Vehicle structure

Abstract

A vehicle structure (100; 300) includes a portion (102) having first and second members (108, 112) forming an enclosed space (120). The portion (102) includes first and second reinforcing members (122, 126) located within the enclosed space (120) and attached to each other. The first and second legs (130, 136) of the first reinforcing member (122) are corrugated and include corrugations (150, 152), where the corrugations include ridges (150) and grooves (152). Each of the first and second legs (130, 136) of the first reinforcement member (122) (130, 136) has an outer surface (154). At the outer surface (154), each of one or more of the ridges (150) of the first leg (130) of the first reinforcement member (122) has a recess (158) at the first location (160). The first leg (130) of the first reinforcing member (122) has one or more slopes (162) in one or more directions (164) transverse to the longitudinal direction (106) to form a recess (158) at the first location (160).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] An aspect of the invention relates to a vehicle structure, the vehicle structure comprising a portion having a longitudinal extension extending along a longitudinal direction. The portion comprises a first member having a longitudinal extension extending in the longitudinal direction and a second member having a longitudinal extension extending in the longitudinal direction. The first member and the second member are attached to each other so that the first member and the second member form a closed space. Background Art

[0002] In the design of a frame portion of a motor vehicle, a compromise needs to be made between weight and strength. For example, an advantageous way to obtain a good compromise is to produce the frame portion from one or more metal sheets or metal alloy sheets formed into the desired shape (e.g. a hat-shaped profile).

[0003] Generally speaking, the frame parts of a motor vehicle should be formed with a certain rigidity because they may be subjected to various impacts from the outside. At the same time, some frame parts should be allowed to deform to absorb the impact when overloaded, such as due to collision with an external object (e.g., another vehicle) or a stationary object (e.g., a tree, etc.). An example of a vehicle frame part that should be allowed to deform to maintain rigidity while absorbing impact is a vehicle side sill beam structure or a bumper or bumper beam. Summary of the invention

[0004] The inventors of the present invention have found that some conventional vehicle frames have defects, such as those described above. For example, some conventional solutions provide sufficient rigidity but cannot provide sufficient deformation to absorb impact.

[0005] The object of the present invention is to provide a solution to alleviate or resolve the disadvantages and problems of conventional solutions.

[0006] These and other objects are solved by the subject-matter of the independent claims. Further advantageous embodiments of the invention can be found in the dependent claims.

[0007] According to a first aspect of the present invention, the above objects and other objects are achieved by a vehicle structure, the vehicle structure comprising a portion having a longitudinal extension extending along a longitudinal direction, wherein the portion comprises:

[0008] a first member having a longitudinally extending portion extending along the longitudinal direction, and

[0009] a second member having a longitudinally extending portion extending along the longitudinal direction,

[0010] wherein the first member is configured to face the interior of the vehicle,

[0011] wherein the second member is configured to face the outside of the vehicle,

[0012] The first member and the second member are attached to each other so that the first member and the second member form a closed space.

[0013] wherein the portion comprises a first reinforcing member located in the closed space, the first reinforcing member having a longitudinal extension extending along the longitudinal direction,

[0014] wherein the portion comprises a second reinforcing member located in the closed space, the second reinforcing member having a longitudinal extension extending along the longitudinal direction,

[0015] wherein the first reinforcing member is attached to the second reinforcing member,

[0016] wherein the first reinforcing member has a first leg having a transverse extension extending in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction,

[0017] wherein the first reinforcing member has a second leg having a transverse extension extending in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction,

[0018] wherein each of the first leg and the second leg of the first reinforcing member has a foot having a longitudinal extension extending along the longitudinal direction,

[0019] wherein the first leg and the second leg of the first reinforcing member are spaced apart from each other,

[0020] wherein the first leg and the second leg of the first reinforcement member are connected in the first head section,

[0021] wherein the first head section faces one of the first member and the second member, and the feet of both the first leg and the second leg of the first reinforcing member face the other of the first member and the second member,

[0022] wherein each of the first leg and the second leg of the first reinforcement member is corrugated and includes a corrugated portion, wherein the corrugated portion of each of the first leg and the second leg of the first reinforcement member includes ridges and grooves,

[0023] wherein each of the ridge and the groove of the first reinforcing member extends from the first head section to one of the feet of the first leg and the second leg of the first reinforcing member,

[0024] wherein each of the first leg and the second leg of the first reinforcement member has an outer surface,

[0025] wherein each of the first leg and the second leg of the first reinforcement member has an inner surface facing the inner surface of the other of the first leg and the second leg of the first reinforcement member,

[0026] wherein, at the outer surface, each of one or more of the ridges of the first leg of the first reinforcing member has a recess at a first position, and

[0027] The first leg of the first reinforcing member has one or more inclined portions in one or more directions transverse to the longitudinal direction so as to form a recess at the first position.

[0028] The advantage of the vehicle structure according to the first aspect of the present invention is that a favorable deformation of the vehicle structure is provided to absorb impact, while maintaining or improving the rigidity and reinforcement of the vehicle structure in order to prevent penetration during a collision (e.g., a lateral or side collision). The advantage of the vehicle structure according to the first aspect of the present invention is that the kinematics and load distribution of the vehicle structure can be effectively controlled in the event of a collision, that is, the way in which the vehicle structure deforms and / or collapses during a collision can be effectively controlled. The advantage of the vehicle structure according to the first aspect of the present invention is that the energy absorption capacity of the vehicle structure during a collision is improved, for example, the vehicle structure provides a high energy absorption capacity during a collision while still having sufficient rigidity and reinforcement to prevent external objects from penetrating into the vehicle during a collision.

[0029] An advantage of the vehicle structure according to the first aspect of the invention is that the weight and cost of the vehicle structure may be reduced whilst still maintaining or even increasing the rigidity and reinforcement of the vehicle structure. An advantage of the vehicle structure according to the first aspect of the invention is that the performance of the vehicle structure in a collision is improved, for example because the vehicle structure may deform in a more controlled and predictable manner, thereby providing an improved vehicle structure.

[0030] The vehicle structure may be a vehicle structure for a motor vehicle having an internal combustion engine, an electric vehicle having one or more batteries, or a hybrid vehicle. For example, the vehicle may be a car or a truck. The vehicle structure may be configured to protect the battery of the electric vehicle or hybrid vehicle in the event of a collision. The vehicle structure may be located on one or more sides of the battery within the vehicle. The vehicle structure is effective to protect the battery, the driver, and / or one or more passengers of the vehicle in the event of a collision.

[0031] The vehicle structure has effective protection against pole collisions or impacts. The vehicle structure effectively prevents poles from intruding into the vehicle during pole collisions. Therefore, the vehicle structure provides effective anti-intrusion performance, that is, the vehicle structure effectively prevents external objects from intruding into the vehicle during a collision. This is an important aspect of battery protection.

[0032] The above-mentioned "enclosed space" also includes a space that is substantially or approximately enclosed. For example, there may be one or more small openings in the wall forming the enclosed space and / or at the end of a portion of the vehicle structure.

[0033] According to an advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, the recesses of the first leg of the first reinforcement member at the first position are aligned with each other in the longitudinal direction. The advantage of this embodiment is that while maintaining or improving the rigidity and reinforcement of the vehicle structure, the deformation of the vehicle structure to absorb impact is further improved. The advantage of this embodiment is that the performance of the vehicle structure in the event of a collision is further improved. The advantage of this embodiment is that a further improved vehicle structure is provided.

[0034] According to another advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, at the outer surface, each of the one or more of the ridges of the second leg of the first reinforcing member has a recess at the second position. The advantage of this embodiment is that while maintaining or improving the rigidity and reinforcement of the vehicle structure, the deformation of the vehicle structure to absorb impact is further improved. The advantage of this embodiment is that the performance of the vehicle structure in the event of a collision is further improved. The advantage of this embodiment is that a further improved vehicle structure is provided.

[0035] According to another advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, the recesses of the second leg of the first reinforcement member at the second position are aligned with each other in the longitudinal direction. The advantage of this embodiment is that while maintaining or improving the rigidity and reinforcement of the vehicle structure, the deformation of the vehicle structure to absorb impact is further improved. The advantage of this embodiment is that the performance of the vehicle structure in the event of a collision is further improved. The advantage of this embodiment is that a further improved vehicle structure is provided.

[0036] According to another advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, the first reinforcement member defines an inner space between the first leg and the second leg of the first reinforcement member, wherein the second position is opposite to one of the plurality of first positions and has the inner space between the one first position and the second position. This embodiment has the advantage that the performance of the vehicle structure in a collision is further improved. This embodiment has the advantage that a further improved vehicle structure is provided.

[0037] According to an advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, the second leg of the first reinforcing member has one or more inclined portions in one or more directions transverse to the longitudinal direction so as to form a recess at the second position. The advantage of this embodiment is that the performance of the vehicle structure in a collision is further improved. The advantage of this embodiment is that a further improved vehicle structure is provided.

[0038] According to an advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, the first head section faces the second member, while the feet of both the first leg and the second leg of the first reinforcing member face the first member. The advantage of this embodiment is that the performance of the vehicle structure in a collision is further improved. The advantage of this embodiment is that a further improved vehicle structure is provided.

[0039] According to another advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, one or more of the foot and the portion of the first leg and the second leg of the first reinforcing member are attached to the second reinforcing member. This embodiment has the advantage that the performance of the vehicle structure in a collision is further improved. This embodiment has the advantage that a further improved vehicle structure is provided.

[0040] According to another advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, the first head section comprises a reinforcement structure having a longitudinal extension extending in the longitudinal direction in order to reinforce the first head section. This embodiment has the advantage that the rigidity and reinforcement of the vehicle structure are further improved while maintaining or improving the deformation of the vehicle structure to absorb the impact. This embodiment has the advantage that the deformation can be designed and predicted in an improved manner while maintaining or improving the rigidity and reinforcement of the vehicle structure. This embodiment has the advantage that the performance of the vehicle structure in the event of a collision is further improved. This embodiment has the advantage that a further improved vehicle structure is provided.

[0041] According to another advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, the reinforcement structure comprises one or more patches having a longitudinal extension extending in the longitudinal direction. This embodiment has the advantage that the rigidity and reinforcement of the vehicle structure are further improved while maintaining or improving the deformation of the vehicle structure to absorb the impact. This embodiment has the advantage that the deformation can be designed and predicted in an improved manner while maintaining or improving the rigidity and reinforcement of the vehicle structure. This embodiment has the advantage that the performance of the vehicle structure in the event of a collision is further improved. This embodiment has the advantage that a further improved vehicle structure is provided.

[0042] According to another advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, the first head section has an outer surface,

[0043] wherein the first head section has an inner surface facing the inner surfaces of the first leg and the second leg of the first reinforcement member, and

[0044] Wherein, the patch is attached to the inner surface of the first head section.

[0045] An advantage of this embodiment is that a further improved vehicle structure is provided.

[0046] According to an advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, the patch is made of a first material, wherein the first leg and the second leg of the first reinforcement member and the first head section are made of a second material different from the first material. This embodiment has the advantage that a further improved deformation of the vehicle structure to absorb an impact is provided, for example because the deformation can be designed and predicted in an improved manner while maintaining or increasing the rigidity and reinforcement of the vehicle structure. This embodiment has the advantage that the performance of the vehicle structure in the event of a collision is further improved. This embodiment has the advantage that a further improved vehicle structure is provided.

[0047] According to another advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, the mechanical strength of the first material is higher than the mechanical strength of the second material. This embodiment has the advantage that the performance of the vehicle structure in a collision is further improved. This embodiment has the advantage that a further improved vehicle structure is provided.

[0048] According to another advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, the first leg and the second leg of the first reinforcing member overlap each other in the first head section so as to form a reinforcing structure. This embodiment has the advantage that the rigidity and reinforcement of the vehicle structure are further improved while maintaining or improving the deformation of the vehicle structure to absorb impact. This embodiment has the advantage that the deformation can be designed and predicted in an improved manner while maintaining or improving the rigidity and reinforcement of the vehicle structure. This embodiment has the advantage that the performance of the vehicle structure in the event of a collision is further improved. This embodiment has the advantage that a further improved vehicle structure is provided.

[0049] According to another advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, the first head section is corrugated,

[0050] wherein the first leg and the second leg and the first head section of the first reinforcement member comprise a corrugated portion of the first reinforcement member, the corrugated portion comprising ridges and grooves of the first reinforcement member, and

[0051] Each of the ridges of the first reinforcing member extends from a foot of a first leg of the first reinforcing member through the first head section to a foot of a second leg of the first reinforcing member.

[0052] The advantage of this embodiment is that the rigidity and reinforcement of the vehicle structure are further improved while maintaining or improving the deformation of the vehicle structure to absorb impact. The advantage of this embodiment is that the performance of the vehicle structure during a collision is further improved. The advantage of this embodiment is that a further improved vehicle structure is provided.

[0053] According to another advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, each of the grooves of the first reinforcement member extends from the foot of the first leg of the first reinforcement member through the first head section to the foot of the second leg of the first reinforcement member. This embodiment has the advantage that the performance of the vehicle structure in a collision is further improved. This embodiment has the advantage that a further improved vehicle structure is provided.

[0054] According to an advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, the foot of the first leg of the first reinforcing member is wavy so as to form an opening between the second reinforcing member and the first leg of the first reinforcing member, and,

[0055] The openings between the second reinforcing member and the first leg of the first reinforcing member are arranged one after another along the longitudinal direction.

[0056] The advantage of this embodiment is that any liquid medium applied to the surface of the first and second reinforcing members and / or the first and second members for coating can be drained away in an efficient manner, such as the liquid medium used in the KTL (Kathodische Tauchlackierung) process. The advantage of this embodiment is that the production process of the vehicle structure can be facilitated and improved. The advantage of this embodiment is that a further improved vehicle structure is provided.

[0057] According to another advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, the foot of the second leg of the first reinforcing member is wavy so as to form an opening between the second reinforcing member and the second leg of the first reinforcing member, and

[0058] The openings between the second reinforcing member and the second leg of the first reinforcing member are arranged one after another in the longitudinal direction.

[0059] An advantage of this embodiment is that any liquid medium applied to the surfaces of the first and second reinforcing members and / or the first and second members for coating can be drained off in a more efficient manner, such as the liquid medium used in the KTL process. An advantage of this embodiment is that the production process of the vehicle structure is further facilitated and improved. An advantage of this embodiment is that a further improved vehicle structure is provided.

[0060] According to another advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, one or more of the first reinforcement member and the second reinforcement member comprises one or more attachment tongues for attachment to one or more of the first member and the second member. This embodiment has the advantage that the production process of the vehicle structure is further facilitated and improved. This embodiment has the advantage that a further improved vehicle structure is provided.

[0061] According to another advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, the second reinforcing member has a first leg with a transverse extension extending transversely to the longitudinal direction,

[0062] wherein the second reinforcing member has a second leg having a transverse extension extending in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction,

[0063] wherein each of the first leg and the second leg of the second reinforcing member has a foot having a longitudinal extension extending along the longitudinal direction,

[0064] wherein the first leg and the second leg of the second reinforcing member are spaced apart from each other,

[0065] wherein the first leg and the second leg of the second reinforcement member are connected in the second head section, and

[0066] The second head section faces one of the first component and the second component, and the feet of the first leg and the second leg of the second reinforcing component face the other of the first component and the second component.

[0067] The advantage of this embodiment is that the performance of the vehicle structure during a collision is further improved. The advantage of this embodiment is that a further improved vehicle structure is provided. The advantage of this embodiment is that a pole or external object is effectively prevented from intruding into the vehicle during a collision.

[0068] According to another advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, each of the first leg and the second leg of the second reinforcing member is corrugated and includes a corrugated portion, wherein the corrugated portion of each of the first leg and the second leg of the second reinforcing member includes a ridge and a groove, and wherein each of the ridge and the groove of the second reinforcing member extends from the second head section to one of the legs of the first leg and the second leg of the second reinforcing member. The advantage of this embodiment is that it can more effectively prevent poles or external objects from intruding into the vehicle during a collision. The advantage of this embodiment is that the performance of the vehicle structure during a collision is further improved. The advantage of this embodiment is that a further improved vehicle structure is provided.

[0069] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, the second head section faces one of the first member and the second member, while the first head section faces the other of the first member and the second member. The advantage of this embodiment is that the performance of the vehicle structure in a collision is further improved. The advantage of this embodiment is that a further improved vehicle structure is provided.

[0070] According to an advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, the second head section faces the first member, while the feet of the first leg and the second leg of the second reinforcing member face the second member. The advantage of this embodiment is that the performance of the vehicle structure in a collision is further improved. The advantage of this embodiment is that a further improved vehicle structure is provided.

[0071] According to another advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, one or more of the foot and part of the first leg of the first reinforcing member is attached to the first leg of the second reinforcing member, wherein one or more of the foot and part of the second leg of the first reinforcing member is attached to the second leg of the second reinforcing member. This embodiment has the advantage that the rigidity and reinforcement of the vehicle structure are further improved while maintaining or improving the deformation of the vehicle structure to absorb impact. This embodiment has the advantage that the performance of the vehicle structure in the event of a collision is further improved. This embodiment has the advantage that a further improved vehicle structure is provided.

[0072] According to another advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, the first leg of the second reinforcement member forms a first recess,

[0073] wherein the second leg of the second reinforcing member forms a second recessed portion,

[0074] wherein the first recess receives one or more of a foot and a portion of the first leg of the first reinforcement member, and

[0075] The second recessed portion receives one or more of a foot and a portion of the second leg of the first reinforcement member.

[0076] An advantage of this embodiment is that the performance of the vehicle structure during a collision is further improved. An advantage of this embodiment is that a further improved vehicle structure is provided.

[0077] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, the first leg of the second reinforcing member has one or more inclined portions in one or more directions transverse to the longitudinal direction so as to form a first recessed portion,

[0078] The second leg of the second reinforcing member has one or more inclined portions in one or more directions transverse to the longitudinal direction so as to form a second recessed portion.

[0079] An advantage of this embodiment is that the performance of the vehicle structure during a collision is further improved. An advantage of this embodiment is that a further improved vehicle structure is provided.

[0080] According to another advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, the first recess is formed by a concave surface of the first leg of the second reinforcement member,

[0081] The second recessed portion is formed by the concave surface of the second leg of the second reinforcing member.

[0082] wherein one or more of a foot and a portion of the first leg of the first reinforcement member is attached to a concave surface of the first leg of the second reinforcement member, and

[0083] Wherein one or more of the foot and the portion of the second leg of the first reinforcement member is attached to the concave surface of the second leg of the second reinforcement member.

[0084] An advantage of this embodiment is that the performance of the vehicle structure in a collision is further improved. An advantage of this embodiment is that a further improved vehicle structure is provided. An advantage of this embodiment is that the attachment of the first reinforcement member to the second reinforcement member is improved and strengthened, thereby increasing the rigidity and reinforcement of the vehicle structure to prevent penetration in a collision, while providing favorable deformation of the vehicle structure to absorb the impact in a collision. An advantage of this embodiment is that the spot welds or welds used to attach the first reinforcement member to the second reinforcement member can be prevented from breaking in the event of a collision.

[0085] According to another advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, the first reinforcement member defines an internal space between its first leg and the second leg, wherein the second head section and the foot of the second reinforcement member are located outside the internal space defined by the first reinforcement member. The advantage of this embodiment is that the rigidity and reinforcement of the vehicle structure are further improved while maintaining or improving the deformation of the vehicle structure to absorb impact. The advantage of this embodiment is that the performance of the vehicle structure in the event of a collision is further improved. The advantage of this embodiment is that a further improved vehicle structure is provided.

[0086] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, the first reinforcement member defines an internal space between its first leg and the second leg, wherein the entire second reinforcement member is located outside the internal space defined by the first reinforcement member. The advantage of this embodiment is that the rigidity and strength of the vehicle structure are further improved while maintaining or improving the deformation of the vehicle structure to absorb impact. The advantage of this embodiment is that the performance of the vehicle structure in the event of a collision is further improved. The advantage of this embodiment is that a further improved vehicle structure is provided.

[0087] According to another advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, the ridge and the groove of each of the first leg and the second leg of the first reinforcing member form a smooth waveform extending along the longitudinal extension of the first reinforcing member in the longitudinal direction. The advantage of this embodiment is that the performance of the vehicle structure in the event of a collision is further improved. The advantage of this embodiment is that a further improved vehicle structure is provided.

[0088] According to an advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, the ridge and the groove of the first leg of the first reinforcing member form the first leg of the first reinforcing member, wherein the ridge and the groove of the second leg of the first reinforcing member form the second leg of the first reinforcing member. The advantage of this embodiment is that the performance of the vehicle structure in a collision is further improved. The advantage of this embodiment is that a further improved vehicle structure is provided.

[0089] According to another advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, one or more of the first reinforcement member and the second reinforcement member is formed from one or more plates, formed from one or more plates by hot press forming, formed from one or more plates by cold forming / machining, hydroforming or extrusion. This is an efficient method for producing the first reinforcement member or the second reinforcement member.

[0090] According to another advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, one or more of the first reinforcement member and the second reinforcement member is made of a material comprising or consisting of a metal or a metal alloy. This is an efficient way to produce a strong first reinforcement member or second reinforcement member.

[0091] According to an advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, one or more of the first and second components are formed from a plate, formed from one or more plates by hot press forming, or formed from one or more plates by cold forming / machining. This is an efficient method for producing the first and second components.

[0092] According to another advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, one or more of the first and second components are made of a material comprising or consisting of a metal or a metal alloy. This is an efficient way to produce strong first and second components.

[0093] According to another advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, one or more of the first component and the second component comprises one of the following group:

[0094] • Hat-shaped profile; and

[0095] • U-shaped profile.

[0096] This is an efficient method of producing the first and second members and providing a closed space.

[0097] According to another advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, the vehicle structure is a vehicle side structure, wherein the portion is a side portion. The vehicle structure is suitable for application as a vehicle side structure of a vehicle, thereby improving the performance of the vehicle side structure in a lateral or side impact. Thus, an improved vehicle side structure is provided. However, in alternative embodiments, the vehicle structure may be applied and mounted elsewhere in the vehicle, for example, at the front of the vehicle and may be part of a bumper, at the rear of the vehicle or elsewhere within the vehicle.

[0098] According to another advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, the portion is a side sill portion, wherein the longitudinal extension of the side sill portion is configured to extend along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle body and is configured to be arranged at the side of the vehicle body. The advantage of this embodiment is that a favorable deformation of the vehicle structure with a side sill portion for absorbing impact is provided while maintaining or improving the rigidity and reinforcement of the vehicle structure. The innovative first reinforcement member is particularly advantageous for the side sill portion of the vehicle structure, which needs to absorb impact in the event of certain collisions. However, in alternative embodiments, in addition to the side sill portion, the portion or side portion can also be a side beam portion, a bumper portion or a beam portion configured to be located elsewhere in the vehicle.

[0099] According to another advantageous embodiment of the vehicle structure of the first aspect, the side sill beam portion is configured to be attached to one or more cross beams of the vehicle body. Thereby, the rigidity of the vehicle structure can be further increased.

[0100] The above-described features and embodiments of vehicle structures may be combined in various possible ways to provide further advantageous embodiments.

[0101] Further advantageous embodiments of the vehicle structure according to the first aspect as well as further advantages of embodiments of the invention emerge from the dependent claims and the detailed description of embodiments. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0102] For illustrative purposes, the present invention will now be described in more detail by way of examples and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals are used for like elements, and in which:

[0103] Figure 1 is a schematic top perspective view of a first reinforcement member and a second reinforcement member of a first embodiment of a vehicle structure according to a first aspect of the present invention;

[0104] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic bottom perspective view of a first reinforcement member and a second reinforcement member;

[0105] Figure 3 yes Figure 1Another schematic bottom perspective view of the first reinforcement member and the second reinforcement member;

[0106] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A schematic side view of a first reinforcement member and a second reinforcement member;

[0107] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A schematic top view of a first reinforcing member and a second reinforcing member;

[0108] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A schematic bottom view of a first reinforcing member and a second reinforcing member;

[0109] Figure 7 is a schematic exploded perspective view of a first embodiment of a vehicle structure according to a first aspect of the present invention;

[0110] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the assembled vehicle structure;

[0111] Fig. 9 is along with Figure 8 Different plane cuts Figure 7 A cross section of an assembled vehicle structure;

[0112] Fig.10 Schematically shows Figure 5 A portion of the first reinforcing member and the second reinforcing member and along Fig.10 The cross section of GG in;

[0113] Fig.11 yes Figure 7 The assembled vehicle structure is along Fig.10 Section of middle AA;

[0114] Fig.12 is a schematic top perspective view of a first reinforcement member and a second reinforcement member of a second embodiment of the vehicle structure according to the first aspect of the present invention;

[0115] Fig.13 yes Fig.12 A schematic bottom perspective view of a first reinforcement member and a second reinforcement member;

[0116] Fig.14 yes Fig.12 A schematic top perspective view of a first reinforcement member and a second reinforcement member;

[0117] Fig.15 yes Fig.12 A schematic side view of a first reinforcement member and a second reinforcement member;

[0118] Fig.16 yes Fig.12 A schematic top view of a first reinforcing member and a second reinforcing member;

[0119] Fig.17 yes Fig.12 A schematic bottom view of a first reinforcing member and a second reinforcing member;

[0120] Fig.18 is a schematic exploded perspective view of a second embodiment of the vehicle structure according to the first aspect of the present invention;

[0121] Fig.19 yes Fig.18 A cross-sectional view of the assembled vehicle structure;

[0122] Fig. 20 is along with Fig.19 Different plane cuts Fig.18 A cross section of an assembled vehicle structure;

[0123] Fig.21 Schematically shows Fig.16 A portion of the first reinforcing member and the second reinforcing member and along Fig.21 The cross section of DD in;

[0124] Fig. 22 yes Figure 7 The assembled vehicle structure follows Fig.21 Cross section of the middle BB;

[0125] Fig.23 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of the vehicle structure according to the first aspect of the present invention; and

[0126] Fig.24 yes Fig.23 An enlarged view of a first reinforcement member and a second reinforcement member of a vehicle structure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0127] refer to Figures 1 to 11 , schematically illustrates a first embodiment of a vehicle structure 100 according to the first aspect of the invention and aspects of an embodiment of the vehicle structure according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0128] refer to Figures 7 to 9, the vehicle structure 100 includes a portion 102 having a longitudinal extension 104 extending along a longitudinal direction 106. The portion 102 includes a first member 108 having a longitudinal extension 110 extending along the longitudinal direction 106. The portion 102 includes a second member 112 having a longitudinal extension 114 extending along the longitudinal direction 106. The first member 108 is configured to face an interior 116 of the vehicle. The second member 112 is configured to face an exterior 118 of the vehicle. The first member 108 and the second member 112 are attached to each other such that the first member 108 and the second member 112 form an enclosed space 120. Therefore, when the vehicle structure 100 is installed, the first member 108 can face the interior 116 of the vehicle, while the second member 112 can face the exterior 118 of the same vehicle.

[0129] The "enclosed space" 120 in the present disclosure also includes a substantially or approximately enclosed space. For example, there may be one or more small openings in the walls forming the enclosed space 120 and / or at the ends of the portion 102 of the vehicle structure 100, but the space 120 is still considered to be enclosed. For example, the first member 108 and the second member 112 may be attached to each other by welding (e.g., laser welding, spot welding, or continuous welding), mechanical locking structures (e.g., rivets), adhesives, or any other suitable fastening means.

[0130] refer to Figures 1 to 9 , the portion 102 includes a first reinforcing member 122 located within the enclosed space 102. The first reinforcing member 122 has a longitudinal extension 124 extending along the longitudinal direction 106 (see Figure 4 ). The portion 102 includes a second reinforcing member 126 located within the enclosed space 120. The second reinforcing member 126 has a longitudinal extension 128 extending along the longitudinal direction 106 (see Figure 6 ). The first reinforcement member 122 is attached to the second reinforcement member 126. For example, the first reinforcement member 122 can be attached to the second reinforcement member 126 by welding (e.g., laser welding, spot welding, or continuous welding), a mechanical locking structure (e.g., rivets), an adhesive, or any other suitable fastening means. One or more of the first reinforcement member 122 and the second reinforcement member 126 can be attached to one or more of the first member 108 and the second member 112, such as by welding (e.g., laser welding or spot welding), a mechanical locking structure (e.g., rivets), an adhesive, or any other suitable fastening means.

[0131] refer to Figure 8 and Fig. 9The first reinforcing member 122 has a first leg 130 with a transverse extension 132 extending in a direction 134 transverse to the longitudinal direction 106. The first reinforcing member 122 has a second leg 136 with a transverse extension 138 extending in a direction 135 transverse to the longitudinal direction 106.

[0132] refer to Figures 1 to 9 Each of the first leg 130 and the second leg 136 of the first reinforcing member 122 has a foot 140, 142 having a longitudinal extension 144, 146 extending along the longitudinal direction 106 (see Figure 1 and Figure 2 ). The feet 140, 142 of the first leg 130 and the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 are spaced apart from each other. The first leg 130 and the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 are connected in a first head section 148. The first head section 148 faces one 108, 112 of the first member 108 and the second member 112, while the feet 140, 142 of the first leg 130 and the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 face the other 108, 112 of the first member 108 and the second member 112. It should be understood that the feet 140, 142 are located at the ends of the legs 130, 136.

[0133] refer to Figures 1 to 9 , each 130, 136 of the first leg 130 and the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 is corrugated and includes a corrugation 150, 152. The corrugation 150, 152 of each 130, 136 of the first leg 130 and the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 includes a ridge 150 and a groove 152. Each 150, 152 of the ridge 150 and the groove 152 of the first reinforcement member 122 extends from the first head section 148 to one 140, 142 of the feet 140, 142 of the first leg 130 and the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122.

[0134] refer to Figures 1 to 9 , each 130, 136 of the first leg 130 and the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 has an outer surface 154. Each of the first leg 130, 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 has an inner surface 156 facing the inner surface 156 of the other leg 130, 136 of the first reinforcement member 122.

[0135] refer to Figures 1 to 9, at the outer surface 154, each of one or more of the ridges 150 of the first leg 130 of the first reinforcement member 122 has a recess 158 at a first location 160. For some embodiments, the recess 158 may include a depression or an indentation. For some embodiments, one or more of the first reinforcement member 122, the first leg 130, and the second leg 136 may include another group of one or more ridges without any recesses. For some embodiments, the recess 158 may be located midway between the foot 140 and the first head section 148.

[0136] refer to Figures 1 to 9 For some embodiments, the recesses 158 of the first legs 130 of the first reinforcement members 122 at the first locations 160 are aligned with each other along the longitudinal direction 106. Thus, when viewed along the longitudinal direction 106, the recesses 158 of the first legs 130 of the first reinforcement members 122 at the first locations 160 may be positioned along a substantially straight imaginary line extending in the longitudinal direction 106. However, for other embodiments, the recesses 158 of the first legs 130 of the first reinforcement members 122 at the first locations 160 may not be aligned with each other along the longitudinal direction 106, for example, being located at different distances from the first head section 148.

[0137] refer to Figure 8 and Fig. 9 For some embodiments, the first leg 130 of the first reinforcement member 122 may have one or more inclined portions 162 in one or more directions 164 transverse to the longitudinal direction 106 (see Fig. 9 ) so as to form a recess 158 at the first position 160.

[0138] refer to Figures 1 to 9 For some embodiments, at the outer surface 154, each of one or more of the ridges 150 of the first leg 130 of the first reinforcement member 122 may have one or more additional recesses at one or more additional locations. For some embodiments, at the outer surface 154, each of one or more of the ridges 150 of the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 may have a recess at a second location, which will be described below in conjunction with Figures 12 to 22 The second embodiment disclosed in the specification is disclosed in more detail.

[0139] refer to Figures 1 to 9, for some embodiments, the first head section 148 can face the second member 112, while the feet 140, 142 of the first leg 130 and the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 face the first member 108. However, for other embodiments, it can be the other way around. For some embodiments, one or more of the feet 140, 142 and portions of the first leg 130 and the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 can be attached to the second reinforcement member 126. Therefore, for some embodiments, the feet 140, 142 of the first leg 130 and the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 can be attached to the second reinforcement member 126. For some embodiments, portions of the first leg 130 and the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 can be attached to the second reinforcement member 126. For some embodiments, the feet 140, 142 and portions of the first leg 130 and the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 can all be attached to the second reinforcement member 126.

[0140] refer to Figure 1 , Figure 8 and Fig. 9 For some embodiments, the first head section 148 may include a reinforcement structure 166 having a longitudinal extension 168 extending along the longitudinal direction 106 (see Figure 1 and Figure 4 ), in order to reinforce the first head section 148. For some embodiments, the reinforcement structure 166 may include one or more patches 170 having a longitudinal extension 168 extending along the longitudinal direction 106. Figure 8 and Fig. 9 For some embodiments, it can be defined that the first head section 148 has an outer surface 172, and the first head section 148 has an inner surface 174 facing the inner surface 156 of the first leg 130 and the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122. For some embodiments, one or more patches 170 can be attached to the inner surface 174 of the first head section 148. However, for other embodiments, the patches 170 can be attached to the outer surface 172 of the first head section 148. For some embodiments, the one or more patches 170 can be attached to the first head section 148 by stamping or press molding together.

[0141] refer to Figure 8 and Fig. 9For some embodiments, one or more patches 170 may be made of a first material, while the first leg 130 and the second leg 136 of the first reinforcing member 122 and the first head section 148 are made of a second material different from the first material. For example, the mechanical strength of the first material may be higher than the mechanical strength of the second material. For example, the first material may be thicker than the second material. For example, the mechanical strength of the first material may be higher than 1500 MPa. For example, the mechanical strength of the first material may be about 1500 MPa, or about 2000 MPa. For example, the mechanical strength of the second material may be lower than 1000 MPa. One or more of the first material and the second material may be a ductile material. For example, one or more of the first material and the second material may include Ductibor 1000 or Ductibor 500. However, other materials are also feasible.

[0142] refer to Figures 1 to 9 For some embodiments, the first head section 148 may be corrugated, wherein the first leg 130 and the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 and the first head section 148 may include corrugations 150, 152 of the first reinforcement member 122, the corrugations including ridges 150 and grooves 152 of the first reinforcement member 122, wherein each of the ridges 150 of the first reinforcement member 122 extends from the foot 140 of the first leg 130 of the first reinforcement member 122 to the foot 142 of the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 through the first head section 148. For some embodiments, each of the grooves 152 of the first reinforcement member 122 may extend from the foot 140 of the first leg 130 of the first reinforcement member 122 to the foot 142 of the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 through the first head section 148.

[0143] refer to Figures 1 to 9 For some embodiments, one or more of the first reinforcement member 122 and the second reinforcement member 126 may include one or more attachment tabs 176 for attachment to one or more of the first member 108 and the second member 112. Figures 1 to 19 In the illustrated embodiment, the second reinforcement member 126 has an attachment tab 176 attached thereto or formed therewith. However, for other embodiments, the first reinforcement member 122 may be provided with one or more attachment tabs 176. The attachment tab 176 may be integrally formed with one of the first reinforcement member 122 and the second reinforcement member 126, or the attachment tab 176 may be attached to one or more of the first reinforcement member 122 and the second reinforcement member 126 by welding (e.g., laser welding, spot welding), mechanical locking structures (e.g., rivets), adhesives, or any other suitable fastening means.

[0144] refer to Figure 8 and Fig. 9 For some embodiments, the second reinforcement member 126 can have a first leg 178 having a transverse extension 180 extending along a direction 182 transverse to the longitudinal direction 106, and the second reinforcement member 126 can have a second leg 184 having a transverse extension 186 extending along a direction 188 transverse to the longitudinal direction 106. Each of the first leg 178 and the second leg 184 of the second reinforcement member 126 178, 184 has a foot 190, 192 having a longitudinal extension 194, 196 extending along the longitudinal direction 106 (see Figure 2 ). The legs 190, 192 of the first leg 178 and the second leg 184 of the second reinforcement member 126 are spaced apart from each other. The first leg 178 and the second leg 184 of the second reinforcement member 126 are connected in the second head section 198. The second head section 198 faces one 108, 112 of the first member 108 and the second member 112, while the legs 190, 192 of the first leg 178 and the second leg 184 of the second reinforcement member 126 face the other 108, 112 of the first member 108 and the second member 112.

[0145] refer to Figures 1 to 9 For some embodiments, each of the first leg 178 and the second leg 184 of the second reinforcement member 126 178 , 184 may be corrugated and may include corrugations 200 , 202 (see Figure 2 ). The corrugated portion 200, 202 of each 178, 184 of the first leg 178 and the second leg 184 of the second reinforcement member 126 includes a ridge 200 and a groove 202. Each 200, 202 of the ridge 200 and the groove 202 of the second reinforcement member 126 extends from the second head section 198 to one 190, 192 of the feet 190, 192 of the first leg 178 and the second leg 184 of the second reinforcement member 126. However, for some embodiments, the first leg 178 and the second leg 184 of the second reinforcement member 126 may be non-corrugated, i.e., without any corrugated portion.

[0146] refer to Figures 1 to 9For some embodiments, the second head section 198 can face one 108, 112 of the first member 108 and the second member 112, while the first head section 148 faces the other 108, 112 of the first member 108 and the second member 112. The second head section 198 can face the first member 108, while the feet 190, 192 of the first leg 178 and the second leg 184 of the second reinforcement member 126 face the second member 112. For some embodiments, one or more of the feet 140 and portions of the first leg 130 of the first reinforcement member 122 can be attached to the first leg 178 of the second reinforcement member 126, while one or more of the feet 142 and portions of the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 can be attached to the second leg 184 of the second reinforcement member 126. For some embodiments, the feet 140 of the first leg 130 of the first reinforcement member 122 can be attached to the first leg 178 of the second reinforcement member 126. For some embodiments, the foot 142 of the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 can be attached to the second leg 184 of the second reinforcement member 126. For some embodiments, the portion of the first leg 130 of the first reinforcement member 122 can be attached to the first leg 178 of the second reinforcement member 126. For some embodiments, the portion of the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 can be attached to the second leg 184 of the second reinforcement member 126. For some embodiments, both the foot 140 and the portion of the first leg 130 of the first reinforcement member 122 can be attached to the first leg 178 of the second reinforcement member 126. For some embodiments, both the foot 142 and the portion of the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 can be attached to the second leg 184 of the second reinforcement member 126.

[0147] refer to Figure 8 and Fig. 9 For some embodiments, the first reinforcement member 122 can be described as defining an interior space 204 between the first leg 130 and the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122. For some embodiments, the second head section 198 and the legs 190, 192 of the second reinforcement member 126 can be located outside the interior space 204 defined by the first reinforcement member 122. For some embodiments, the entire second reinforcement member 126 can be located outside the interior space 204 defined by the first reinforcement member 122.

[0148] refer to Figures 1 to 9For some embodiments, the ridges 150 and grooves 152 of each 130, 136 of the first leg 130 and the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 may be described as forming a smooth wave shape extending along the longitudinal extension 124 of the first reinforcement member 122 in the longitudinal direction 106. For some embodiments, the ridges 150 and grooves 152 of the first leg 130 of the first reinforcement member 122 may form the first leg 130 of the first reinforcement member 122, while the ridges 150 and grooves 152 of the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 may form the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122. However, for alternative embodiments, one or more of the first leg 130 and the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 may include one or more sections without any ridges 150 and grooves 152, such as one or more flat longitudinal sections or regions.

[0149] refer to Fig.10 and Fig.11 For some embodiments, the foot 140 of the first leg 130 of the first reinforcement member 122 can be wavy so as to form or define an opening 206 between the second reinforcement member 126 and the first leg 130 of the first reinforcement member 122. The opening 206 between the second reinforcement member 126 and the first leg 130 of the first reinforcement member 122 is positioned one after another in the longitudinal direction 106. For some embodiments, the foot 142 of the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 can be wavy so as to form an opening 208 between the second reinforcement member 126 and the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122. The opening 208 between the second reinforcement member 126 and the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 is positioned one after another in the longitudinal direction 106. The openings 206 , 208 have the advantage that any liquid medium applied to the surfaces of the first and second reinforcing members 122 , 126 and / or the first and second members 108 , 112 for coating, such as liquid media used in a KTL (Kathodische Tauchlackierung) process, can be discharged.

[0150] refer to Figures 12 to 22 , schematically illustrates a second embodiment of a vehicle structure 300 according to the first aspect of the invention and other aspects of the embodiment of the vehicle structure according to the first aspect of the invention. Several features of the second embodiment of the vehicle structure 300 may be Figures 1 to 11 The features of the first embodiment of the vehicle structure 100 correspond to those of the first embodiment, and therefore will not be described again here to avoid repetition. Figures 12 to 22 The vehicle structure 300 and Figures 1 to 11The vehicle structure 100 in FIG. 1 is different in that, at the outer surface 154, each of one or more of the ridges 150 of the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 has a recess 302 at a second location 304, such as Figures 12 to 22 For some embodiments, the recesses 302 of the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 at the second position 304 may be aligned with each other along the longitudinal direction 106. However, for other embodiments, the recesses 302 of the first leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 at the second position 304 may not be aligned with each other along the longitudinal direction 106. For some embodiments, at the outer surface 154, each of one or more of the ridges 150 of the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 may have one or more additional recesses at one or more additional positions.

[0151] refer to Fig.19 and Fig. 20 For some embodiments, the first reinforcement member 122 may define or form an interior space 204 between the first leg 130 and the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122, wherein the second position 304 may be opposite to one of the plurality of first positions 160 and have the interior space 204 between the second position and the first position. However, for other embodiments, the second position 304 may be located at other positions, i.e., not opposite to one of the plurality of first positions 160. For some embodiments, the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 may have one or more inclined portions 306 in one or more directions 308 transverse to the longitudinal direction 106, so as to form a recess 302 at the second position 304.

[0152] In addition, reference Fig.19 and Fig. 20 , Figures 12 to 22 The vehicle structure 300 and Figures 1 to 11 The vehicle structure 100 is different in that the first leg 130 and the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 overlap each other in the first head section 148 to form a reinforcement structure 166, such as Figures 12 to 22 Therefore, Figures 12 to 22 The reinforcement structure 166 of the vehicle structure 300 does not include any patches. However, for other embodiments, the reinforcement structure 166 may include both overlapping legs and one or more patches 170. In addition, Figures 12 to 22 Other features of the vehicle structure 300 may be related to Figures 1 to 11 Corresponding to the features of the vehicle structure 100 .

[0153] refer to Fig.23 and Fig.24, schematically illustrates a third embodiment of a vehicle structure 500 according to the first aspect of the invention and other aspects of an embodiment of a vehicle structure according to the first aspect of the invention. Several features of the third embodiment of the vehicle structure 500 may be similar to Figures 1 to 11 The features of the first embodiment of the vehicle structure 100 correspond to those of the first embodiment, and therefore will not be described again here to avoid repetition. Fig.23 and Fig.24 The vehicle structure 500 and Figures 1 to 11 The vehicle structure 100 of the embodiment of the present invention is different in that the first leg 178 of the second reinforcement member 126 forms or has a first recess 502 or a first recess, while the second leg 184 of the second reinforcement member 126 forms a second recess 504 or a second recess. The first recess 502 receives one or more of the foot 140 and the portion 522 of the first leg 130 of the first reinforcement member 122. The foot 140 and the portion 522 of the first leg 130 of the first reinforcement member 122 can be described as extending into the first recess 502. The second recess 504 receives one or more of the foot 142 and the portion 524 of the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122. The foot 142 and the portion 524 of the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 can be described as extending into the second recess 504. For some embodiments, the first recessed portion 502 may receive the foot 140 of the first leg 130 of the first reinforcement member 122. For some embodiments, the first recessed portion 502 may be defined to receive at least one portion 522 of the first leg 130 of the first reinforcement member 122. For some embodiments, the first recessed portion 502 may receive both the foot 140 and the portion 522 of the first leg 130 of the first reinforcement member 122. For some embodiments, the second recessed portion 504 may receive the foot 142 of the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122. For some embodiments, the second recessed portion 504 may be defined to receive at least one portion 524 of the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122. For some embodiments, the second recessed portion 504 may receive both the foot 142 and the portion 524 of the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122.

[0154] refer to Fig.23 and Fig.24 For some embodiments, the first leg 178 of the second reinforcement member 126 may be defined to form or include a first flange forming the first recess 502. For some embodiments, the second leg 184 of the second reinforcement member 126 may be defined to form or include a second flange forming the second recess 504. For some embodiments, one or more of the first recess 502 and the second recess 504 may be defined to have a longitudinal extension extending along the longitudinal direction 106.

[0155] refer to Fig.23 and Fig.24 For some embodiments, the first leg 178 of the second reinforcing member 126 may have one or more inclined portions 506 in one or more directions 508 transverse to the longitudinal direction 106 to form a first recess 502, and the second leg 184 of the second reinforcing member 126 may have one or more inclined portions 510, 512 in one or more directions 514, 516 transverse to the longitudinal direction 106 to form a second recess 504.

[0156] refer to Fig.23 and Fig.24 For some embodiments, a portion of the first leg 130 of the first reinforcement member 122 that is adjacent to (or abuts against) the foot 140 of the first leg 130 of the first reinforcement member 122 may be bent (or folded) to, for example, fit in the first recess 502 in a tight manner. For example, the portion of the first leg 130 of the first reinforcement member 122 may be bent by one or more inclined portions of the first leg 130, for example, to form a convex surface. For some embodiments, a portion of the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 that is adjacent to (or abuts against) the foot 142 of the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 may be bent (or folded) to, for example, fit in the second recess 504 in a tight manner. For example, the portion of the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 may be bent by one or more inclined portions of the second leg 136, for example, to form a convex surface.

[0157] refer to Fig.23 and Fig.24 For some embodiments, it can be defined that the first recessed portion 502 is formed by the concave surface 518 of the first leg 178 of the second reinforcement member 126 and the second recessed portion 504 is formed by the concave surface 520 of the second leg 184 of the second reinforcement member 126. One or more of the leg 140 and the portion 522 of the first leg 130 of the first reinforcement member 122 can be attached to the concave surface 518 of the first leg 178 of the second reinforcement member 126, for example, by welding (e.g., laser welding, spot welding, or continuous welding), a mechanical locking structure (e.g., a rivet), an adhesive, or any other suitable fastening means. One or more of the leg 142 and the portion 524 of the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 can be attached to the concave surface 520 of the second leg 184 of the second reinforcement member 126, for example, by welding (e.g., laser welding, spot welding, or continuous welding), a mechanical locking structure (e.g., a rivet), an adhesive, or any other suitable fastening means. As Fig.23 and Fig.24178 of the first leg 178 of the second reinforcing member 126, and the foot 142 of the second leg 136 of the first reinforcing member 122 may be attached to the concave surface 520 of the second leg 184 of the second reinforcing member 126. However, for other embodiments, at least a portion 522 of the first leg 130 of the first reinforcing member 122 may be attached to the concave surface 518 of the first leg 178 of the second reinforcing member 126, such as by one or more of the above-mentioned fastening means. For other embodiments, at least a portion 524 of the second leg 136 of the first reinforcing member 122 may be attached to the concave surface 520 of the second leg 184 of the second reinforcing member 126, such as by one or more of the above-mentioned fastening means. For some embodiments, both the foot 140 and the portion 522 of the first leg 130 of the first reinforcing member 122 may be attached to the concave surface 518 of the first leg 178 of the second reinforcing member 126. For some embodiments, both the foot 142 and the portion 524 of the second leg 136 of the first reinforcement member 122 may be attached to the concave surface 520 of the second leg 184 of the second reinforcement member 126 .

[0158] refer to Figures 1 to 24 For some embodiments, one or more of the first reinforcement member 122 and the second reinforcement member 126 may be formed of one or more plates, formed by hot pressing of one or more plates, formed by cold forming / machining, hydraulic forming or extrusion of one or more plates. For some embodiments, one or more of the first reinforcement member 122 and the second reinforcement member 126 may be made of a material containing a metal or a metal alloy or a material consisting of a metal or a metal alloy, such as aluminum or steel or made of a material containing aluminum or steel. For some embodiments, one or more of the first reinforcement member 122 and the second reinforcement member 126 may be made of a material containing a polymer or a polymer composite material or a material consisting of a polymer or a polymer composite material, such as a fiber reinforced polymer, such as a carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP). However, other materials are also feasible. One or more of the first member 108 and the second member 112 may be formed of a plate, formed by hot pressing of one or more plates, or formed by cold forming / machining of one or more plates. One or more of the first member 108 and the second member 112 may be made of a material containing a metal or a metal alloy or a material consisting of a metal or a metal alloy, such as aluminum. However, other materials are also feasible. For some embodiments, one or more of the first member 108 and the second member 112 may include one of the following groups: a hat-shaped profile; and a U-shaped profile.

[0159] For some embodiments, the following types of materials may be used for one or more of the first and second reinforcement members 122, 126 and the first and second members 108, 112, or for any other element or member included in the vehicle structure 100; 300; 500:

[0160] There are several known ultra high strength steels (UHSS) for hot stamping and hardening. The blank may be made of, for example, a coated or uncoated boron steel, such as Usibor® (22MnB5) commercially available from ArcelorMittal.

[0161] Usibor® 1500P is an example of 22MnB5 steel. The composition of Usibor® is summarized as follows by weight percentage (the rest is iron (Fe) and unavoidable impurities):

[0162] Maximum carbon (C) content (%): 0.25

[0163] Maximum silicon (Si) content (%): 0.4

[0164] Maximum manganese (Mn) content (%): 1.4

[0165] Maximum phosphorus (P) content (%): 0.03

[0166] Maximum sulfur (S) content (%): 0.01

[0167] Aluminum (Al) content (%): 0.01-0.1

[0168] Maximum titanium (Ti) content (%): 0.05

[0169] Maximum niobium (Nb) content (%): 0.01

[0170] Maximum copper (Cu) content (%): 0.20

[0171] Maximum boron (B) content (%): 0.005

[0172] Maximum chromium (Cr) content (%): 0.35

[0173] Usibor ® The yield strength of 1500P is, for example, 1100 MPa, and the ultimate tensile strength is 1500 MPa.

[0174] Usibor ® 2000 is another higher strength boron steel. ® The yield strength of 2000 can reach more than 1400MPa, and the ultimate tensile strength can reach more than 1800MPa. ®The composition of 2000 is summarized as follows by weight percentage (the rest is iron (Fe) and impurities):

[0175] Maximum carbon (C) content (%): 0.36

[0176] Maximum silicon (Si) content (%): 0.8

[0177] Maximum manganese (Mn) content (%): 0.8

[0178] Maximum phosphorus (P) content (%): 0.03

[0179] Maximum sulfur (S content) (%): 0.01

[0180] Aluminum (Al) content (%): 0.01-0.06

[0181] Maximum titanium (Ti) content (%): 0.07

[0182] Maximum niobium (Nb) content (%): 0.07

[0183] Maximum copper (Cu) content (%): 0.20

[0184] Maximum boron (B) content (%): 0.005

[0185] Maximum chromium (Cr) content (%): 0.50

[0186] Maximum Molybdenum (Mb) content (%): 0.50

[0187] In addition to the ultra-high strength steels mentioned above, more ductile steels can be used in areas of the structural framework where energy needs to be absorbed. These steels can be used in the hot stamping process, but will not achieve a martensitic microstructure in the process. Examples of suitable more ductile steels include Ductibor ® 500、Ductibor ® 1000 and CRL-340LA.

[0188] Another material used in hot stamping is Ductibor ® 500. Ductibor ® 500 is a more ductile steel that can effectively absorb energy during impact. ® The yield strength of 500 can reach 400MPa or higher, and the ultimate tensile strength can reach 550MPa or higher.

[0189] Ductibor ® The composition of 500 is summarized as follows by weight percentage (the rest is iron (Fe) and impurities):

[0190] Maximum carbon (C) content (%): 0.1

[0191] Maximum silicon (Si) content (%): 0.5

[0192] Maximum manganese (Mn) content (%): 1.7

[0193] Maximum phosphorus (P) content (%): 0.03

[0194] Maximum sulfur (S) content (%): 0.025

[0195] Aluminum (Al) content (%): 0.015-0.2

[0196] Maximum titanium (Ti) content (%): 0.09

[0197] Maximum niobium (Nb) content (%): 0.10

[0198] Maximum copper (Cu) content (%): 0.20

[0199] Maximum boron (B) content (%): 0.001

[0200] Maximum chromium (Cr) content (%): 0.20

[0201] With Usibor ® 1500 and Usibor ® Compared with 2000, Ductibor ® 1000 is another material used in hot stamping to increase elongation. ® The yield strength of 1000 can reach 800MPa or higher, and the ultimate tensile strength can reach 1000MPa or higher. ® The composition of 1000 is summarized by weight percentage as follows (the rest is iron (Fe) and impurities):

[0202] Maximum carbon (C) content (%): 0.10

[0203] Maximum silicon (Si) content (%): 0.6

[0204] Maximum manganese (Mn) content (%): 1.8

[0205] Maximum phosphorus (P) content (%): 0.03

[0206] Maximum sulfur (S) content (%): 0.01

[0207] Aluminum (Al) content (%): 0.01-0.1

[0208] Maximum titanium (Ti) content (%): 0.05

[0209] Maximum niobium (Nb) content (%): 0.10

[0210] Maximum copper (Cu) content (%): 0.20

[0211] Maximum boron (B) content (%): 0.005

[0212] Maximum chromium (Cr) content (%): 0.20

[0213] Each of the above-mentioned vehicle structures 100, 300, 500 can be a vehicle side structure, and the corresponding part 102 can be a side part. However, the vehicle structure 100, 300, 500 can be applied and installed at other locations of the vehicle, such as at the front of the vehicle, and can be part of the bumper, at the rear of the vehicle, or elsewhere in the vehicle. The vehicle structure 100, 300, 500 can be used, for example, for electric vehicles or hybrid vehicles, and of course can also be used for ordinary vehicles with only internal combustion engines. The vehicle structure 100, 300, 500 can be configured to protect one or more batteries of the electric vehicle or hybrid vehicle, for example, in the event of a collision. Therefore, the vehicle structure 100, 300, 500 can be located at one or more sides of the battery. The vehicle structure 100, 300, 500 effectively protects the driver and / or one or more passengers of the vehicle in the event of a collision. The vehicle structure 100, 300, 500 has effective protection when dealing with pole collisions or impacts. The vehicle structures 100 , 300 , 500 effectively prevent the pole from intruding into the vehicle when the pole collides.

[0214] For some embodiments, the portion 102 is a side sill portion, wherein the longitudinal extension 104 of the side sill portion 102 is configured to extend along a longitudinal direction 106 of a body of the vehicle and is configured to be disposed at a side of the body. Figure 8 For some embodiments, the side sill beam portion 102 may be configured to be attached or attachable to one or more cross beams 400 of a vehicle body, such as two cross beams of a vehicle body. However, in alternative embodiments, the portion or side portion may be a side beam portion, a bumper portion, or a beam portion configured to be located at other locations of the vehicle, in addition to the side sill beam portion.

[0215] The features of the different embodiments of vehicle structures disclosed above may be combined in various possible ways to provide further advantageous embodiments.

[0216] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. On the contrary, the present invention relates to and covers all different embodiments within the scope of the appended independent claims.

Claims

1. A vehicle structure (100; 300; 500), comprising a portion (102) having a longitudinal extension (104) extending along a longitudinal direction (106), wherein: The part (102) comprises: a first member (108) having a longitudinal extension (110) extending along the longitudinal direction (106), and a second member (112) having a longitudinal extension (114) extending along the longitudinal direction (106), wherein the first member (108) is configured to face the interior (116) of the vehicle, wherein the second member (112) is configured to face the exterior (118) of the vehicle, wherein the first component and the second component (108, 112) are attached to each other so that the first component and the second component (108, 113) form a closed space (120), The portion (102) comprises a first reinforcing member (122) located in the closed space (120), the first reinforcing member (122) having a longitudinal extension (124) extending along the longitudinal direction (106), wherein the portion (102) comprises a second reinforcing member (126) located in the closed space (120), the second reinforcing member (126) having a longitudinal extension (128) extending along the longitudinal direction (106), wherein the first reinforcing member (122) is attached to the second reinforcing member (126), The first reinforcing member (122) has a first leg (130), the first leg having a transverse extension (132) extending in a direction (134) transverse to the longitudinal direction (106), wherein the first reinforcing member (122) has a second leg (136), the second leg having a transverse extension (138) extending along a direction (135) transverse to the longitudinal direction (106), wherein each (130, 136) of the first leg and the second leg (130, 136) of the first reinforcing member (122) has a foot (140, 142) having a longitudinal extension (144, 146) extending along the longitudinal direction (106), wherein the feet (140, 142) of the first leg and the second leg (130, 136) of the first reinforcing member (122) are spaced apart from each other, wherein the first leg and the second leg (130, 136) of the first reinforcing member (122) are connected in a first head section (148), wherein the first head section (148) faces one (108, 112) of the first member and the second member (108, 112), and the feet (140, 142) of the first leg and the second leg (130, 136) of the first reinforcing member (122) face the other (108, 112) of the first member and the second member (108, 112), wherein each (130, 136) of the first leg and the second leg (130, 136) of the first reinforcing member (122) is corrugated and includes a corrugated portion (150, 152), wherein the corrugated portion (150, 152) of each (130, 136) of the first reinforcing member (122) includes a ridge (150) and a groove (152), wherein each (150, 152) of the ridge and the groove (150, 152) of the first reinforcing member (122) extends from the first head section (148) to one (140, 142) of the feet (140, 142) of the first leg and the second leg (130, 136) of the first reinforcing member (122), wherein each (130, 136) of the first leg and the second leg (130, 136) of the first reinforcement member (122) has an outer surface (154), wherein each (130, 136) of the first leg and the second leg (130, 136) of the first reinforcing member (122) has an inner surface (156) facing an inner surface (156) of the other (130, 136) of the first leg and the second leg (130, 136) of the first reinforcing member (122), wherein, at the outer surface (154), each of one or more of the ridges (150) of the first leg (130) of the first reinforcing member (122) has a recess (158) at a first location (160), and The first leg (130) of the first reinforcing member (122) has one or more inclined portions (162) in one or more directions (164) transverse to the longitudinal direction (106) so as to form a recess (158) at the first position (160).

2. The vehicle structure (100; 300; 500) according to claim 1, wherein: The recesses (158) of the first legs (130) of the first reinforcement members (122) are aligned with each other along the longitudinal direction (106) at the first position (160).

3. The vehicle structure (300) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: At the outer surface (154), each of one or more of the ridges (150) of the second leg (136) of the first reinforcing member (122) has a recess (302) at a second location (304).

4. The vehicle structure (300) according to claim 3, wherein: The second leg (136) of the first reinforcing member (122) has one or more inclined portions (306) in one or more directions (308) transverse to the longitudinal direction (106) so as to form a recess (302) at the second position (304).

5. The vehicle structure (300) according to claim 3 or 4, wherein: The first reinforcement member (122) defines an interior space (204) between a first leg and a second leg (130, 136) of the first reinforcement member (122), and The second position (304) is opposite to one of the first positions (160), and the internal space (204) is located between the one first position and the second position.

6. The vehicle structure (100; 300; 500) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The first head section (148) faces the second member (112), while the feet (140, 142) of the first leg and the second leg (130, 136) of the first reinforcing member (122) face the first member (108).

7. The vehicle structure (100; 300; 500) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: One or more of the feet (140, 142) and portions (522, 524) of the first and second legs (130, 136) of the first reinforcing member (122) are attached to the second reinforcing member (126).

8. The vehicle structure (100; 300; 500) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: The first head section (148) includes a reinforcement structure (166) having a longitudinal extension (168) extending along the longitudinal direction (106) so as to reinforce the first head section (148).

9. The vehicle structure (100; 500) according to claim 8, wherein: The reinforcing structure (166) includes one or more patches (170) having a longitudinal extension (168) extending along the longitudinal direction (106).

10. The vehicle structure (100; 500) according to claim 9, wherein: The patch (170) is made of a first material, and The first leg and the second leg (130, 136) of the first reinforcing member (122) and the first head section (148) are made of a second material different from the first material.

11. The vehicle structure (300) according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein: The first leg and the second leg (130, 136) of the first reinforcement member (122) overlap each other in the first head section (148) to form the reinforcement structure (166).

12. The vehicle structure (100; 300; 500) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein: The foot (140) of the first leg (130) of the first reinforcing member (122) is wavy in shape so as to form an opening (206) between the second reinforcing member (126) and the first leg (130) of the first reinforcing member (122), and Wherein, the openings (206) between the second reinforcing member (126) and the first leg (130) of the first reinforcing member (122) are positioned one after another in the longitudinal direction (106).

13. The vehicle structure (100; 300; 500) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein: The second reinforcing member (126) has a first leg (178) having a transverse extension (180) extending in a direction (182) transverse to the longitudinal direction (106), wherein the second reinforcing member (126) has a second leg (184), the second leg having a transverse extension (186) extending in a direction (188) transverse to the longitudinal direction (106), wherein each (178, 184) of the first leg and the second leg (178, 184) of the second reinforcing member (126) has a foot (190, 192) having a longitudinal extension (194, 196) extending along the longitudinal direction (106), wherein the feet (190, 192) of the first leg and the second leg (178, 184) of the second reinforcing member (126) are spaced apart from each other, wherein the first leg and the second leg (178, 184) of the second reinforcement member (126) are connected in the second head section (198), and The second head section (198) faces one (108, 112) of the first and second members (108, 112), and the feet (190, 192) of the first and second legs (178, 184) of the second reinforcing member (126) face the other (108, 112) of the first and second members (108, 112).

14. The vehicle structure (100; 300; 500) according to claim 13, wherein: One or more of a foot (140) and a portion (522) of the first leg (130) of the first reinforcement member (122) is attached to the first leg (178) of the second reinforcement member (126), and wherein one or more of a foot (142) and a portion (524) of the second leg (136) of the first reinforcement member (122) is attached to the second leg (184) of the second reinforcement member (126).

15. The vehicle structure (500) according to claim 13 or 14, wherein: The first leg (178) of the second reinforcing member (126) forms a first recessed portion (502), wherein the second leg (184) of the second reinforcing member (126) forms a second recessed portion (504), wherein the first recess (502) receives one or more of the foot (140) and the portion (522) of the first leg (130) of the first reinforcing member (122), and wherein the second recess (504) receives one or more of a foot (142) and a portion (524) of the second leg (136) of the first reinforcing member (122).

16. The vehicle structure (500) of claim 15, wherein: The first leg (178) of the second reinforcing member (126) has one or more inclined portions (506) in one or more directions (508) transverse to the longitudinal direction (106) so as to form the first recessed portion (502), and The second leg (184) of the second reinforcing member (126) has one or more inclined portions (510, 512) in one or more directions (514, 516) transverse to the longitudinal direction (106) so as to form the second recessed portion (504).

17. The vehicle structure (500) according to claim 15 or 16, wherein: The first recessed portion (502) is formed by a concave surface (518) of the first leg (178) of the second reinforcing member (126), wherein the second recessed portion (504) is formed by a concave surface (520) of the second leg (184) of the second reinforcing member (126), wherein one or more of the foot (140) and portion (522) of the first leg (130) of the first reinforcement member (122) is attached to the concave surface (518) of the first leg (178) of the second reinforcement member (126), and wherein one or more of a foot (142) and a portion (524) of the second leg (136) of the first reinforcing member (122) are attached to the concave surface (520) of the second leg (184) of the second reinforcing member (126).

18. The vehicle structure (100; 300; 500) according to any one of claims 13 to 17, wherein: The first reinforcement member (122) defines an interior space (204) between the first leg and the second leg (130, 136) of the first reinforcement member (122), and The second head section (198) and the supporting feet (190, 192) of the second reinforcing member (126) are located outside the internal space (204) defined by the first reinforcing member (122).

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