US20020185784A1 - Method of marking a skin for a vehicle interior trim panel - Google Patents
Method of marking a skin for a vehicle interior trim panel Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20020185784A1 US20020185784A1 US10/033,437 US3343701A US2002185784A1 US 20020185784 A1 US20020185784 A1 US 20020185784A1 US 3343701 A US3343701 A US 3343701A US 2002185784 A1 US2002185784 A1 US 2002185784A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- wire
- substrate
- foam
- switch
- trim panel
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- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R13/00—Elements for body-finishing, identifying, or decorating; Arrangements or adaptations for advertising purposes
- B60R13/02—Internal Trim mouldings ; Internal Ledges; Wall liners for passenger compartments; Roof liners
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60N—SEATS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES; VEHICLE PASSENGER ACCOMMODATION NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60N2/00—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles
- B60N2/75—Arm-rests
- B60N2/78—Arm-rests post or panel mounted
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60N—SEATS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES; VEHICLE PASSENGER ACCOMMODATION NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60N2/00—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles
- B60N2/75—Arm-rests
- B60N2/79—Adaptations for additional use of the arm-rests
- B60N2/797—Adaptations for additional use of the arm-rests for use as electrical control means, e.g. switches
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R13/00—Elements for body-finishing, identifying, or decorating; Arrangements or adaptations for advertising purposes
- B60R13/02—Internal Trim mouldings ; Internal Ledges; Wall liners for passenger compartments; Roof liners
- B60R13/0237—Side or rear panels
- B60R13/0243—Doors
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R13/00—Elements for body-finishing, identifying, or decorating; Arrangements or adaptations for advertising purposes
- B60R13/02—Internal Trim mouldings ; Internal Ledges; Wall liners for passenger compartments; Roof liners
- B60R2013/0287—Internal Trim mouldings ; Internal Ledges; Wall liners for passenger compartments; Roof liners integrating other functions or accessories
Definitions
- This invention relates generally to the method of marking a skin for a vehicle interior trim panel.
- U.S. Pat. No. 4,904,429 recites a method of producing an instrument panel of a motor vehicle or similar molding of foamed resin capable of fitting electrical parts thereon as desired. More particularly, the '429 patent recites a method of producing a molding of foamed resin in which a flexible printed circuit (FPC), which is electrically connectable to electrical parts, is buried.
- FPC flexible printed circuit
- the '429 patent also recites that an instrument panel has customarily been implemented as a laminate having three layers, i.e., a covering made of soft resin, a base made of ABS resin or similar hard resin, and a padding made of foamed urethane or similar foaming resin and sandwiched between the covering and the base, and that an FPC and couplers are each mounted on the base by using adhesive or screws.
- the '429 patent recites that such a prior art three-layer instrument panel, however, is not satisfactory because the base and the padding have to be produced independently of each other and then bonded together, resulting in a disproportionate production cost.
- the '429 patent recites that the base may be formed from a foamed resin and molded integrally with the padding.
- the base is formed from a foamed resin
- the '429 patent then discloses that the FPC and couplers may not be mounted with screws or adhesives. Consequently, the '429 patent proposes a solution for mounting the FPC and couplers to this alternative structure by burying the FPC and couplers in the base when the latter is molded.
- the present invention provides a structure and a method for combining a flat wire with a three-layer instrument panel without the need for separate fasteners, such as screws, or adhesives.
- a vehicle interior trim panel comprising a skin, a substrate, a foam located between the skin and the substrate, and a flat wire at least partially surrounded by and embedded in the foam.
- the wire herein is therefore either physically placed within the foam, or, in the alternative, chemically bonded to the foam material.
- the flat wire comprises a flexible printed circuit.
- a terminal end of the flat wire may include a connector.
- the foam comprises a density between 0.016 g/cm 3 to 0.288 g/cm 3 .
- the foam comprises an ultimate elongation greater than five percent.
- the substrate comprises a substrate aperture and the flat wire passes though the aperture.
- the substrate comprises at least a portion of a flat wire holder.
- the substrate portion of the flat wire holder is formed with the substrate and is adjacent the inner substrate surface.
- the flat wire holder at least partially confines movement of the flat wire.
- the flat wire holder comprises an elongated recess for holding or confining a terminal end of the flat wire with a smaller width dimension or a smaller length dimension than the terminal end of the flat wire.
- the flat wire holder comprises a pocket for holding or confining at least a portion of the flat wire, and at least a portion of the pocket comprises a recess formed in the substrate.
- the foam at least partially enters into the substrate aperture and the foam surrounds at least a portion of the flat wire.
- the foam entering into the substrate aperture is a buffer between the flat wire and a surface of the substrate aperture.
- the foam entering into the substrate aperture reduces contact, noise and wear between the flat wire and a surface of the substrate aperture.
- the foam exiting from the substrate aperture surrounds at least a portion of the flat wire, prevents the flat wire from being displaced from an embedded position and reduces contact between the flat wire and a corner of the substrate aperture.
- the terminal end of the flat wire is moved from a first position to a second position.
- a method of making a vehicle interior trim panel comprises providing a substrate, providing a skin, routing a flat wire along a surface of the substrate and through a substrate aperture, and providing a foam between the skin and the substrate such that the foam at least partially surrounds and embeds a portion of the flat wire.
- the method of making a vehicle interior trim panel further comprises the foam entering at least a portion of the substrate aperture between the flat wire and at least one substrate aperture surface.
- the method of making a vehicle interior trim panel further comprises the foam exiting the substrate aperture between the flat wire and at least one substrate aperture surface.
- the method of making a vehicle interior trim panel further comprises at least partially confining the flat wire in a pocket and adjacent the substrate inner surface.
- the method of making a vehicle interior trim panel further comprises at least partially confining the terminal end of the flat wire in an elongated recess and adjacent the substrate inner surface.
- a method of marking a skin for a vehicle interior trim panel comprises providing a skin with a color and an outer skin surface, and applying a laser to the outer skin surface such that a portion of the skin surface contacted by the laser changes color relative to a portion of the outer skin surface not contacted by the laser to create a marking in the outer skin surface indicating the presence of a vehicle component or function.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an interior trim panel electrical switch assembly according to the present invention
- FIG. 2 is a cross sectional view of the switch of the interior trim panel electrical switch assembly of FIG. 1 taken along section line 2 - 2 ;
- FIG. 3 is a cross sectional view of the wire of the interior trim panel electrical switch assembly of FIG. 1 taken along section line 3 - 3 ;
- FIG. 4 is a cross sectional view of the trim panel of FIG. 1 in a foam mold prior to introducing foam material taken along section line 4 - 4 according to a second embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 5 is a cross sectional view of the trim panel and electrical device of FIG. 1 taken along section line 4 - 4 according to the second embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 1 An exemplary vehicle interior trim panel electrical switch assembly of the type for actuating various vehicle electrical devices is shown at 10 in FIG. 1 in connection with an armrest 12 for a vehicle trim panel 14 , such as a door panel.
- the armrest 12 is formed as a soft feel composite 15 which includes a switch panel portion 16 that has an outer surface 18 covering a switch array 20 including three electrical switches indicated at 20 a - 20 c .
- Two of the three electrical switches may be for locking and unlocking the doors of the vehicle while the remaining switch may be a multiposition switch for adjusting the position of the side view mirror.
- Other switches not shown may include, but are not limited to, switches for opening and closing windows, seat adjustment and for selecting either the left or the right side view mirror for adjustment.
- the armrest 12 is shown as a separate member from the trim panel 14 , but the armrest and trim panel 14 could be formed as one integral interior trim panel.
- the vehicle interior trim panel electrical switch assembly 10 can be employed on any interior surface of any trim panel in the vehicle. For example, it can be part of the instrument panel, headliner, overhead console, seats or any other part of a vehicle interior.
- the switch array 20 can vary in number and location. For example, in another application a single switch can be provided to operate an overhead light, a power operated sunroof or other electrically switched accessory on a motor vehicle. Other arrangements will depend upon the system being controlled by the switch array 20 underlying the switch panel portion 16 .
- the soft feel composite 15 and switch panel portion 16 of the interior trim panel electrical switch assembly 10 comprises a substrate layer 22 , a foam layer 24 , and a skin layer 26 .
- the outer surface 18 of skin layer 26 is the surface generally viewed by a vehicle occupant and is preferably continuous between the soft feel composite 15 and switch panel portion 16 of trim panel 14 .
- foam layer 24 is bonded directly to outer surface 23 of substrate layer 22 and to inner surface 28 of skin layer 26 .
- a switch 30 and a wire 48 are located beneath outer surface 18 within the switch panel portion 16 of the interior trim panel electrical switch assembly 10 .
- the switch 30 has a low profile which allows it to be easily incorporated under outer surface 18 of skin layer 26 of the switch panel portion 16 .
- a low profile switch has a thickness less than or equal to that of foam layer 24 .
- the switch 30 provides a substantially flat or arcuate surface region 32 in outer surface 18 of skin layer 26 without any bumps, ridges or other disruptions in outer surface 18 .
- certain disruptions in the outer surface 18 may be desirable as to provide assistance in locating switch panel portion 16 in an environment of reduced light or when it is unsafe for the driver to remove his vision from the road for the purposes of locating switch panel 16 .
- Switch 30 preferably comprises a switch arm 50 disposed within a housing portion 52 .
- Switch arm 50 functions as a conductor and preferably comprises a metal such as copper.
- switch arm 50 is preferably U-shaped and comprises elongated member 54 connected to elongated member 58 by connecting member 56 .
- connecting member 56 is completely embedded in housing 52 which functions as an insulator while elongated member 54 and elongated member 58 are only partially embedded within housing portion 52 with contact portions 60 and 62 respectively thereof remaining exposed.
- housing portion 52 comprises a polymer material and more preferably the polymer material comprises a silicone polymer.
- housing 52 also comprises a recessed cavity 64 into which contact portions 60 and 62 of elongated members 54 and 58 project into.
- Recessed cavity 64 also preferably contains a wire 48 .
- Wire 48 comprises conductors 66 and 68 as well as an insulator 70 upon which conductors 66 and 68 are located. Outside the confines of recessed cavity 64 , wire 48 also includes an insulator 72 as shown in FIG. 3.
- switch 30 exists more particularly as switch 30 a in which the associated electrical circuit is in a normally open state. Then, during operation, switch 30 exists more particularly as switch 30 b in which the associated electrical circuit is in a closed state. More specifically, during operation a force F is applied to outer surface 18 of skin layer 26 . Force F is ordinary applied by the vehicle occupant through the fingertips. Upon application, force F works on skin layer 26 and housing 52 such that they deform to enable contact portions 60 and 62 of elongated members 54 and 58 of switch arm 50 to contact conductors 66 and 68 of wire 48 and thus close the electrical circuit as created through connecting member 56 of switch arm 50 .
- wire 48 comprises conductors 66 and 68 as well as an insulator 70 upon which conductors 66 and 68 are located.
- wire 48 also includes an insulator 72 as shown in FIG. 3. It is noted that insulator 72 exists outside the confines to recessed cavity 64 generally to protect conductors 66 and 68 from undesirable short circuits outside the confines of recessed cavity 64 . More specifically, conductors 66 and 68 of wire 48 are protected from short circuit by virtue of being encapsulated between insulators 70 and 72 .
- conductors 66 and 68 preferably have a thin cross sectional thickness with a width Wc greater than thickness Tc. More particularly, conductors 66 and 68 comprise an electrically conductive metal, such as copper or similar metal, in the form of a thin foil.
- Insulators 70 and 72 comprise thin films, preferably polymer films and more preferably urethane polymer films which are laminated about their edges 74 and 78 as well as a central portion 76 located between conductors 66 and 68 .
- the use of one or more conductors with a rectangular shape sandwiched between two polymer films may be referred to as “flat” wire.
- the use of flat wire, as opposed to traditional round wire with a round conductor, is preferred for at least partially surrounding and embedding wire 48 in the foam layer 24 by virtue if its thinner cross-sectional thickness than traditional round wire.
- the flat wire 48 may take the form of a flexible printed circuit (FPC).
- FPC generally consists of a pair of polymer or resin films with one or more copper, or similar metal, foils sandwiched therebetween. Upon operation, the metal foil generally functions as an electrical circuit routing electric current between one or more connected electrical devices.
- switch 30 and wire 48 being located beneath the outer surface 18 of the switch panel portion 16 of the interior trim panel electrical switch assembly 10 , preferably they are at least partially surrounded by and embedded in the foam layer 24 of the soft feel composite 15 .
- switch 30 is joined to the inner surface 28 of skin layer 26 or to the outer surface 23 of substrate layer 22 , but it is recognized that switch 30 may be positioned at any location therebetween. More preferably, switch 30 is joined to the inner surface 28 of skin layer 26 and/or to the outer surface 23 of substrate layer 22 , by a double-sided pressure sensitive adhesive tape located therebetween.
- wire 48 may also be joined to the inner surface 28 of skin layer 26 or to the outer surface 23 of substrate layer 22 , but it is recognized that wire 48 may be positioned at any location therebetween. More preferably, wire 48 is joined to the outer surface 23 of substrate layer 22 by a double-sided pressure sensitive adhesive tape located therebetween or mechanical type engagement clips.
- the switch 30 and/or wire 48 are preferably placed in the cavity 40 created between the inner surface 28 of skin layer 26 and the outer surface 23 of substrate layer 22 as shown in FIG. 2 prior to the introduction of the foam layer 24 .
- foam layer 24 is preferably formed by introducing a foam, or more preferably, a foam precursor material into cavity 40 .
- the foam precursor is a urethane foam precursor which is introduced using a reaction injection molding process as known in the art.
- the reactive constituents a polyol and isocyanate, begin to react and the subsequently created foam material flows within the cavity 40 thus bonding skin layer 26 to substrate layer 22 while at the same time and flowing around and preferably bonding to the exposed surfaces of switch 30 and wire 48 .
- switch 30 and/or wire 48 may be located in the skin layer 26 .
- the switch 30 may be held in place as skin-casting material is cast around it as more particularly shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,269,559 assigned to the assignee of the present invention and incorporated herein by reference.
- adhesives including urethanes, etc.
- the adhesives may be applied in any one of a number of forms to include pressure-sensitive backings, hot melts and spray coatings.
- skin layer 26 is preferably formed by casting, skin layer 26 may also be formed by spray coating, blow molding, or thermoformed sheet and then incorporated into the subsequent foam forming process identified above.
- skin layer 26 may comprise thermoset or thermoplastic polymers. This group includes, but is not limited to, polymers containing vinyl (e.g. polyvinyl chloride (PVC)), urethane (e.g. thermoplastic urethane (TPU)), olefin (e.g. poylpropylene (PP), polyethyelene (PE), thermoplastic olefins (TPO)), and styrene (e.g.
- PVC polyvinyl chloride
- TPU thermoplastic urethane
- olefin e.g. poylpropylene (PP), polyethyelene (PE), thermoplastic olefins (TPO)
- styrene e.g.
- foam layer 24 is preferably joined to skin layer 26 and substrate layer 22 simultaneously by the reaction injection molding process, foam layer 24 may also be joined to skin layer 26 prior to introduction of substrate layer 22 rather than simultaneously as identified above.
- skin layer 26 and foam layer 24 may be provided as a multi-layer sheet which is subsequently heated and vacuum formed over substrate layer 22 .
- the foam layer preferably has certain molding conditions and physical properties.
- the foam layer 24 is preferably molded below 25 PSI (pounds per square inch) molding pressure and more preferably below 15 PSI molding pressure and even more preferably below 10 PSI molding pressure as to reduce any deformation of the FPC during the foam molding process.
- PSI pounds per square inch
- the foam layer 24 preferably exhibits the following: Property Test Method Value Density ASTM-3574-95 0.016-0.288 g/cm 3 Ultimate Elongation ASTM-3574-95 Greater than 10%
- the preferred test method is that of ASTM-3574-95, Test A—Density Test.
- range of density values while the preferred value identified above is from 0.016 to 0.288 g/cm 3 , more preferably the value is from 0.06 to 0.15 g/cm 3 .
- the measured value it is noted that the above values correspond to that of any single specimen (taken from any location within the trim panel 14 ), either an interior density specimen or a section density specimen as defined in ASTM-3574-95, and not the calculated median of more than one measured specimen. This is in accordance with ASTM-3574-95, paragraph 11.1 which calls for a single specimen to be tested.
- the preferred test method is that of ASTM-3574-95, Test E—Tension Test.
- ASTM-3574-95 Test E—Tension Test.
- the preferred value identified above is greater than or equal to five percent (5%), more preferably the value is greater than or equal to ten percent (10%), and even more preferably the value is greater than or equal to twenty-five percent (25%) ultimate elongation.
- the measured value it is noted that the above values correspond to that of any single specimen (taken from any location within the trim panel 14 ), as defined in ASTM-3574-95, and not the calculated median of more than one measured specimen. This is in deviation with ASTM D-3574-95, paragraph 48.1 which calls for three specimens to be tested and the median value to be reported.
- Indicia 41 in the form of letters, numbers, or symbols may be printed, such as with silk screening, or molded on outer surface 18 of the skin layer 26 to indicate to vehicle occupants the position and/or function of each switch 30 or switch array 20 as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.
- a laser and more preferably a YAG laser, may be used to change the color (e.g. bleach or whiten) of the material, and preferably the pigments, of skin layer 26 as to create markings in the outer surface 18 which indicate to vehicle occupants the position and/or function of each switch 30 or switch array 20 as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.
- a transparent protective coating may be applied to the outer surface 18 of the skin layer 26 and to the indicia 41 .
- the coating is preferably applied as a liquid and is then dried to form a thin durable protective film that keeps the indicia from rubbing off as is described in greater detail in U.S. Pat. No. 5,448,028 assigned to the assignee of the present invention and incorporated herein by reference.
- a structure is provided to enable wire 48 to enter and exit the confines of foam layer 24 of trim panel 14 . More specifically, prior to being at least partially surrounded and embedded by foam layer 24 , wire 48 is routed along outer surface 23 of substrate layer 22 and through aperture 80 to the inner surface 21 of substrate layer 22 . Upon placing and introducing skin layer 26 to the substrate layer 22 in a foam mold 83 (shown as first mold part 85 and second mold part 87 ) in a manner well known in the art, wire 48 now exists in cavity 40 and exits cavity 40 at aperture 80 .
- Aperture 80 is of such a geometry as to permit wire 48 to pass there through.
- aperture 80 is of the geometry of an elongated slot of slightly larger dimension, in both width and thickness, than corresponding width Ww and thickness Tw of wire 48 .
- terminal end 84 of wire 48 may included a connecter 82 attached thereto.
- connecter 82 may be attached to the terminal end 84 of wire 48 prior to wire 48 passing through aperture 80 , in which case the geometry of aperture 80 must be such as to permit connector 82 as well as wire 48 to pass there through.
- Terminal end 84 of wire 48 may then be placed into a holder 86 which holds, covers and/or protects from damage the wire 48 or terminal end 84 prior to its designated use. While holder 86 is preferably of temporary use, it is recognized that it may be used for permanent use as in the case where the electrical device 90 to which terminal end 84 of wire 48 is to attach is never installed, possibly due to differences in optional equipment between vehicles.
- holder 86 is formed integral with substrate 22 and is of a geometry, preferably that of an elongated recess 88 , of slightly smaller dimension, in either, or both, width and thickness, than terminal end 84 of wire 48 .
- terminal end 84 of wire 14 preferably interference fits with recess 88 of holder 86 .
- terminal end 84 of wire 48 is retained in recess 88 of holder 86 prior to designated use.
- holder 86 may be any device which holds terminal end 84 and/or wire 48 in a confined, and preferably fixed, position prior to designated use.
- Example of such holders include, but are not limited to tape, adhesives, separate mechanical fasteners (e.g. screws, clips, etc.), or other structures designed integral with substrate 22 (e.g. rib structures, doghouses, etc.).
- a pocket 89 must exist between the inner surface 21 of substrate 22 and the mold surface 91 of first mold part 85 for wire 48 and/or terminal end 84 to exist therein.
- the pocket 89 may be of any suitable geometry to contain wire 48 and/or terminal end 84 without their damage during the foaming process.
- pocket 89 comprises a recess in substrate 22 which includes a location for wire 48 , terminal end 84 and electrical device 90 .
- Pocket 89 also is shown to comprise a recess in first mold part 85 . It is recognized that any number of geometries may be employed to facilitate the presence of wire 48 and/or terminal end 84 adjacent the inner surface 21 of substrate 22 during the foaming process.
- the length of wire 48 required to extend wire 48 between aperture 80 and holder 86 may be different than is required to extend wire 48 between aperture 80 and receptacle 81 of electrical device 90 .
- wire 48 may be comprise one or more rolls, bends, or folds 92 which exist while terminal end 84 of wire 48 is retained in holder 86 . These rolls, bends, or folds may then be reduced in size or number when terminal end 84 of wire 48 is attached to receptacle 81 of electrical device 90 .
- an electrical device 90 is any electrical device, active or passive, electrical or electro-mechanical, which consumes, generates, or otherwise manipulates electrical power. This includes, but is not limited to, electrical motors, electro-mechanical motors, circuit boards, switches, power sources, couplers, sensors, junction boxes and fuse panels. As shown in FIG. 1, electrical device 90 is a seat switch.
- a second example of a holder 86 which holds terminal end 84 and wire 48 in a confined position prior to use is tape 93 .
- Tape 93 may cover the recess in substrate 22 such that, should the terminal end 84 become dislodged from recess 88 of holder 86 or folded wire 48 attempt to unfold from pocket 89 prior to use, the terminal end 84 and/or wire 48 will be prevented from exiting the confines of the recess in the substrate 22 .
- foam layer 24 extends into the confines of aperture 80 and exists between surfaces 94 and 96 of substrate 22 with wire 48 located therebetween.
- foam layer 24 acts as a buffer between wire 48 and surfaces 94 and 96 of substrate 22 as to reduce, and preferably prevent, wire 48 from making contact with surfaces 94 and 96 of substrate 22 .
- the possibility of undesirable noise created by wire 48 rubbing against either surface 94 or 96 of substrate 22 during vehicle movement is substantially reduced.
- the possibility of an undesirable short circuit caused by insulators 70 or 72 of wire 48 rubbing against either surface 94 or 96 of substrate 22 and wearing to expose the conductors located therebetween is also reduced.
- a layer of tape or other type of seal may be applied to inner surface 21 of substrate 22 to partially close aperture 80 .
- Foam material which exits the aperture may do so in the form of a bun 98 .
- the bun 98 preferably at least partially surrounds and bonds to a portion of the wire 48 which has exited aperture 80 .
- the foam bun 96 may act as a stay to help prevent wire 48 which has been at least partially surrounded and embedded by foam layer 24 from being inadvertently displaced from its embedded position by virtue of being partially or completely pulled out through aperture 80 , thus damaging the trim panel 14 .
- the bun 96 may also reduce, and preferably prevent, wire 48 from making contact with corners 95 and 97 of substrate 22 which may act to cut or otherwise damage the wire 48 depending on their sharpness.
- bun 98 may be used for the above benefits, depending on the size of the bun 98 , it may be partially or completely removed from trim panel 14 after the foaming process. If aperture 80 is to large, the size of the resulting bun 98 may surround and embed a substantial portion of wire 48 such that at least a portion of the bun 98 must be removed. That portion of the bun 98 removed is generally preformed prior to attachment of wire 48 to receptacle 81 of electrical device 90 and often is preformed to facilitate extending wire 48 in order to attach wire 48 to receptacle 81 of electrical device 90 .
- the foam material is of a low density and generally flexible or semi-rigid by virtue of its cushion or padding effect, it ordinarily may be removed manually, with and/or without the use of hand operated tools.
- a mold release may be applied, generally by brush or spray, to wire 48 and inner surface 21 of substrate 22 after wire 48 has passed through aperture 80 and prior to the foaming process.
- opening 99 is formed in trim panel 14 to facilitate that attachment of electrical device 90 to trim panel 14 .
- terminal end 84 of wire 48 is removed from its confined position (i.e. first position) and attached to receptacle 81 of electrical device 90 (i.e. second position).
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- Aviation & Aerospace Engineering (AREA)
- Transportation (AREA)
- Vehicle Interior And Exterior Ornaments, Soundproofing, And Insulation (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- This application is a divisional application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/625,117 filed Jul. 25, 2000.
- This invention relates generally to the method of marking a skin for a vehicle interior trim panel.
- U.S. Pat. No. 4,904,429 recites a method of producing an instrument panel of a motor vehicle or similar molding of foamed resin capable of fitting electrical parts thereon as desired. More particularly, the '429 patent recites a method of producing a molding of foamed resin in which a flexible printed circuit (FPC), which is electrically connectable to electrical parts, is buried.
- The '429 patent also recites that an instrument panel has customarily been implemented as a laminate having three layers, i.e., a covering made of soft resin, a base made of ABS resin or similar hard resin, and a padding made of foamed urethane or similar foaming resin and sandwiched between the covering and the base, and that an FPC and couplers are each mounted on the base by using adhesive or screws. Continuing, the '429 patent recites that such a prior art three-layer instrument panel, however, is not satisfactory because the base and the padding have to be produced independently of each other and then bonded together, resulting in a disproportionate production cost.
- As an alternative to the prior art three-layer instrument panel described by the '429 patent, the '429 patent recites that the base may be formed from a foamed resin and molded integrally with the padding. However, when the base is formed from a foamed resin, the '429 patent then discloses that the FPC and couplers may not be mounted with screws or adhesives. Consequently, the '429 patent proposes a solution for mounting the FPC and couplers to this alternative structure by burying the FPC and couplers in the base when the latter is molded.
- In light of the '429 patent, what is needed is a structure and method of combining a flat wire with a three-layer interior trim panel without the need for separate fasteners, such as screws, or adhesives.
- Accordingly, the present invention provides a structure and a method for combining a flat wire with a three-layer instrument panel without the need for separate fasteners, such as screws, or adhesives.
- According to one feature of the invention, a vehicle interior trim panel is provided comprising a skin, a substrate, a foam located between the skin and the substrate, and a flat wire at least partially surrounded by and embedded in the foam. The wire herein is therefore either physically placed within the foam, or, in the alternative, chemically bonded to the foam material.
- According to another feature of the invention the flat wire comprises a flexible printed circuit.
- According to another feature of the invention, a terminal end of the flat wire may include a connector.
- According to another feature of the invention, the foam comprises a density between 0.016 g/cm3 to 0.288 g/cm3.
- According to another feature of the invention, the foam comprises an ultimate elongation greater than five percent.
- According to another feature of the invention, the substrate comprises a substrate aperture and the flat wire passes though the aperture.
- According to another feature of the invention, the substrate comprises at least a portion of a flat wire holder.
- According to another feature of the invention, the substrate portion of the flat wire holder is formed with the substrate and is adjacent the inner substrate surface.
- According to another feature of the invention, the flat wire holder at least partially confines movement of the flat wire.
- According to another feature of the invention, the flat wire holder comprises an elongated recess for holding or confining a terminal end of the flat wire with a smaller width dimension or a smaller length dimension than the terminal end of the flat wire.
- According to another feature of the invention, the flat wire holder comprises a pocket for holding or confining at least a portion of the flat wire, and at least a portion of the pocket comprises a recess formed in the substrate.
- According to another feature of the invention, the foam at least partially enters into the substrate aperture and the foam surrounds at least a portion of the flat wire.
- According to another feature of the invention, the foam entering into the substrate aperture is a buffer between the flat wire and a surface of the substrate aperture.
- According to another feature of the invention, the foam entering into the substrate aperture reduces contact, noise and wear between the flat wire and a surface of the substrate aperture.
- According to another feature of the invention, the foam exiting from the substrate aperture surrounds at least a portion of the flat wire, prevents the flat wire from being displaced from an embedded position and reduces contact between the flat wire and a corner of the substrate aperture.
- According to another feature of the invention, the terminal end of the flat wire is moved from a first position to a second position.
- According to another feature of the invention, a method of making a vehicle interior trim panel comprises providing a substrate, providing a skin, routing a flat wire along a surface of the substrate and through a substrate aperture, and providing a foam between the skin and the substrate such that the foam at least partially surrounds and embeds a portion of the flat wire.
- According to another feature of the invention, the method of making a vehicle interior trim panel further comprises the foam entering at least a portion of the substrate aperture between the flat wire and at least one substrate aperture surface.
- According to another feature of the invention, the method of making a vehicle interior trim panel further comprises the foam exiting the substrate aperture between the flat wire and at least one substrate aperture surface.
- According to another feature of the invention, the method of making a vehicle interior trim panel further comprises at least partially confining the flat wire in a pocket and adjacent the substrate inner surface.
- According to another feature of the invention, the method of making a vehicle interior trim panel further comprises at least partially confining the terminal end of the flat wire in an elongated recess and adjacent the substrate inner surface.
- According to another feature of the invention, a method of marking a skin for a vehicle interior trim panel comprises providing a skin with a color and an outer skin surface, and applying a laser to the outer skin surface such that a portion of the skin surface contacted by the laser changes color relative to a portion of the outer skin surface not contacted by the laser to create a marking in the outer skin surface indicating the presence of a vehicle component or function.
- To better understand and appreciate the invention, refer to the following detailed description in connection with the accompanying drawings:
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an interior trim panel electrical switch assembly according to the present invention;
- FIG. 2 is a cross sectional view of the switch of the interior trim panel electrical switch assembly of FIG. 1 taken along section line2-2;
- FIG. 3 is a cross sectional view of the wire of the interior trim panel electrical switch assembly of FIG. 1 taken along section line3-3;
- FIG. 4 is a cross sectional view of the trim panel of FIG. 1 in a foam mold prior to introducing foam material taken along section line4-4 according to a second embodiment of the present invention;
- FIG. 5 is a cross sectional view of the trim panel and electrical device of FIG. 1 taken along section line4-4 according to the second embodiment of the present invention;
- An exemplary vehicle interior trim panel electrical switch assembly of the type for actuating various vehicle electrical devices is shown at10 in FIG. 1 in connection with an
armrest 12 for avehicle trim panel 14, such as a door panel. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, thearmrest 12 is formed as asoft feel composite 15 which includes aswitch panel portion 16 that has anouter surface 18 covering aswitch array 20 including three electrical switches indicated at 20 a-20 c. Two of the three electrical switches may be for locking and unlocking the doors of the vehicle while the remaining switch may be a multiposition switch for adjusting the position of the side view mirror. Other switches not shown may include, but are not limited to, switches for opening and closing windows, seat adjustment and for selecting either the left or the right side view mirror for adjustment. - The
armrest 12 is shown as a separate member from thetrim panel 14, but the armrest andtrim panel 14 could be formed as one integral interior trim panel. Furthermore, the vehicle interior trim panelelectrical switch assembly 10 can be employed on any interior surface of any trim panel in the vehicle. For example, it can be part of the instrument panel, headliner, overhead console, seats or any other part of a vehicle interior. - Additionally, the
switch array 20 can vary in number and location. For example, in another application a single switch can be provided to operate an overhead light, a power operated sunroof or other electrically switched accessory on a motor vehicle. Other arrangements will depend upon the system being controlled by theswitch array 20 underlying theswitch panel portion 16. - As shown in FIG. 2, the
soft feel composite 15 andswitch panel portion 16 of the interior trim panelelectrical switch assembly 10 comprises asubstrate layer 22, afoam layer 24, and askin layer 26. Theouter surface 18 ofskin layer 26 is the surface generally viewed by a vehicle occupant and is preferably continuous between thesoft feel composite 15 andswitch panel portion 16 oftrim panel 14. Generally,foam layer 24 is bonded directly toouter surface 23 ofsubstrate layer 22 and toinner surface 28 ofskin layer 26. - A
switch 30 and awire 48 are located beneathouter surface 18 within theswitch panel portion 16 of the interior trim panelelectrical switch assembly 10. Preferably, theswitch 30 has a low profile which allows it to be easily incorporated underouter surface 18 ofskin layer 26 of theswitch panel portion 16. As used in this specification, a low profile switch has a thickness less than or equal to that offoam layer 24. In other words, a thickness less than or equal to the distance as measured between theinner surface 28 ofskin layer 26 andouter surface 23 ofsubstrate layer 22. More preferably, theswitch 30 provides a substantially flat orarcuate surface region 32 inouter surface 18 ofskin layer 26 without any bumps, ridges or other disruptions inouter surface 18. However, it is recognized that certain disruptions in theouter surface 18 may be desirable as to provide assistance in locatingswitch panel portion 16 in an environment of reduced light or when it is unsafe for the driver to remove his vision from the road for the purposes of locatingswitch panel 16. -
Switch 30 preferably comprises aswitch arm 50 disposed within ahousing portion 52.Switch arm 50 functions as a conductor and preferably comprises a metal such as copper. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment,switch arm 50 is preferably U-shaped and comprises elongatedmember 54 connected toelongated member 58 by connectingmember 56. Preferably connectingmember 56 is completely embedded inhousing 52 which functions as an insulator whileelongated member 54 andelongated member 58 are only partially embedded withinhousing portion 52 withcontact portions housing portion 52 comprises a polymer material and more preferably the polymer material comprises a silicone polymer. - Preferably,
housing 52 also comprises a recessedcavity 64 into whichcontact portions elongated members cavity 64 also preferably contains awire 48.Wire 48 comprisesconductors insulator 70 upon whichconductors cavity 64,wire 48 also includes aninsulator 72 as shown in FIG. 3. - Apart from operation, switch30 exists more particularly as
switch 30 a in which the associated electrical circuit is in a normally open state. Then, during operation, switch 30 exists more particularly asswitch 30 b in which the associated electrical circuit is in a closed state. More specifically, during operation a force F is applied toouter surface 18 ofskin layer 26. Force F is ordinary applied by the vehicle occupant through the fingertips. Upon application, force F works onskin layer 26 andhousing 52 such that they deform to enablecontact portions elongated members switch arm 50 to contactconductors wire 48 and thus close the electrical circuit as created through connectingmember 56 ofswitch arm 50. - As indicated above, within the confines of recessed
cavity 64,wire 48 comprisesconductors insulator 70 upon whichconductors cavity 64,wire 48 also includes aninsulator 72 as shown in FIG. 3. It is noted thatinsulator 72 exists outside the confines to recessedcavity 64 generally to protectconductors cavity 64. More specifically,conductors wire 48 are protected from short circuit by virtue of being encapsulated betweeninsulators - As can best be seen from FIG. 3,
conductors conductors Insulators edges central portion 76 located betweenconductors wire 48 in thefoam layer 24 by virtue if its thinner cross-sectional thickness than traditional round wire. - More particularly, the
flat wire 48 may take the form of a flexible printed circuit (FPC). A FPC generally consists of a pair of polymer or resin films with one or more copper, or similar metal, foils sandwiched therebetween. Upon operation, the metal foil generally functions as an electrical circuit routing electric current between one or more connected electrical devices. - In addition to switch30 and
wire 48 being located beneath theouter surface 18 of theswitch panel portion 16 of the interior trim panelelectrical switch assembly 10, preferably they are at least partially surrounded by and embedded in thefoam layer 24 of thesoft feel composite 15. - Preferably, prior to being at least partially surrounded and embedded by the
foam layer 24,switch 30 is joined to theinner surface 28 ofskin layer 26 or to theouter surface 23 ofsubstrate layer 22, but it is recognized that switch 30 may be positioned at any location therebetween. More preferably, switch 30 is joined to theinner surface 28 ofskin layer 26 and/or to theouter surface 23 ofsubstrate layer 22, by a double-sided pressure sensitive adhesive tape located therebetween. - As with
switch 30, prior to being at least partially surrounded and embedded by thefoam layer 24,wire 48 may also be joined to theinner surface 28 ofskin layer 26 or to theouter surface 23 ofsubstrate layer 22, but it is recognized thatwire 48 may be positioned at any location therebetween. More preferably,wire 48 is joined to theouter surface 23 ofsubstrate layer 22 by a double-sided pressure sensitive adhesive tape located therebetween or mechanical type engagement clips. - In order to at least partially surround and embed the
switch 30 and/orwire 48 infoam layer 24, theswitch 30 and/orwire 48 are preferably placed in thecavity 40 created between theinner surface 28 ofskin layer 26 and theouter surface 23 ofsubstrate layer 22 as shown in FIG. 2 prior to the introduction of thefoam layer 24. Then,foam layer 24 is preferably formed by introducing a foam, or more preferably, a foam precursor material intocavity 40. Preferably, the foam precursor is a urethane foam precursor which is introduced using a reaction injection molding process as known in the art. After the urethane foam precursor is introduced, the reactive constituents, a polyol and isocyanate, begin to react and the subsequently created foam material flows within thecavity 40 thus bondingskin layer 26 tosubstrate layer 22 while at the same time and flowing around and preferably bonding to the exposed surfaces ofswitch 30 andwire 48. - Alternatively, switch30 and/or
wire 48 may be located in theskin layer 26. For example, theswitch 30 may be held in place as skin-casting material is cast around it as more particularly shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,269,559 assigned to the assignee of the present invention and incorporated herein by reference. - In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and3, many types of adhesives, including urethanes, etc., may be used to bond the
switch 30 orwire 48 toskin layer 26 orsubstrate 26 oftrim panel 14. The adhesives may be applied in any one of a number of forms to include pressure-sensitive backings, hot melts and spray coatings. - While
skin layer 26 is preferably formed by casting,skin layer 26 may also be formed by spray coating, blow molding, or thermoformed sheet and then incorporated into the subsequent foam forming process identified above. With regards to more specific skin materials,skin layer 26 may comprise thermoset or thermoplastic polymers. This group includes, but is not limited to, polymers containing vinyl (e.g. polyvinyl chloride (PVC)), urethane (e.g. thermoplastic urethane (TPU)), olefin (e.g. poylpropylene (PP), polyethyelene (PE), thermoplastic olefins (TPO)), and styrene (e.g. acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS)). Also whilefoam layer 24 is preferably joined toskin layer 26 andsubstrate layer 22 simultaneously by the reaction injection molding process,foam layer 24 may also be joined toskin layer 26 prior to introduction ofsubstrate layer 22 rather than simultaneously as identified above. For example,skin layer 26 andfoam layer 24 may be provided as a multi-layer sheet which is subsequently heated and vacuum formed oversubstrate layer 22. - In the various embodiments, the foam layer preferably has certain molding conditions and physical properties. With regards to molding conditions, the
foam layer 24 is preferably molded below 25 PSI (pounds per square inch) molding pressure and more preferably below 15 PSI molding pressure and even more preferably below 10 PSI molding pressure as to reduce any deformation of the FPC during the foam molding process. With regards to measuring the molding pressure, it is noted that molding pressure may be measured at any location within thetrim panel 14. With regards to physical properties, thefoam layer 24 preferably exhibits the following:Property Test Method Value Density ASTM-3574-95 0.016-0.288 g/cm3 Ultimate Elongation ASTM-3574-95 Greater than 10% - With regards to measuring density, while any suitable test method may be used, the preferred test method is that of ASTM-3574-95, Test A—Density Test. With regards to range of density values, while the preferred value identified above is from 0.016 to 0.288 g/cm3, more preferably the value is from 0.06 to 0.15 g/cm3. With regards to the measured value, it is noted that the above values correspond to that of any single specimen (taken from any location within the trim panel 14), either an interior density specimen or a section density specimen as defined in ASTM-3574-95, and not the calculated median of more than one measured specimen. This is in accordance with ASTM-3574-95, paragraph 11.1 which calls for a single specimen to be tested.
- With regards to measuring ultimate elongation, while any suitable test method may be used, the preferred test method is that of ASTM-3574-95, Test E—Tension Test. With regards to the range of elongation values, the preferred value identified above is greater than or equal to five percent (5%), more preferably the value is greater than or equal to ten percent (10%), and even more preferably the value is greater than or equal to twenty-five percent (25%) ultimate elongation. With regards to the measured value, it is noted that the above values correspond to that of any single specimen (taken from any location within the trim panel14), as defined in ASTM-3574-95, and not the calculated median of more than one measured specimen. This is in deviation with ASTM D-3574-95, paragraph 48.1 which calls for three specimens to be tested and the median value to be reported.
-
Indicia 41 in the form of letters, numbers, or symbols may be printed, such as with silk screening, or molded onouter surface 18 of theskin layer 26 to indicate to vehicle occupants the position and/or function of eachswitch 30 orswitch array 20 as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. As an alternative to or used in combination with printing and/or molding, a laser, and more preferably a YAG laser, may be used to change the color (e.g. bleach or whiten) of the material, and preferably the pigments, ofskin layer 26 as to create markings in theouter surface 18 which indicate to vehicle occupants the position and/or function of eachswitch 30 orswitch array 20 as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. - A transparent protective coating may be applied to the
outer surface 18 of theskin layer 26 and to theindicia 41. The coating is preferably applied as a liquid and is then dried to form a thin durable protective film that keeps the indicia from rubbing off as is described in greater detail in U.S. Pat. No. 5,448,028 assigned to the assignee of the present invention and incorporated herein by reference. - In a second embodiment of the invention, as illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5, a structure is provided to enable
wire 48 to enter and exit the confines offoam layer 24 oftrim panel 14. More specifically, prior to being at least partially surrounded and embedded byfoam layer 24,wire 48 is routed alongouter surface 23 ofsubstrate layer 22 and throughaperture 80 to theinner surface 21 ofsubstrate layer 22. Upon placing and introducingskin layer 26 to thesubstrate layer 22 in a foam mold 83 (shown asfirst mold part 85 and second mold part 87) in a manner well known in the art,wire 48 now exists incavity 40 and exitscavity 40 ataperture 80.Aperture 80 is of such a geometry as to permitwire 48 to pass there through. Preferably,aperture 80 is of the geometry of an elongated slot of slightly larger dimension, in both width and thickness, than corresponding width Ww and thickness Tw ofwire 48. - Upon passing through
aperture 80,terminal end 84 ofwire 48 may included aconnecter 82 attached thereto. Alternatively,connecter 82 may be attached to theterminal end 84 ofwire 48 prior towire 48 passing throughaperture 80, in which case the geometry ofaperture 80 must be such as to permitconnector 82 as well aswire 48 to pass there through. -
Terminal end 84 ofwire 48, with or withoutconnector 82, may then be placed into aholder 86 which holds, covers and/or protects from damage thewire 48 orterminal end 84 prior to its designated use. Whileholder 86 is preferably of temporary use, it is recognized that it may be used for permanent use as in the case where theelectrical device 90 to whichterminal end 84 ofwire 48 is to attach is never installed, possibly due to differences in optional equipment between vehicles. - Preferably
holder 86 is formed integral withsubstrate 22 and is of a geometry, preferably that of anelongated recess 88, of slightly smaller dimension, in either, or both, width and thickness, thanterminal end 84 ofwire 48. In such a manner,terminal end 84 ofwire 14 preferably interference fits withrecess 88 ofholder 86. As a result,terminal end 84 ofwire 48 is retained inrecess 88 ofholder 86 prior to designated use. In other embodiments,holder 86 may be any device which holdsterminal end 84 and/orwire 48 in a confined, and preferably fixed, position prior to designated use. Example of such holders include, but are not limited to tape, adhesives, separate mechanical fasteners (e.g. screws, clips, etc.), or other structures designed integral with substrate 22 (e.g. rib structures, doghouses, etc.). - With the introduction of
substrate 22 tofirst mold part 85 offoam mold 83, apocket 89 must exist between theinner surface 21 ofsubstrate 22 and themold surface 91 offirst mold part 85 forwire 48 and/orterminal end 84 to exist therein. Thepocket 89 may be of any suitable geometry to containwire 48 and/orterminal end 84 without their damage during the foaming process. As shown,pocket 89 comprises a recess insubstrate 22 which includes a location forwire 48,terminal end 84 andelectrical device 90.Pocket 89 also is shown to comprise a recess infirst mold part 85. It is recognized that any number of geometries may be employed to facilitate the presence ofwire 48 and/orterminal end 84 adjacent theinner surface 21 ofsubstrate 22 during the foaming process. - The length of
wire 48 required to extendwire 48 betweenaperture 80 andholder 86 may be different than is required to extendwire 48 betweenaperture 80 andreceptacle 81 ofelectrical device 90. In the case where the length ofwire 48 required to extend betweenaperture 80 andholder 86 is less than the length ofwire 48 required to extendwire 48 betweenaperture 80 andreceptacle 81 ofelectrical device 90,wire 48 may be comprise one or more rolls, bends, or folds 92 which exist whileterminal end 84 ofwire 48 is retained inholder 86. These rolls, bends, or folds may then be reduced in size or number whenterminal end 84 ofwire 48 is attached to receptacle 81 ofelectrical device 90. As used herein, anelectrical device 90 is any electrical device, active or passive, electrical or electro-mechanical, which consumes, generates, or otherwise manipulates electrical power. This includes, but is not limited to, electrical motors, electro-mechanical motors, circuit boards, switches, power sources, couplers, sensors, junction boxes and fuse panels. As shown in FIG. 1,electrical device 90 is a seat switch. - A second example of a
holder 86 which holdsterminal end 84 andwire 48 in a confined position prior to use istape 93.Tape 93 may cover the recess insubstrate 22 such that, should theterminal end 84 become dislodged fromrecess 88 ofholder 86 or foldedwire 48 attempt to unfold frompocket 89 prior to use, theterminal end 84 and/orwire 48 will be prevented from exiting the confines of the recess in thesubstrate 22. - During the foam process in which foam material flows within
cavity 40 thus bondingskin layer 26 tosubstrate layer 22, preferablyfoam layer 24 extends into the confines ofaperture 80 and exists betweensurfaces substrate 22 withwire 48 located therebetween. In this manner,foam layer 24 acts as a buffer betweenwire 48 and surfaces 94 and 96 ofsubstrate 22 as to reduce, and preferably prevent,wire 48 from making contact withsurfaces substrate 22. As a result, the possibility of undesirable noise created bywire 48 rubbing against eithersurface substrate 22 during vehicle movement is substantially reduced. Further, the possibility of an undesirable short circuit caused byinsulators wire 48 rubbing against eithersurface substrate 22 and wearing to expose the conductors located therebetween is also reduced. - In order to reduce the amount of foam material exiting from
aperture 80 as a result of the foam process, a layer of tape or other type of seal (not shown) may be applied toinner surface 21 ofsubstrate 22 to partiallyclose aperture 80. Foam material which exits the aperture may do so in the form of abun 98. Thebun 98 preferably at least partially surrounds and bonds to a portion of thewire 48 which has exitedaperture 80. In this manner, thefoam bun 96 may act as a stay to help preventwire 48 which has been at least partially surrounded and embedded byfoam layer 24 from being inadvertently displaced from its embedded position by virtue of being partially or completely pulled out throughaperture 80, thus damaging thetrim panel 14. Thebun 96 may also reduce, and preferably prevent,wire 48 from making contact withcorners substrate 22 which may act to cut or otherwise damage thewire 48 depending on their sharpness. - While
bun 98 may be used for the above benefits, depending on the size of thebun 98, it may be partially or completely removed fromtrim panel 14 after the foaming process. Ifaperture 80 is to large, the size of the resultingbun 98 may surround and embed a substantial portion ofwire 48 such that at least a portion of thebun 98 must be removed. That portion of thebun 98 removed is generally preformed prior to attachment ofwire 48 to receptacle 81 ofelectrical device 90 and often is preformed to facilitate extendingwire 48 in order to attachwire 48 to receptacle 81 ofelectrical device 90. Since the foam material is of a low density and generally flexible or semi-rigid by virtue of its cushion or padding effect, it ordinarily may be removed manually, with and/or without the use of hand operated tools. However, where removal of thebun 98 to thewire 48 or theinner surface 21 ofsubstrate 22 is to be made easier, a mold release may be applied, generally by brush or spray, to wire 48 andinner surface 21 ofsubstrate 22 afterwire 48 has passed throughaperture 80 and prior to the foaming process. - After removal from the
foam mold 83, opening 99 is formed intrim panel 14 to facilitate that attachment ofelectrical device 90 to trimpanel 14. Preferably afterelectrical device 90 is attached to trimpanel 14, but possibly before,terminal end 84 ofwire 48 is removed from its confined position (i.e. first position) and attached to receptacle 81 of electrical device 90 (i.e. second position). - We intend the above description to illustrate embodiments of the present invention by using descriptive rather than limiting words. Obviously, there are many ways that one might modify these embodiments while remaining within the scope of the claims. In other words, there are many other ways that one may practice the present invention without exceeding the scope of the claims herein.
Claims (1)
Priority Applications (2)
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US10/033,437 US20020185784A1 (en) | 2000-07-25 | 2001-12-28 | Method of marking a skin for a vehicle interior trim panel |
US11/054,035 US20060024476A1 (en) | 2000-07-25 | 2005-02-08 | Method of marking a skin for a vehicle interior panel |
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Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US09/625,117 US6371548B1 (en) | 2000-07-25 | 2000-07-25 | Automotive trim panel with electrical wiring incorporated therein |
US10/033,437 US20020185784A1 (en) | 2000-07-25 | 2001-12-28 | Method of marking a skin for a vehicle interior trim panel |
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US09/625,117 Division US6371548B1 (en) | 2000-07-25 | 2000-07-25 | Automotive trim panel with electrical wiring incorporated therein |
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US11/054,035 Continuation-In-Part US20060024476A1 (en) | 2000-07-25 | 2005-02-08 | Method of marking a skin for a vehicle interior panel |
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US10/033,437 Abandoned US20020185784A1 (en) | 2000-07-25 | 2001-12-28 | Method of marking a skin for a vehicle interior trim panel |
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US20060091575A1 (en) * | 2004-11-03 | 2006-05-04 | Lear Corporation | Method and system for making interior vehicle trim panel having sprayed skin |
US20080012382A1 (en) * | 2006-01-11 | 2008-01-17 | Evans Gregg S | Integration of buttons into a reaction injection molded automotive instrument panel skin |
US20080187117A1 (en) * | 2007-02-05 | 2008-08-07 | Maugars Delphine M | System and method for identifying a caller during a phone call |
US20140004292A1 (en) * | 2012-06-29 | 2014-01-02 | GM Global Technology Operations LLC | Composite materials |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
JP2004504214A (en) | 2004-02-12 |
US6371548B1 (en) | 2002-04-16 |
CA2417540A1 (en) | 2002-01-31 |
ATE362852T1 (en) | 2007-06-15 |
EP1401669A1 (en) | 2004-03-31 |
MXPA03000818A (en) | 2003-07-14 |
AU2001280743A1 (en) | 2002-02-05 |
DE60128595T2 (en) | 2008-01-31 |
EP1401669B1 (en) | 2007-05-23 |
EP1401669A4 (en) | 2004-11-17 |
WO2002008003A1 (en) | 2002-01-31 |
DE60128595D1 (en) | 2007-07-05 |
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