US20150123420A1 - Vehicle instrument panel assembly - Google Patents
Vehicle instrument panel assembly Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20150123420A1 US20150123420A1 US14/069,987 US201314069987A US2015123420A1 US 20150123420 A1 US20150123420 A1 US 20150123420A1 US 201314069987 A US201314069987 A US 201314069987A US 2015123420 A1 US2015123420 A1 US 2015123420A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- trim surface
- instrument panel
- section
- center stack
- main
- Prior art date
- 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.)
- Granted
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- 230000002093 peripheral effect Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 37
- 230000000717 retained effect Effects 0.000 claims description 5
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 9
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000002023 wood Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000001816 cooling Methods 0.000 description 2
- VYZAMTAEIAYCRO-UHFFFAOYSA-N Chromium Chemical compound [Cr] VYZAMTAEIAYCRO-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 238000004378 air conditioning Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000295 complement effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000009977 dual effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000446 fuel Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000010985 leather Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000009423 ventilation Methods 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
- B60K35/00—Instruments specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement of instruments in or on vehicles
- B60K35/50—Instruments characterised by their means of attachment to or integration in the vehicle
-
- B60K37/04—
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
- B60K35/00—Instruments specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement of instruments in or on vehicles
- B60K35/60—Instruments characterised by their location or relative disposition in or on vehicles
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
- B60K37/00—Dashboards
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62D—MOTOR VEHICLES; TRAILERS
- B62D25/00—Superstructure or monocoque structure sub-units; Parts or details thereof not otherwise provided for
- B62D25/08—Front or rear portions
- B62D25/14—Dashboards as superstructure sub-units
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
- B60K2360/00—Indexing scheme associated with groups B60K35/00 or B60K37/00 relating to details of instruments or dashboards
- B60K2360/77—Instrument locations other than the dashboard
- B60K2360/774—Instrument locations other than the dashboard on or in the centre console
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
- B60K2360/00—Indexing scheme associated with groups B60K35/00 or B60K37/00 relating to details of instruments or dashboards
- B60K2360/822—Adjustment of instruments during mounting
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
- B60K2360/00—Indexing scheme associated with groups B60K35/00 or B60K37/00 relating to details of instruments or dashboards
- B60K2360/84—Mounting of dashboard components
Definitions
- the present invention generally relates to an instrument panel that includes a center stack assembly. More specifically, the present invention relates to an instrument panel that includes a center stack assembly that is designed to have a floating appearance relative to areas of the instrument panel adjacent to the center stack assembly.
- a center stack of an instrument panel that includes, for example, audio controls, HVAC (heating ventilation and air conditioning) controls and/or a video display for showing images from one or more cameras disposed on the vehicle.
- HVAC heating ventilation and air conditioning
- the center stack is an unadorned portion of the instrument panel.
- One object of the disclosure is a center stack assembly of an instrument panel that protrudes rearward relative to adjacent surfaces of the instrument panel.
- Another object of the disclosure is to provide a center stack assembly with a floating appearance relative to adjacent portions of the instrument panel.
- one aspect of the disclosure is a vehicle instrument panel assembly that has a center stack assembly.
- the center stack assembly has a main portion that includes a main trim surface and an attachment surface on an opposite side of the main portion from the main trim surface.
- a peripheral edge surrounds the main trim surface and includes an upper portion, a bottom portion, a lower first side portion, an upper first side portion, a lower second side portion laterally opposite the lower first side portion and an upper second side portion laterally opposite the upper first side portion.
- the center stack assembly further includes a first side trim surface and a second side trim surface opposite the first side trim surface. The first side trim surface and the second side trim surface are located on a side of the main portion defining the attachment surface.
- the first side trim surface intersects the main portion along the lower first side portion of the peripheral edge
- the second side trim surface intersects the main trim surface along the lower second side portion of the peripheral edge.
- the first side trim surface and the second side trim surface are inclined toward one another such that the first side trim surface and the second side trim surface converge toward one another in a direction moving away from the attachment surface of the main portion in a vehicle longitudinal direction.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a passenger compartment of a vehicle showing an instrument panel assembly that includes a center stack assembly in accordance with an embodiment
- FIG. 2 is a top view of the passenger compartment showing the instrument panel assembly and the center stack assembly in accordance with the embodiment
- FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the center stack assembly installed to the instrument panel assembly in accordance with the embodiment
- FIG. 4 is a perspective exploded view of portions of the instrument panel assembly and the center stack assembly in accordance with the embodiment
- FIG. 5 is a front view of the instrument panel assembly with the center stack assembly removed, showing an instrument cluster supporting section, a center stack supporting section and a storage compartment supporting section in accordance with the embodiment;
- FIG. 6 is detailed view of the center stack supporting section of the instrument panel showing a first retaining portion, a second retaining portion and attachment flanges in accordance with the embodiment;
- FIG. 7 is a detailed view of the center stack supporting section of the instrument panel showing a first retaining portion in accordance with the embodiment
- FIG. 8 is another detailed view of the center stack supporting section of the instrument panel showing a second retaining portion in accordance with the embodiment
- FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of the center stack assembly removed from the instrument panel showing an attachment surface of a main portion of the center stack assembly, attachment brackets, an audio/video device, an HVAC controller, a first side trim panel and a second side trim panel in accordance with the embodiment;
- FIG. 10 is a front view of the center stack assembly showing a trim surface of the main portion and a peripheral edge of the trim surface in accordance with the embodiment;
- FIG. 11 is a first side view of the center stack assembly showing the first side trim panel attached to the main portion in accordance with the embodiment
- FIG. 12 is a second side view of the center stack assembly showing the second side trim panel attached to the main portion in accordance with the embodiment
- FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the center stack assembly showing the first side trim panel, the audio/video device and the attachment brackets attached to the audio/video device in accordance with the embodiment;
- FIG. 14 is a bottom view of the center stack assembly showing the first side trim panel and the second side trim panel each with a retaining lip that extends in to a corresponding recess in the main portion in accordance with the embodiment;
- FIG. 15 is a first side view of the first side trim panel removed from the main portion of the center stack assembly showing a side trim surface and the retaining lip of the first side trim panel in accordance with the embodiment;
- FIG. 16 is an opposite side view of the first side trim panel showing an attachment surface that includes attachment flanges in accordance with the embodiment
- FIG. 17 is a bottom view of the first side trim panel showing one of the attachment flanges and the retaining lip in accordance with the embodiment;
- FIG. 18 is a rear view of the first side trim panel showing the attachment flanges and the retaining lip in accordance with the embodiment
- FIG. 19 is a front view of the first side trim panel showing the attachment flanges in accordance with the embodiment
- FIG. 20 is a perspective view of an upper area of the center stack supporting section of the instrument panel showing the attachment brackets of the center stack assembly attached to an upper flange of the instrument panel in accordance with the embodiment;
- FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a lower area of the center stack supporting section of the instrument panel showing the attachment brackets of the center stack assembly attached to a lower flange of the instrument panel in accordance with the embodiment;
- FIG. 22 is a bottom view of the center stack supporting section of the instrument panel showing the first side trim panel and the second side trim panel attached to the main portion of the center stack assembly, with the first side trim panel and the second side trim panel contacting respective sides of the trim surface of the center stack supporting section of the instrument panel in accordance with the embodiment;
- FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of the center stack of the instrument panel taken along the line 23 - 23 in FIG. 1 showing the first side trim panel retained in the first retaining portion of the center stack supporting section and the second side trim panel retained in the second retaining portion of the center stack supporting section in accordance with the embodiment.
- a vehicle 10 having an instrument panel 12 that includes a center stack assembly 14 attached thereto is illustrated in accordance with a first embodiment.
- the center stack assembly 14 is designed to have a floating appearance relative to the instrument panel 12 when viewed by a passenger sitting in a driver's seat S D . More specifically, the center stack assembly 14 is supported by the instrument panel 12 but protrudes rearward from adjacent surface areas of the instrument panel 12 .
- the center stack assembly 14 includes side trim surfaces 16 a and 16 b (see FIGS. 11 , 12 , 14 , 21 , 22 and 23 ) that are not visible from an area within the vehicle 10 occupied by a passenger sitting in the driver's seat S D .
- the side trim surfaces 16 a and 16 b are dimensioned and positioned to provide the illusion that the center stack assembly 14 is floating relative to the remainder of the instrument panel 12 , as described in greater detail below.
- a further trim panel 18 is installed to the instrument panel 12 above the center stack assembly 14 .
- a description of the instrument panel 12 and the center stack assembly 14 is provided below after a description of portions of the vehicle 10 .
- the vehicle 10 basically includes A-pillars 20 , a floor 22 , a dash wall 24 and a windshield W that at least partially define a passenger compartment 26 within the body structure of the vehicle 10 .
- the vehicle 10 also includes, among other things, the following features within the passenger compartment 26 : the driver's seat S D ; a center console 28 ; the instrument panel 12 ; and the center stack assembly 14 .
- the driver's seat S D is mounted to the floor 22 in a conventional manner.
- the center console 28 is also mounted to the floor 22 in a conventional manner.
- the center console 28 also includes a front section 30 that aligns with and can optionally connect to the center stack assembly 14 , as described in greater detail below.
- the vehicle 10 also includes a steering member 32 that extends between ends of the dash wall 24 proximate to the A-pillars 20 .
- the steering member 32 is a structural element of the vehicle 10 that is connected to the dash wall 24 and the A-pillars 20 .
- the instrument panel 12 can be attached to the steering member 32 in a conventional manner.
- the instrument panel 12 is installed within the passenger compartment 26 to, for example, one or more of the A-pillars 20 , the dash wall 24 and the steering member 32 .
- the instrument panel 12 extends from the A-pillar 20 on the driver's side to the A-pillar 20 on the passenger's side of the vehicle 10 and from the windshield W rearward.
- the instrument panel 12 is an assembly that includes a variety of features, including the center stack assembly 14 .
- the instrument panel 12 includes a structural core, for example, a main body 38 , that is shaped and contoured to give the instrument panel 12 its overall shapes and contours.
- the main body 38 has a dash wall facing surface 40 (shown in FIGS. 2 and 23 ), a trim surface 42 , an upper deck 44 , an instrument cluster supporting section 46 , a storage compartment supporting section 48 and a center stack supporting section 50 .
- the dash wall facing surface 40 is typically unadorned and mainly includes structures and projections (not shown) that support the instrument panel 12 to the A-pillars 20 , the dash wall 24 and the steering member 32 .
- the dash wall facing surface 40 also supports at least a portion of the center stack supporting section 50 .
- the trim surface 42 of the main body 38 can have a textured finish or can be covered with one or more decorative materials giving the instrument panel 12 a desired appearance.
- the trim surface 42 is exposed within the passenger compartment 26 .
- the portion of the trim surface 42 that coincides with the upper deck 44 can be covered with a padded or other material with any of a variety of textures and appearances, such as wood grain, leather or others.
- the surface area of the trim surface 42 that defines the instrument cluster supporting section 46 can also be covered with the above mentioned material but can alternatively include chrome trim elements or other decorative materials that enhance the appearance of the instrument cluster 56 .
- the surface area of the trim surface 42 that defines the storage compartment supporting section 48 can include the padded material, simulated wood grain or other decorative cover materials.
- the surface area of the trim surface 42 that defines the center stack supporting section 50 can also include the padded material, simulated wood grain or other decorative materials.
- the upper deck 44 is a generally horizontal portion of the main body 38 of the instrument panel 12 that extends rearward in a vehicle longitudinal direction D ( FIG. 2 ) from the windshield W.
- the upper deck 44 can include air vents for defogging the windshield W or for other heating and cooling functions. Since air vents are conventional elements, further description is omitted for the sake of brevity.
- a first rearward portion 44 a of the upper deck 44 is located on the driver's side of the vehicle 10 and ends at the instrument cluster supporting section 46 . Since the instrument cluster supporting section 46 is relatively large, the first rearward portion 44 a of the upper deck 44 is located more forward of the storage compartment supporting section 48 and a center stack supporting section 50 relative to the vehicle longitudinal direction D.
- a second rearward portion 44 b of the upper deck 44 extends further rearward relative to the vehicle longitudinal direction D than the first rearward portion 44 a and curves downward intersecting with the storage compartment supporting section 48 .
- a central portion 44 c of the upper deck 44 remains relatively planar extending back to the center stack supporting section 50 .
- the central portion 44 c extends further rearward in the vehicle longitudinal direction D than both the first rearward portion 44 a and the second rearward portion 44 b of the upper deck 44 of the main body 38 of the instrument panel 12 .
- the instrument cluster supporting section 46 is an area of the main body 38 of the instrument panel 12 that is configured to receive and support the instrument cluster 56 and a steering column 58 .
- a lower area of the instrument cluster supporting section 46 includes a separate trim panel 46 a that extends to the center stack supporting section 50 , as indicated in FIG. 5-7 .
- the separate trim panel 46 a can include a first retaining portion 60 , as shown in FIG. 7 .
- the first retaining portion 60 can alternatively be formed as part of the main body 38 of the instrument panel 12 .
- a more detailed description of the first retaining portion 60 is provided below with a description of the center stack supporting section 50 .
- the instrument cluster 56 includes a plurality of electronic information indication devices such as, for example, a fuel level gauge, a speedometer, a tachometer, temperature gauge, etc.
- the instrument cluster supporting section 46 includes a plurality of attachment flanges and attachment openings that support the instrument cluster 56 and the steering column 58 in a conventional manner. Since instrument clusters and steering columns are conventional structures, further description is omitted for the sake of brevity.
- the storage compartment supporting section 48 is configured to conceal an airbag device (not shown) and includes a storage compartment or glove box 62 . Since storage compartments and glove boxes located in instrument panels are conventional structures, further description is omitted for the sake of brevity.
- a lower portion of storage compartment supporting section 48 can include a separate trim panel 48 a that extends from the storage compartment supporting section 48 and the center stack supporting section 50 , as indicated in FIGS. 5 , 6 and 8 .
- the separate trim panel 48 a includes a second retaining portion 64 .
- the main body 38 of the instrument panel 12 can include the second retaining portion 64 .
- a more detailed description of the second retaining portion 64 is provided below with a description of the center stack supporting section 50 .
- the center stack supporting section 50 is centrally located with respect to the instrument panel 12 . More specifically, the center stack supporting section 50 is located between the instrument cluster supporting section 46 and the storage compartment supporting section 48 .
- the center stack supporting section 50 includes a central opening 66 defined by the main body 38 that extends from the dash wall facing surface 40 to the trim surface 42 .
- a series of flanges 70 a , 70 b , 72 a , 72 b , 74 and 76 at least partially surround and/or define the central opening 66 .
- the flanges 70 a and 72 a are located on a side of the central opening 66 adjacent to the instrument cluster supporting section 46 .
- the flanges 70 b and 72 b are located on a side of the central opening 66 adjacent to the storage compartment supporting section 48 .
- the flange 74 is located at an upper area of the central opening 66 and extends between the side of the central opening 66 adjacent to the instrument cluster supporting section 46 and the side of the central opening 66 adjacent to the storage compartment supporting section 48 .
- the flange 76 is located at a lower area of the central opening 66 and extends between the side of the central opening 66 adjacent to the instrument cluster supporting section 46 and the side of the central opening 66 adjacent to the storage compartment supporting section 48 .
- the flanges 70 a , 70 b , 72 a and 72 b include a plurality of attachment apertures 80 that are configured to receive snap-fitting projections of the center stack assembly 14 that are described in greater detail below.
- the flanges 70 b and 72 b include a plurality of attachment apertures 80 a that are configured to receive snap-fitting projections (not shown) of the trim panel 18 .
- the flange 74 includes apertures 82 and alignment projections 84 that are described in greater detail below.
- the flange 76 includes apertures 86 and alignment projections 88 that are described in greater detail below.
- the first retaining portion 60 of the separate trim panel 46 a includes a projection 90 that extends in a rearward direction relative to the vehicle longitudinal direction D.
- the projection 90 and an adjacent surface of separate trim panel 46 a define a recess 92 .
- the second retaining portion 64 is formed on the separate trim panel 48 a and includes a projection 94 that extends in a rearward direction relative to the vehicle longitudinal direction D.
- the projection 90 and an adjacent surface of the separate trim panel 48 a define a recess 96 .
- the center stack assembly 14 basically includes a main portion 100 , an audio/video device 102 , a heating/cooling control panel herein after referred to as an HVAC controller 104 , an attachment bracket 106 , an attachment bracket 108 , a first side trim panel 110 and a second side trim panel 112 .
- an HVAC controller 104 a heating/cooling control panel
- an attachment bracket 106 an attachment bracket 108
- a first side trim panel 110 and a second side trim panel 112 .
- the audio/video device 102 and the HVAC controller 104 can be replaced with other vehicle related controllers or can be omitted entirely and replaced with other structures in order to support the attachment brackets 106 and 108 .
- the main portion 100 is basically a trim panel that includes a main trim surface 120 and an attachment surface 122 on an opposite side of the main portion 100 from the main trim surface 120 .
- the main trim surface 120 is bounded by a peripheral edge 124 that surrounds the main trim surface 120 .
- the peripheral edge 124 includes an upper portion 130 , a bottom portion 132 , a lower first side portion 134 a , an upper first side portion 134 b , a lower second side portion 136 a laterally opposite the lower first side portion 134 a and an upper second side portion 136 b laterally opposite the upper first side portion 134 b.
- the upper portion 130 , the lower first side portion 134 a , the upper first side portion 134 b , the lower second side portion 136 a and the upper second side portion 136 b of the peripheral edge 124 all have rounded contours.
- the side trim surface 16 a is defined on the first side trim panel 110 .
- the first side trim panel 110 basically joins with the lower first side portion 134 a such that the side trim surface 16 a , the lower first side portion 134 a of the peripheral edge 124 and the main trim surface 120 of the main portion 100 of the center stack assembly 14 define a continuous, uninterrupted and contoured appearance. More specifically, the side trim surface 16 a has the appearance of being seamless with the lower first side portion 134 a of the peripheral edge 124 and the main trim surface 120 of the main portion 100 of the center stack assembly 14 .
- the side trim surface 16 b is defined on the second side trim panel 112 .
- the second side trim panel 112 basically joins with the lower second side portion 136 a such that the side trim surface 16 b , the lower second side portion 136 a of the peripheral edge 124 and the main trim surface 120 of the main portion 100 of the center stack assembly 14 define a continuous, uninterrupted and contoured appearance.
- the side trim surface 16 b has the appearance of being seamless with the lower second side portion 136 a of the peripheral edge 124 and the main trim surface 120 of the main portion 100 of the center stack assembly 14 .
- the main trim surface 120 is inclined with respect to vertical V by an angle ⁇ that is between 10 and 20 degrees.
- the angle ⁇ is approximately 15 degrees, but can be any value between 10 and 20 degrees. Consequently, the upper portion 130 of the peripheral edge 124 of the main trim surface 120 is located closer to the dash wall 24 (more forward) than the bottom portion 132 of the peripheral edge 124 of the main trim surface 120 relative to the vehicle longitudinal direction D ( FIG. 2 ).
- the main trim surface 120 is also angularly offset from a vehicle lateral direction L by an angle ⁇ , where the vehicle lateral direction L is a side-to-side direction of the vehicle 10 perpendicular to the vehicle longitudinal direction D.
- the lower first side portion 134 a is closer to the dash wall 24 (more forward) than the lower second side portion 136 a .
- the angle ⁇ can be between 5 and 10 degrees. However, in the depicted embodiment, the angle ⁇ is 7 degrees.
- the attachment surface 122 includes a plurality of snap fitting projections 138 that are oriented to align and fit into the attachment apertures 80 of the flanges 70 a , 70 b , 72 a and 72 b at the central opening 66 of the center stack supporting section 50 of the main body 38 of the instrument panel with the center stack assembly 14 installed to the instrument panel 12 .
- the attachment surface 122 includes a recess 122 a that is configured to receive a portion of the first side trim panel 110 , as is described below.
- the attachment surface 122 includes a recess 122 b that is configured to receive a portion of the second side trim panel 112 , as is described below.
- the upper portion 130 of the peripheral edge 124 of the main portion 100 is contoured and dimensioned to mate with the trim panel 18 , which is in turn contoured and dimensioned to mate with the central rearward portion 44 c of the upper deck 44 of the main body 38 of the instrument panel 12 with the center stack assembly 14 and the trim panel 18 completely installed to the instrument panel 12 .
- the bottom portion 132 includes a flange 132 a ( FIG. 10 ) that has a plurality of attachment apertures 132 b that mate with, for example, snap-fitting projections (not shown) of the front section 30 of the center console 28 with the center stack assembly 14 completely installed to the instrument panel 12 and the center console 28 .
- the lower first side portion 134 a and the upper first side portion 134 b of the peripheral edge 124 are not linearly aligned. Rather, an angle ⁇ is formed between the lower first side portion 134 a and the upper first side portion 134 b .
- the angle ⁇ can be between 130 and 170 degrees. In the depicted embodiment, the angle ⁇ is approximately 150 degrees.
- the angle ⁇ is similarly formed between the lower second side portion 136 a and the upper second side portion 136 b such that the main trim surface 120 has a symmetrical appearance.
- the upper first side portion 134 b is contoured and dimensioned to mate with the adjacent portion of the trim panel 18 which mates with an adjacent portion of the trim surface 42 extending from an upper portion of the instrument cluster supporting section 46 with the center stack assembly 14 completely installed to the instrument panel 12 .
- the upper second side portion 136 b is contoured and dimensioned to mate with the adjacent portion of the trim panel 18 which mates with an adjacent portion of the trim surface 42 extending from an upper portion of the storage compartment supporting section 48 with the center stack assembly 14 completely installed to the instrument panel 12 .
- the lower first side portion 134 a is spaced apart from the adjacent portion of the trim surface 42 extending from a lower portion of the instrument cluster supporting section 46 with the center stack assembly 14 completely installed to the instrument panel 12 . More specifically, the upper portion 130 , the lower first side portion 134 a , the upper first side portion 134 b , the lower second side portion 136 a and the upper second side portion 136 b of the peripheral edge 124 are either co-planar or all intersect with a plane that extends through at least the lower first side portion 134 a and the lower second side portion 136 a . In other words, all portions of the peripheral edge 124 are approximately co-planar or are in fact co-planar, depending upon the overall design of the center stack assembly 14 .
- the lower areas of the trim surface 42 adjacent to either side of the center stack support section 50 curve downward and in a forward direction relative to the vehicle body direction D. Hence there is a gap between the lower first side portion 134 a and the adjacent portion of the trim surface 42 . This gap is filled by the first side trim panel 110 as shown in FIG. 22 and described below.
- the lower second side portion 136 a is similarly spaced apart from the adjacent portion of the trim surface 42 with the center stack assembly 14 completely installed to the instrument panel 12 . Hence there is a gap between the lower second side portion 136 a and the adjacent portion of the trim surface 42 . This gap is filled by the second side trim panel 112 as shown in FIG. 22 and described below.
- the audio/video device 102 is dimensioned to align with an aperture 140 formed in the main portion 100 of the center stack assembly 14 .
- the audio/video device 102 is fixedly attached to the attachment surface 122 of the main portion 100 by fasteners (not shown) or by snap fitting projections (not shown).
- the HVAC controller 104 is dimensioned to align with an aperture 142 formed in the main portion 100 of the center stack assembly 14 .
- the HVAC controller 104 is fixedly attached to the attachment surface 122 of the main portion 100 by fasteners F.
- the attachment bracket 106 is fixedly attached to a first side of the audio/video device 102 by fasteners F.
- An upper end of the attachment bracket 106 includes a fastener 106 a and an adjacent alignment aperture.
- a lower end of the attachment bracket 106 includes a fastener 106 b and an adjacent alignment aperture.
- the attachment bracket 108 is fixedly attached to a second side of the audio/video device 102 by fasteners F.
- An upper end of the attachment bracket 108 includes a fastener 108 a and an adjacent alignment aperture.
- a lower end of the attachment bracket 108 includes a fastener 108 b and an adjacent alignment aperture.
- the first side trim panel 110 and the second side trim panel 112 are also fixedly attached to the attachment surface 122 of the main portion 100 by fasteners F.
- first side trim panel 110 and the second side trim panel 112 are fixed to opposite sides of the attachment surface 122 such that the second side trim panel 112 is opposite and faces the first side trim panel 110 .
- the first side trim panel 110 is basically a first side trim wall that intersects the main portion 100 along the lower first side portion 134 a of the peripheral edge 124 .
- the side trim surface 16 a defined by the first side trim panel 110 joins with the surface of the lower first side portion 134 a of the peripheral edge 124 .
- the second side trim panel 112 is basically a second side trim wall that intersects the main portion 100 along the lower second side portion 136 a of the peripheral edge 124 .
- the side trim surface 16 b defined by the second side trim panel 112 joins with the surface of the lower second side portion 136 a of the peripheral edge 124 .
- first side trim panel 110 and the second side trim panel 112 are inclined toward one another in the vehicle longitudinal direction D. More specifically, the first side trim panel 110 and the second side trim panel 112 converge toward one another in a direction moving away from the attachment surface 122 of the main portion 100 in a vehicle longitudinal direction D.
- the first side trim panel 110 and the second side trim panel 112 are basically symmetrical mirror images of one another. Therefore description of one applies equally to the other.
- the first side trim panel 110 is described below, however, it should be understood that the second side trim panel 112 is a geometric mirror image of the first side trim panel 112 .
- the first side trim panel 110 includes the side trim surface 16 a , an upright edge 150 , an inner surface 152 with a plurality of flanges 154 extending therefrom and a retaining lip 156 .
- the upright edge 150 has an upper end 158 a and a lower end 158 b .
- the second side trim panel 112 includes the side trim surface 16 b , an upright edge 150 a , an inner surface 152 a with a plurality of flanges 154 a extending therefrom and a retaining lip 156 a .
- the upright edge 150 a has an upper end 160 a and a lower end 160 b.
- the upright edge 150 of the first side trim panel 110 extends into the recess 92 of the first retaining portion 60 , as shown in FIGS. 21 and 23 .
- the upright edge 150 a of the second side trim panel 112 extends into the recess 96 of the second retaining portion 64 , as shown in FIGS. 21 and 23 .
- the first side trim panel 110 and the second side trim panel 112 are securely retained in position with the center stack assembly 14 fully installed to the main body 38 of the instrument panel 12 .
- the main trim surface 120 has a first width W 1 measured along the bottom portion 132 of the peripheral edge 124 from the lower first side portion 134 a to the lower second side portion 136 a in the vehicle lateral direction L.
- a second width W 2 is measured at a level corresponding to the first width W 1 from a forward lower end of the first side trim panel 110 to a forward lower end the second side trim panel 112 , the first width W 1 being greater than the second width W 2 .
- the second width W 2 further corresponds to the distance between the respective lower ends 158 b and 160 b of the upright edges 150 and 150 a of the first and second side trim panels 110 and 112 .
- the main trim surface 120 has a third width W 3 measured at approximately the level of the upper ends 158 a and 160 a of the upright edges 150 and 150 a of the first and second side trim panels 110 and 112 in the vehicle lateral direction L.
- a fourth width W 4 is measured between the upper ends 158 a and 160 a of the upright edges 150 and 150 a of the first and second side trim panels 110 and 112 in the vehicle lateral direction L.
- the third width W 3 is greater than the fourth width W 4 .
- the center stack assembly 14 is angularly offset relative to vehicle lateral direction L by the angle ⁇ .
- the center stack assembly 14 is angularly offset relative the vehicle longitudinal direction D by a angle that is complementary to the angle ⁇ (90 degrees— ⁇ ), such that the first side trim panel 110 and the second side trim panel 112 are not visible from a location rearward from the instrument cluster supporting section 50 and along a line L 1 ( FIG. 2 ) normal to a plane defined by the main trim surface 120 of the main portion 100 of the center stack assembly 14 .
- the side trim surface 16 a of the first side trim panel 110 and the side trim surface 16 b of the second side trim panel 112 and the main trim surface 120 of the center stack assembly 14 are all exposed within the passenger compartment 26 when the center stack assembly 14 is installed to the center stack supporting section 50 of the instrument panel 12 .
- the first side trim panel 110 and the second side trim panel 112 are not visible because of the angle ⁇ which results in them converging toward one another moving away from the main portion 100 of the center stack assembly 14 .
- first side trim panel 110 and the second side trim panel 112 are such that they are not visible from a location rearward from the instrument cluster supporting section 46 and along the line L 1 normal to a plane defined by the main trim surface 120 of the main portion 100 of the center stack assembly 14 .
- the first side trim panel 110 is attached to the main portion 100 by fasteners F that are inserted through apertures in the flanges 154 .
- the second side trim panel 112 is attached to the main portion 100 by fasteners F that are inserted through apertures in the flanges 154 a.
- the fastener 106 a of the attachment bracket 106 is fitted into the aperture 82 of the flange 74 and the alignment projection 84 extends into the alignment aperture adjacent to the fastener 106 a .
- the fastener 108 a of the attachment bracket 108 is fitted into the aperture 82 a of the flange 74 and the alignment projection 84 a extends into the alignment aperture adjacent to the fastener 108 a.
- the fastener 106 b of the attachment bracket 106 is fitted into the aperture 86 of the flange 76 and the alignment projection 88 extends into the alignment aperture adjacent to the fastener 106 b .
- the fastener 108 b of the attachment bracket 108 is fitted into the aperture 86 a of the flange 76 and the alignment projection 88 aa extends into the alignment aperture adjacent to the fastener 108 b.
- the main trim surface 120 is spaced apart from the trim surface 42 of the instrument panel 12 and extends further rearward that adjacent areas of the trim surface 42 .
- the first side trim panel 110 extends from the lower first side portion 134 a of the main trim surface 120 of the center stack assembly 14 to trim surface 42 of the instrument panel 12 at the driver's side of the central opening 66 .
- the second side trim panel 112 extends from the lower second side portion 136 a to trim surface 42 of the instrument panel 12 at the passenger's side of the central opening 66 .
- the side trim surface 16 a is inclined with respect to the vehicle longitudinal direction D by an angle ⁇ 1 and the side trim surface 16 b is inclined with respect to the vehicle longitudinal direction D by an angle ⁇ 2 where the angle ⁇ 1 and is greater than the angle ⁇ 2 .
- the angle ⁇ 1 can be between 15 and 35 degrees. However, in the depicted embodiment the angle ⁇ 1 is approximately 22 degrees.
- the angle ⁇ 2 can be between 0 and 10 degrees. In the depicted embodiment, the angle ⁇ 2 is approximately 3 degrees.
- the side trim surface 16 a is inclined with respect to vertical V by an angle ⁇ 1 and the side trim surface 16 b is inclined with respect to the vertical V by an angle ⁇ 2 where the angle ⁇ 1 and the angle ⁇ 2 are equal.
- the angles ⁇ 1 and ⁇ 2 can be unequal.
- the angle ⁇ 1 can be between 5 degrees and 20 degrees. However, in the depicted embodiment, the angle ⁇ 1 is approximately 15 degrees.
- areas of the trim surface 42 of the instrument panel 12 adjacent to each lateral side of the central opening 66 have contoured shapes that extend rearward approaching the central opening 66 as viewed from above.
- the lower first side portion 134 a , the lower second side portion 136 a and the bottom portion 132 of the peripheral edge 124 of the main portion 100 of the center stack assembly 14 are all located rearward of the trim surface 42 of the instrument panel 12 with the center stack assembly 14 installed to the instrument panel 12 .
- the first side trim panel 110 and second side trim panel 112 are basically hidden from the driver's sight when the driver is seated in the driver's seat S D .
- the center stack assembly 14 has a floating appearance since connection between the lower side surfaces 16 a and 16 b s of the center stack assembly 14 are hidden from the driver's view.
- the various portions of the vehicle 10 and features of the vehicle 10 within the passenger compartment 26 , other than the instrument panel 12 and the center stack assembly 14 , are conventional components that are well known in the art. Since these various portions and features are well known in the art, these structures will not be discussed or illustrated in detail herein. Rather, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that the components can be any type of structure and/or programming that can be used to carry out the present invention.
- the term “comprising” and its derivatives, as used herein, are intended to be open ended terms that specify the presence of the stated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and/or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other unstated features, elements, components, groups, integers and/or steps.
- the foregoing also applies to words having similar meanings such as the terms, “including”, “having” and their derivatives.
- the terms “part,” “section,” “portion,” “member” or “element” when used in the singular can have the dual meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts.
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Abstract
Description
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The present invention generally relates to an instrument panel that includes a center stack assembly. More specifically, the present invention relates to an instrument panel that includes a center stack assembly that is designed to have a floating appearance relative to areas of the instrument panel adjacent to the center stack assembly.
- 2. Background Information
- Many current production vehicles are provided with a center stack of an instrument panel that includes, for example, audio controls, HVAC (heating ventilation and air conditioning) controls and/or a video display for showing images from one or more cameras disposed on the vehicle. Typically, the center stack is an unadorned portion of the instrument panel.
- One object of the disclosure is a center stack assembly of an instrument panel that protrudes rearward relative to adjacent surfaces of the instrument panel.
- Another object of the disclosure is to provide a center stack assembly with a floating appearance relative to adjacent portions of the instrument panel.
- In view of the state of the known technology, one aspect of the disclosure is a vehicle instrument panel assembly that has a center stack assembly. The center stack assembly has a main portion that includes a main trim surface and an attachment surface on an opposite side of the main portion from the main trim surface. A peripheral edge surrounds the main trim surface and includes an upper portion, a bottom portion, a lower first side portion, an upper first side portion, a lower second side portion laterally opposite the lower first side portion and an upper second side portion laterally opposite the upper first side portion. The center stack assembly further includes a first side trim surface and a second side trim surface opposite the first side trim surface. The first side trim surface and the second side trim surface are located on a side of the main portion defining the attachment surface. The first side trim surface intersects the main portion along the lower first side portion of the peripheral edge, and the second side trim surface intersects the main trim surface along the lower second side portion of the peripheral edge. The first side trim surface and the second side trim surface are inclined toward one another such that the first side trim surface and the second side trim surface converge toward one another in a direction moving away from the attachment surface of the main portion in a vehicle longitudinal direction.
- Referring now to the attached drawings which form a part of this original disclosure:
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a passenger compartment of a vehicle showing an instrument panel assembly that includes a center stack assembly in accordance with an embodiment; -
FIG. 2 is a top view of the passenger compartment showing the instrument panel assembly and the center stack assembly in accordance with the embodiment; -
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the center stack assembly installed to the instrument panel assembly in accordance with the embodiment; -
FIG. 4 is a perspective exploded view of portions of the instrument panel assembly and the center stack assembly in accordance with the embodiment; -
FIG. 5 is a front view of the instrument panel assembly with the center stack assembly removed, showing an instrument cluster supporting section, a center stack supporting section and a storage compartment supporting section in accordance with the embodiment; -
FIG. 6 is detailed view of the center stack supporting section of the instrument panel showing a first retaining portion, a second retaining portion and attachment flanges in accordance with the embodiment; -
FIG. 7 is a detailed view of the center stack supporting section of the instrument panel showing a first retaining portion in accordance with the embodiment; -
FIG. 8 is another detailed view of the center stack supporting section of the instrument panel showing a second retaining portion in accordance with the embodiment; -
FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of the center stack assembly removed from the instrument panel showing an attachment surface of a main portion of the center stack assembly, attachment brackets, an audio/video device, an HVAC controller, a first side trim panel and a second side trim panel in accordance with the embodiment; -
FIG. 10 is a front view of the center stack assembly showing a trim surface of the main portion and a peripheral edge of the trim surface in accordance with the embodiment; -
FIG. 11 is a first side view of the center stack assembly showing the first side trim panel attached to the main portion in accordance with the embodiment; -
FIG. 12 is a second side view of the center stack assembly showing the second side trim panel attached to the main portion in accordance with the embodiment; -
FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the center stack assembly showing the first side trim panel, the audio/video device and the attachment brackets attached to the audio/video device in accordance with the embodiment; -
FIG. 14 is a bottom view of the center stack assembly showing the first side trim panel and the second side trim panel each with a retaining lip that extends in to a corresponding recess in the main portion in accordance with the embodiment; -
FIG. 15 is a first side view of the first side trim panel removed from the main portion of the center stack assembly showing a side trim surface and the retaining lip of the first side trim panel in accordance with the embodiment; -
FIG. 16 is an opposite side view of the first side trim panel showing an attachment surface that includes attachment flanges in accordance with the embodiment; -
FIG. 17 is a bottom view of the first side trim panel showing one of the attachment flanges and the retaining lip in accordance with the embodiment; -
FIG. 18 is a rear view of the first side trim panel showing the attachment flanges and the retaining lip in accordance with the embodiment; -
FIG. 19 is a front view of the first side trim panel showing the attachment flanges in accordance with the embodiment; -
FIG. 20 is a perspective view of an upper area of the center stack supporting section of the instrument panel showing the attachment brackets of the center stack assembly attached to an upper flange of the instrument panel in accordance with the embodiment; -
FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a lower area of the center stack supporting section of the instrument panel showing the attachment brackets of the center stack assembly attached to a lower flange of the instrument panel in accordance with the embodiment; -
FIG. 22 is a bottom view of the center stack supporting section of the instrument panel showing the first side trim panel and the second side trim panel attached to the main portion of the center stack assembly, with the first side trim panel and the second side trim panel contacting respective sides of the trim surface of the center stack supporting section of the instrument panel in accordance with the embodiment; and -
FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of the center stack of the instrument panel taken along the line 23-23 inFIG. 1 showing the first side trim panel retained in the first retaining portion of the center stack supporting section and the second side trim panel retained in the second retaining portion of the center stack supporting section in accordance with the embodiment. - Selected embodiments will now be explained with reference to the drawings. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that the following descriptions of the embodiments are provided for illustration only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.
- Referring initially to
FIG. 1 , avehicle 10 having aninstrument panel 12 that includes acenter stack assembly 14 attached thereto is illustrated in accordance with a first embodiment. As described in greater detail below, thecenter stack assembly 14 is designed to have a floating appearance relative to theinstrument panel 12 when viewed by a passenger sitting in a driver's seat SD. More specifically, thecenter stack assembly 14 is supported by theinstrument panel 12 but protrudes rearward from adjacent surface areas of theinstrument panel 12. Thecenter stack assembly 14 includesside trim surfaces FIGS. 11 , 12, 14, 21, 22 and 23) that are not visible from an area within thevehicle 10 occupied by a passenger sitting in the driver's seat SD. Theside trim surfaces center stack assembly 14 is floating relative to the remainder of theinstrument panel 12, as described in greater detail below. Afurther trim panel 18 is installed to theinstrument panel 12 above thecenter stack assembly 14. - A description of the
instrument panel 12 and thecenter stack assembly 14 is provided below after a description of portions of thevehicle 10. - As shown in
FIG. 1 , thevehicle 10 basically includes A-pillars 20, afloor 22, adash wall 24 and a windshield W that at least partially define apassenger compartment 26 within the body structure of thevehicle 10. Thevehicle 10 also includes, among other things, the following features within the passenger compartment 26: the driver's seat SD; acenter console 28; theinstrument panel 12; and thecenter stack assembly 14. - The driver's seat SD is mounted to the
floor 22 in a conventional manner. Thecenter console 28 is also mounted to thefloor 22 in a conventional manner. Thecenter console 28 also includes afront section 30 that aligns with and can optionally connect to thecenter stack assembly 14, as described in greater detail below. - As shown in phantom in
FIG. 2 , thevehicle 10 also includes asteering member 32 that extends between ends of thedash wall 24 proximate to theA-pillars 20. Thesteering member 32 is a structural element of thevehicle 10 that is connected to thedash wall 24 and theA-pillars 20. Although not shown, theinstrument panel 12 can be attached to thesteering member 32 in a conventional manner. - A description of the
instrument panel 12 is now provided with specific reference toFIGS. 1-8 . Theinstrument panel 12 is installed within thepassenger compartment 26 to, for example, one or more of theA-pillars 20, thedash wall 24 and thesteering member 32. Theinstrument panel 12 extends from theA-pillar 20 on the driver's side to theA-pillar 20 on the passenger's side of thevehicle 10 and from the windshield W rearward. Theinstrument panel 12 is an assembly that includes a variety of features, including thecenter stack assembly 14. - The
instrument panel 12 includes a structural core, for example, amain body 38, that is shaped and contoured to give theinstrument panel 12 its overall shapes and contours. Themain body 38 has a dash wall facing surface 40 (shown inFIGS. 2 and 23 ), atrim surface 42, anupper deck 44, an instrumentcluster supporting section 46, a storagecompartment supporting section 48 and a centerstack supporting section 50. - The dash
wall facing surface 40 is typically unadorned and mainly includes structures and projections (not shown) that support theinstrument panel 12 to the A-pillars 20, thedash wall 24 and the steeringmember 32. The dashwall facing surface 40 also supports at least a portion of the centerstack supporting section 50. - The
trim surface 42 of themain body 38 can have a textured finish or can be covered with one or more decorative materials giving the instrument panel 12 a desired appearance. Thetrim surface 42, whether it is a textured finish or decorative materials covering themain body 38, is exposed within thepassenger compartment 26. For example, the portion of thetrim surface 42 that coincides with theupper deck 44 can be covered with a padded or other material with any of a variety of textures and appearances, such as wood grain, leather or others. The surface area of thetrim surface 42 that defines the instrumentcluster supporting section 46 can also be covered with the above mentioned material but can alternatively include chrome trim elements or other decorative materials that enhance the appearance of theinstrument cluster 56. The surface area of thetrim surface 42 that defines the storagecompartment supporting section 48 can include the padded material, simulated wood grain or other decorative cover materials. The surface area of thetrim surface 42 that defines the centerstack supporting section 50 can also include the padded material, simulated wood grain or other decorative materials. - The
upper deck 44 is a generally horizontal portion of themain body 38 of theinstrument panel 12 that extends rearward in a vehicle longitudinal direction D (FIG. 2 ) from the windshield W. Theupper deck 44 can include air vents for defogging the windshield W or for other heating and cooling functions. Since air vents are conventional elements, further description is omitted for the sake of brevity. A firstrearward portion 44 a of theupper deck 44 is located on the driver's side of thevehicle 10 and ends at the instrumentcluster supporting section 46. Since the instrumentcluster supporting section 46 is relatively large, the firstrearward portion 44 a of theupper deck 44 is located more forward of the storagecompartment supporting section 48 and a centerstack supporting section 50 relative to the vehicle longitudinal direction D. - A second
rearward portion 44 b of theupper deck 44 extends further rearward relative to the vehicle longitudinal direction D than the firstrearward portion 44 a and curves downward intersecting with the storagecompartment supporting section 48. Acentral portion 44 c of theupper deck 44 remains relatively planar extending back to the centerstack supporting section 50. Thecentral portion 44 c extends further rearward in the vehicle longitudinal direction D than both the firstrearward portion 44 a and the secondrearward portion 44 b of theupper deck 44 of themain body 38 of theinstrument panel 12. - As shown in
FIGS. 3 and 4 , the instrumentcluster supporting section 46 is an area of themain body 38 of theinstrument panel 12 that is configured to receive and support theinstrument cluster 56 and asteering column 58. A lower area of the instrumentcluster supporting section 46 includes aseparate trim panel 46 a that extends to the centerstack supporting section 50, as indicated inFIG. 5-7 . Theseparate trim panel 46 a can include a first retainingportion 60, as shown inFIG. 7 . However, the first retainingportion 60 can alternatively be formed as part of themain body 38 of theinstrument panel 12. A more detailed description of the first retainingportion 60 is provided below with a description of the centerstack supporting section 50. - The
instrument cluster 56 includes a plurality of electronic information indication devices such as, for example, a fuel level gauge, a speedometer, a tachometer, temperature gauge, etc. As shown inFIG. 4 , the instrumentcluster supporting section 46 includes a plurality of attachment flanges and attachment openings that support theinstrument cluster 56 and thesteering column 58 in a conventional manner. Since instrument clusters and steering columns are conventional structures, further description is omitted for the sake of brevity. - The storage
compartment supporting section 48 is configured to conceal an airbag device (not shown) and includes a storage compartment orglove box 62. Since storage compartments and glove boxes located in instrument panels are conventional structures, further description is omitted for the sake of brevity. - A lower portion of storage
compartment supporting section 48 can include aseparate trim panel 48 a that extends from the storagecompartment supporting section 48 and the centerstack supporting section 50, as indicated inFIGS. 5 , 6 and 8. Theseparate trim panel 48 a includes asecond retaining portion 64. However, in an alternative embodiment, themain body 38 of theinstrument panel 12 can include the second retainingportion 64. A more detailed description of the second retainingportion 64 is provided below with a description of the centerstack supporting section 50. - A description of the center
stack supporting section 50 is now provided with specific reference toFIGS. 4 , 5 and 6. The centerstack supporting section 50 is centrally located with respect to theinstrument panel 12. More specifically, the centerstack supporting section 50 is located between the instrumentcluster supporting section 46 and the storagecompartment supporting section 48. The centerstack supporting section 50 includes acentral opening 66 defined by themain body 38 that extends from the dashwall facing surface 40 to thetrim surface 42. A series offlanges central opening 66. Theflanges central opening 66 adjacent to the instrumentcluster supporting section 46. Theflanges central opening 66 adjacent to the storagecompartment supporting section 48. Theflange 74 is located at an upper area of thecentral opening 66 and extends between the side of thecentral opening 66 adjacent to the instrumentcluster supporting section 46 and the side of thecentral opening 66 adjacent to the storagecompartment supporting section 48. Theflange 76 is located at a lower area of thecentral opening 66 and extends between the side of thecentral opening 66 adjacent to the instrumentcluster supporting section 46 and the side of thecentral opening 66 adjacent to the storagecompartment supporting section 48. - The
flanges attachment apertures 80 that are configured to receive snap-fitting projections of thecenter stack assembly 14 that are described in greater detail below. Theflanges attachment apertures 80 a that are configured to receive snap-fitting projections (not shown) of thetrim panel 18. - The
flange 74 includesapertures 82 andalignment projections 84 that are described in greater detail below. Theflange 76 includesapertures 86 andalignment projections 88 that are described in greater detail below. - As shown in
FIG. 7 , the first retainingportion 60 of theseparate trim panel 46 a includes aprojection 90 that extends in a rearward direction relative to the vehicle longitudinal direction D. Theprojection 90 and an adjacent surface of separatetrim panel 46 a define arecess 92. - As shown in
FIG. 8 , the second retainingportion 64 is formed on theseparate trim panel 48 a and includes aprojection 94 that extends in a rearward direction relative to the vehicle longitudinal direction D. Theprojection 90 and an adjacent surface of theseparate trim panel 48 a define arecess 96. - A description of the
center stack assembly 14 is now provided with specific reference toFIGS. 2 , 3 and 9-19. Thecenter stack assembly 14 basically includes amain portion 100, an audio/video device 102, a heating/cooling control panel herein after referred to as anHVAC controller 104, anattachment bracket 106, anattachment bracket 108, a first sidetrim panel 110 and a second sidetrim panel 112. However, it should be understood from the drawings and the description herein that the audio/video device 102 and theHVAC controller 104 can be replaced with other vehicle related controllers or can be omitted entirely and replaced with other structures in order to support theattachment brackets - The
main portion 100 is basically a trim panel that includes amain trim surface 120 and anattachment surface 122 on an opposite side of themain portion 100 from themain trim surface 120. Themain trim surface 120 is bounded by aperipheral edge 124 that surrounds themain trim surface 120. Theperipheral edge 124 includes anupper portion 130, abottom portion 132, a lowerfirst side portion 134 a, an upperfirst side portion 134 b, a lowersecond side portion 136 a laterally opposite the lowerfirst side portion 134 a and an uppersecond side portion 136 b laterally opposite the upperfirst side portion 134 b. - The
upper portion 130, the lowerfirst side portion 134 a, the upperfirst side portion 134 b, the lowersecond side portion 136 a and the uppersecond side portion 136 b of theperipheral edge 124 all have rounded contours. The side trimsurface 16 a is defined on the first sidetrim panel 110. The first sidetrim panel 110 basically joins with the lowerfirst side portion 134 a such that the side trimsurface 16 a, the lowerfirst side portion 134 a of theperipheral edge 124 and themain trim surface 120 of themain portion 100 of thecenter stack assembly 14 define a continuous, uninterrupted and contoured appearance. More specifically, the side trimsurface 16 a has the appearance of being seamless with the lowerfirst side portion 134 a of theperipheral edge 124 and themain trim surface 120 of themain portion 100 of thecenter stack assembly 14. - The side trim
surface 16 b is defined on the second sidetrim panel 112. The second sidetrim panel 112 basically joins with the lowersecond side portion 136 a such that the side trimsurface 16 b, the lowersecond side portion 136 a of theperipheral edge 124 and themain trim surface 120 of themain portion 100 of thecenter stack assembly 14 define a continuous, uninterrupted and contoured appearance. More specifically, the side trimsurface 16 b has the appearance of being seamless with the lowersecond side portion 136 a of theperipheral edge 124 and themain trim surface 120 of themain portion 100 of thecenter stack assembly 14. - As shown in
FIG. 3 , themain trim surface 120 is inclined with respect to vertical V by an angle α that is between 10 and 20 degrees. In the depicted embodiment, the angle α is approximately 15 degrees, but can be any value between 10 and 20 degrees. Consequently, theupper portion 130 of theperipheral edge 124 of themain trim surface 120 is located closer to the dash wall 24 (more forward) than thebottom portion 132 of theperipheral edge 124 of themain trim surface 120 relative to the vehicle longitudinal direction D (FIG. 2 ). - As shown in
FIG. 2 , themain trim surface 120 is also angularly offset from a vehicle lateral direction L by an angle β, where the vehicle lateral direction L is a side-to-side direction of thevehicle 10 perpendicular to the vehicle longitudinal direction D. Hence, the lowerfirst side portion 134 a is closer to the dash wall 24 (more forward) than the lowersecond side portion 136 a. The angle β can be between 5 and 10 degrees. However, in the depicted embodiment, the angle β is 7 degrees. - The
attachment surface 122 includes a plurality of snapfitting projections 138 that are oriented to align and fit into theattachment apertures 80 of theflanges central opening 66 of the centerstack supporting section 50 of themain body 38 of the instrument panel with thecenter stack assembly 14 installed to theinstrument panel 12. As shown inFIG. 14 , at the lowerfirst side portion 134 a, theattachment surface 122 includes arecess 122 a that is configured to receive a portion of the first sidetrim panel 110, as is described below. As is shown inFIGS. 14 and 22 , at the lowersecond side portion 136 a, theattachment surface 122 includes arecess 122 b that is configured to receive a portion of the second sidetrim panel 112, as is described below. - The
upper portion 130 of theperipheral edge 124 of themain portion 100 is contoured and dimensioned to mate with thetrim panel 18, which is in turn contoured and dimensioned to mate with the centralrearward portion 44 c of theupper deck 44 of themain body 38 of theinstrument panel 12 with thecenter stack assembly 14 and thetrim panel 18 completely installed to theinstrument panel 12. Thebottom portion 132 includes aflange 132 a (FIG. 10 ) that has a plurality ofattachment apertures 132 b that mate with, for example, snap-fitting projections (not shown) of thefront section 30 of thecenter console 28 with thecenter stack assembly 14 completely installed to theinstrument panel 12 and thecenter console 28. - As shown in
FIG. 10 , the lowerfirst side portion 134 a and the upperfirst side portion 134 b of theperipheral edge 124 are not linearly aligned. Rather, an angle γ is formed between the lowerfirst side portion 134 a and the upperfirst side portion 134 b. The angle γ can be between 130 and 170 degrees. In the depicted embodiment, the angle γ is approximately 150 degrees. The angle γ is similarly formed between the lowersecond side portion 136 a and the uppersecond side portion 136 b such that themain trim surface 120 has a symmetrical appearance. - The upper
first side portion 134 b is contoured and dimensioned to mate with the adjacent portion of thetrim panel 18 which mates with an adjacent portion of thetrim surface 42 extending from an upper portion of the instrumentcluster supporting section 46 with thecenter stack assembly 14 completely installed to theinstrument panel 12. The uppersecond side portion 136 b is contoured and dimensioned to mate with the adjacent portion of thetrim panel 18 which mates with an adjacent portion of thetrim surface 42 extending from an upper portion of the storagecompartment supporting section 48 with thecenter stack assembly 14 completely installed to theinstrument panel 12. - The lower
first side portion 134 a is spaced apart from the adjacent portion of thetrim surface 42 extending from a lower portion of the instrumentcluster supporting section 46 with thecenter stack assembly 14 completely installed to theinstrument panel 12. More specifically, theupper portion 130, the lowerfirst side portion 134 a, the upperfirst side portion 134 b, the lowersecond side portion 136 a and the uppersecond side portion 136 b of theperipheral edge 124 are either co-planar or all intersect with a plane that extends through at least the lowerfirst side portion 134 a and the lowersecond side portion 136 a. In other words, all portions of theperipheral edge 124 are approximately co-planar or are in fact co-planar, depending upon the overall design of thecenter stack assembly 14. However, the lower areas of thetrim surface 42 adjacent to either side of the centerstack support section 50 curve downward and in a forward direction relative to the vehicle body direction D. Hence there is a gap between the lowerfirst side portion 134 a and the adjacent portion of thetrim surface 42. This gap is filled by the first sidetrim panel 110 as shown inFIG. 22 and described below. - The lower
second side portion 136 a is similarly spaced apart from the adjacent portion of thetrim surface 42 with thecenter stack assembly 14 completely installed to theinstrument panel 12. Hence there is a gap between the lowersecond side portion 136 a and the adjacent portion of thetrim surface 42. This gap is filled by the second sidetrim panel 112 as shown inFIG. 22 and described below. - As indicated in
FIGS. 9 and 10 , the audio/video device 102 is dimensioned to align with anaperture 140 formed in themain portion 100 of thecenter stack assembly 14. The audio/video device 102 is fixedly attached to theattachment surface 122 of themain portion 100 by fasteners (not shown) or by snap fitting projections (not shown). - The
HVAC controller 104 is dimensioned to align with anaperture 142 formed in themain portion 100 of thecenter stack assembly 14. TheHVAC controller 104 is fixedly attached to theattachment surface 122 of themain portion 100 by fasteners F. - As shown in
FIG. 9 , theattachment bracket 106 is fixedly attached to a first side of the audio/video device 102 by fasteners F. An upper end of theattachment bracket 106 includes afastener 106 a and an adjacent alignment aperture. A lower end of theattachment bracket 106 includes afastener 106 b and an adjacent alignment aperture. Similarly, theattachment bracket 108 is fixedly attached to a second side of the audio/video device 102 by fasteners F. An upper end of theattachment bracket 108 includes afastener 108 a and an adjacent alignment aperture. A lower end of theattachment bracket 108 includes afastener 108 b and an adjacent alignment aperture. The first sidetrim panel 110 and the second sidetrim panel 112 are also fixedly attached to theattachment surface 122 of themain portion 100 by fasteners F. - A description of the first side
trim panel 110 and the second sidetrim panel 112 is now provided with specific reference to 10-23. The first sidetrim panel 110 and the second sidetrim panel 112 are fixed to opposite sides of theattachment surface 122 such that the second sidetrim panel 112 is opposite and faces the first sidetrim panel 110. - As shown in
FIG. 11 , the first sidetrim panel 110 is basically a first side trim wall that intersects themain portion 100 along the lowerfirst side portion 134 a of theperipheral edge 124. The side trimsurface 16 a defined by the first sidetrim panel 110 joins with the surface of the lowerfirst side portion 134 a of theperipheral edge 124. As shown inFIG. 12 , the second sidetrim panel 112 is basically a second side trim wall that intersects themain portion 100 along the lowersecond side portion 136 a of theperipheral edge 124. The side trimsurface 16 b defined by the second sidetrim panel 112 joins with the surface of the lowersecond side portion 136 a of theperipheral edge 124. - As shown in
FIG. 14 , the first sidetrim panel 110 and the second sidetrim panel 112 are inclined toward one another in the vehicle longitudinal direction D. More specifically, the first sidetrim panel 110 and the second sidetrim panel 112 converge toward one another in a direction moving away from theattachment surface 122 of themain portion 100 in a vehicle longitudinal direction D. - The first side
trim panel 110 and the second sidetrim panel 112 are basically symmetrical mirror images of one another. Therefore description of one applies equally to the other. The first sidetrim panel 110 is described below, however, it should be understood that the second sidetrim panel 112 is a geometric mirror image of the first sidetrim panel 112. - As shown in
FIGS. 15-19 , the first sidetrim panel 110 includes the side trimsurface 16 a, anupright edge 150, aninner surface 152 with a plurality offlanges 154 extending therefrom and a retaininglip 156. Theupright edge 150 has anupper end 158 a and alower end 158 b. Similarly as shown inFIGS. 12 , 21, 22 and 23, the second sidetrim panel 112 includes the side trimsurface 16 b, anupright edge 150 a, aninner surface 152 a with a plurality offlanges 154 a extending therefrom and a retaininglip 156 a. Theupright edge 150 a has anupper end 160 a and alower end 160 b. - With the
center stack assembly 14 installed to theinstrument panel 12, theupright edge 150 of the first sidetrim panel 110 extends into therecess 92 of the first retainingportion 60, as shown inFIGS. 21 and 23 . Similarly, theupright edge 150 a of the second sidetrim panel 112 extends into therecess 96 of the second retainingportion 64, as shown inFIGS. 21 and 23 . Thus, the first sidetrim panel 110 and the second sidetrim panel 112 are securely retained in position with thecenter stack assembly 14 fully installed to themain body 38 of theinstrument panel 12. - As shown in
FIGS. 10 and 14 , themain trim surface 120 has a first width W1 measured along thebottom portion 132 of theperipheral edge 124 from the lowerfirst side portion 134 a to the lowersecond side portion 136 a in the vehicle lateral direction L. A second width W2 is measured at a level corresponding to the first width W1 from a forward lower end of the first sidetrim panel 110 to a forward lower end the second sidetrim panel 112, the first width W1 being greater than the second width W2. The second width W2 further corresponds to the distance between the respective lower ends 158 b and 160 b of theupright edges side trim panels - Further, as is shown in
FIG. 14 , themain trim surface 120 has a third width W3 measured at approximately the level of the upper ends 158 a and 160 a of theupright edges side trim panels upright edges side trim panels - As described above and shown in
FIG. 2 , thecenter stack assembly 14 is angularly offset relative to vehicle lateral direction L by the angle β. Similarly, thecenter stack assembly 14 is angularly offset relative the vehicle longitudinal direction D by a angle that is complementary to the angle β(90 degrees—β), such that the first sidetrim panel 110 and the second sidetrim panel 112 are not visible from a location rearward from the instrumentcluster supporting section 50 and along a line L1 (FIG. 2 ) normal to a plane defined by themain trim surface 120 of themain portion 100 of thecenter stack assembly 14. - In should be understood that the side trim
surface 16 a of the first sidetrim panel 110 and the side trimsurface 16 b of the second sidetrim panel 112 and themain trim surface 120 of thecenter stack assembly 14 are all exposed within thepassenger compartment 26 when thecenter stack assembly 14 is installed to the centerstack supporting section 50 of theinstrument panel 12. However, the first sidetrim panel 110 and the second sidetrim panel 112 are not visible because of the angle β which results in them converging toward one another moving away from themain portion 100 of thecenter stack assembly 14. - Further, the orientation and location of the first side
trim panel 110 and the second sidetrim panel 112 are such that they are not visible from a location rearward from the instrumentcluster supporting section 46 and along the line L1 normal to a plane defined by themain trim surface 120 of themain portion 100 of thecenter stack assembly 14. - As shown in
FIG. 9 , the first sidetrim panel 110 is attached to themain portion 100 by fasteners F that are inserted through apertures in theflanges 154. Similarly, the second sidetrim panel 112 is attached to themain portion 100 by fasteners F that are inserted through apertures in theflanges 154 a. - As shown in
FIG. 20 , when thecenter stack assembly 14 is installed to the centerstack supporting section 50, thefastener 106 a of theattachment bracket 106 is fitted into theaperture 82 of theflange 74 and thealignment projection 84 extends into the alignment aperture adjacent to thefastener 106 a. Similarly, thefastener 108 a of theattachment bracket 108 is fitted into theaperture 82 a of theflange 74 and thealignment projection 84 a extends into the alignment aperture adjacent to thefastener 108 a. - As shown in
FIG. 21 , when thecenter stack assembly 14 is installed to the centerstack supporting section 50, thefastener 106 b of theattachment bracket 106 is fitted into theaperture 86 of theflange 76 and thealignment projection 88 extends into the alignment aperture adjacent to thefastener 106 b. Similarly, thefastener 108 b of theattachment bracket 108 is fitted into theaperture 86 a of theflange 76 and thealignment projection 88 aa extends into the alignment aperture adjacent to thefastener 108 b. - With the
center stack assembly 14 attached to the centerstack supporting section 50 and covering thecentral opening 66, themain trim surface 120 is spaced apart from thetrim surface 42 of theinstrument panel 12 and extends further rearward that adjacent areas of thetrim surface 42. The first sidetrim panel 110 extends from the lowerfirst side portion 134 a of themain trim surface 120 of thecenter stack assembly 14 to trimsurface 42 of theinstrument panel 12 at the driver's side of thecentral opening 66. As well, the second sidetrim panel 112 extends from the lowersecond side portion 136 a to trimsurface 42 of theinstrument panel 12 at the passenger's side of thecentral opening 66. - As shown in
FIG. 23 , the side trimsurface 16 a is inclined with respect to the vehicle longitudinal direction D by an angle θ1 and the side trimsurface 16 b is inclined with respect to the vehicle longitudinal direction D by an angle θ2 where the angle θ1 and is greater than the angle θ2. In the depicted embodiment, the angle θ1 can be between 15 and 35 degrees. However, in the depicted embodiment the angle θ1 is approximately 22 degrees. The angle θ2 can be between 0 and 10 degrees. In the depicted embodiment, the angle θ2 is approximately 3 degrees. - As shown in
FIG. 10 , the side trimsurface 16 a is inclined with respect to vertical V by an angle δ1 and the side trimsurface 16 b is inclined with respect to the vertical V by an angle δ2 where the angle δ1 and the angle δ2 are equal. However, in an alternative embodiment the angles δ1 and δ2 can be unequal. The angle δ1 can be between 5 degrees and 20 degrees. However, in the depicted embodiment, the angle δ1 is approximately 15 degrees. - As is shown in
FIG. 2 , areas of thetrim surface 42 of theinstrument panel 12 adjacent to each lateral side of thecentral opening 66 have contoured shapes that extend rearward approaching thecentral opening 66 as viewed from above. However, the lowerfirst side portion 134 a, the lowersecond side portion 136 a and thebottom portion 132 of theperipheral edge 124 of themain portion 100 of thecenter stack assembly 14 are all located rearward of thetrim surface 42 of theinstrument panel 12 with thecenter stack assembly 14 installed to theinstrument panel 12. - The first side
trim panel 110 and second sidetrim panel 112 are basically hidden from the driver's sight when the driver is seated in the driver's seat SD. Hence, thecenter stack assembly 14 has a floating appearance since connection between the lower side surfaces 16 a and 16 b s of thecenter stack assembly 14 are hidden from the driver's view. - The various portions of the
vehicle 10 and features of thevehicle 10 within thepassenger compartment 26, other than theinstrument panel 12 and thecenter stack assembly 14, are conventional components that are well known in the art. Since these various portions and features are well known in the art, these structures will not be discussed or illustrated in detail herein. Rather, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that the components can be any type of structure and/or programming that can be used to carry out the present invention. - In understanding the scope of the present invention, the term “comprising” and its derivatives, as used herein, are intended to be open ended terms that specify the presence of the stated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and/or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other unstated features, elements, components, groups, integers and/or steps. The foregoing also applies to words having similar meanings such as the terms, “including”, “having” and their derivatives. Also, the terms “part,” “section,” “portion,” “member” or “element” when used in the singular can have the dual meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts. Also as used herein to describe the above embodiment, the following directional terms “forward”, “rearward”, “above”, “downward”, “vertical”, “horizontal”, “below” and “transverse” as well as any other similar directional terms refer to those directions of a vehicle equipped with the vehicle instrument panel assembly. Accordingly, these terms, as utilized to describe the present invention should be interpreted relative to a vehicle equipped with the vehicle instrument panel assembly.
- The terms of degree such as “substantially”, “about” and “approximately” as used herein mean a reasonable amount of deviation of the modified term such that the end result is not significantly changed.
- While only selected embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the present invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that various changes and modifications can be made herein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, the size, shape, location or orientation of the various components can be changed as needed and/or desired. Components that are shown directly connected or contacting each other can have intermediate structures disposed between them. The functions of one element can be performed by two, and vice versa. The structures and functions of one embodiment can be adopted in another embodiment. It is not necessary for all advantages to be present in a particular embodiment at the same time. Every feature which is unique from the prior art, alone or in combination with other features, also should be considered a separate description of further inventions by the applicant, including the structural and/or functional concepts embodied by such features. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the embodiments according to the present invention are provided for illustration only, and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.
Claims (19)
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JP2017140941A (en) * | 2016-02-10 | 2017-08-17 | 本田技研工業株式会社 | Vehicle body structure with door |
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USD808873S1 (en) * | 2016-08-24 | 2018-01-30 | Fca Us Llc | Automobile interior |
CN109533037A (en) * | 2018-12-10 | 2019-03-29 | 山东国金汽车制造有限公司 | A kind of instrument board A column fit structure |
US10946808B2 (en) | 2019-02-14 | 2021-03-16 | Ford Global Technologies, Llc | Display screen mounting assembly |
FR3107479A1 (en) * | 2020-02-26 | 2021-08-27 | Psa Automobiles Sa | VEHICLE WITH DEVICE COUPLED TO A FRAME AND, WITH FREEDOM OF MOVEMENT, TO A SUPPORT SOLIDARIZED TO AN EQUIPMENT |
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