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BR-102024018152-A2 - PROCESS APPLICABLE TO VEHICLE INSTRUMENT PANEL, PANEL OBTAINED AND VEHICLE

BR102024018152A2BR 102024018152 A2BR102024018152 A2BR 102024018152A2BR-102024018152-A2

Abstract

The present invention relates to a process applicable to automotive instrument panels, of the type usually formed by plastic injection and/or similar means, wherein said panel, in its prior art, requires line stoppage procedures and tool adjustments to obtain versions beyond the basic one. The present invention defines a process that eliminates the need for tool changes and production line stoppages and is basically represented by a set of steps where the basic automotive panel is post-treated by punching and, from there, receives means of adapting formed finishing items so as to easily accommodate the post-treated panel.

Inventors

  • GILBERT MORAIS LESSA
  • JOSÉ DE PINHO BARROSO
  • WILKER TADEU DE ALMEIDA
  • MAIRON ASSIS GUIMARIS ELLER STOFEL
  • NIVAN PAULA VIEIRA

Assignees

  • STELLANTIS AUTOMOVEIS BRASIL LTDA

Dates

Publication Date
20260317
Application Date
20240903

Claims (7)

  1. 1. Process applicable to automotive instrument panel (1), said panel (1) obtained from usual injection process or similar, said process characterized by comprising the steps of: post-treatment of the panel (1) by means of punching, obtaining slots (2); adaptation of clips (3) to the slots (2); and adaptation of a finishing item (4) to the clips (3), by means of teeth (5) formed in said finishing item (4).
  2. 2. Process applicable to automotive instrument panel (1), according to claim 1, characterized in that the slots (2) are distributed in the panel (1) throughout the entire length of said panel (1) corresponding to the length of the trim item (4).
  3. 3. Process applicable to automotive instrument panel (1), according to claim 1, characterized in that each clip (3) adapts by spring effect to each slot (2).
  4. 4. Process applicable to automotive instrument panel (1), according to claim 1, characterized in that the teeth (2) are incorporated orthogonally into the rear face of the trim item (4) and distributed in quantity and position coinciding with each clip (3), locking firmly to them.
  5. 5. Process applicable to automotive instrument panel (1), according to claim 1, characterized in that the finishing item (4) is defined by appliques, moldings, covers or similar device.
  6. 6. Automotive instrument panel (1), characterized by being manufactured according to the process defined in claims 1 to 5.
  7. 7. Vehicle, characterized by incorporating the instrument panel (1) as defined in claim 6.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of the automotive industry, focusing more specifically on the post-manufacturing process of a vehicle instrument panel, in order to provide it with a number of functional advantages compared to the usual process. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] The automotive industry is characterized by a wide range of vehicle models, each available in various trim levels and engine options. This diversification is not random, but rather a carefully planned strategy that addresses diverse market objectives and needs. Creating multiple trim levels for each vehicle model is a fundamental strategy for the automotive industry. This approach allows manufacturers to cater to different consumer profiles, adapt to diverse economic realities, maximize competitiveness, keep up with consumer trends, implement effective marketing and sales strategies, leverage economies of scale, and build customer loyalty. In this way, automakers can offer products better suited to the market and ensure their success in this highly competitive sector. [0003] Following the described approach, it is common to find within a car manufacturer and/or assembler a classic division of trim levels defining: an entry-level version, with basic items; an intermediate version, with more trim, comfort and technology items; and a top-of-the-line version, with more standard items and superior finishes. In addition to this basic division, the automotive industry creates versions with differentiated appeals, such as, for example, with more sporty items, commemorative versions for a specific date or event, and others, seeking to attract and meet the needs of consumers in all interest and income brackets. [0004] When analyzing the automotive component that frequently brings together several differences between the various trim versions, the instrument panel stands out among the others. Various models of appliqués, moldings, and covers, among others, are constantly incorporated into a basic model, in order to produce a wide variety of trim patterns, resulting in versions ranging from absolutely essential items to those of high standard and sophistication. In general, the production process of the automotive instrument panel occurs in such a way as to conform to a basic model, which is usually applied to entry-level vehicles and, from this, according to the needs arising from each version, adjustments are made to the tools. Technically, for each version of the instrument panel, other than the basic version, it is necessary to consider the adaptation of different inserts in the tools, in order to obtain the appropriate means of adapting the differentiating item of the version to be applied. In other words, for each version other than the basic one, it is necessary to add steps to the instrument panel production process to perform the machine "setup," including adjusting, incorporating, and/or replacing the tool insert. This conventional procedure increases the cost of the production process and, in addition, for each type of differentiating item, whether it is an appliqué, frame, or cover, there is a need to develop a specific insert, which limits the version options. [0005] Thus, the conventional instrument panel manufacturing process presents several drawbacks in meeting the production needs of different versions, restricting options and increasing the overall production cost. [0006] Searching the state of the art patent literature, the following documents were found: [0007] Document CN113681245 discloses a vehicle instrument panel and manufacturing technology thereof, which uses a machining and cutting procedure on a ring in order to form a plurality of fixing grooves, as well as providing a perforation in the same for adapting an elastic column that acts as a fixing element to the body of the instrument panel. [0008] Document W02007134114 discloses a precisely bent structural and aesthetic component and sheet for it, in order to obtain a three-dimensional instrument panel, with no mention of whether it is intended for one or more trim versions. [0009] Thus, considering the state-of-the-art solutions, it is evident that none of them has been able to solve the technical problem associated with the need to incorporate stops and adjustments in tools during the conventional production process of an automotive instrument panel, when manufacturing the different trim versions of a vehicle. It should be noted that none of the prior art provides sufficient insights to devise an adequate solution to such a problem. [0010] In view of the points presented, the importance and urgency of a technical solution capable of overcoming the current gap in this technical field is clear. Taking these points into account, the present invention aims to offer a favorable solution to the problems previously presented. OBJECTIVES OF THE INVENTION [0011] The present invention, in a first objective, aims to provide