Interior Trim Panel On Door Patents (Class 296/146.7)
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Patent number: 7963586Abstract: Aspects of the invention relate to a panel for a vehicle interior. The panel includes a relatively non-deformable support having at least one shaped portion, and a relatively deformable inlay pad that can be mounted in the shaped portion. The inlay pad may be formed as a foam pad, as an air cushion and/or as a gel cushion. Aspects of the invention also relate to a method for forming a panel for a vehicle interior.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2006Date of Patent: June 21, 2011Assignee: Lisa Draexlmaier GmbHInventors: Henry Müller, Peter Geisperger
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Patent number: 7959213Abstract: Door panel assembly of an automobile, having a door panel 1 and a sound-insulating sheet 4 attached to the door panel, characterised in that the door panel has hooks on its surface to which the sound-insulating sheet is attached, and a looped knitted fabric or a looped non-woven fabric 6? is attached to the surface of the sound-insulating sheet to be attached to the panel, the looped knitted or non-woven fabric weighing between 15 and 60 g/m2, preferably between 15 and 40 g/m2.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2008Date of Patent: June 14, 2011Assignee: APLIXInventor: Fabrice Billarant
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Patent number: 7959214Abstract: A unit carrier for fitting into a door structure of a motor vehicle door, on which functional components of the motor vehicle door may be premounted, so that the unit carrier, together with the functional components, may be fitted as a door module into the door structure, includes a surface of the unit carrier on the door structure side and fastening elements provided on the unit carrier. The fastening elements protrude from the surface of the unit carrier on the door structure side and engage in associated fastening points of the door structure, when the unit carrier is fitted into the door structure. The fastening elements are retained in a mounted position on the unit carrier before fitting the unit carrier into the door structure such that they do not protrude from the surface of the unit carrier on the door structure side.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2007Date of Patent: June 14, 2011Assignee: Brose Fahrzeugteile GmbH & Co. KG, CoburgInventor: Thomas Salhoff
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Patent number: 7954874Abstract: A single-layer or multi-layer plastic skin is formed into a covering for coated objects, such as trim parts of a motor vehicle. Regions in the plastic skin include switching, sensor, or transmission functionality.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2008Date of Patent: June 7, 2011Assignee: Benecke-Kaliko AGInventors: Rainer Ohlinger, Roland Wolff, Karl Buchkremer
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Patent number: 7938472Abstract: A door module for forming a vehicle door, the door module including a frame and, arranged on the frame, a mechanism for closing and opening a vehicle door formed by the door module. The closing and opening mechanism exhibits an operating device that is so arranged as to be capable of displacement between two positions for the adjustment of the closed and open condition respectively. The operating device is provided with the first of two interacting snap-in connection parts, both of which snap-in connection parts together form a snap-in connection for the automatic, connection of the operating device and a handle provided with the second snap-in connection part that is intended respectively for closing and opening a vehicle door formed by the door module.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2005Date of Patent: May 10, 2011Assignee: Volvo Lastvagnar ABInventor: Carl Stålhammar
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Publication number: 20110089713Abstract: A door trim 10 having a side-impact absorption capability includes a base 22 having suction holes 23 and grooves 24 on a rear side between the adjacent suction holes 23. The base 22 is covered with a top cover 50 that is clung to a surface of the base 22 by applying vacuum through the suction holes 23. The suction holes 23 and the grooves 24 deform in conjunction with each other in a side collision and this improves the side-impact absorption capability.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 7, 2010Publication date: April 21, 2011Applicant: TOYOTA BOSHOKU KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Mamoru YAMAGUCHI, Yoshiaki MAESOBA
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Patent number: 7905059Abstract: This door lining fixing construction is constructed such that: an assist grip provided on a vehicle interior side of a door lining is fixed to a bracket provided on a vehicle exterior side of the door lining; the bracket is extended to an inner handle opening that is formed in the door lining; the bracket is fixed to a door inner panel through the inner handle opening; an inner handle is disposed between the bracket and the door lining; and an operation hole is formed in the inner handle for fixing the bracket to the door inner panel.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2007Date of Patent: March 15, 2011Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Katsuhiro Senoo
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Publication number: 20110037289Abstract: A door assembly for an automotive vehicle is provided. The door assembly includes a support structure having an upper section and a lower section. A pair of apertures are formed on the upper section of the support structure. A trim panel has an interior surface facing the passenger compartment of the automotive vehicle, an outer surface facing the support structure, top end and a lower end. A pair of pivot members are located adjacent the top end of the trim panel to engage the pair of apertures on the support structure. The pivot members allow the trim panel to be pivoted between a first position and a second position where the lower section of the support structure is spaced apart from the lower end of the trim panel.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 17, 2009Publication date: February 17, 2011Applicant: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.Inventor: Joshua Lewis Moberg
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Patent number: 7879424Abstract: A method of forming a panel is disclosed. The method includes forming a flexible skin (22); coupling a compressible material (24) to the skin (22); positioning the skin (22) and compressible material (24) in a mold; and forming a rigid substrate (20) around the skin (22) and compressible material (24) providing a first soft region (12) wherein the compressible material (24) is disposed between the skin (22) and the substrate (20) so that a first soft region (12) is defined by the compressible material (24).Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2003Date of Patent: February 1, 2011Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology CompanyInventors: Nels R. Smith, James D. Schichtel, Chad M. Baumann
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Patent number: 7879425Abstract: A trim panel includes a decorative surface, one sub-section of which consists of leather. The trim panel consists of a flat support that also covers the sub-section and at least one additional layer on a visible face of the support. In addition, the layer is recessed in the sub-section or doubles back on itself towards the sub-section along one edge of the latter. A leather trim is located on the visible face of the support in the sub-section, the trim covering the latter.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2005Date of Patent: February 1, 2011Assignees: Faurecia Innenraum Systeme GmbH, Moldware Konstruktion Produktentwicklung und Design GmbHInventors: Frank Schulte, Alexander Klink
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Patent number: 7875336Abstract: A method for production of a component in a tool having a cavity-forming first and a second tool half comprises the following steps: a) insertion at least of two skins with angled-over end regions into the second tool half such that the angled-over end regions of the skins are situated adjacently with the same orientation and angling; b) rear-foaming or rear-spraying of the skins with a foam material or injection moulding material, c) after insertion of the skins, the end regions of the skins being pressed together in a foam-tight or spray-fight manner at least in regions by pressing at least on one side of the end regions which are situated one above the other against a wall which determines the form and position of the pressed-together end regions.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2006Date of Patent: January 25, 2011Assignee: Faurecia Innenraum Systeme GmbHInventors: Claus Heinz, Bernhard Bauman, Andreas Meyer, Torsten Köhler, Sebastien Baumont, Godefroy Beau, Andreas Gehring, Freddy Stoof, Thomas Neuhard
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Patent number: 7871119Abstract: A door trim panel including a cover stock, an armrest coupled to the cover stock and having a first density, an upper energy absorber disposed above the armrest and having a second density higher than the first density, and a lower energy absorber disposed below the armrest and having a third density higher than the first density.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2004Date of Patent: January 18, 2011Assignee: International Automotive Components Group North America, Inc.Inventors: Michael P Schoemann, John D Youngs, Mark Heinze
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Publication number: 20100327636Abstract: The present invention is drawn to a ventilation system for a “climate object”, in particular all components with which the user of a vehicle may come in contact in a passenger compartment such as, for example, a steering mechanism for a vehicle, a dashboard, an armrest, a door paneling, a seat cover, a heating blanket, a padding, a cover or a seat, all which include at least one air flow device to guide air through the climate object.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2009Publication date: December 30, 2010Inventors: Andreas Stoll, Johnathan Zhang, Thomas Fries, Yu Tong, Denise Philipp
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Publication number: 20100327621Abstract: A panel, preferably made of plastic, for a vehicle, in particular for a motor vehicle comprises a U-shaped passage for the reception of a seal which has a first sealing lip which contacts a first limb of the U-shaped passage in an uninterrupted manner and comprises a second sealing lip which contacts the second limb of the U-shaped passage. To improve the sealing effect, the second sealing lip contacts the second limb of the U-shaped passage in an uninterrupted manner.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 29, 2010Publication date: December 30, 2010Applicant: DURA AUTOMOTIVE BODY & GLASS SYSTEMS GMBHInventors: Ralf Gerndorf, Jochen Schulze zur Wiesche, Norfried Bittner, Axel Nuesken, Martin Schulte
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Patent number: 7854413Abstract: An installing structure of a wire harness includes a link which has an end portion and is pivotally connected to a mating member by a shaft portion provided on the end portion. The wire harness extended from the mating member is installed along the link. A guide portion is provided at the end portion of the link. A slider for holding the wire harness is slidably engaged in the guide portion.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 2007Date of Patent: December 21, 2010Assignee: Yazaki CorporationInventors: Masataka Yamamoto, Keiji Mori
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Patent number: 7832790Abstract: A vehicle door structure includes a vehicle structure formed with an opening, an interior panel and an exterior door. The interior panel is supported to the vehicle structure for pivotal movement by a first hinge arrangement about a first pivot axis. The exterior door is supported to the vehicle structure for pivotal movement by a second hinge arrangement about a second pivot axis that is spaced apart from the first pivot axis. The exterior door is also supported to the interior panel such that the interior panel and the exterior door move together as the exterior door is moved between an open position and a closed position.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2008Date of Patent: November 16, 2010Assignee: Nissan Design America, Inc.Inventor: Richard Plavetich
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Patent number: 7832781Abstract: An integrated combined extended map pocket close-out and pelvic bolster component for attachment to a door trim substrate used in a vehicle door is disclosed. The component comprises a map pocket close-out portion, a pelvic bolster portion, and a bridge connecting the map pocket close-out portion and the pelvic bolster portion. The pelvic bolster portion is substantially hollow and preferably defines a box. The component includes a plurality of walls and the thickness of some of the walls is greater than the thickness of other walls. One or more of the walls may be angled. The map pocket close-out portion has a depth and the pelvic bolster portion has a depth. The depth of the map pocket close-out portion is greater than the depth of the pelvic bolster portion. The one-piece component is a molded component formed from a polymerized material.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 2009Date of Patent: November 16, 2010Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Zhibing Deng, Nagaraj Mariyapp, Alvin Lee, John Pinkerton, Michael Dong, Richard Wang
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Patent number: 7832789Abstract: A vehicle including an integrated vehicle door hinge and interior handle is disclosed. The integrated vehicle door hinge and interior handle may comprise a door hinge and an interior door release handle, with the door hinge having a hinge support flange pivotally coupled with a vehicle body, and an exposed hinge arm extending from the hinge support flange. The interior door release handle may include a pull handle configured for gripping by a vehicle occupant, and a handle pass through arm extending from the pull handle and connected to the exposed hinge arm, with the handle pass through arm mounted to the door.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2007Date of Patent: November 16, 2010Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.Inventors: Kelly G. Craigo, Wade W. Bryant, Therese A. Tant
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Patent number: 7828388Abstract: An armrest for use with a motorized vehicle is provided comprising first and second substantially opposing surfaces elongated longitudinally along the vehicle's interior surface and extending laterally inward therefrom. The armrest also includes a substantially vertical wall portion extending from the inner periphery of the first and second surfaces. The first and second surfaces define a plurality of channels oriented substantially parallel to one another and elongated longitudinally relative to the vehicle, in either a parallel or oblique fashion relative to a longitudinal axis of the vehicle. The plurality of channels is configured to sustain substantial vertical loading and controllably deform under a predetermined threshold lateral crush load. In addition, the plurality of channels preferably includes one or more partitions within each of the channels that are oriented relative to one another to thereby create a load path for lateral loads imparted to the armrest assembly.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2007Date of Patent: November 9, 2010Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.Inventor: Scott D. Thomas
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Patent number: 7823947Abstract: A storage compartment for mounting on a trim panel of an automobile door. The trim panel includes an aperture configured to receive a speaker assembly. The storage compartment includes a rear wall, a side wall bounding the rear wall to define a storage cavity and having a perimeter which is complementary in shape to the aperture. A retaining wall having a shape which is substantially similar to a portion of the aperture is attached to a portion of the side wall which is adjacent to the bottom end of the rear wall by a living hinge. The living hinge allows the retaining wall to hinge relative to the rear wall so as to cover a portion of the storage cavity.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2009Date of Patent: November 2, 2010Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.Inventors: Matthew Frank Parkinson, Robert Charles Steinbrecher
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Publication number: 20100270820Abstract: The mixture of the invention contains, for 100 parts in weight of (A)+(B): (A) 10 to 90 parts in weight of at least one non-nanostructured olefinic thermoplastic polymer; (B) 90 to 10 parts in weight of a formulation of at least one elastomer having unsaturated double bonds and capable of reacting with a cross-linking or vulcanization agent, said formulation containing a crosslinking or vulcanization system of said elastomer(s), at least one plasticizer, and the standard additives present in elastomer formulations; (C) up to 100 parts in weight, relative to (A)+(B), of at least one copolymer grafted with polyamide blocks, said copolymer comprising a polyolefin trunk and at least 1.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 1, 2008Publication date: October 28, 2010Applicant: Arkema FranceInventors: Marius Hert, Dominique Jousset
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Patent number: 7815243Abstract: An assembly carrier for installation into a motor vehicle includes a large-area carrier body molded at least partially from fiber-reinforced plastic, fastening points, which are provided on the carrier body, for fastening functional components of a motor vehicle to the carrier body, and a gate mark which projects from the carrier body and which represents a section of the path along which the molding compound for molding the assembly carrier was conducted into a cavity, which forms the carrier body, of a molding die. The gate mark has at least one longitudinally extended gate section which is curved in cross section through the carrier body and the gate mark and whose longitudinal sides which are situated opposite, and which face away from, one another run in each case along a curved path and merge in each case along the respective path into the carrier body.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2008Date of Patent: October 19, 2010Assignee: Brose Fahrzeugteile GmbH & Co. KG, HallstadtInventors: Michael Salzmann, Udo Taubmann, Harald Krüger, Martin Schlechtriemen
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Patent number: 7798548Abstract: A flexible trim panel attaches to a surface of a vehicle interior and includes a compression-molded thermoplastic foam layer and a textile fabric or synthetic leather layer, such as expanded polyurethane or PVC material. The panel has a compression-molded surface feature in an inner and outer layer, and may have a pocket and a zipper closure. An LED, EL ribbon, or other lighting device is connected to a transparent zipper closure. A composite trim panel is also provided having a compression-molded EVA foam layer and an outer layer. The layers form a composite piece that is attachable to a seat, an instrument panel, or a door. A vehicle interior includes a seat, an instrument panel, a door, and at least one composite trim panel. A transparent closure device connects to the composite trim panel, and a lighting device having a variable property is positioned adjacently to the transparent closure device.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2007Date of Patent: September 21, 2010Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.Inventors: James T. Embach, Wade W. Bryant, Simon Cox, Benjamin Walsh, Pierre R. Webster, Therese A. Tant
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Publication number: 20100225142Abstract: A vehicle door assembly is provided that includes a retainer that secures to a door body panel, specifically, to the door inner panel, and is configured such that a door trim component or components may be secured to the retainer, rather than directly to the door trim panel. Door trim components of lightweight materials may be used, with the retainer providing the structural integrity required for securement to the door inner panel. Because it is not a visible component in the assembled door, the same retainer design may be used for doors of different models in a given vehicle platform, with different door trim components of different materials or styles consistent with the different models secured to identical retainers.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 4, 2009Publication date: September 9, 2010Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.Inventors: Lorin A. Mazur, Sara M. Repen, James Axiotis, David Helmer
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Publication number: 20100225144Abstract: There is provided an automotive interior component including an impact absorber mounted to an interior side of a side wall panel of a vehicle, and the shape and structure of the impact absorber that can undergo buckling deformation and absorb an impact load in a side collision are improved to increase an impact absorbing function. The impact absorber 30 mounted on a back surface of an impact area IA in the automotive interior component (door trim) 10 is formed as a hollow box body having an opening 31 on one side and a bottom surface wall 32 on the other side, and improvement such as providing corner cut portions 34 at four corner portions of the bottom surface wall 32, forming a chamfered portion 333 at a corner portion of a side wall 33, or forming a cam groove portion 334, a triangular rib 36, or an inner surface rib 321 is made to adjust a reaction force in a side collision to increase an impact absorbing function.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 3, 2009Publication date: September 9, 2010Applicant: KASAI KOGYO CO., LTDInventors: TOYOKAZU ENDO, MASAHIKO HARA, HIROYUKI KOJIMA, SUMIAKI TANAKA, SHINYA HASHIMOTO, NORIYUKI KOIKE
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Patent number: 7789455Abstract: A pull cup in a vehicle door is fitted to a door trim panel substrate and is connected to the door inner sheet metal panel of the vehicle door by way of a bracket or by one of a pair of inner and outer support brackets. The pull cup is provided with a bending initiator feature which is positioned a trigger area formed in the door trim panel substrate. In the event that a horizontal force is applied to the vehicle door, the vehicle inward movement of the door inner sheet metal panel causes the pull cup to be pushed upward. The bending initiator feature pushes on the trigger area causing the door trim panel substrate to buckle, thus substantially preventing vehicle inward movement of the door trim panel substrate during the impact event. The bending initiator feature also reduces the lateral stiffness of the door trim sub-system.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2007Date of Patent: September 7, 2010Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Ian Hall, John Pinkerton, Jeff Chickola, Brian Spahn, A. Mangala Jayasuriya
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Patent number: 7788853Abstract: A door trim for vehicle in which a sub seal that seals the gap between a door trim body and a scuff plate is mounted, and an insertion hole is provided, into which at least one of both end portions of the sub seal is inserted. The sub seal is preferably mounted over a corner portion connecting a lower edge portion and a side edge portion of the door trim body.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2007Date of Patent: September 7, 2010Assignee: Toyota Boshoku Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Tetsuya Narimatsu, Mitsuru Serifu
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Patent number: 7775581Abstract: A sealing member that mitigates oscillating noises and its installation method is provided. In the sealing member for covering an opening formed at a door inner panel, at least one bead is installed at a covering portion facing the opening. Thus, the stiffness of the covering portion of the sealing member is increased. It is therefore possible to prevent the covering portion from oscillating, thereby inhibiting the sealing member from generating the oscillating noises.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2007Date of Patent: August 17, 2010Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yuji Kita, Takeya Shimomura
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Publication number: 20100187855Abstract: A door trim includes a door pocket for containing a contained object. The door pocket is arranged to face a vehicle compartment and is formed between a trim main body having a port of taking in and out the contained object, and a box portion arranged on a vehicle exterior side of the trim main body. A vicinity of the access port of the box portion is provided with a rib structure member reinforced by a rib. A wall thickness of the trim main body is set to be smaller than a wall thickness of the box portion. The box portion includes a main body wall portion arranged at a portion remote from the trim main body to a vehicle exterior side, and a pair of end wall portions extended to a vicinity of the trim main body from end edges thereof opposed to each other in a front and rear direction by interposing the access port in the main body wall portion, and the rib structure member is hung between the two end wall portions.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 28, 2009Publication date: July 29, 2010Applicant: TOYODA GOSEI CO., LTD.Inventors: Takahiro Kitajima, Shuji Inui, Hikaru Ando
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Patent number: 7753435Abstract: A water shield for a door of a vehicle includes a main body with at least one sealing portion for sealing to the door. The water shield also includes at least one rib coupled to the main body for increasing stiffness of the water shield.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2007Date of Patent: July 13, 2010Assignee: Chrysler Group LLCInventor: Fadi Hanna
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Patent number: 7753426Abstract: An object is to enhance the sound absorbing functions of an interior member, and furthermore, to increase ease of assembly of the interior member, and the interior member for the cab is integrally formed so as to have a laminated structure where a sound absorbing material is contained between an outer layer material and a foundation body panel, or inside a foundation body panel. In addition, such an interior member is formed in accordance with a reaction injection molding method.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2009Date of Patent: July 13, 2010Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.Inventor: Kan'ichi Sato
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Publication number: 20100164248Abstract: A body sealing system for an associated automotive vehicle door that has an associated door panel (including a sliding door, lift gate, or tailgate) includes a trim panel dimensioned to overlie at least a portion of the associated door panel, an interconnecting means connected to the trim panel and extending from adjacent a periphery of the trim panel, and a sealing member secured to the trim panel via the interconnecting means. An associated method of assembling a trim panel and seal to an associated automotive vehicle door includes providing an automotive sealing system, providing a trim panel, and integrating the seal with the trim panel.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 22, 2008Publication date: July 1, 2010Inventor: Steve Stoll
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Patent number: 7744983Abstract: The laminated structure includes a lightweight and shape-retaining foamed resin base member, an outer circumference frame integrally laminated on the reverse side of the foamed resin base member along the outer circumference of an article, and bridging ribs connecting between respective points on the outer circumference frame. Accordingly, the present invention provides a lightweight laminated structure with low cost by reducing the amount of the resin used, since the molded synthetic resin outer circumference frame and bridging ribs have small projection areas.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2002Date of Patent: June 29, 2010Assignee: Kasai Kogyo Co., Ltd.Inventors: Tetsuyuki Ota, Masahiko Hara, Tatsushi Ohno, Hiroyuki Aizawa, Kiyohiko Obara
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Patent number: 7731269Abstract: An armrest formed in a door lining of an automotive door lining includes an upper wall fitted with a power window switch, a lower wall provided with an opening permitting access to a lower part of the switch and a detachable lid fitted on the opening. Thus, the opening in the lower wall of the armrest enables a worker to connect a wire harness drawn out of the interior of the door to the lower part of the power window switch. Because the opening is formed in the lower wall of the armrest which is usually concealed from the vehicle occupant, it does not produce an aesthetically negative impact. If desired, the opening may also be formed in other parts of the armrest as long as the opening is favorably concealed or otherwise prevented from impairing the external appearance of the door lining.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2008Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Takaki Sakamoto
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Patent number: 7726726Abstract: An energy-absorbing system for vehicle door assemblies is provided, including first and second brackets and a reaction plate. Each bracket attaches to an inner support panel of the door assembly via a mounting portion having leg members extending inward from opposing ends thereof. The reaction plate includes a generally planar portion with a flange portion extending from an upper edge thereof. One side of the reaction plate is attached to an inner surface of a trim panel, whereas the other side is attached to the leg members of the first and second brackets. One section of the flange portion abuts against an underside surface of an armrest assembly, and another section abuts against a b-side surface of a pull-handle. Both brackets are configured to sustain a minimum vertical loading condition (limit vertical deflection), and controllably deform under a threshold lateral loading condition to absorb and attenuate kinetic energy resulting therefrom.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 2008Date of Patent: June 1, 2010Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.Inventors: Benjamin E. Cavallin, Gaurav Sharma, David N. Allen
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Publication number: 20100123332Abstract: A door to cockpit/Instrument Panel interface apparatus is provided with a skin layer disposed on and/or in the door and/or cockpit, and operates to create a line-to-line appearance or a seam, without gap, between door and cockpit through compression therebetween. The flexibly resilient skin layer possesses such resilience that when a driver or passenger opens the door, the compressed area of the skin layer disposed on and/or in the door (or the cockpit) springs back to its original configuration and/or shape. The interface apparatus may employ a resilient support along with the skin layer to provide the compressibility. The resilient support may include a foam layer, springs, a recess behind the skin layer, etc. The interface apparatus may reduce the cost(s) and weight/mass load(s) associated with manufacturing door to cockpit interfaces, and the apparatus may provide a unique aesthetic approach and structural freedom to designing a vehicle interior.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 17, 2009Publication date: May 20, 2010Applicant: FAURECIA INTERIOR SYSTEMS U.S.A., INC.Inventors: James Hotary, Brian Dexter, Dan Vander Sluis
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Patent number: 7717493Abstract: A sliding door system for a motor vehicle, including a door that is configured to be disposed within a door opening that is formed in the vehicle body, a trim panel connected to the door, and an opening formed through the trim panel. A hinge arm extends through the opening in the trim panel and has a first end connected to the vehicle body and a second end slidably connected to the door for movement of the door between a closed position and an open position. A closure panel is moveable between a deployed position, wherein the closure panel obstructs at least a portion of the opening in the trim panel, and a stowed position, wherein the closure panel does not obstruct the opening in the trim panel.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2008Date of Patent: May 18, 2010Assignee: Nissan Design America, Inc.Inventor: Richard Plavetich
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Patent number: 7681939Abstract: Provided is an armrest assembly disposed on an inner door panel of a vehicle. The armrest assembly includes an armrest panel shaped to form the body of the armrest, and a support surface made of flexible skin. The armrest panel is fixed to a predetermined location on the inner door panel, and extends upwardly and away from the inner door panel to a proximal end. The proximal end is spaced apart and opposite the inner door panel to define an cavity. The flexible skin is attached to the proximal end and pulled taut over the cavity and fixed to the inner door panel to form the support surface for receiving the load of a passenger arm. The armrest assembly having the flexible skin for a support surface is able to fold into itself when the vehicle door is subject to a predetermined load, thus presenting no rigid structure posing a threat of being pushed into a passenger under said predetermined load.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2008Date of Patent: March 23, 2010Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.Inventor: Nicholas H. Augustyn
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Patent number: 7677640Abstract: A panel assembly for a vehicle door has trim panel coupled to the door and having at least a portion thereof that is spaced from the door's outboard frame. The trim panel has first and second impact areas. A plurality of energy absorbing structures is arranged in an array between the trim panel and the door frame. Each energy absorbing structure has a base end, an outboard end, and at least one sidewall. The base end is adjacent to the trim panel. The outboard end engages the vehicle door. The sidewall may include either or both of a reinforcement structure and a weakening structure that are sized and configured so that the energy absorbing structure has a predetermined range of energy absorption against the occupant during a side-impact collision. Energy absorbing structures having different energy absorption characteristics are located adjacent to the first and second impact areas.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2008Date of Patent: March 16, 2010Assignee: Nissan Technical Center North America, Inc.Inventors: Jeff Dix, Lauren Parkins
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Patent number: 7669915Abstract: An interior trim arrangement for a motor vehicle door assembly is provided. The trim arrangement includes a trim panel with inner and outer portions connected by an upper portion that spans therebetween. The outer portion attaches the interior trim panel to the window belt line of the vehicle door assembly. A breakaway portion is integrated to the trim panel. The breakaway portion has an upper segment that extends orthogonally from an outer segment. The upper and outer segments are respectively elongated along the upper and outer portions of the trim panel. The outer segment is configured to attach the breakaway portion to the window belt line of the vehicle door assembly. The upper segment defines an aperture therethrough that is configured to receive the lock knob of the door lock assembly. The breakaway portion is configured to separate from the interior trim panel under a predetermined threshold lateral loading condition.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2008Date of Patent: March 2, 2010Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.Inventor: John G. Lipski
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Patent number: 7670671Abstract: A laminated barrier is provided that can be easily attached to the frame of a vehicle door. The barrier reduces the passage of water, dust and sound into and through the vehicle door. The barrier is generally flat and includes a channel formed therein that aids in locating a bead of adhesive material, aligned with, but located on an opposite side of the barrier from the channel. The bead of adhesive material bonds the barrier to the door frame of the vehicle. The channel acts as a witness line and can be formed as part of an overall thermoforming step, or more simply by using a single heated die element during a step when the barrier is trimmed.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2006Date of Patent: March 2, 2010Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Stephen Russell, Kenichi Kitayama, Robert Bator
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Patent number: 7661740Abstract: A core, a flexible pad covering the core and a synthetic resinous skin covering the pad are layered each other. A thread is arranged on a surface side of the skin and has portions inserted in grooves of the pad through through-holes of the skin. Stoppers engage a rear side of the skin for stopping the portions of the thread from coming off from the skin. A sewing line is formed along the though-holes.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2006Date of Patent: February 16, 2010Assignee: Calsonic Kansei CorporationInventor: Kazuhiro Saito
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Publication number: 20100019534Abstract: An interior trim arrangement for a motor vehicle door assembly is provided. The trim arrangement includes a trim panel with inner and outer portions connected by an upper portion that spans therebetween. The outer portion attaches the interior trim panel to the window belt line of the vehicle door assembly. A breakaway portion is integrated to the trim panel. The breakaway portion has an upper segment that extends orthogonally from an outer segment. The upper and outer segments are respectively elongated along the upper and outer portions of the trim panel. The outer segment is configured to attach the breakaway portion to the window belt line of the vehicle door assembly. The upper segment defines an aperture therethrough that is configured to receive the lock knob of the door lock assembly. The breakaway portion is configured to separate from the interior trim panel under a predetermined threshold lateral loading condition.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 24, 2008Publication date: January 28, 2010Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.Inventor: John G. Lipski
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Publication number: 20100007171Abstract: PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a technology for improving the mounting of a shock absorber to a door trim for vehicle. SOLUTION: The present invention provides a door trim for vehicle to be mounted to a door panel of a vehicle. This door trim for vehicle comprises a door trim body and a mounting part to which a shock absorbing member for absorbing the impact load between the door panel and the door trim is mounted. The mounting part has a position restricting member for restricting the position of the shock absorbing member in the vehicle width direction relative to the door trim body.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 7, 2009Publication date: January 14, 2010Applicant: TOYOTA BOSHOKU KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: Yoshiaki TOMASU
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Patent number: 7644969Abstract: A decorative cover for a vehicle trim component includes a resilient skin including an edge for insertion into a groove of the vehicle trim component. At least one tab extends from the skin edge. At least one line of stitching is located on the resilient skin. The at least one line of stitching has at least one stitching end section extending beyond the skin edge and onto the at least one tab.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2007Date of Patent: January 12, 2010Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Joshua Foster, Tatsuya Shiono
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Patent number: 7641953Abstract: A component for an interior of a vehicle including a substrate, a skin cooperating with the substrate to define a cavity, and foam disposed within the cavity. The skin includes first and second skin components cooperating to define an outer show surface and a hidden support portion that extends away from the show portion. The skin components matingly engage each other along the length of the support portion to substantially prevent the foam from leaking therebetween. Additionally, the support portion includes an deformable portion to improve the soft-touch feel of the component.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2005Date of Patent: January 5, 2010Assignee: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Francois Nelias
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Publication number: 20090322118Abstract: A method of manufacturing a door for a vehicle may include forming an interior panel having a geometry including contours and vehicle accessories disposed thereon; forming a foam member having a varying thickness coinciding with the geometry of the interior panel, the foam member being resiliently compressible; retaining a moisture shield against the foam member; fixing the foam member to the exterior-facing side of the interior panel, the varied thickness of the foam member being aligned with the geometry of the exterior-facing side of the interior panel; and fixing the interior panel to the exterior door, the foam member resiliently biasing the moisture shield against an interior-facing side of the exterior door. The moisture shield, the foam member, and the interior panel form a pre-assembled module prior to fixing the interior panel to the exterior door.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 25, 2008Publication date: December 31, 2009Applicant: FOAMADE INDUSTRIES, INC.Inventor: Chi H. Koa
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Patent number: 7594686Abstract: An automotive door comprising a door trim member (10) with a map-receiving pocket (12) that is defined by a back member (16) that is secured to the door trim member and an inner member (14) that is secured to the back member with an umbrella-receiving member (18) that is accessible through the map-receiving pocket and is defined by a U-shaped member (24) that is attached to the door trim member and is adapted to receive an umbrella (20).Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2007Date of Patent: September 29, 2009Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.Inventor: Nicholas H. Augustyn
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Publication number: 20090206630Abstract: An energy-absorbing system for vehicle door assemblies is provided, including first and second brackets and a reaction plate. Each bracket attaches to an inner support panel of the door assembly via a mounting portion having leg members extending inward from opposing ends thereof. The reaction plate includes a generally planar portion with a flange portion extending from an upper edge thereof. One side of the reaction plate is attached to an inner surface of a trim panel, whereas the other side is attached to the leg members of the first and second brackets. One section of the flange portion abuts against an underside surface of an armrest assembly, and another section abuts against a b-side surface of a pull-handle. Both brackets are configured to sustain a minimum vertical loading condition (limit vertical deflection), and controllably deform under a threshold lateral loading condition to absorb and attenuate kinetic energy resulting therefrom.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 19, 2008Publication date: August 20, 2009Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.Inventors: Benjamin E. Cavallin, Gaurav Sharma, David N. Allen
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Patent number: 7575266Abstract: An object is to enhance the sound absorbing functions of an interior member, and furthermore, to increase ease of assembly of the interior member, and the interior member for the cab is integrally formed so as to have a laminated structure where a sound absorbing material is contained between an outer layer material and a foundation body panel, or inside a foundation body panel. In addition, such an interior member is formed in accordance with a reaction injection molding method.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2004Date of Patent: August 18, 2009Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.Inventor: Kan'ichi Sato