Front bumper upper pedestrian protection system and automobile
By designing a multi-layered buffer cavity and irregularly shaped connecting parts in the upper part of the front bumper, the pedestrian protection system at the top of the front bumper solves the problem of support and buffering when the bumper collides with a pedestrian, thus reducing pedestrian injury and improving vehicle stability.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- VOYAH AUTOMOBILE TECH CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2023-04-20
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-21
AI Technical Summary
The lack of a front bumper upper support structure in the current technology that can provide proper support and cushion the impact when the bumper collides with a pedestrian results in serious pedestrian injuries.
A pedestrian protection system for the upper part of the front bumper was designed, including a support plate and a skin on the upper part of the front bumper, forming a buffer cavity between the two, and connected to the headlights through irregularly shaped connectors to form a multi-layer buffer structure to absorb impact force.
It effectively reduces pedestrian injuries while maintaining structural strength and aesthetic appeal. Through a multi-layered buffer cavity structure, it absorbs impact and reduces the impact of accidents on vehicles and passengers.
Smart Images

Figure CN116476766B_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of pedestrian protection structure design technology for automobiles, specifically to a pedestrian protection system for the upper part of the front bumper and an automobile. Background Technology
[0002] The front bumper is a critical structure at the front of a vehicle, but it often causes serious injuries to pedestrians in traffic accidents. Therefore, many automakers are now gradually exploring and researching new bumper designs in order to reduce the severity of injuries suffered by pedestrians in the event of a collision between a car and a pedestrian.
[0003] To better protect pedestrians from injury in the event of a bumper collision, we need to ensure that the top area of the bumper has low rigidity to reduce the impact on the pedestrian's legs and pelvis. However, at the same time, the top of the bumper is also an area that the driver may lean on or press, and it still needs a certain degree of rigidity to support these actions. To balance these two needs, it is necessary to provide a front bumper upper support structure.
[0004] When a bumper collides with a pedestrian, the upper support structure should provide adequate support to maintain a certain level of rigidity, while also flexibly cushioning the impact on the adult's thigh (pelvis) and the child's head during the collision, thereby reducing injury to the pedestrian. However, no such upper support structure currently exists in the prior art. Summary of the Invention
[0005] Based on the above description, the present invention provides a pedestrian protection system for the upper part of the front bumper to solve the aforementioned technical problems in the prior art.
[0006] The technical solution of the present invention to solve the above-mentioned technical problems is as follows:
[0007] A front bumper upper pedestrian protection system includes a front bumper upper skin, a front bumper upper support plate, and headlights. The front bumper upper support plate is arranged along the width direction of the vehicle body and its two ends are respectively connected to the two headlights. The front bumper upper skin covers the front bumper upper support plate. A first collision buffer cavity is formed between the front bumper upper skin and the front bumper upper support plate, and a second collision buffer cavity is formed between the front bumper upper support plate and the headlights.
[0008] Compared with the prior art, the technical solution of this application has the following beneficial technical effects:
[0009] This front bumper upper pedestrian protection system includes a front bumper upper support plate, a front bumper upper skin, and headlights. Compared to traditional front bumpers, it features a front bumper upper support plate that extends along the width of the vehicle and connects to the headlights at both ends. This design effectively increases the stability and strength of the front bumper, addressing the need for sufficient rigidity at the top of the bumper. A first collision buffer cavity is formed between the support plate and the headlights, and a second collision buffer cavity is formed between the skin and the support plate. Thus, when a pedestrian collides with the vehicle, they first come into contact with the first collision buffer cavity, which provides cushioning. After a period of impact, they then come into contact with the second collision buffer cavity, which continues to buffer the impact force, ultimately reducing the injury suffered by the pedestrian. This design stably supports the front bumper while flexibly buffering the impact force during a collision, balancing pedestrian safety and the aesthetics of the vehicle's appearance.
[0010] Based on the above technical solution, the present invention can be further improved as follows.
[0011] Furthermore, the front bumper upper support plate includes a frame and end mounting components symmetrically arranged on both sides of the frame. The end mounting components are located at the upper end of the headlight. The end mounting components include a support body located at the front and an irregularly shaped connector. The support body is connected to the front end of the headlight, and the irregularly shaped connector connects the frame and the support body and can collapse and absorb energy during a collision.
[0012] Furthermore, one end of the irregularly shaped connector is connected to the rear end of the corresponding side of the frame, and the other end is connected to the support body. The irregularly shaped connector from the frame to the support body includes a first transition section, a sunken section, a second transition section and a connecting section connected in sequence. The first transition section, the sunken section and the second transition section form a downwardly concave bending structure. The sunken section and the front end of the headlight are connected by a fastener.
[0013] Furthermore, the connecting segment bulges upward and smoothly transitions to the supporting body, the first collision buffer cavity is located between the connecting segment and the headlight, and the second collision buffer cavity is located between the upper skin of the front bumper and the connecting segment.
[0014] Furthermore, the front end of the supporting body has multiple snap-fit interfaces, and the front end of the headlight has snap-fits that engage with the snap-fit interfaces.
[0015] Furthermore, the skeleton is provided with a plurality of through holes, which are spaced apart along the extension direction of the skeleton.
[0016] Furthermore, the surfaces of the frame and the supporting body have multiple adhesive surfaces for adhesive bonding to the upper skin of the front bumper.
[0017] Furthermore, the skeleton has multiple wire harness bayonets.
[0018] Furthermore, the front and rear ends of the frame have connecting buckles that engage with the upper skin of the front bumper.
[0019] This application also provides automobiles equipped with the aforementioned upper front bumper pedestrian protection system. Attached Figure Description
[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of a pedestrian protection system on the upper part of the front bumper in an embodiment of the present invention;
[0021] Figure 2 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the structure of the upper front bumper skin, which is hidden in the middle.
[0022] Figure 3 for Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the structure of the upper support plate of the front bumper;
[0023] Figure 4 for Figure 2 Schematic diagram of the connection structure between the mid-mounted component and the headlight;
[0024] Figure 5 for Figure 4 Partial top view diagram;
[0025] Figure 6 for Figure 5 Schematic diagram of the AA-direction section. Detailed Implementation
[0026] To facilitate understanding of this application, a more complete description will be provided below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate embodiments of the present application. However, the present application can be implemented in many different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that the disclosure of this application will be thorough and complete.
[0027] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the application.
[0028] It is understood that spatial relation terms such as "below," "under," "below," "below," "above," "above," etc., can be used here to describe the relationship between one element or feature shown in the figure and other elements or features. It should be understood that, in addition to the orientation shown in the figure, spatial relation terms also include different orientations of the device in use and operation. For example, if the device in the figure is flipped, the element or feature described as "below" or "below" of the other element or feature will be oriented "above" the other element or feature. Therefore, the exemplary terms "below" and "below" can include both upper and lower orientations. Furthermore, the device may also include other orientations (e.g., rotated 90° or other orientations), and the spatial descriptive terms used herein will be interpreted accordingly.
[0029] This application provides an embodiment of a vehicle, which includes, as follows: Figure 1 The pedestrian protection system on the upper front bumper shown is used to mitigate collision injuries to pedestrians. Specifically, during normal vehicle use, the pedestrian protection system on the upper front bumper provides appropriate support to maintain a certain rigidity. In the event of a frontal or frontal collision with a pedestrian, the pedestrian protection system on the upper front bumper absorbs energy through structural deformation and crumple, buffering the impact force on the adult's thigh (pelvis) and the child's head during the collision, thereby reducing injury to the pedestrian. Specifically, it includes three main parts: the upper front bumper skin 10, the upper front bumper support plate 20, and the headlights 30.
[0030] Among them, combined Figure 2 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the upper support plate 20 of the front bumper is arranged along the width direction of the vehicle body and its two ends are respectively connected to the headlights 30. The upper skin 10 of the front bumper covers the upper support plate 20 of the front bumper, and a first collision buffer cavity a is formed between the upper support plate 20 of the front bumper and the headlights 30, and a second collision buffer cavity b is formed between the upper skin 10 of the front bumper and the upper support plate 20 of the front bumper.
[0031] Compared to traditional automotive front-end structures, this upper front bumper pedestrian protection system features a support plate 20 that extends along the width of the vehicle body and connects to the headlights 30 at both ends. This design effectively increases the stability and strength of the front end of the vehicle, addressing the need for sufficient rigidity at the top of the front bumper. The design of the first collision buffer cavity a and the second collision buffer cavity b enables collision deceleration and energy absorption. When a pedestrian collides with the vehicle, they first come into contact with the second collision buffer cavity b, which acts as a buffer. After a period of time, they then come into contact with the first collision buffer cavity a, which continues to buffer the impact force, ultimately reducing the injury suffered by the pedestrian. This design stably supports the front bumper and flexibly buffers the impact force during a collision, balancing pedestrian safety and the aesthetics of the vehicle's appearance.
[0032] Specifically, such as Figure 3 As shown, the front bumper upper support plate 20 includes a frame 21 and end mounting components 22 symmetrically arranged on both sides of the frame 21. The end mounting components 22 are located at the upper end of the headlight 30 and include a support body 221 located at the front and an irregularly shaped connector 222.
[0033] Among them, the supporting body 221 is connected to the front end of the headlight 30, and the irregular connector 222 connects the rear end of the frame 21 and the supporting body 2221. The irregular connector 222 can collapse and absorb energy during the collision.
[0034] Specifically, there are multiple ways to connect the support body 221 and the headlight 30. They can be connected by bolts or by snap-fit. In the embodiments of this application, the front end of the support body 221 has multiple snap-fit interfaces, and the front end of the headlight 30 has a snap-fit 31 that engages with the snap-fit interfaces.
[0035] A snap-fit connection is a mechanical connector, typically consisting of two mating parts. One part includes a protrusion, and the other has a groove or latch. When engaged, they create a locking effect, achieving the purpose of connection. Compared to bolt connections, snap-fit connections are generally tighter and more reliable, and can be assembled and disassembled more quickly. Furthermore, snap-fit connections are more aesthetically pleasing, eliminating the appearance of protruding bolt heads. It is important to note that different types of connection methods may be suitable for different application scenarios and need to be selected based on specific design requirements. In this embodiment, the snap-fit connection method not only meets the design requirements but also offers good aesthetics and ease of operation, thus being selected as the preferred implementation. Designers can choose from various connection methods and make relevant adjustments according to specific requirements to ensure the stability, reliability, and usability of the mechanical structure; no mandatory limitations are imposed here.
[0036] Between the rear end of the frame 21 and the support main body 221, they are connected by a special-shaped connecting member 222. This design can increase the structural stability and bearing capacity, and at the same time is more durable and reliable. The special design of the special-shaped connecting member 222 can tighten and absorb the impact force during a collision, thereby reducing the damage to the vehicle and passengers caused by the accident. This energy-absorbing design usually needs to consider factors such as the strength and plasticity of the material to ensure the structural stability and integrity after being subjected to sufficient force.
[0037] In a preferred embodiment of the present application, as Figure 4 shown, the special-shaped connecting member 222 from the frame 21 to the support main body 221 includes a first transition section 2221, a sinking section 2222, a second transition section 2223 and a connecting section 2224 connected in sequence. The first transition section 2221, the sinking section 2222 and the second transition section 2223 form a downward concave bending structure, so that the special-shaped connecting member 222 as a whole forms a structure similar to an inverted "ji" character. This structure can increase the bearing capacity and stiffness of the special-shaped connecting member 222, and at the same time, during a collision, it can also absorb the impact force through the deformation of the components, minimizing the impact of the accident on the vehicle and passengers.
[0038] The sinking section 2222 and the front end of the headlight 30 are connected by a locking member. It can be understood that the locking member can select different locking structures according to different use scenarios. In the present application, it is selected as a bolt connection. In other embodiments, riveting or snap connection can also be selected.
[0039] The design of the special-shaped connecting member 222 aims to improve the stability and safety of the mechanical structure, and utilize its energy-absorbing characteristics during a collision to minimize the impact of the accident on the vehicle and passengers. In the specific design process, multiple aspects need to be considered and relevant selections are made according to the actual situation to achieve the optimal design effect.
[0040] The connecting section 2224 bulges upward and is smoothly connected to the support main body 221. The first collision buffer cavity a is located between the upper skin 10 of the front bumper and the connecting section 2224, and the second collision buffer cavity b is located between the connecting section 2224 and the headlight 30.
[0041] By raising the connecting segment 2224 upwards and smoothly transitioning it to the supporting body 221, the possibility of tight or sharp angles at the connection point can be eliminated, thereby reducing the likelihood of cutting and damage during an accident. This also increases the aesthetics of the mechanical structure. The purpose of establishing the collision buffer cavity is to absorb the impact force and energy during an accident, thereby mitigating the impact on vehicles and pedestrians. Specifically, the first collision buffer cavity a is located between the upper skin 10 of the front bumper and the connecting segment 2224, and its design effectively reduces the energy transfer of the initial collision impact. The second collision buffer cavity b is located between the connecting segment 2224 and the headlight 30, and its positioning better protects the headlight 30 and the overall structure of the vehicle from damage during a collision.
[0042] In summary, the upward bulge and smooth transition of connecting section 2224, along with the design of the collision buffer cavity, effectively improve the stability and safety of the mechanical structure, minimizing the impact on vehicles and pedestrians in the event of an accident.
[0043] Among them, such as Figure 3 As shown, the frame 21 is provided with multiple through holes 21a, which are spaced apart along the extension direction of the frame 21. The design of these through holes 21a can optimize the structural performance of the frame 21 while reducing the overall weight and material cost. In the event of a collision, the location of the through holes 21a can better indent or break, and perform crumple energy absorption. The thigh of an adult or the head of a child will receive less impact force during a collision, thus effectively protecting pedestrians. The location and number of through holes can be evaluated according to specific needs to balance the strength and stability of the structure.
[0044] Preferred, such as Figure 3 As shown, the surfaces of the frame 21 and the support body 221 have multiple adhesive surfaces 211 for adhesive bonding with the upper front bumper skin 10. This adhesive surface 211 design improves the rigidity and stability of the front bumper, thereby increasing the overall structural strength and safety. This bonding method ensures a tight contact between the frame 21 and the support body 221 and the upper front bumper skin 211, preventing displacement and twisting during an accident that could cause injury to passengers and the vehicle.
[0045] In the embodiments of this application, such as Figure 3 As shown, the frame 21 has multiple wire harness clips 21b. The function of these wire harness clips 21b is to secure the wire harnesses of the vehicle's electrical system, preventing them from swinging during driving or being pinched by other parts and thus causing damage. In addition, the wire harness clips 21b can also keep the wire harnesses neat and orderly arranged, avoiding interference and malfunctions in the electronic system caused by poor cable layout.
[0046] The front and rear ends of the frame 21 have connecting clips 212 that connect to the upper front bumper skin 10. These connecting clips 212 can ensure that the connection between the upper front bumper skin 10 and the frame 21 is firm and reliable, and will not loosen or shift during driving or collision. At the same time, it reduces the installation difficulty and time cost during the assembly process. The connecting clips 212 can be made of different materials and structures, such as metal clips, plastic clips, etc., to adapt to different specific usage situations.
[0047] All of these design details are designed to improve the overall performance and safety of the vehicle and reduce the impact of accidents on the vehicle and passengers.
[0048] In summary, when no collision occurs, this embodiment can provide support for the upper part of the front bumper, improving its anti-dent performance. In the event of a collision with a pedestrian, the special structure of the upper support plate 20 of the front bumper, the upper and lower two-section collision buffer space between the upper skin 10 of the front bumper and the headlight 30 can effectively reduce the injury to the thighs of adult pedestrians and the heads of child pedestrians in the event of an accident.
[0049] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.
Claims
1. A pedestrian protection system for the upper part of a front bumper, characterized in that, The device includes an upper front bumper skin, an upper front bumper support plate, and headlights. The upper front bumper support plate is arranged along the width of the vehicle body and its two ends are respectively connected to the two headlights. The upper front bumper skin covers the upper front bumper support plate. A first collision buffer cavity is formed between the upper front bumper skin and the upper front bumper support plate, and a second collision buffer cavity is formed between the upper front bumper support plate and the headlights. The front bumper upper support plate includes a frame and end mounting components symmetrically arranged on both sides of the frame. The end mounting components are located above the headlights. The end mounting components include a support body located at the front and an irregularly shaped connector. The support body is connected to the front end of the headlights, and the irregularly shaped connector connects the frame and the support body and can collapse and absorb energy during a collision. The irregularly shaped connector, from the skeleton to the supporting body, includes a first transition section, a sunken section, a second transition section, and a connecting section connected in sequence; The connecting section bulges upward and smoothly transitions to the supporting body. The first collision buffer cavity is located between the upper skin of the front bumper and the connecting section, and the second collision buffer cavity is located between the connecting section and the headlight.
2. The pedestrian protection system for the upper part of the front bumper according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first transition section, the sunken section, and the second transition section form a downwardly concave bending structure, and the sunken section and the front end of the headlight are connected by fasteners.
3. The pedestrian protection system for the upper part of the front bumper according to claim 1, characterized in that, The front end of the support body has multiple snap-fit interfaces, and the front end of the headlight has a snap-fit that engages with the snap-fit interfaces.
4. The pedestrian protection system for the upper part of the front bumper according to claim 1, characterized in that, The frame is provided with a plurality of through holes, which are spaced apart along the extension direction of the frame.
5. The pedestrian protection system for the upper part of the front bumper according to claim 1, characterized in that, The surfaces of the frame and the supporting body have multiple adhesive surfaces for adhesive bonding to the upper skin of the front bumper.
6. The pedestrian protection system for the upper part of the front bumper according to claim 1, characterized in that, The frame has multiple wire harness bayonets.
7. The pedestrian protection system for the upper part of the front bumper according to claim 1, characterized in that, The front and rear ends of the frame have connecting buckles that engage with the upper skin of the front bumper.
8. A car, characterized in that, Includes the pedestrian protection system on the upper front bumper as described in any one of claims 1-7.