Instrument cluster finish panel with tear seams
US8939493B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 30, 2013 |
| Grant date | Jan 27, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 3, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60R2021/0414
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An instrument panel trim apparatus mounts in a vehicle to frame an instrument cluster above a collapsible steering column. An integrally molded plastic panel has an upper collar section, a lower bridge section, and a shroud section, wherein the upper collar section and lower bridge section are configured to form a frame around the instrument cluster. The upper collar section and lower bridge section converge along a pair of tear seams. The shroud section extends downward from the lower bridge section and has an arched shape to receive the steering column. A plurality of risers are disposed between the shroud section and the lower bridge section for concentrating stress at the tear seams when the shroud section is impinged by the steering column when collapsing, so that the tear seams separate and the lower bridge section and the shroud section can deflect upward.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.