Abstract:
A method for providing localized stiffening of a vehicle trim panel using a plurality of discrete stiffening elements. The method includes selectively placing one or more of the discrete stiffening elements on the panel and then bonding the stiffening elements to the panel.
Abstract:
A method for providing localized stiffening of a vehicle trim panel using a plurality of discrete stiffening elements. The method includes selectively placing one or more of the discrete stiffening elements on the panel and then bonding the stiffening elements to the panel.
Abstract:
A single input, multi-output drive system adapted for use, for example, with a power seat or a vehicular door assembly, includes an input power source, such as a PMDC motor, and at least one transmission further including a plurality of output elements shiftable between engaged and disengaged conditions relative to the source, so as to be selectively driven thereby, and drivenly coupled, for example, to various functions of the power seat or door assembly, and a plurality of active material actuators drivenly and individually coupled to an associated one of the output elements, and configured to selectively engage the associated output element and input source.
Abstract:
A seat structure is configured to support an occupant. The seat structure includes a suspension. A seat cushion is arranged adjacent to the suspension. The seat cushion defines a plurality of variable effective property regions. At least one of the plurality of variable effective property regions includes a regular periodic lattice structure.
Abstract:
A support assembly formed by an additive manufacturing process using a printing head includes a trim member. A body includes multiple layers of at least one polymeric material applied onto the trim member via the printing head. The multiple layers each have multiple resilient polymeric material elements. A protective and abrasion resistant polymeric material cover is applied over the body using the printing head. At least one structural element is positioned in the body by operation of the printing head. At least one sensor is positioned in the body. At least one passage is formed within the body by selective omission of the at least one polymeric material from the printing head as the printing head displaces during the additive manufacturing process.
Abstract:
A technique for welding two dissimilar metal panels or structures together, such as vehicle structures, by providing a sandwich structure between the dissimilar metal structures that includes one skin being made of the same metal as one of the metal structures and an opposing skin being made of the same metal as the other metal structure, and including an electrically non-conducting core between the skins.
Abstract:
A process for reinforcing a trim panel for a vehicle using one or more micro-truss reinforcement patches. Each micro-truss reinforcement patch is secured to an inner surface of a show surface panel of the trim panel while it is in a partially cured state and then fully cured. The micro-truss patch is fusion bonded to the panel.
Abstract:
A knitted structure is configured for heat generation and distribution. In some embodiments, the knitted structure includes a knitted fabric including a first knitted layer and a second knitted layer opposite the first knitted layer. The first knitted layer has a first thermal conductivity. The second knitted layer has a second thermal conductivity. The second thermal conductivity is greater than the first thermal conductivity to faciliate heat transfer toward the first knitted layer. The knitted structure may further include a plurality of electrodes at least partially disposed inside the knitted fabric. Each of the plurality of electrodes is configured to generate heat within the knitted fabric upon receipt of electrical energy in order to distribute heat along the knitted structure and toward the first knitted layer.
Abstract:
A door assembly includes a structure including an exterior panel defining an opening, and a grab bar. The grab bar is moveable relative to the exterior panel. A first linkage system and a second linkage system interconnect the grab bar and the structure. A drive assembly is coupled to the first linkage system and the second linkage system to move the grab bar between an extended position and a retracted position. The drive assembly includes a Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) actuator that contracts in response to a control signal, to move the grab bar. A seal may be provided to seal between the grab bar and the structure. A heating element may provide a thermal load to heat the grab bar, a seal surrounding the grab bar, or both.