Electric heating – Metal heating – By arc
Reexamination Certificate
2002-06-03
2003-12-02
Elve, M. Alexandra (Department: 1725)
Electric heating
Metal heating
By arc
C219S121700, C219S121850
Reexamination Certificate
active
06657158
ABSTRACT:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to a process for forming an automotive interior trim component and particularly for such a component which has been subjected to a laser scoring process.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Multi-layer instrument panels for automobiles that incorporate an invisible seam airbag opening often utilize laser scoring to weaken the airbag opening to allow for deployment. During manufacturing, the laser cuts a continuous or perforated scoring pattern in the substrate through the underside (“B” surface) of the panel. In a trilaminate panel, the beam generally cuts through the substrate layer, foam layer, and then partially into the top skin layer which forms the visible (“A” side) of the panel. This system produces a weakened opening for a deployable restraint system in vehicles which is intended to be invisible on the “A” surface. One drawback of present production parts is that during heat ageing (as is seen in motor vehicles during natural life cycles or through validation heat cycling tests), the laser score line becomes visible on the top “A” surface as an indented groove or “witness mark” along the score line contour. Conventional wisdom indicates this is caused by the destruction of the underlying foam layer (via the laser) and the inability of the void to support the top skin layer during heating.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
This invention utilizes a pre-heat ageing method step to prevent the appearance of the witness mark on the “A” surface after laser scoring. By heat ageing the panel briefly before laser scoring, the appearance of the line on the “A” surface after laser scoring is reduced or completely eliminated.
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Bondar Robert C.
Hornburg Frederick J.
Skelly Jon M.
Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione
Elve M. Alexandra
Visteon Global Technologies Inc.
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