Overlapping Flap Carpet Cover for Vehicle VIN Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for viewing a vehicle identification number (VIN) on a motor vehicle's floor pan are either aesthetically unpleasing or costly, as they require cutting through multiple layers or additional manufacturing steps for clear plastic covers.
Innovation Solution
A carpet cover design featuring overlapping flaps with living hinges, where the second flap includes a finger access opening and an exposed edge to easily view the VIN, while the margin around the first window prevents visibility of the sheet metal when closed, using insulating and carpet materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single aligned cut is made through both carpet and insulation layers to form a flap for viewing the VIN, then viewing access is provided, but the sheet metal becomes visible through the cutting gap creating an aesthetically displeasing appearance
Solution Approach 1:
The single cut is divided into two separate cuts: one through the insulation layer and another through the carpet layer. This segmentation allows the insulation flap to extend beyond the carpet opening, creating an overlapping structure that blocks the view of sheet metal while maintaining viewing access to the VIN.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution adds a dimensional overlap by extending the insulation flap beyond the carpet opening in the vertical dimension. This creates a layered structure where the insulation material protrudes to cover the gap, preventing sheet metal visibility while preserving VIN viewing capability.
2Shape
If an opening is cut in the carpet and insulation layers with a clear plastic cover assembled into it, then viewing access and aesthetic appearance are improved, but additional tooling and manufacturing costs are incurred
Solution Approach 1:
The clear plastic cover component is extracted and eliminated from the design. Instead, the insulation material itself is shaped to extend beyond the carpet opening, serving both the aesthetic coverage function and the viewing access function through its overlapping flap structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The insulation material is given multiple functions: it provides thermal insulation, creates the viewing flap structure, and covers the cutting gap to prevent sheet metal visibility. This eliminates the need for separate aesthetic cover components, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
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
Enables quick and easy viewing of the VIN with an aesthetically pleasing appearance at reduced manufacturing costs by using overlapping flaps with living hinges and a finger access opening, concealing the floor pan effectively.
Implementation Method 1
The first flap may be connected by a first living hinge to a first layer of material. Similarly, the second flap may be connected by a second living hinge to a second layer of material.
Data Source
AI summary
A carpet cover is provided for a vehicle identification number. That carpet cover includes a first layer of material having a first window and a first flap closing the first window as well as a second layer of material having a second window and a second flap closing the second window. This second window overlies and overlaps the first window and the second flap overlies and overlaps the first flap.