JP2021517877A - Functional leather parts and their manufacturing methods - Google Patents

Abstract

Functional vehicle parts and related methods include functional leather assemblies secured onto the vehicle parts. The functional leather assembly includes a leather sheet, a flexible electronic circuit disposed on the first surface of the leather sheet facing away from the vehicle component, and a colored paint disposed on the circuit. The circuit optionally includes one or more electronic components, such as a piezoelectric switch, that can act to form or block a conductive path within the circuit. The piezoelectric switch provides a tactile signal indicating the operation of the piezoelectric switch. The entire functional leather assembly, including the circuit, can be embossed to provide an embossed pattern on the exposed surface of the functional leather assembly. [Selection diagram] None

Description

Vehicle interior components often include a surface layer of premium natural leather. The leather is wrapped around the underlying structure and secured to it. The leather is flexible and therefore fits the contours of the underlying structure. In luxury cars, leather is commonly used as the top layer of parts that may come into direct contact with the vehicle occupants, such as interior panels, seats and door linings. The main function of the leather top coat is for aesthetics and to provide a luxurious look to the interior of the vehicle. However, natural leather does not provide functionality to vehicle parts. Therefore, an improved top layer of vehicle parts is needed.

According to one aspect, the method of manufacturing the functional leather component is to provide a leather sheet, to provide a flexible electronic circuit on the A side of the leather sheet, and to arrange a colored paint on the circuit. include.

According to another aspect, the method of manufacturing the vehicle system is to provide a flexible electronic circuit on the A side of the leather sheet and to electrically connect the light source to the circuit, the light source being powered. When configured to emit light, the colored paint is placed on the circuit and on the light source, and the leather sheet is placed on the surface of the vehicle part so that the A side of the leather sheet faces the opposite side of the vehicle part. Includes fixing on top and connecting the circuit to the vehicle electronic control unit and the vehicle power supply. Optionally, the tinted paint suppresses or prevents the circuit and light source from being visible through the tinted paint. The light emitted from the light source is visible through the colored paint.

According to another aspect, the functional vehicle part is in contact with the vehicle part, the leather sheet fixed on the surface of the vehicle part, the A side of the leather sheet, and is flexible including printed and cured conductive ink. Includes electronic circuits and colored paints placed on the electronic circuits.

According to another aspect, the vehicle system includes a vehicle power system and an electronic control unit electrically connected to the vehicle power system. The vehicle system is in contact with the vehicle parts, the leather sheet fixed on the surface of the vehicle parts, the A side of the leather sheet, and is placed on the electronic circuit and the flexible electronic circuit containing the printed and cured conductive ink. Further includes functional vehicle parts containing the colored paint. The circuit is electrically connected to an electronic control unit configured to control the operation of functional vehicle components.

According to another aspect, the wireless charger for the vehicle is in contact with the vehicle power supply, the vehicle component, the leather sheet fixed on the surface of the vehicle component, and the A side of the leather sheet, and is printed and cured. It includes a flexible electronic circuit containing conductive ink and a wireless charging device containing colored paint arranged on the circuit. The circuit is electrically connected to a power supply and includes a radio transmitter configured to generate an oscillating electromagnetic field when powered by the power supply.

According to another aspect, the smart functional vehicle component comprises a vehicle component, a leather sheet fixed on the surface of the vehicle component, and a conductive ink printed and cured in contact with the A side of the leather sheet. It includes a flexible electronic circuit, a light source that emits light when power is supplied to the light source and is electrically connected to the circuit, and a colored paint that is placed on the electronic circuit and the light source.

According to another aspect, the vehicle system is a vehicle power system, an electronic control unit electrically connected to the vehicle power system, and a smart functional vehicle component, which is on the vehicle component and the surface of the vehicle component. A fixed leather sheet, a flexible electronic circuit containing printed and cured conductive ink that contacts the A side of the leather sheet and electrically communicates with an electronic control unit, and a micro-light emitting diode that produces power. Smart features that include a micro-emission diode that emits light when supplied by the vehicle power system to the micro-emission diode and is electrically connected to the circuit, and a colored paint that is placed on the electronic circuit and on the micro-emission diode. Includes sex vehicle parts. The electronic control unit is configured to control the operation of functional vehicle components.

According to another aspect, the smart functional vehicle steering wheel is in contact with the vehicle steering wheel, the leather seat fixed on the surface of the steering wheel, and the A side of the leather seat, and is printed and cured conductive ink. Includes a flexible electronic circuit that includes, and a colored paint that is placed on the electronic circuit. The circuit extends all around the steering wheel and includes one or more pressure sensors located all around the steering wheel.

According to another aspect, the method of manufacturing a functional leather component is to provide a leather sheet and to form a conductive path in the first surface of the leather sheet, which is a flexible electronic circuit. Includes providing a flexible electronic circuit that includes a piezoelectric switch that can act to shut off. When the switch is activated to form or cut off a conductive path in the circuit, the piezoelectric switch provides the user with haptic feedback that the piezoelectric switch has been activated.

According to another aspect, the method of manufacturing a functional leather component is to provide a leather sheet and to form a conductive path in the first surface of the leather sheet, which is a flexible electronic circuit. Alternatively, it comprises providing a flexible electronic circuit including a piezoelectric switch that can act to shut off, and placing colored paint on the circuit. When the switch is activated to form or cut off a conductive path in the circuit, the piezoelectric switch provides the user with haptic feedback that the piezoelectric switch has been activated.

In another aspect, the functional vehicle part includes a vehicle part coated with a functional leather assembly. The functional leather assembly includes a leather seat covering the vehicle part and a flexible electronic circuit located on the outermost surface of the leather seat facing the opposite side of the vehicle part. Flexible electronic circuits include piezoelectric switches that can act to form or block conductive paths within the circuit. When the piezoelectric switch is actuated to form or block a conductive path in the circuit, the piezoelectric switch provides the user with a tactile signal indicating the operation of the piezoelectric switch.

In another aspect, the functional vehicle part includes a vehicle part coated with a functional leather assembly. The functional leather assembly includes a leather sheet covering the vehicle part, a flexible electronic circuit arranged on the outermost surface of the leather sheet facing the opposite side of the vehicle part, and a colored paint arranged on the circuit. .. Flexible electronic circuits include piezoelectric switches that can act to form or block conductive paths within the circuit. When the piezoelectric switch is actuated to form or block a conductive path in the circuit, the piezoelectric switch provides the user with a tactile signal indicating the operation of the piezoelectric switch.

According to another aspect, a method of manufacturing a functional vehicle component is a flexible electronic circuit on a first surface of a leather sheet, a piezoelectric that can be actuated to form or block a conductive path within the circuit. The leather sheet is provided to provide a flexible electronic circuit including a switch, to arrange the colored paint on the first surface of the leather sheet and on the flexible electronic circuit including the piezoelectric switch, and to define the outermost surface of the leather sheet. The leather sheet is fixed on the surface of the vehicle component so that the first surface of the vehicle faces the opposite side of the vehicle component, and the circuit is connected to the vehicle electronic control unit and the vehicle power supply. When the piezoelectric switch is actuated to form or block a conductive path in the circuit, the piezoelectric switch provides the user with a tactile signal indicating the operation of the piezoelectric switch. Optionally, the tinted paint suppresses or prevents the circuit including the piezoelectric switch from being visible through the tinted paint.

According to another aspect, a method of manufacturing a functional vehicle component is a flexible electronic circuit on a first surface of a leather sheet, a piezoelectric that can be actuated to form or block a conductive path within the circuit. In order to provide a flexible electronic circuit including a switch and to define the outermost surface of the leather seat, the leather seat is fixed on the surface of the vehicle part so that the first surface of the leather seat faces the opposite side of the vehicle part. And connecting the circuit to the vehicle electronic control unit and vehicle power supply. When the piezoelectric switch is actuated to form or block a conductive path in the circuit, the piezoelectric switch provides the user with a tactile signal indicating the operation of the piezoelectric switch.

According to one aspect, the method of manufacturing an embossed functional leather assembly comprises making a functional leather assembly, which is a first surface and a first surface opposite the first surface. The present invention includes providing a leather base material including the surface of 2, and applying a flexible conductive trace on the first surface of the leather base material. The functional leather assembly is embossed to provide an embossed texture on the first surface of the functional leather substrate.

According to another aspect, the method of manufacturing an embossed functional leather assembly provides a leather substrate comprising a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface. And, placing the colored paint on the first surface of the leather base material, applying the flexible conductive trace on the colored paint on the first surface of the leather base material, and on the flexible conductive trace. Topcoat is optionally applied to and the resulting assembly is embossed to provide an embossed texture on the first surface of the functional leather substrate.

According to another aspect, the method of manufacturing an embossed functional leather assembly comprises making a functional leather assembly, which includes a first surface and a side opposite to the first surface. To provide a leather substrate including a second surface of the leather substrate, to apply a flexible conductive trace on the first surface of the leather substrate, and to apply a colored paint on the first surface of the leather substrate. Includes placing and thereby covering the trace. The functional leather assembly is embossed to provide an embossed texture on the first surface of the functional leather substrate.

According to another aspect, the method of manufacturing a functional vehicle component comprises making a functional leather assembly by providing an electronic circuit containing a flexible conductive trace on the first surface of the leather substrate. The functional leather assembly is embossed to provide an embossed texture on the first surface of the functional leather substrate, and the functional leather assembly has the first surface of the leather substrate opposite to the vehicle parts. It is arranged so as to cover the surface of the vehicle parts so as to face the side.

According to another aspect, a method of manufacturing a functional vehicle component is to make a functional leather assembly by providing an electronic circuit containing a flexible conductive trace on the first surface of the leather substrate and leather. It comprises placing a colored paint on the first surface of the substrate, thereby covering the circuit, and applying an antifouling layer on the colored paint. The functional leather assembly is embossed to provide an embossed texture on the first surface of the functional leather substrate, and the functional leather assembly has the first surface of the leather substrate opposite to the vehicle parts. It is arranged so as to cover the surface of the vehicle parts so as to face the side.

In another aspect, the functional vehicle component comprises a functional leather assembly. The functional leather assembly includes a leather substrate including a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface, and a flexible conductive trace disposed on the first surface of the leather substrate. ,including. The functional leather assembly is embossed with an embossed texture on the first surface of the leather substrate.

In another aspect, the functional vehicle component comprises a functional leather assembly. The functional leather assembly includes a leather substrate including a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface, and a flexible conductive trace disposed on the first surface of the leather substrate. Includes a colored paint that coats the traces on the first surface of the leather substrate. The functional leather assembly is embossed with an embossed texture on the first surface of the leather substrate.

It is a partial decomposition schematic diagram of a part of a smart functional vehicle part by this subject.

It is a perspective view of the use of smart functional vehicle parts by this subject.

It is a perspective view of another smart functional vehicle component by this subject.

It is a front view of another smart functional vehicle component by this subject.

It is a front view of another smart functional vehicle component by this subject.

It is a side view of another functional vehicle part by this subject.

FIG. 6 is a schematic representation of an embossed smart functional leather assembly according to this subject.

A method of making an embossed smart functional leather assembly according to this subject.

This is a method of making a smart functional leather assembly according to this subject.

In the age of smartphone and autonomous vehicle research, it is required to create smart functional vehicle interior parts with real-time biofeedback loops and dynamic surfaces. By using smart functional vehicle parts, the ride experience of the driver and occupants can be made more comfortable and enjoyable as compared with non-functional vehicle parts.

The subject provides a smart functional leather assembly that is flexible and therefore can be wrapped around various vehicle parts to make the vehicle parts smart and functional. The leather assembly can be placed inside or outside the vehicle. The outermost surface of the leather assembly has a smooth and clean finish, giving it a clean look despite its smart functional capabilities.

The subject matter includes substrates such as natural substrates such as leather sheets and textiles, and the appearance of the substrate by including visible buttons, sensors or other functional or smart elements on the A-plane of the substrate. Includes making the substrate conductive, smart, and functional without disturbing. The subject matter can provide a dynamic interior experience for the occupants of the vehicle while at the same time providing functional vehicle components with a clean appearance. The subject matter includes smart functional leather assemblies and methods of making leather seats smart and functional, as opposed to being used solely for aesthetic purposes without disturbing the appearance of the leather seats. For this purpose, the smart functional leather assembly may include, for example, a trace, a switch (eg, an actuator button), a sensor, or an electronic element containing other functional or smart elements on the A-plane of the leather sheet. .. When used in vehicle interiors, functional leather assemblies can provide vehicle occupants with a dynamic interior experience while providing smart functional vehicle parts with a clean look.

With reference to the figures here, the figure is for purposes of exemplifying only one or more embodiments, not for the purpose of limiting it, and FIG. 1 is a smart functional leather assembly 2 ("functional" herein. Also referred to as "sex leather 2" or "leather assembly 2"). As shown, the functional leather assembly 2 includes a leather sheet 4, a flexible electronic circuit layer 6, a colored paint 8, and an optional antifouling component layer 10. In another embodiment, the smart functional vehicle component 12 includes a smart functional leather assembly 2 placed on the vehicle component 16.

The smart functional vehicle component 12 is provided on the leather sheet 4 fixed on the uppermost surface 14 of the vehicle component 16 and the A surface 18 (also referred to as the "first surface" in the present specification) of the leather sheet 4. The flexible electronic circuit layer 6 and the colored paint 8 on the circuit layer 6 are included. As used herein, "A-side 18" is the outermost part of the leather seat 4 facing the vehicle occupants after the functional vehicle parts 12 including the leather assembly 2 have been assembled and placed in / on the vehicle. Refers to the outer surface. On the other hand, the B surface, the C surface, the D surface, and the like are other surfaces of the leather seat 4, and are surfaces facing in a direction farther from the occupant than the A surface 18. On the functional vehicle component 1212 inside the vehicle, the A side 18 of the leather seat 4 faces the vehicle occupant and is not covered by another layer or function such as the tinted paint 8. Can be visible. The A surface 18 may be referred to as the silver surface, lenticel, upper surface side, or hair side of the leather sheet 4 in the leather industry. The grain surface, lenticel, upper surface side, or hair side is the side opposite to the flesh surface or back surface 20 (for example, the B surface, also referred to as the "second surface" in the present specification) of the leather sheet 4 in the leather industry. This is the surface of the leather sheet 4. The meat surface is the surface of the leather sheet 4 in contact with the meat of the animal from which the leather sheet 4 is collected.

The functional leather assembly 2 optionally includes an antifouling component layer 10. However, in an alternative embodiment, the functional leather assembly 2 does not have to include a separate distinct antifouling component layer 10 and may instead include an antifouling component as part of the colored paint 8.

The vehicle component 16 is not particularly limited by the subject matter and may be wrapped in leather, such as interior panels, doors, seats, steering wheels, armrests, dashboards, center consoles, speed change shifters, or any other interior component. Can include interior vehicle parts that can. Optionally, the vehicle component 16 may include an exterior vehicle component. The vehicle component 16 differs from the smart functional vehicle component 12 in that the vehicle component 16 does not include the smart functional leather assembly 2 provided on the upper surface 14 or the A surface thereof. In one non-limiting embodiment, the vehicle component 16 before assembly with the functional leather assembly 2 does not include smart or functional elements or functions such as sensors, processors, circuits, switches. However, it will be appreciated that the vehicle component 16 may include smart or functional elements other than those included in the smart functional leather assembly 2.

The uppermost surface 14 of the vehicle component 16 may be smooth or rough, and may be flat or curved. In a non-limiting example, the surface 14 of the vehicle component 16 is curved. In each case, the functional leather assembly 2 is fixed on the surface 14 of the vehicle component 16 in order to make the vehicle component 16 smart and functional.

The leather seat 4 may be fixed on the uppermost surface 14 of the vehicle component 16 in order to enhance the aesthetic appearance of the vehicle component 16. Since the leather seat 4 can be inherently flexible, supple, and stretchable, it can be wrapped around or wrapped around the vehicle part 16 to fit the outer shape of the surface 14 of the vehicle part 16. Since the circuit layer 6 and the circuit 22 are flexible and are provided on the A surface 18 of the leather seat 4, the circuit layer 6 and the circuit 22 also conform to the outer shape of the surface 14 of the vehicle component 16. The leather seat 4 may be in direct contact with the surface 14 of the vehicle component 16, but may have one or more arbitrary layers in between. Optionally, the leather seat 4 may cover or rest on the surface 14 of the vehicle component 16.

The leather sheet 4 can be made by any number of methods including the usual tanning process. The leather sheet 4 may be processed from natural animal leather and may include composite leather (eg, bonded leather) or synthetic leather products. When using natural animal skin as the leather sheet 4, the animal skin is made of leather containing one or more of tanning, soaking, water squeezing, shaving, lining / lining, drying, staking, and emptying. It may go through a process. After applying the base coat, the skin may then be cut into the desired shape for a particular application, eg, covering a seat, interior panel, steering wheel, or other vehicle component 16 in the vehicle and smart. The functional vehicle component 12 can be formed. The leather sheet 4 can be replaced or replenished with adhered leather, synthetic leather, other leather composites, or other materials or layers, if desired. The leather seat 4 may be cut or formed into a specific size or shape corresponding to the shape and size of the vehicle part 16 to be wound. According to the subject, the leather seat 4 may have a shape and size configured to wrap the surface 14 of the component 16, such as an interior panel, door, seat, steering wheel, dashboard, center console or shifting shifter. can.

After the leather seat 4 is made as desired, either before or after fixing the leather seat 4 on the surface 14 of the vehicle part 16, various other layers of the functional leather assembly 2 (ie, the circuit). The layer 6, the colored paint 8, and the optional antifouling component layer 10) can be provided on the leather sheet 4. In one embodiment, the leather seat 4 is fixed onto the surface 14 of the vehicle component 16 after various other layers of the functional leather assembly 2 are provided on the leather seat 4. In another embodiment, the leather seat 4 is fixed onto the surface 14 of the vehicle component 16 before various other layers of the functional leather assembly 2 are provided on the leather seat 4.

The leather seat 4 may be flexible and therefore, in one non-limiting embodiment, the leather seat 4 may be stretched and wrapped around the vehicle component 16 to secure it on the surface 14 of the vehicle component 16. can. The leather sheet 4 can be fixed to the surface 14 and / or other parts of the vehicle part 16 with an adhesive, a fastener, or the like.

In one embodiment, the circuit layer 6, the colored paint 8, and the optional antifouling component layer 10 are provided on the leather sheet 4 (eg, surface texture or grain, even if they are provided on the A surface 18 of the leather sheet 4. And allows some properties (such as softness) to be perceived at least partially by the occupants of the vehicle, such as by touch or sight.

The circuit layer 6 is flexible and has one or more intervening layers provided on the A-plane 18 of the leather sheet 4 and optionally in direct contact with or between the A-planes 18. It provides the leather seat 4 with smart functional characteristics. The circuit layer 6 may include one or more flexible electronic circuits 22 (also referred to herein as "electronic circuits" or "circuits") and are arranged on the A-side 18 of the leather sheet 4. The circuit layer 6 is shown as a continuous layer in FIG. 1, but this is merely for convenience to show the arrangement of various layers of the smart functional vehicle component 12, and the circuit layer 6 is one or more. It is understood that voids may or may not be included between the conductive traces 23 of the circuit 22 of the circuit 22 and therefore the circuit layer 6 may or may not be a continuous layer as shown. NS. The trace 23 (also referred to herein as a "conductive trace", "conductive path" or "trace") may be provided directly on the leather sheet 4 and is therefore one of the trace 23 and the circuit 22. It contains one or more voids with any of the above electronic elements. However, the circuit layer 6 may be a continuous layer as shown in the figure. For example, the circuit 22 may be formed on the surface of the film, and the film supporting the circuit 22 is directly provided on the leather sheet 4. May be good.

In one embodiment, the circuit layer 6 is in contact with the A side 18 of the leather sheet 4. In another embodiment, the circuit layer 6 is placed on the polymer film, which is then placed on the A-side 18 of the leather sheet 4. Each of the one or more circuits 22 of the circuit layer 6 includes one or more flexible conductive traces 23. "Flexible" means that a layer, circuit, trace, or other element or material is non-rigid, non-brittle or non-rigid and therefore bends or stretches due to such external forces when subjected to external forces. It means that it will not be deformed or dented, but will not break or lose its functionality. The "flexible electronic circuit" is an electronic circuit 22 that does not break even when bent, stretched, twisted, or deformed from 10% to at least 20% of the degree of distortion, and retains its conductivity. Means. In one embodiment, the circuit 22 and the trace 23 are not damaged when so deformed.

In one embodiment, the circuit layer 6 includes only one electronic circuit 22. In another embodiment, the circuit layer 6 includes two or more electronic circuits 22 such as, for example, two, three, or more electronic circuits 22. When the circuit layer 6 includes two or more circuits 22, each of the individual circuits 22 can be configured to perform a function different from that of the other circuits 22. Is it electrically isolated / separated from the other circuits 22, can the circuits 22 operate independently, or can each circuit 22 function separately from the other circuits 22? It can mean that the circuit 22 is electrically connected to different types of electronic elements.

One or more circuits 22 and electronic elements (including one or more conductive traces 23) are each a binder (such as a polymeric material such as polyimide) and, for example, copper, silver, carbon, silver chloride or other conductive material. It can be formed using a conductive ink containing conductive particles containing conductive particles. One or more circuits 22 are each applied by applying the conductive ink directly to the A side 18 of the leather sheet 4, for example, by printing, and then by curing, drying, solidifying the conductive ink, and the like. The conductive trace 23, the circuit 22, and the electronic element of the layer 6 may be formed. In other words, the conductive trace 23, the circuit 22 and the electronic element can be defined by or include a printed and cured conductive ink. The conductive inks suitable for producing one or more circuits 22 and electronic elements are not particularly limited, and are, for example, PE671, PE773, PE873 and PE971 elastic conductors, PE410 inkjet silver conductors, 5021, 5025, 5028, 5064HY Silver Conductors, ME601 and ME602 Elastic Silver Conductors, PE827 and PE828 UltraLow Temperature Curing Silver Composite Conductors, E.I. I. Kapton ™ KA801 Polyimide Silver Conductor available from duPont de Nemours and Company and Engineered Materials Systems, Inc. It may include CI-1036, CI-4040, CI-2051, CI-1062 stretchable conductive inks available from (EMS).

Any of these conductive inks for making electronic circuits, including, for example, pad printing, flexographic printing, rotary gravure printing, spraying, dipping, syringe distribution, stencil printing, screen printing, aerosol jet printing or inkjet printing. May be applied on the surface 18 of the leather sheet 4 by the method of. Flexible electronic circuits 22 may be formed using other materials or processes, including, for example, etching, in-molding of electronic circuits 22, selective photocuring and circuit scribes. In one exemplary embodiment, the one or more circuits 22 are formed by screen printing conductive ink on the A side 18 of the leather sheet 4.

Each of one or more circuits 22 can include electronic elements such as power supplies, capacitors, inductors, diodes, resistors, transformers, switches, sensors, loads, light sources, fuses, antennas, wireless transmitters, heaters, etc. Each of these may be flexible. However, it is understood that these or other electrons may be included in the electrical communication with the circuit 22, but may be located elsewhere rather than as part of the circuit layer 6. Let's do it. In a non-limiting example, the light source 24 is included as an electronic element in the functional vehicle component 12. In another non-limiting example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the radio transmitter 30 (eg, such as an induction coil or capacitive plate) is included as an electronic element within the functional vehicle component 12. In a further non-limiting example, one or more sensors 28 are included within the electronic circuit of circuit layer 6. In yet another non-limiting example, the switch 26 is included within the electronic circuitry of circuit layer 6.

The colored paint 8 may be placed on top of the circuit layer 6 to at least partially hide or camouflage the circuit layer 6 including electronic devices. The coloring paint 8 may be arranged between the leather sheet 4 and the circuit layer 6. The colored paint 8 may be arranged in direct contact with the circuit layer 6 or may be arranged with one or more intervening layers between them. In one embodiment, the tinted paint 8 is not included, or the tinted paint 8 can be transparent (ie, optically transparent), and / or the circuit layer 6 and its electronic elements are placed on top of the tinted paint 8. Can be done. The colored paint 8 is not particularly limited by the present subject and may include a translucent layer, a film or a paint arranged on the flexible circuit layer 6. "Translucent" means a material or layer that allows light to pass through but causes a degree of diffusion that is sufficient to interfere with the perception of a clear image through the material or layer. In one embodiment, the tinted paint 8 is not included, or the tinted paint 8 is transparent (ie, optically transparent), and / or the circuit layer 6 and its electronic elements are located on top of the tinted paint 8. NS. In a non-limiting example, the colored coating material 8 has visibility through the colored coating material 8 of the flexible electronic circuit 22 of the circuit layer 6 and all electronic elements except for the light emitted from the light source 24. Diffuses enough light to be suppressed by. In one embodiment, the flexible electronic circuit 22 of circuit layer 6 and all electronic devices are not visible through the tinted paint 8. The light source 24 is also under the colored paint 8, and therefore the visibility of the light source 24 through the colored paint is arbitrarily suppressed by the colored paint 8. In one embodiment, the light source 24 is also not visible through the colored paint 8. However, since the colored paint 8 is sufficiently translucent (not opaque), the light emitted from the light source 24 is visible through the colored paint 8. Therefore, the colored paint 8 hides the flexible circuit layer 6 (including the light source 24) from the view at least to some extent, but transmits the light emitted from the light source 24, so that the emitted light becomes visible through the colored paint 8. You can see it. The light emitted from the light source 24 and transmitted through the colored paint 8 can be seen, for example, by the vehicle occupant and can be used for vehicle lighting or as a visual indicator for transmitting information to the vehicle occupant.

Colored paint 8 may include polymers, textiles, composite materials, enamel, paper, glass, metals, ceramics, other materials and combinations thereof. In a non-limiting example, the colored paint 8 comprises, for example, a colored layer containing a mixture of a polymer and pigment particles. The polymer may be, for example, an acrylic urethane resin. The colored coating material 8 may be formed by applying a polymer / pigment mixture as a liquid onto the flexible circuit layer 6 and curing the polymer to produce the colored coating material 8 as a solid. The colored paint 8 may have a sufficient pigment filling amount and / or thickness to suppress or prevent the circuit 22 and the electronic element including the light source 24 from being visible through the colored paint 8. However, the colored paint 8 is sufficiently translucent to the extent that the light emitted from the light source 24 can be seen through the colored paint 8, as opposed to opaque. In one non-limiting embodiment, the tinted paint 8 has a thickness of 5-50 μm, 15-40 μm, or 20-30 μm. Other thicknesses can be used.

In one embodiment, for example, the tinted paint 8 comprises a multilayer structure comprising a 20-45 micron thick base color layer that is applied wet on the leather sheet 4 and dried at about 100 ° C. for 1 minute. A 15-20 micron thick color coat is applied wet and dried at 100 ° C. for 1 minute, then three layers of 5-20 micron thick topcoats (15-60 micron total thick) are wetted. Apply and then dry at 100 ° C. for 1 minute. The base color layer, the color coat, and the top coat layer may each be applied by spraying, and each may contain a polyurethane acrylic dispersion having a pigment. The inclusion of a base color layer and a color coat provides abrasion resistance and color consistency. Topcoats are provided for tactile and color performance. The leather substrate may first be coated with a base coat of polyurethane and acrylic dispersion and then applied by rollers to provide adhesion to the leather sheet 4.

The antifouling component layer 10 or antifouling component contained in the colored paint 8 can show the exposed surface 32 of the functional vehicle component 12, which maintains all the physical and aesthetic properties of the lower layer of the leather assembly 2. While optionally included to resist the agglomeration of dirt, dirt, stains, or other debris on the leather assembly 2. The antifouling component layer 10 is not particularly limited by the present subject, and may contain an antifouling component contained as a separate layer as shown in FIG. Alternatively, the antifouling component may be contained as a part of the colored paint 8. In one non-limiting embodiment shown in FIG. 1, when the antifouling component layer 10 is included as a different layer in the functional leather assembly 2, the antifouling component layer 10 transmits light emitted from the light source 24. It is inherently transparent (may be optically transparent) so as not to significantly interfere with it. In another embodiment, the antifouling component layer 10 may be slightly colored to help the colored paint 8 hide the circuit layer 6 from view. In one non-limiting embodiment, the antifouling component layer 10 has a thickness of 0.1 to 10 μm, 1 to 8 μm, or 4 to 6 μm. In one non-limiting embodiment, the antifouling component layer 10 contains a polymer carrier, is applied to a thickness of 1-10 microns and then dried at 100 ° C. for 1 minute to form a coating on the leather assembly 2. do. Other carriers, thicknesses, and drying times and temperatures may be used. In one non-limiting embodiment shown in FIG. 1, when the antifouling component layer 10 is included as a different layer in the functional leather assembly 2, the antifouling component layer 10 transmits light emitted by the light source 24. It may be inherently transparent (may be optically transparent) so as not to significantly interfere with the appearance of the colored paint 8 or to affect the aesthetic appearance of the colored paint 8. In another embodiment, the antifouling component layer 10 may be colored to help the colored paint 8 hide the circuit layer 6 from view.

The antifouling component contained in the antifouling component layer 10 or the colored paint 8 is not particularly limited, and fluorine-containing materials such as acrylic urethane resin, polyurethane resin, polyisocyanate, carbodiimide, and tetrafluoroethylene (TFE) copolymer, It may contain silicone or the like.

The operation of the functional vehicle component 12, the electronic circuit 22 and the associated electronic element corresponds to a signal or data obtained from one or more electronic systems of the vehicle, or may be continuously activated during the operation of the vehicle. good. Data or signals may be accessed, sensed, generated, acquired, or produced by one or more vehicle electronic systems. Further, the functional vehicle component 12, the electronic circuit 22 and related electronic elements may provide signals or data to one or more electronic systems of the vehicle. For example, as described in more detail herein, the functional vehicle component 12 can include a sensor 28, a signal from the sensor 28 is transmitted to the vehicle electronic system and other in the functional vehicle component 12. It may be used to operate an electronic element of the same or to operate another functional vehicle component.

The vehicle electronic system from which this data or these signals are derived or to which this data or these signals are transmitted is not particularly limited, and the vehicle engine, transmission, body, chassis, passive and active safety functions, Vehicle performance, driver assistance, in-vehicle and out-of-vehicle environment, vehicle diagnostics, vehicle control, audio / visual entertainment, navigation, electrical systems, telematics and one or more electronic control units associated with these combinations. ECU) can be included. Vehicle electronic systems, door control unit, engine control unit, electric power steering control unit, human-machine interface (HMI), power train control module, transmission control unit, seat control unit, speed control unit, telematics control Units, transmission control units, brake control modules (ABS or ESC), battery management systems, central control modules, central timing modules, general electronic modules, body control modules, suspension control modules or combinations thereof may be included. ..

In a non-limiting example, one or more flexible electronic circuits 22 communicate with a vehicle electronic control unit (ECU) 36 capable of controlling the operation of functional vehicle components 12, electronic circuits 22 and related electronic elements. I do. The ECU 36 may be electrically connected to the vehicle power supply 40 to supply power to the ECU 36 or the flexible electronic circuit 22. The functional vehicle component 12 including one or more circuits 22 of the circuit layer 6, together with various electronic elements, includes the vehicle environment and the vehicle environment including the vehicle or vehicle component, the vehicle occupant or the vehicle's short-distance or long-distance ambient environment. It may be selectively operational based on the current state or situation associated with these combinations.

Non-limiting examples of vehicle conditions that can be used as the basis for such selective movement include past, present or predicted vehicle performance characteristics or diagnostic information. The condition of the vehicle occupant, which can be used as the basis for such selective movement, is the driver's physical condition, such as the driver being drowsy or careless while driving, or (the occupant or occupant's hand). The proximity of an object (such as) or the overall position with respect to the vehicle or functional vehicle component 12 may be included. The conditions of the surrounding environment that can be used as the basis for such selective movements include the proximity of an object (such as another vehicle) to the vehicle, the current time, news feeds, amber alerts, and nearby points of interest. May be included.

In another non-limiting example, one or more circuits 22 communicate with a human-machine interface (HMI) 38 capable of controlling the functionality of functional vehicle components 12, electronic circuits 22 and related electronic devices. conduct. With such a configuration, the user can provide an input via the HMI 38 for selectively operating the circuit 22 and associated electronic devices. Such user input may be active (user-initiated) or passive (user-sensitive input) and may include audible or tactile input. For example, the system may be configured to allow the user to audibly select the operation of the functional vehicle component 12, the electronic circuit 22, and related electronic elements. The operation of the functional leather assembly 2 may be controlled by an integrated actuator button (eg, switch 26) included in circuit 22.

As previously disclosed, one or more separate separate light sources 24 may be included as electronic elements within the functional vehicle component 12. The light source 24 emits light during operation and is electrically connected to the electronic circuit 22 of the circuit layer 6. The light source 24 may provide mere illumination by emitting light, which may be used to illuminate the interior or exterior of the vehicle, the light source 24 emitting light in one or more colors and / or intensities. You may emit it. In a non-limiting example, the light source 24 may emit different colors and intensities of light to provide a particular "sense" or "mood" to the occupants of the vehicle. For example, the light source 24 may have different intensities and / or colors depending on the particular situation, such as during normal driving of the vehicle, during the operation of the vehicle entertainment system, during the dangerous operation of the vehicle, or as desired by other situations or conditions. The light source 24 may be paired with a particular function of the vehicle or vehicle component so that it operates to emit light in.

Alternatively, the light source 24 may be configured to emit light, such as by arrangement or movement, that provides a visual indicator that conveys information to the vehicle occupants. In other words, the light source 24 may be configured such that the light emitted from the light source 24 not only provides illumination, but instead further conveys information to the vehicle occupants, or may emit light.

Visual indicators are not particularly limited by this disclosure and include warnings, notifications (such as time), warnings, instructions, information about the current state or situation of the vehicle or vehicle parts, vehicle occupants, or the surrounding environment of the vehicle. Information such as the environment of the vehicle and combinations thereof may be provided. The visual indicator may include one or more of turn-by-turn directions from the navigation system, blind spot warnings, turn signal indicators and directional indicators such as combinations thereof. However, such indicators are not limited to a particular type or combination. Other examples include maintenance indicators that display information such as the level / amount of a liquid such as oil or gas (or the need to change one or more fluids such as oil), the characteristics of one or more batteries in a vehicle. Includes a battery level indicator that displays, a vehicle characteristic indicator (such as the current speed of the vehicle), and an indicator that displays the distance to the desired destination. In one exemplary embodiment, the light emitted from the light source 24 indicates the location of one or more electronic circuits 22 or electronic devices that are electrically connected to the electronic circuits 22 of the circuit layer 6. In another exemplary embodiment, the light source 24 emits a directional indicator to the driver of the vehicle, or a light that provides the current time or the current fuel stockpile of the vehicle.

The light source 24 may be activated to emit light when a particular related object is within a predetermined distance from the functional vehicle component 12. In one embodiment, the light source 24 is actuated to emit light when the portable electronic device 42 is within a predetermined distance from the functional vehicle component 12. In another embodiment, the functional vehicle component 12 communicates with the HMI 38 to provide an input for the user to select a particular type of information to be displayed by the light source 24 and operate the light source 24. It may be possible. For example, the system may allow the user to audibly select which liquid level (gas, oil, windshield wiper, etc.) to display in real time, or the time required for the user to reach the desired destination. It may be configured to allow voice requests.

The visual indicator may correspond to a signal or data obtained from the vehicle or the electronic system of the HMI 38. In one embodiment, the vehicle's electronic system provides real-time signals or data that can be displayed by the light source 24. Communication between the functional vehicle component 12 and the vehicle electronic system or HMI 38 can be established via one or more intermediate systems or devices, such communication being, for example, a communication link or wired connection, Wi. -It can be executed by using a connection such as a Fi connection or a Bluetooth connection. With such a communication connection, it is possible to communicate data or signals with the vehicle electronic system or HMI to activate the light source 24 and provide the vehicle occupants with visual indicators corresponding to such data or signals. become.

The light source 24 is not limited to any method and may include a light source (eg, an electroluminescence light source, a photoluminescence light source, a mechanical light source, etc.) and an incandescent light source. An exemplary example of a light source 24 is a light emitting diode (LED), an organic light emitting diode (OLED), or a photoluminescent or electroluminescent light source composed of a film or sheet. included. In a non-limiting example, one or more light sources 24 include LEDs having a light emitting region having a size of 100 μm × 100 μm (ie, diameter 100 μm) or less, which is referred to herein as a micro LED. A micro LED is a light source that includes an array of one or more individual light emitters, the diameter of the array may be from about 2 μm to 20 mm, and the diameter of the individual light emitters is typically about 2 to 20 μm. In one aspect, the one or more micro LEDs are arranged as part of the electronic circuit 22 of the circuit layer 6.

As described above and as shown in FIG. 2, the functional vehicle component 12 includes a radio transmitter 30 (eg, such as an induction coil or a capacitive plate) included as an electronic element in the functional vehicle component 12. A smart functional wireless charger 44 can be included. The radio transmitter 30 may optionally be formed by printing conductive ink in the process described herein with respect to the flexible circuit 22, and the conductive ink is applied in the form of an induction coil or capacitive plate. NS. The radio transmitter 30 may be configured to generate an oscillating electromagnetic field 82 upon operation, which may be transmitted to a corresponding radio receiver configured to receive the oscillating electromagnetic field. The radio transmitter 30 and the generated oscillating electromagnetic field 82 receive the oscillating electromagnetic field 82 and reconvert the oscillating electromagnetic field 82 into a DC or AC current that can be used in the electrical load of the portable electronic device 42. It may be used to charge a portable electronic device 42 (see FIG. 2 such as a mobile phone) including a wireless receiver.

As conventional, the wireless transmitter 30 transmits the oscillating electromagnetic field 82 to the corresponding wireless receiver in the portable electronic device 42 only over a short distance, for example about 1-10 times the diameter of the transmitter 30 or receiver. Can be. Thus, in one embodiment, the wireless transmitter 30 is such that the portable electronic device 42 or related wireless receiver is from the wireless transmitter 30, eg, about 1-10 times the diameter of the transmitter 30 or receiver. It is configured to perform an operation to generate an oscillating electromagnetic field 82 only when it is within a distance. Such operation is based on signals or data from proximity sensors or other devices contained in circuit layer 6 or elsewhere capable of detecting proximity of the portable electronic device 42 to the functional vehicle component 12. May be good. Alternatively, the operation of the wireless transmitter 30 is based on communication between the portable electronic device 42 and the functional vehicle component 12, such as Bluetooth, cellular, short range, RFID, Wi-Fi, or infrared communication. May be good.

As shown in FIG. 2, the smart functional wireless charger 44 may include, for example, a plurality of separate light sources 24 arranged in a ring around the wireless transmitter 30. In this annular or any other configuration, each separate light source 24 emits light that collectively indicates the location of the radio transmitter 30 on the functional vehicle component 12. The tinted paint 8 optionally hides the radio transmitter 30 and other parts of the circuit 22 through the tinted paint 8 so that they are invisible, so that the user seeks out the radio transmitter 30 to charge the portable electronic device 42. Such a display is useful because it can be impossible. However, the light emitted from the light source 24 can be seen through the tinted paint 8, and thus the emitted light provides an indication of the location of the wireless transmitter 30 to allow wireless charging of the portable electronic device 42. Can be. In one aspect, the color of the light emitted by the light source 24 is from the initial color (eg, red light) exhibited at the start of charging of the portable electronic device 42 when the portable electronic device 42 is fully charged (eg, green). It changes to a second color (such as light). In this embodiment, for example, the light source 24 is activated when the vehicle door opens, when the vehicle starts, and / or when the portable electronic device 42 moves within a predetermined distance from the wireless transmitter 30. Other lighting functions such as being able to emit light are also envisioned. With respect to the color of the light emitted from the light source 24, based on the selection of the light source 24, based on the use of different lighting circuits, and / or based on the programming of the microcontroller 34 to control the function of the light source 24 on request. Different colors can be provided. The functional leather assembly 2 shown in FIG. 2 can be optionally included on any vehicle component 16, such as on the interior surface of any vehicle such as a vehicle seat, dashboard, or center console. ..

As described herein, one or more sensors 28 can be included in the electronic circuit 22 of the circuit layer 6. The sensor 28 is not particularly limited, and includes any one capable of detecting pressure, temperature, proximity, position, speed, speed, acceleration, inclination, movement, humidity, light, biometrics of vehicle occupants, and the like. Sensors having the above configuration can be included. In one embodiment, the circuit layer 6 includes one or more pressure sensors. The pressure sensor can include a first flexible layer of the conductive material, a second flexible layer of the dielectric material, and a third flexible layer of the conductive material, the second dielectric layer being the first and third flexible layers. It is placed between the conductor layers and separates them. The first and third conductor layers of the pressure sensor may optionally be formed by applying the conductive inks described herein, and the second dielectric layer is described herein, for example. It may be formed by applying a dielectric material such as an ink which is similar to the conductive ink of the above but has a dielectric property.

As described herein, the switch 26 may be included within the electronic circuit 22 of the circuit layer 6. The switch 26 is such that it forms or blocks a conductive path (eg, a conductive trace 23) in the circuit 22 to activate a particular function of the circuit 22, the electronic element of the circuit 22, or a vehicle system or component. It may be operational. The switch 26 may be, for example, a parallel plate capacitive switch, or may be another type of switch, such as a membrane switch or a piezoelectric switch, if desired. A parallel plate capacitive switch or piezoelectric switch can be arranged in the same manner as the pressure sensor described herein above, and the capacitive switch or piezoelectric switch is printed so as to electrically communicate with the first conductive trace. A first or bottom flexible layer of conductive material (eg, ink), then a second intermediate layer disposed on the bottom conductor layer, and finally a second conductive trace. It may have a third top flexible layer of conductive material printed on the intermediate layer so as to electrically communicate with. For capacitive switches, the intermediate layer may include a flexible layer on which a dielectric material (such as a dielectric ink) is printed. For piezoelectric switches, the intermediate layer may contain a piezoelectric material, which may or may not be printed and cured. Piezoelectric switches may include other layers and components.

The bottom layer of the switch is cured before applying the intermediate layer, and if the intermediate layer is printed, the intermediate layer is cured before printing the top layer. That is, the bottom layer, the intermediate layer, and the top layer of the switch 26 have overlapping regions, and the second intermediate layer is arranged between the first and third conductive layers, and thus separates them. ..

The intermediate layer of the dielectric switch may include one or more sublayers of the same or different dielectric materials (eg, two sublayers) printed and cured on top of the bottom layer. The piezoelectric intermediate layer of the piezoelectric switch may also include one or more sublayers of a piezoelectric material (eg, two or more sublayers) sequentially printed and cured on top of the bottom layer. The top and bottom layers of the conductor may each contain one or more sublayers of the same or different conductive inks (eg, two sublayers) that are printed and cured above and below the intermediate layer. The thickness of the first, second, and third layers is not particularly limited, and in a non-limiting example of a dielectric switch, the thickness can be in the range of about 100 nm to 10 μm. The first and third conductive layers of the switch may optionally be formed by printing conductive ink as described herein with respect to the flexible circuit 22, and the second dielectric of the dielectric switch. The body layer may be formed by printing a similar, but dielectric ink. In this configuration, the capacitive switch serves as a pressure sensor when the first conductor layer and the third conductor layer are in electrical contact by pressing the first and third conductor layers together. Can be used. Further, the capacitive switch may be used to measure the biometric properties of the vehicle occupants in contact with the functional vehicle component 12, eg, between the first conductive layer and the third conductive layer. The rate at which electrical contact is made at may be used to measure the occupant's heart rate.

The piezoelectric switch is not particularly limited, and examples of the piezoelectric material in the intermediate layer include crystalline piezoelectric materials, ceramic piezoelectric materials, polymer piezoelectric materials, III-V and II-VI semiconductors, organic nanostructures, natural materials, bones, and these. Combinations can be mentioned. Piezoelectric materials include, for example, lead zirconate titanate, barium titanate, quartz, valinite, sucrose, Rochelle salt, topaz, tourmaline minerals, lead titanate, potassium niobate, sodium tungstate, zinc oxide (Watul ore type). Structure), Ba ₂ NaNb ₅ O ₅ , Pb ₂ KNb ₅ O ₁₅ , Potassium niobate, bismuth ferrite, sodium niobate, barium titanate, bismuth titanate, bismuth sodium titanate, polyvinylidene fluoride, vinylidene fluoride- Trifluoroethylene-chlorotrifluoroethylene tarpolymer, P (VDF-TrFE-CTFE), vinylidene fluoride-trifluoroethylene-chlorofluoroethylene tarpolymer, P (VDF-TrFE-CFE), or a combination thereof. Can be done.

In one embodiment, the piezoelectric layer of the piezoelectric switch comprises a piezoelectric polymer such as P (VDF-TrFE-CTFE) or P (VDF-TrFE-CFE) and is printed between the bottom and top layers of the switch 26. , Hardened. The piezoelectric switch may be operable to form or block a conductive path within the conductive trace 23 of the circuit 22. The piezoelectric switch deforms / compresses the piezoelectric layer between the bottom layer and the top layer of the switch 26 when the user / occupant presses the piezoelectric switch, thereby generating an electric charge in the piezoelectric material, thereby causing a conductive path. May be operable to form or block. Such charges may be sent to a flip-flop device in switch 26, which is put into a steady "on" state, which allows current to pass through it, into circuit 22. A conductive path is formed. Further deformation / compression of the piezoelectric material creates additional charge, which causes the flip-flop device in the switch 26 to go through the stationary "off" described so that current can pass there. This is not possible and the conductive path in the circuit 22 is blocked. Alternatively, a semiconductor device such as a field effect transistor (FET) may be used to generate the current from the piezoelectric switch. The semiconductor device achieves a temporary "on" state and always returns to an "off" state when it is depleted of charge.

The piezoelectric switch may be connected to the power supply 40 of the vehicle, and when the user presses the switch 26 to operate the piezoelectric switch, an electric charge can be supplied to the piezoelectric switch. The charge provided to the piezoelectric switch can cause deformation of the piezoelectric layer. Such deformations can be tactilely perceived by the user when the user presses and activates the switch 26. Such deformations can be perceived as tactile vibrations with various frequencies and / or amplitudes. Such vibration may be characterized as a tactile signal that provides tactile feedback to the user that the piezoelectric switch has actuated to form or block a conductive path within the circuit 22.

The functional leather assembly 2 can include various other layers or parts as desired. In one embodiment, although not shown, the functional leather assembly 2 includes a dielectric layer on or between one or more circuits 22 or conductive traces 23 of circuit layer 6. The dielectric material can generally include a non-conductive resin that cures to form a dielectric layer. In one embodiment, in order to avoid moisture exposure during the formation of the colored coating material 8 or to further increase the durability of the circuit layer 6 to make it more resistant to wear and thus to maintain electrical conductivity even after repeated use. A dielectric layer is arranged between the circuit layer 6 and the colored paint 8. A dielectric layer or paint may be used as an insulator to electrically insulate, for example, a first trace or circuit and a second trace or circuit above it. The dielectric layer may cover only the traces or circuits, or may also cover other parts of the circuit layer 6 or the leather sheet 4 as a whole. That is, the dielectric layer is entirely applied onto the first circuit as one continuous layer so that the conductive traces of the first circuit and the gaps between them are covered by the dielectric layer. However, it may be applied as a discontinuous layer that covers only the conductive traces of the first circuit and does not cover the gaps between them. In a non-limiting example, the dielectric layer is applied only where the second trace or circuit overlaps the first trace or circuit. In this regard, the circuit layer 6 may include a plurality of separate separate conductive traces 23 and / or circuits 22 that may be located in different planes or sublayers of the circuit layer 6 and may include various conductive traces 23. May overlap each other. For example, referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the traces 23 are drawn as non-overlapping (appearing to be in the same plane or sublayer), but the traces 23 are in different planes in the circuit layer 6. It may be configured to be inside and overlap each other. As described above, the circuit layer 6 is printed on the leather sheet 4, the first trace printed on the leather sheet 4, the dielectric layer provided on the first trace, and at least partially. A second trace that overlaps the first trace may be included, but due to the intermediate dielectric layer, the first and second traces are electrically isolated from each other. As such, the subject is not limited to the particular shape or orientation of the trace 23, circuit 22 and electronic device as shown in various figures, but may instead have other arrangements and orientations. In another example, the conductive ink is first printed directly on the leather sheet 4 to form the wireless transmitter 30, then a dielectric layer is placed on the wireless transmitter 30, and then the conductive ink is dielectric. Printed on top of the body layer (or overlapped with a portion thereof) to form separate conductive traces for different electronic elements (such as light source 24), then optionally another dielectric layer is the light source. Printed on the trace to provide wear resistance to the underlying layer. In this example, the dielectric layer between the radio transmitter 30 and the light source trace electrically insulates the radio transmitter 30 from the light source trace.

In another embodiment, the functional leather assembly 2 includes a microcontroller 34 that is electrically connected to the circuit layer 6 at the edge of the leather sheet 4. The microcontroller 34 may be used to electrically connect the circuits 22 of the circuit layer 6 and thus provide communication with one or more circuits 22 and electronic devices, or one or more circuits. The functions of the 22 and the electronic element can be controlled. The microcontroller 34 may be attached to the edges of the leather seat 4 and the functional leather assembly 2 before or after the functional leather assembly 2 is fixed onto the top surface 14 of the vehicle component 16. Various vehicle electronic systems, such as the ECU 36, HMI 38, or power supply 40, may be electrically connected to the functional leather assembly 2 via the microcontroller 34 for communication with the functional leather assembly 2.

In order to supply electric power to the circuit 22 to operate the electronic element, one or more circuits 22 and the electronic element may be electrically connected to the power source 40 of the vehicle, respectively. The vehicle power supply 40 may include, for example, a vehicle battery, engine or alternator. The power supply 40 may be connected to the functional leather assembly 2 via a microcontroller 34. In one embodiment, the smart functional vehicle system 84 includes a smart functional vehicle component 12 and one or more of a microcontroller 34, an ECU 36, an HMI 38 and a vehicle power supply 40.

Referring to FIG. 3, exemplary examples of the smart functional vehicle component 12 include a smart functional vehicle seat 48 (also referred to herein as a "vehicle seat" or "seat"). The seat 48 includes a seat 50, a back 52 and a headrest 54. The vehicle seat 48 includes a functional leather assembly 2 on the front surface 56 of the back 52 of the seat 48. The visibility of the circuit 22 in the functional leather assembly 2 can be suppressed or prevented by the colored paint 8 and thereby camouflaged by the colored paint 8, although in FIG. 3, the circuit 22 is shown on the vehicle seat 48. It will be understood that it is outlined to show the placement. As in other embodiments, the functional leather assembly 2 of the vehicle seat 48 can include one or more electronic elements. As shown, the functional leather assembly 2 of the seat 48 includes two separate light sources 24 and two sensors 28. More or less and different electronic devices may be included on the seat 48, if desired. The sensor 28 may be configured to sense biometrics such as heart rate, body temperature, and blood pressure of a vehicle occupant sitting in the seat 48. The light source 24 is configured to operate when the vehicle door is open to provide lighting to the seat 48, or to operate while driving the vehicle to provide mood lighting to the passenger compartment of the vehicle. You may. In addition, a switch 26, such as a piezoelectric switch, may be provided to manually turn on or off the light source 24, or to achieve other functions. More or less and different electrical elements can be included in different positions on the seat 48 and on the seat 48, including on the seat 50, headrest 54 or armrest (not shown).

Referring to FIG. 4, exemplary examples of the smart functional vehicle component 12 include a smart functional steering wheel 58 (also referred to herein as a "steering wheel"). The steering wheel 58 includes a central hub 60, an outer wheel 62, and spokes 64 extending between the hub 60 and the outer wheel 62. The functional leather assembly 2 may be included on one or more of the hub 60, outer wheels 62 and spokes 64. In one embodiment, the outer wheel 62 includes one or more sensors 28. The one or more sensors 28 may be pressure sensors for sensing the presence of the user's hand on the outer wheel 62. The sensor 28 may be configured to sense biometrics such as the user's heart rate, body temperature, and blood pressure. The visibility of the sensor 28 can be suppressed or prevented by the tinted paint 8 of the functional leather assembly 2, but FIG. 4 shows a plurality of sensors 28 schematically depicted to show their placement on the outer wheel 62. It will be understood that there is. As shown, the sensors 28 are spaced apart from each other and are located on the exposed portion of the outer wheel 62 over the entire circumference of the outer wheel 62. In a non-limiting example, each of the sensors 28 is spaced within 2 inches in the circumferential direction from the adjacent sensor 28. That is, among the portions exceeding 2 inches continuous along the entire circumference of the outer wheel 62, there is no portion where the sensor 28 is not provided. With this arrangement, wherever the driver places his hand on the outer wheel 62, the sensor 28 is there, so that the sensor 28 is present regardless of where the user's hand touches the outer wheel 62. Can be collectively sensed. The steering wheel 58 may be arranged in an exposed portion of the outer wheel 62 and may alternately include one continuous sensor extending along the entire circumference of the outer wheel 62.

In another embodiment, the hub 60 includes a light source 24 that includes an array 68 of separate light sources. Although not shown individually in FIG. 4, the light sources can be arranged within the array 68 so that the light emitted from the array 68 conveys information to the vehicle occupants. As illustrated, the array 68 displays a visual indicator 70, which may be a directional indicator based on information or data derived from the navigation system. The visual indicator 70 indicates the direction in which the vehicle should travel (ie, turn right) to reach a given destination.

As shown, the array 68 covers an area on the surface of the hub 60 and has an illuminated area 72 and a non-illuminated area 74. The right turn visual indicator 70 is a illuminated area 72 of array 68 (the light from which is visible through the tinted paint 8 of the functional leather assembly 2) and a non-lit area 74 of the array 68 (not visible through the tinted paint 8). Presented by the contrast between. Thus, the visual indicator 70 is determined by the operation of a particular combination of separate light sources within the array 68. As will be appreciated, different combinations of distinct light sources within the array 68 may be optionally actuated to provide different arrangements between the illuminated area 72 and the unilluminated area 74, and thus illuminated. The light emitted by the region 72 may convey other visual indicators and other information, such as other directional indicators, current speed or time, and the like.

In another embodiment, one or more of the spokes 64 of the steering wheel 58 may each include a switch 26, such as a capacitive switch or a piezoelectric switch. As schematically illustrated, one switch 26 is included in each of the two spokes 64. The visibility of the switches 26 can be suppressed or prevented by the tinted paint 8 of the functional leather assembly 2, but FIG. 4 shows the switches 26 schematically to show their placement on the spokes 64. Will be understood. The switch 26 may be configured to control one or more functions of the vehicle or vehicle system, such as an entertainment system.

As shown, a plurality of separate light sources 24 are provided on the spokes 64 and are arranged around the two switches 26. In this configuration, each of the separate light sources 24 emits light that collectively indicates the position of the switch 26. Such a display because the tinted paint 8 hides the switch 26 and obscures it through the tinted paint 8 so that the user may not be able to locate the switch 26 to control one or more functions of the vehicle or vehicle system. Is useful. However, the light emitted by the light source 24 can be seen through the tinted paint 8, and therefore the emitted light provides a position indication of the switch 26. In a non-limiting example, the light source 24 is actuated to continuously emit light during vehicle operation to indicate the position of the switch 26 and is deactivated when the vehicle is not operating to accommodate the steering wheel 58. A flat exposed surface of the spoke 64 may be presented. More or fewer and different electronic devices can be included on the steering wheel 58 if desired.

With reference to FIG. 5, an exemplary example of the smart functional vehicle component 12 can include an instrument panel 78 and a glove box 80 as a smart functional dashboard 76 (also referred to herein as a "dashboard"). including. The dashboard 76 includes the functional leather assembly 2 described herein. The functional leather assembly 2 is secured on the A-plane of the dashboard 76 and is presented as a flat exposed surface of the dashboard 76. As shown, the dashboard 76 includes a light source 24 that includes an array 68 of separate light sources. The array 68 shown in FIG. 5 may be similar to the array 68 shown on the hub 60 of the steering wheel 58 in FIG.

As shown, the array 68 displays a visual indicator 70, which can be the current speed of the vehicle. As shown in FIG. 4, the array 68 covers an area on the surface of the dashboard 76 and has a illuminated area 72 and a non-illuminated area 74. The visual indicator 70 indicating the current speed is displayed by the contrast between the illuminated area 72 of the array 68 and the unlit area 74 of the array 68. Thus, the visual indicator 70 is determined by the operation of a particular combination of separate light sources within the array 68. As will be appreciated, the light emitted from the illumination area 72 is separate within array 68 so that it can convey other visual indicators and other information such as the current time, the vehicle's current fuel reserves, etc. The illuminated area 72 and the non-illuminated area 74 may be arranged differently by operating different combinations of the light sources of the above as desired. The array 68 on the dashboard 76 or on the steering wheel 58 may be activated by an audible signal from the user. For example, the user may verbally request that the array 68 on the dashboard 76 or steering wheel 58 display the current speed, the vehicle's current fuel reserves, the distance from the selected destination, and so on. can. More or fewer and different electronic devices can be optionally included on the dashboard 76.

Referring to FIG. 6, exemplary examples of the smart functional vehicle component 12 include a smart functional door panel 86 (also referred to herein as a "door panel"). The door panel 86 includes the functional leather assembly 2 described herein. The functional leather assembly 2 is fixed on the A-plane of the door panel 86 and is presented as a flat exposed surface of the door panel 86. The door panel 86 includes one or more switches 26, such as a capacitive switch or a piezoelectric switch, that can be operated to move the window 88, adjust the mirror 90, or operate the vehicle interior light 92. But it may be. The smart functional door panel 86 may include a plurality of separate light sources 24 arranged in a ring around, for example, a switch 26 on the circuit 22. In this annular configuration, each of the separate light sources 24 emits light that collectively indicates the position of the switch 26 on the functional door panel 86. The tinted paint 8 may hide the switch 26 and other parts of the circuit 22 and make it invisible through the tinted paint 8, thereby easily locating the switch 26 for the user to operate the window 88 and the mirror 90. Such a display is useful because it may not be possible. However, the light emitted from the light source 24 can be seen through the tinted paint 8, and therefore the emitted light provides a position indication of the switch 26 to allow the operation of the switch 26. Further, when the switch 26 is a piezoelectric switch, the operation may provide the user with tactile feedback indicating that the switch 26 has been operated.

The smart functional vehicle component 12 is dynamic by changing the color of the light emitted in the vehicle according to the vehicle speed, the driving mode, the driver's mood / state based on the biofeedback data, and the current music selection. It is possible to provide various functions of the vehicle including a lighting experience. In addition, the smart functional vehicle component 12 monitors the driver's condition and maintains safe driving by using the sensor 28 for monitoring the heart rate, the oxygen saturation of peripheral capillaries, or the driver's health condition. The data from such monitoring can be used to improve the driver's user experience. The lighting provided by the functional vehicle component 12 may be used to maintain the driver's attention by providing real-time feedback. If the functional vehicle component 12 is the seat 48, then the functional vehicle component 12 can include some or different electronic elements, and thus the use of the functional vehicle component 12 alleviates the complexity of the seat. can do. That is, the functional vehicle component 12 can be used as a pressure sensor 28 on the seat 48 to measure the pressure point. As a result, the pressure in the driver's seat can be specified, and the seat position can be automatically adjusted so that the driver can sit comfortably. This also reduces the need for separate pressure sensor components to be installed separately on the seat. The functional vehicle component 12 provides an opportunity to create an innovative vehicle style, such as creating a vehicle speed displayed on a navigation direction indicator (FIG. 4) on the steering wheel 58 or on an interior panel (FIG. 5). Can also be used for. The functional vehicle component 12 can also be used as a wireless charging pad (FIG. 2) for charging the portable electronic device 42.

The subject matter includes a method of manufacturing a functional leather assembly 2. The functional leather assembly 2 can be manufactured by subjecting the leather to conventional processing such as soaking, squeezing, shaving, lining / lining, drying, staking, and emptying. The leather is then rested after applying the base coat. Next, the leather is cut into a predetermined shape to manufacture a leather seat 4 that fits the specific vehicle part 16. Next, the electronic circuit 22 is printed on the A side 18 of the leather sheet 4 using the conductive ink. The conductive ink can be applied by any method, and in one exemplary embodiment, it is applied by one of (a) screen printing, (b) aerosol jet printing, and (c) inkjet printing. A light source 24 (eg, a micro LED), or other electronic device, may be formed with or installed on the circuit 22. Next, the colored paint 8 is applied onto the circuit 22 and the light source 24, whereby the functional leather assembly 2 can be made. The functional leather assembly 2 can be placed inside the vehicle, for example as an interior panel lining, door lining or seat cover.

The subject matter includes a method of manufacturing a functional vehicle component 12. The functional vehicle component 12 may be, for example, a smart functional wireless charger 44, a smart functional vehicle seat 48, a smart functional steering wheel 58, a smart functional dashboard 76 or another smart functional vehicle component. ..

The functional vehicle component 12 may be manufactured by fixing the leather seat 4 on the surface 14 of the vehicle component 16 so that the leather seat 4 conforms to the outer shape of the vehicle component 16. A flexible electronic circuit 22 is provided on the A side 18 of the leather sheet 4 (for example, printed), and the colored paint 8 is arranged on the circuit 22. The visibility of the circuit 22 through the colored paint 8 is hidden or camouflaged by the colored paint, and in one embodiment the circuit 22 is not visible through the colored paint 8. In one embodiment, the colored paint 8 is a colored layer, and the pigment filling amount in the colored paint 8 may be sufficient to suppress or prevent the circuit 22 from being visible through the colored paint 8. The circuit 22 and the colored paint 8 can be provided on the leather seat 4 before or after the leather seat 4 is fixed on the uppermost surface 14 of the vehicle component 16. While fixing the leather seat 4 on the top surface 14 of the vehicle component 16, the circuit 22 conforms to the outer shape of the top surface 14 of the vehicle component 16. The method can further include providing a dielectric layer on the circuit 22, the dielectric layer being arranged between the circuit 22 and the colored paint 8.

The method may include electrically connecting the circuit 22 to a vehicle ECU 36, a vehicle power supply 40, a vehicle HMI 38 or other vehicle system, such a connection may be a direct wire connection, but leather. This may be done using an intermediate microcontroller 34 located at one end of the sheet 4.

The method may include providing a light source 24 that emits light during operation and electrically connecting the light source to the circuit 22. One or more individual light sources 24, such as micro LEDs, may be connected to the circuit 22 by, for example, soldering electrical contacts or otherwise. The light source 24 is arranged in the flexible circuit layer 6 in direct contact with the circuit 22. In this way, the colored paint 8 is arranged on the circuit 22 and the light source 24. The visibility of the light source 24 by the colored paint 8 may be suppressed by the colored paint 8. In one embodiment, the light source 24 is not visible through the colored paint 8, but the light emitted from the light source 24 passes through the colored paint 8. It is visible. The light source 24 is arranged or configured to emit light in such a way that the light emitted from the light source provides a visual indicator that conveys information to the vehicle occupants.

The method may include applying an acrylic urethane antifouling component on the A side of the leather sheet 4, where the antifouling component is a) as part of the colored paint 8 or b) topped on the colored paint 8. It is included as a coat (that is, the antifouling component layer 10).

The entire leather assembly 2 before being placed on the surface 14 of the vehicle component 16 is embossed as shown in FIG. 7 to the exposed surface 32 of the leather assembly 2 which can be seen as the A side 32 of the leather assembly 2. An embossed texture may be provided. The functionality of the circuit 22 is not impaired by the embossing. In other words, the conductivity of the conductive trace 23 is not impaired by embossing the functional leather assembly 2, and any electronic element of the circuit 22 remains functional after embossing. Therefore, the circuit 22 can perform electronic operation even after the leather assembly 2 is embossed.

The embossing of the leather assembly 2 is achieved by processing the leather assembly 2 with a heated embossing roller 94 in order to impart an embossed texture on the exposed surface 32 of the leather assembly 2. It may include heat embossing. Roll-to-roll heat embossing involves embossing at 80-100 ° C., 20-30 bar, and residence rates of 2.5-4.5, with a functional leather assembly with a natural leather embossing pattern. It can be applied to the exposed surface 32 of 2. Embossing of leather assembly 2 includes other methods, including roll-to-plate, roll-to-die, stamping, clamping, punching, pressing, and the use of various embossing rollers, embossing molds, embossing stamps, or other embossing tools. be able to. The embossed texture is not particularly limited and may include leather textures, dents, or other textures, patterns, marks, or combinations thereof. The texture of the skin grain can include replicas of the grain of various animals, including cows, snakes, crocodile, other animals, and variations and combinations thereof. By applying different types of embossing, the smart functional leather assembly 2 can have different types of aesthetic appearance and feel on the exposed surface 32 while maintaining the functionality imparted by the circuit layer 6.

The embossed texture is applied directly to the exposed surface 32 of the leather assembly 2 and onto the circuit layer 6, for example, as shown in FIG. (For example, the pressure applied to the leather assembly 2 by the embossing roller 94, the embossing roller 94, including the thickness and composition of the leather sheet 4, the circuit layer 6, the colored paint 8, and the antifouling component layer 10a (eg, the pressure applied by the embossing roller 94 to the leather assembly 2). The residence time of the leather assembly 2 in between, the temperature of the embossing roller 94, and the parameters of the various components of the leather assembly 2 are adjusted to avoid eliminating or impairing the functionality of the circuit layer 6 by embossing. In one embodiment, the functionality of the circuit layer 6 is not eliminated by the embossing process, whereby the conductivity of the conductive trace 23 is not compromised and the functionality of the other electronic elements is functional. It is not excluded by the embossing of the leather assembly 2. The functionality of the circuit layer 6 including the conductive trace 23 and the electronic element can be evaluated after the functional leather assembly 2 is embossed.

In one embodiment, the vehicle component 16 is a steering wheel 58, the circuit 22 includes a pressure sensor 28, and the pressure sensor 28 is arranged all around the steering wheel 58.

In another embodiment, the vehicle component 16 is a seat 48 and the circuit 22 includes a biometric sensor 28 configured to measure the biometrics of a user sitting in the seat 48.

The method may include providing a second flexible electronic circuit on the A side 18 of the leather seat 4. The second flexible electronic circuit may be similar to the first flexible electronic circuit so that the colored paint 8 is arranged on the second circuit. In this way, the colored paint 8 can suppress or prevent the second circuit from being visible through the colored paint 8. The second circuit is whether each circuit is electrically isolated / separated from the other circuit, each circuit can operate independently, or each circuit functions separately from the other circuit. It is configured to perform a function different from that of the first circuit in that it can. In one embodiment, the second circuit is electrically isolated from the first circuit.

In one embodiment, the second circuit comprises a radio transmitter 30, which is configured to generate an oscillating electromagnetic field 82 when the associated portable electronic device 42 is within a predetermined distance from the radio transmitter 30. NS. The light source 24 may be configured to emit light indicating the position of the wireless transmitter 30 when the portable electronic device 42 is within a predetermined distance from the wireless transmitter 30.

In another embodiment, the second circuit comprises a switch 26, such as a capacitive switch or a piezoelectric switch, that can be operated to form or block a conductive path, eg, a conductive trace 23, within the second circuit. May include, the light source 24 is configured to emit light indicating the position of the switch 26.

The subject also includes methods of manufacturing the vehicle system 84. This method includes providing the flexible electronic circuit 22 on the A side 18 of the leather sheet 4. The light source 24 is electrically connected to the circuit 22. The light source 24 is configured to emit light when electric power is supplied. The coloring paint 8 is arranged on the circuit 22 and the light source 24. This method includes fixing the leather seat 4 on the surface 14 of the vehicle component 16 so that the A side 18 of the leather seat 4 faces the opposite side of the vehicle component 16. The circuit 22 is electrically connected to the vehicle electronic control unit 36 and the vehicle power supply 40. The colored paint 8 optionally suppresses or prevents the circuit 22 and the light source 24 from being visible through the colored paint 8. However, the light emitted from the light source 24 is visible through the colored paint 8. In one embodiment, the vehicle component 16 includes an interior panel, doors, seats, steering wheel, dashboard, center console or derailleur shifter.

A method of manufacturing a functional leather component comprises providing the leather sheet 4 and a piezoelectric switch 26 on the A side 18 of the leather sheet 4 that can act to form or block a conductive path in the circuit 22. It may include providing the flexible electronic circuit 22 and arranging the colored paint 8 on the circuit 22. When the user activates the switch 26 to form or cut off a conductive path in the circuit 22, the piezoelectric switch 26 provides the user with haptic feedback indicating that the piezoelectric switch 26 has been activated. The colored paint 8 can suppress or prevent the circuit 22 including the piezoelectric switch 26 from being visible through the colored paint 8. The piezoelectric switch 26 may be provided on the A side 18 of the leather sheet 4 by printing a piezoelectric material on the A side 18 of the leather sheet 4. Next, the leather sheet 4, the flexible electronic circuit 22, and the colored paint 8 may be embossed to give an embossed pattern on the A surface 18 of the leather sheet 4. The embossing process may include passing the leather sheet 4, the flexible electronic circuit 22, and the colored paint 8 through the roll-to-roll embosser. A light source 24 that emits light when electric power is supplied to the light source 24 may be provided. The light source 24 may be electrically connected to the circuit 22. The colored paint 8 may be arranged on the light source 24, and the light source 24 may be suppressed or prevented from being visible through the colored paint 8. However, the light emitted from the light source 24 may be visible through the colored paint 8. The light source 24 may include a micro light emitting diode and may be configured to emit light indicating the position of the piezoelectric switch 26. The acrylic urethane antifouling component may be applied on the A side 18 of the leather sheet 4. The antifouling component may be included as a) part of the colored paint 8 or b) as a top coat 10 on the colored paint 8. The leather seat 4 may be fixed on the surface 14 of the vehicle component 16. At the time of fixing, the circuit 22 may conform to the outer shape of the surface 14 of the vehicle component 16. The vehicle component 16 may include a steering wheel, seats, armrests, center console, dashboard, interior panels, doors, speed change shifters, or a combination thereof.

A method of manufacturing the functional vehicle component 12 is to provide a flexible electronic circuit 22 including a piezoelectric switch 26 that can be operated so as to form or cut a conductive path in the circuit 22 on the A surface 18 of the leather sheet 4. The colored paint 8 is arranged on the A surface 18 of the leather sheet 4 and on the flexible electronic circuit 22 including the piezoelectric switch 26, and the A surface 18 of the leather sheet 4 faces the side opposite to the vehicle part 16. May include fixing the leather seat 4 on the surface 14 of the vehicle component 16 and connecting the circuit 22 to the vehicle electronic control unit 36 and the vehicle power supply 40. The piezoelectric switch 26 may provide the user with a tactile signal indicating the operation of the piezoelectric switch 26 when the piezoelectric switch 26 is operated so as to form or cut off a conductive path in the circuit 22. The colored paint 8 can suppress or prevent the circuit 22 including the piezoelectric switch 26 from being visible through the colored paint 8. Vehicle components may include steering wheels, seats, armrests, center consoles, dashboards, interior panels, doors, shift shifters, or a combination thereof.

The subject matter includes method 96 for producing an embossed functional leather assembly 2. As shown in FIG. 8, the method 96 includes a step 98 for producing the smart functional leather assembly 2, and then a step 100 for embossing the smart functional leather assembly 2. Step 98 of method 96 of FIG. 8 may include method 102 (FIG. 9) of manufacturing the functional leather assembly 2 in whole or in part. In the method 102 of FIG. 9, the step 104 for providing the leather sheet 4, the circuit 22 being provided on the leather sheet 4 in the step 106, the electronic element being arbitrarily connected to the circuit 22 in the step 108, and the step 110 It includes applying the colored paint 8 on the circuit 22 and providing the antifouling component layer 10 on the colored paint 8 in the step 112.

The leather sheet 4 passes the circuit 22 through various steps such as soaking, squeezing, shaving, lining / lining, drying, staking, and emptying in step 104 of method 102. It may be provided as a pre-prepared animal skin prior to provision. The skin may then rest after applying the base coat. Next, the leather sheet 4 can be manufactured by cutting the leather into a predetermined shape and arranging it on a specific vehicle component 16.

Next, the electronic circuit 22 may be provided in the step 106 of the method 102 by printing the conductive ink on the A side 18 of the leather sheet 4. The conductive ink can be applied by any suitable process or technique, and in exemplary embodiments, one or more of (a) screen printing, (b) aerosol jet printing, and (c) inkjet printing. Is applied by. One or more electronic elements (eg, a light source 24 such as a micro LED) may optionally be placed on the leather sheet 4 as part of the circuit 22 in step 108 of method 102.

Then, in step 110 of the method 102, the colored paint 8 can be applied onto the circuit 22. The tinted paint 8 can include one or more separately applied layers, each containing a pigment, whereby the tinted paint 8 can prevent or prevent the circuit 22 from being visible through it. .. The antifouling component layer 10 is optionally applied onto the colored paint 8 in step 112 of method 102, thereby producing the functional leather assembly 2. Step 112 is an acrylic urethane resin antifouling as a part of the colored paint 8 and / or as a top coat (that is, an antifouling component layer 10) applied on the colored paint 8 separately from the colored paint 8. Includes applying ingredients.

Next, in step 100 of method 96, the functional leather assembly 2 is embossed. Embossing may be accomplished by roll-to-roll embossing, for example, by feeding the functional leather assembly 2 through two embossing rollers 94, as indicated by the left-pointing arrow in FIG. The finished functional leather assembly 2 is obtained. Embossing is performed so that the circuit 22 and the associated electronic elements of the circuit 22 do not lose their functionality. The embossed functional leather assembly 2 can be placed on the vehicle part 16 so as to form a curved functional surface with respect to the vehicle part 16, thereby, for example, a functional interior panel, a seat. , Or can be used as a steering wheel. The method may also include connecting a microcontroller 34 to circuit 22 to optionally connect to power supply 40, ECU 36, and / or HMI 38, allowing circuit 22 to perform operations.

It will be appreciated that many of the features and functions disclosed above and other features, or alternatives or variations thereof, can be preferably combined with many other different systems or applications. Also, one of ordinary skill in the art can continuously make various alternatives, modifications, modifications, or improvements that are not currently predicted or expected, which are also the scope of the appended claims. Intended to be included by.

Claims (41)

A method of manufacturing functional leather parts
Providing leather seats and
The first surface of the leather sheet comprises providing a flexible electronic circuit comprising a piezoelectric switch capable of forming or blocking a conductive path in the circuit.
A method, wherein when the switch is activated to form or cut off the conductive path in the circuit, the piezoelectric switch provides tactile feedback that the piezoelectric switch has been activated. The method according to claim 1, wherein the piezoelectric switch is provided on the first surface of the leather sheet by printing a piezoelectric material on the first surface of the leather sheet. The method of claim 1, further comprising embossing the first surface of the leather sheet containing the flexible electronic circuit, thereby imparting an embossed pattern to the first surface. The method of claim 3, wherein embossing involves passing the leather sheet and the flexible electronic circuit through a roll-to-roll embosser. The method further comprises placing the colored paint on the circuit.
The method according to claim 1, wherein the first surface is a silver surface of the leather sheet. To provide a light source, that the light source emits light when power is supplied to the light source.
Further comprising electrically connecting the light source to the circuit.
The colored paint is placed on top of the light source
The light emitted by the light source is visible through the colored paint and
The light source includes a micro light emitting diode and
The method of claim 5, wherein the light source is configured to emit light indicating the position of the piezoelectric switch. Further comprising applying an acrylic urethane antifouling component on the first surface of the leather sheet, the antifouling component a) as part of the colored paint or b) topcoat on the colored paint. The method according to claim 5, which is included as. The method of claim 1, further comprising fixing the leather sheet on the surface of the vehicle component, wherein the circuit conforms to the outer shape of the surface of the vehicle component when fixed. The method of claim 8, wherein the vehicle component is selected from the group consisting of steering wheels, seats, armrests, center consoles, dashboards, interior panels, doors, speed change shifters, and combinations thereof. A functional part that includes a part covered by a functional leather assembly.
The functional leather assembly
The leather sheet that covers the parts and
A flexible electronic circuit arranged on the outermost surface of the leather sheet facing away from the component, including a piezoelectric switch that can be actuated to form or block a conductive path in the circuit. Including the circuit,
A functional component that, when actuated to form or cut off the conductive path in the circuit, provides a tactile signal indicating said operation of the piezoelectric switch. The functional component of claim 10, wherein the piezoelectric switch comprises a printed piezoelectric material disposed between two conductive layers. 10. The functional component of claim 10, wherein the functional leather assembly comprises an embossed pattern on the outermost surface of the leather sheet and on the flexible electronic circuit. The functional component of claim 10, wherein the circuit further comprises a light source. The light source includes a micro light emitting diode and
The functional component according to claim 13, wherein the light emitted by the light source indicates the position of the piezoelectric switch. The functional component according to claim 10, further comprising a colored paint arranged on the circuit including the piezoelectric switch. The functional leather assembly further comprises an acrylic urethane antifouling component on the outermost surface of the leather sheet, the antifouling component a) as part of the colored paint or b) on the colored paint. The functional component according to claim 15, which is included as a top coat. The part is a vehicle part and
The functional leather assembly is secured onto the surface of the vehicle component and
The functional component according to claim 10, wherein the circuit conforms to the outer shape of the surface of the vehicle component. The functional component according to claim 10, wherein the vehicle component is selected from the group consisting of a steering wheel, a seat, an armrest, a center console, a dashboard, an interior panel, a door, a speed change shifter, and a combination thereof. A method of manufacturing functional parts
A flexible electronic circuit, which is a flexible electronic circuit and includes a piezoelectric switch that can be operated to form or cut a conductive path in the circuit, is provided on the first surface of the leather sheet.
In order to define the outermost surface of the leather sheet, the leather sheet is fixed on the surface of the part so that the first surface of the leather sheet faces the opposite side of the part.
Including connecting the circuit to an electronic control unit and a power source.
A method, wherein when the piezoelectric switch is actuated to form or block the conductive path in the circuit, the piezoelectric switch provides a tactile signal indicating the operation of the piezoelectric switch. 19. The method of claim 19, wherein the method further comprises placing a colored paint on the first surface of the leather sheet and on the flexible electronic circuit including the piezoelectric switch. 19. The method of claim 19, wherein the component is a vehicle component selected from the group consisting of steering wheels, seats, armrests, center consoles, dashboards, interior panels, doors, shifting shifters, and combinations thereof. A method of manufacturing embossed functional leather assemblies
To make a functional leather assembly,
To provide a leather base material containing a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface, and to provide a conductive trace on the first surface of the leather base material. Including, making and
A method comprising embossing the first surface of the leather substrate to provide the first surface with an embossed texture. Further comprising placing a colored paint on the first surface of the leather substrate, thereby covering the trace.
The colored paint
With the first paint applied to a thickness of 20-45 microns,
With a second paint applied to a thickness of 5 to 20 microns,
22. The method of claim 22, comprising a third paint applied to a thickness of 15-60 microns. Making the functional leather assembly further comprises connecting electronic components to the trace electrically.
The electronic component is coated with the colored paint and
23. The method of claim 23, wherein the trace and the electronic component are camouflaged by the colored paint. The electronic component includes a light source
24. The method of claim 24, wherein when the light source is activated, the light emitted by the light source is visible through the colored paint. 25. The method of claim 25, wherein the light source comprises a light emitting diode. 26. The method of claim 26, wherein the embossed texture is produced by roll-to-roll heat embossing. 23. The method of claim 23, wherein making the functional leather assembly further comprises placing an antifouling layer on the colored paint. 22. The method of claim 22, further comprising electrically connecting the microcontroller to the trace. The method according to claim 20, wherein the embossed texture includes a texture of leather. A method of manufacturing functional vehicle parts
To make a functional leather assembly, which comprises providing an electronic circuit containing a conductive trace on the first surface of the leather substrate.
To provide the first surface of the leather substrate with an embossed texture by embossing the functional leather assembly.
The embossed functional leather assembly is arranged so that the first surface of the leather substrate faces the opposite side of the vehicle part and covers the surface of the vehicle part. Method. Further comprising disposing a colored paint on the first surface of the leather substrate, thereby covering the circuit, and optionally applying an antifouling layer on the colored paint.
31. The method of claim 31, wherein the circuit comprises a plurality of electronic components including light emitting diodes. 31. The method of claim 31, wherein the embossed texture comprises the texture of a leather grain produced by roll-to-roll heat embossing. 31. The method of claim 31, further comprising electrically connecting the microcontroller to the circuit. A functional vehicle component including a functional leather assembly, wherein the functional leather assembly is
A leather base material containing a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface,
Includes a conductive trace disposed on the first surface of the leather substrate.
A functional vehicle component in which the functional leather assembly is embossed on the first surface of the leather substrate with an embossed texture. On the first surface of the leather substrate, further comprising a colored paint covering the trace,
The colored paint
With the first paint applied to a thickness of 20-45 microns,
With a second paint applied to a thickness of 5 to 20 microns,
35. The functional vehicle component of claim 35, comprising a third paint applied to a thickness of 15-60 microns. The functional leather assembly further comprises an electronic component electrically connected to the trace and coated with the tinted paint.
36. The functional vehicle component of claim 36, wherein the conductive trace and the electronic component are camouflaged with the colored paint. The electronic component includes a light source
37. The functional vehicle component of claim 37, wherein when the light source is activated, the light emitted by the light source is visible through the colored paint. Including vehicle parts including the surface,
The functional leather assembly is placed on the surface of the vehicle component and
35. The functional vehicle component of claim 35, wherein the vehicle component includes an interior panel, a seat, or a steering wheel. 36. The functional vehicle component of claim 36, wherein the functional leather assembly further comprises an antifouling layer disposed on the colored paint. The functional vehicle component according to claim 35, wherein the embossed texture includes a leather grain texture.

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