nature and a thin translucent layer (5) of natural organic or mineral material, assembled or laminated with the support layer (4), the composite layer (3) allowing light transmission through it for the production of luminous images (8) by backlighting, apparent on the surface.A trim piece (1) characterized in that the material of the substrate (2) and the material of the support layer (4) are such as to block the diffusion and transmission of light and in that said substrate (2) and the support layer (4) have light passages (10) whose sections define the shapes of the constituent elements of the luminous image (8).