Automotive bumper radar bracket

Abstract

The invention relates to an assembly (18) for a front bumper system of a motor vehicle. The assembly comprises a bumper skin (22) with an outer screen (24); an obstacle detection device (26) such as a front radar; a mounting bracket (30) comprising a mounting portion (40) with a vertical wall (42), first mounting means (44), second mounting means (46) fixed to the outer screen; and a receiving portion (52) with a housing (54), the detection device (26) being arranged in said housing. The mounting portion comprises fusible ribs (56) forming a mesh extending transversely from the first mounting means to the second mounting means; said fusible ribs projecting from the vertical wall and being capable of breaking when the mounting portion is compressed longitudinally during a collision at said mounting portion.Figure to be published with the abbreviation: Figure 2.

Description

Title of the invention: Vehicle bumper radar bracket for automobile

[0001] The invention relates to the low-speed collision of a motor vehicle with an obstacle detection device. The invention relates more specifically to the protection of a detection device integrated into a motor vehicle bumper system. The subject of the invention is an assembly for a motor vehicle bumper system. The subject of the invention is also a motor vehicle.

[0002] A motor vehicle is commonly equipped with a plurality of detection devices intended to analyze the environment. This contributes to the detection of objects or bodies potentially forming obstacles on the path of the motor vehicle. These detection devices thus contribute to safety, and offer driving assistance. Such detection devices generally comprise ultrasonic sensors, or at least one camera, or a radar, or a lidar. In order to optimize the monitoring of the environment, it is known to arrange at least one detection device on the front panel, in the front bumper. In order to increase its detection cone, a radar is moved forward. However, this forward position tends to expose it more to impacts.

[0003] The front bumper includes in particular a bumper skin which materializes the bodywork. Its various external elements contribute to the perceived quality by respecting fine and constant mechanical clearances. These elements include in particular an air intake grille. For reasons of repairability, the various external elements are capable of deforming, then returning to position following an impact at low speed; for example during a parking maneuver. However, such an event risks damaging the detection device mounted there. Indeed, the latter is a particularly sensitive electronic component.

[0004] The detection device is mounted in the bumper using a dedicated support. The latter is placed inside the bumper skin, and is connected to the air intake grille. This arrangement facilitates the installation of the detection device in a central position in the grille.

[0005] Document FR3078929B1 presents a device for supporting a detection element for a motor vehicle. The device comprises a fixing support having: a support part, a fixing part with two inclined walls connected by a connecting edge, and a part connected to an edge of the support part parallel to the connecting edge. The fixing part is provided with elements for fixing to a structural element of the motor vehicle. An open protective housing receives the sensing element and comprises a bottom wall applied against the support portion surrounded by side walls.

[0006] Document FR311981 IB 1 presents an assembly for a motor vehicle. The assembly comprises a radome, a radar support, a front shield comprising a first transverse part and a second transverse part between which an external ventilation grille is installed. This includes a receiving location for the radome. One area comprises a recessed housing for receiving said radar located in correspondence with the location of the radome. Ends of two lateral straps are stiffened by a set of ribs extending from bosses receiving upper lateral fixing holes. To the extent that such a radar is installed in the front part of the vehicle, it is necessary to ensure optimal integrity of these safety systems against impacts. Therefore, there is a continuous need to improve the protection of the radar in the event of a collision.

[0007] The invention aims to address at least one of the problems or drawbacks encountered in the prior art. In particular, the invention aims to protect the radar against the possibility of a collision with the motor vehicle. The invention also aims to optimize the protection, mass, repairability, durability, compactness, and reliability of an assembly integrating a radar into a motor vehicle.

[0008] According to a first aspect, the invention provides an assembly for a motor vehicle bumper system; the assembly comprising a bumper skin with an outer screen; an obstacle detection device; a mounting bracket comprising a fixing portion with a vertical wall, first fixing means, second fixing means fixed to the outer screen; and a receiving portion with a housing, the detection device being arranged in said housing; remarkable in that the fixing portion comprises fusible ribs forming a mesh extending transversely from the first fixing means to the second fixing means; said fusible ribs projecting from the vertical wall and being capable of breaking when the fixing portion is compressed longitudinally during a collision at said fixing portion.

[0009] The invention proposes a simple and effective solution. Indeed, the energy absorption zone is placed as close as possible to the radar, and does not require an additional part attached to its support.

[0010] Preferably, the fusible ribs extend vertically and / or horizontally at the level of the first fixing means and the second fixing means.

[0011] Preferably, the vertical wall comprises an internal surface and an external surface longitudinally opposite the internal surface, the fusible ribs forming projection from the inner surface.

[0012] Preferably, the mesh is continuous over the width of the fixing portion, and over the entire height of the fixing portion.

[0013] Preferably, the fusible ribs comprise a first rib at the edge of the fixing portion and having a first thickness, and a second rib with a second thickness less than the first thickness.

[0014] Preferably, the second rib extends from the first rib.

[0015] Preferably, the fixing portion comprises a junction wall which connects the vertical wall at the receiving portion; the joining wall being inclined relative to the vertical wall; the mesh extending vertically from the joining wall.

[0016] Preferably, the first fixing means and the second fixing means comprise a first longitudinal length, and the fusible ribs comprise a second longitudinal length greater than the first longitudinal length.

[0017] Preferably, the second longitudinal length is at least three times greater than the first longitudinal length.

[0018] Preferably, the mesh forms cavities open longitudinally towards the inside.

[0019] Preferably, said cavities form at least two horizontal rows of cavities.

[0020] Preferably, the bumper skin comprises an outer panel with a fixing edge, and the outer screen is an air intake grille fixed to the fixing edge; the mesh extending vertically at said fixing edge.

[0021] Preferably, the mesh extends transversely continuously over the entire width of the housing.

[0022] Preferably, the fusible ribs extend between the fixing means.

[0023] Preferably, the fusible ribs define a first set of ribs in a first direction, and a second set of ribs in a second direction which is inclined relative to the first direction.

[0024] Preferably, the mesh extends vertically and / or transversely along the junction wall.

[0025] Preferably, the mesh is single-piece.

[0026] According to another aspect, the invention provides an assembly for a motor vehicle bumper system; the assembly comprising an obstacle detection device; a mounting bracket comprising a fixing portion with fixing means, an inner surface and an outer surface opposite the inner surface; and a receiving portion with a housing, the detection device being fixed in said housing; remarkable in that the fixing portion comprises fusible ribs projecting from the inner surface; said fusible ribs being capable of breaking when the fixing portion is compressed longitudinally during a collision.

[0027] According to another aspect, the invention provides an assembly for a motor vehicle bumper system; the assembly comprising an obstacle detection device; a mounting bracket comprising a fixing portion with fixing means, an inner surface and an outer surface opposite the inner surface; and a receiving portion with a housing, the detection device being housed in said housing; remarkable in that the fixing portion comprises fusible ribs extending vertically at the fixing means; said fusible ribs projecting from the inner surface and being capable of breaking when the fixing portion is compressed longitudinally during a collision.

[0028] Preferably, the fixing means comprise fixing orifices.

[0029] According to another aspect, the invention provides a motor vehicle

[0030] Motor vehicle comprising a bumper system with an assembly, re markable in that the assembly is in accordance with the invention.

[0031] Preferably, the bumper system is a front bumper system.

[0032] Preferably, the motor vehicle comprises a structure with a crossmember, the fusible ribs are vertically at the level of said crossmember.

[0033] Preferably, the fusible ribs are between the vertical wall and the crosspiece.

[0034] Each characteristic introduced by the expression “preferentially” given in relationship to one aspect of the invention applies to all other aspects of the invention.

[0035] The invention will be well understood and other aspects and advantages will appear clearly on reading the description which follows, given with reference to the figures appended and listed below.

[0036] [Fig.l] is a front view of a motor vehicle according to the invention.

[0037] [Fig.2] shows from the inside an assembly for a vehicle bumper system automobile according to the invention.

[0038] [Fig. 3] represents a mounting bracket for a motor vehicle obstacle detection device according to the invention.

[0039] [Fig.4] is a sectional view of an assembly for a motor vehicle bumper system according to the invention.

[0040] In the following description, the term "comprise" is synonymous with "include" and is not limiting in that it allows the presence of other elements in the motor vehicle or assembly to which it relates. It is understood that the term "comprise" includes the terms "consist of". The terms "external" and "internal" will respectively designate that which is oriented towards the exterior of the vehicle and towards the interior of the vehicle.

[0041] In the present description, the term "longitudinal", the term "longitudinally", the term "transverse", and the term "transversely" are used according to the reference frame of the vehicle, in the mounting configuration. The term "longitudinal" corresponds to the main direction of movement of the vehicle. The term "transverse" corresponds to a direction perpendicular to the main direction of movement of the vehicle. The term "front" refers to the main direction of movement of the vehicle. The term "rear" designates the opposite of the front of the vehicle.

[0042] The X axis represents the longitudinal direction, the Y axis represents the transverse direction, and the Z axis represents the vertical direction of the motor vehicle. These three axes define a direct trihedron whose orientation is preserved throughout the figures.

[0043] In the present description, the ranges of values ​​include the limits which delimit them.

[0044] In the present description, the equalities between the values ​​are not to be understood in the strict sense insofar as each equality authorizes a variation of at most 10%, preferably at most 5%, more preferably at most 2%, between these values.

[0045] In the present description, the term "vertical" and the term "horizontal" are not to be understood in the strict sense of the term. Indeed, they allow an inclination of at most 20°, preferably at most 10°, more preferably at most 5°, even more preferably at most 2°; compared to the strict sense of these terms.

[0046] In this description, the technical characteristics are defined in the assembly configuration of the assembly, unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0047] Throughout the description, the different figures use the same reference signs to designate identical or similar entities.

[0048] [Fig.l] represents a motor vehicle 10 according to the invention. The motor vehicle 10 comprises energy storage means and at least one motor (not shown) adapted to drive said motor vehicle 10.

[0049] The motor vehicle 10 comprises a structure 12. The structure 12 forms an outer body, or even a main frame of the motor vehicle. The structure 12 delimits different compartments of the motor vehicle 10, including the front compartment which is optionally an engine compartment.

[0050] The structure 12 connects different parts of the motor vehicle 10. The structure 12 forms a mounting support for the powertrain, the suspension systems, the steering system, the braking systems. At the front, the structure comprises front side members 14. The front side members 14 extend at the level of the front compartment. The front side members 14 may be front stretchers.

[0051] The structure 12 further comprises a crossmember 16. The crossmember 16 forms a front beam. It is at the front end of the structure 12. It is fixed to the front ends of the front side members 14. In the event of a frontal collision, the crossmember 16 absorbs the energy of the impact by deforming, and transmits part of the energy of the impact to the rest of the structure 12 via the front side members 14. The crossmember 16 contributes to safety.

[0052] The motor vehicle 10 further comprises an assembly 18 for a bumper system 20, preferably a front bumper system. The assembly 18, in particular each of its entities, is adapted to withstand impacts, at speeds up to 10 km / h, preferably up to 15 km / h, without there being any need to replace specific parts of the motor vehicle. Such an impact is understood as a low-speed impact. The low-speed impact may be a parking impact, i.e. at a speed of 4 km / h. The assembly 18 is also designed to limit the extent of injuries in the event of a pedestrian impact; in particular at leg height.

[0053] The assembly 18 comprises a bumper skin 22 with at least one outer screen 24 and an obstacle detection device 26. The obstacle may be another vehicle or a fixed object in the environment. The detection device 26 is optionally placed behind a protective mask 28. The protective mask 28 may be a radome. The detection device 26 is secured by a mounting bracket 30. The bumper skin 22 is under the front hood. The light devices are nested in the bumper skin 22.

[0054] The detection device 26 allows obstacle detection in front of the motor vehicle 10. Computer means allow them to be detected and their distance and relative speed to be determined. It is coupled to an autonomous driving system and / or to a driving assistance system (not shown) of the motor vehicle 10. The detection device 26 comprises a radar, such as a front radar; or a camera. The radar may be a front radar. Transversely, it is arranged in a central position in order to optimize the coverage of the environment.

[0055] The mounting bracket 30 is also called a radar bracket. It extends vertically at the bumper skin 22. It extends vertically at the cross member 16. Thus, in the event of a frontal impact, the mounting bracket 30 is crushed against the cross member 16.

[0056] The bumper skin 22 delimits at least one air inlet opening; preferably two air inlet openings. These air inlet openings are equipped with at least one air inlet grille 32; for example a lower grille 34 and an upper grille 36. Each air inlet grille 32 forms protection against projections. Each air inlet grille 32 comprises an openwork portion; for example example in the form of a lattice. An openwork portion comprises a plurality of passages passing longitudinally through it. In the present illustration, the air inlet grilles 32 have a hexagonal or diamond pattern. However, any other type of mesh can be adopted.

[0057] The bumper skin 22 also includes an outer panel 38. The outer panel 38 delimits the or at least one or each air intake grille 32. The outer panel 38 is generally smooth. It forms the outer casing. It is profiled to optimize airflow.

[0058] In the present illustration, the detection device 26 is arranged at the level of the lower grid 34. However, the present teaching can be applied to the upper grid 36.

[0059] The cross member 16 is a transverse beam extending laterally. The cross member 16 reduces obstacle intrusion during a frontal collision. The cross member 16 is capable of plastically deforming during a high-speed impact, for example at least 50 km / h. Thus, the deceleration is more gradual, which reduces the possibility of injury to passengers. The cross member 16 is arranged between the upper grid 36 and the lower grid 34. It comprises a metal profile, for example made of steel or aluminum. Other alloys are envisaged in order to increase the capacity to absorb the energy of an impact. The cross member 16 is preferably associated with a shock absorber which forms a foam body covering it transversely.

[0060] The motor vehicle may, for example, be a private motor vehicle or a utility motor vehicle.

[0061] [Fig. 2] shows an assembly 18 for a motor vehicle bumper system. The motor vehicle corresponds to that shown in relation to [Fig. 1]. The cross member is not shown for the sake of clarity.

[0062] The assembly 18 comprises a bumper skin 22 with an outer screen 24. In this case, the outer screen 24 is an air intake grille 32. The air intake grille 32 has a repetition of hexagons, however any other shape can be chosen.

[0063] The assembly 18 further comprises an obstacle detection device 26 whose electrical connection socket is arranged inwardly. A mounting support 30 comprises a fixing portion 40 having a vertical wall 42, first fixing means 44, second fixing means 46 fixed to the outer screen 24. The vertical wall 42 extends transversely. It forms a fixing plate. The vertical wall 42 incorporates the first fixing means 44 and the second fixing means 46.

[0064] The outer screen 24 forms a barrier. It at least partially conceals the interior of the assembly 18. The first fixing means 44 and the second fixing means 46 comprise, for example, fixing slots into which fixing lugs 50 of the external screen 24 are introduced. More generally, they comprise fixing orifices or fixing axes.

[0065] The mounting bracket 30 includes a receiving portion 52 with a housing 54 for the detection device 26. The housing forms a recess. The detection device 26 is at least partially in the housing 54. The housing 54 is vertically at the air inlet grille 32. The housing 54 is open inwardly.

[0066] The fixing portion 40 comprises fusible ribs 56 forming a mesh 58 extending transversely from the first fixing means 44 to the second fixing means 46. The mesh 58 may be heterogeneous. The mesh 58 is continuous over the entire width, and over the entire height of the fixing portion 40. The mesh 58 comprises at least two rows in order to increase the rigidity and the energy absorption capacity.

[0067] The fusible ribs 56 protrude from the vertical wall 42 and are capable of breaking when the fixing portion is compressed longitudinally during a collision at said fixing portion 40. Therefore, in the event of a collision, the mounting support 30 gradually deforms and reduces the acceleration or deceleration experienced by the detection device 26. The risk of degradation of the latter is reduced. Its reliability and therefore its durability are preserved.

[0068] The fusible ribs 56 extend vertically and horizontally at the first fixing means 44 and the second fixing means 46; that is to say at the location of the fixing with the outer screen 24. Thus, the invention arranges the fusible ribs 56 in a fixing zone; zone where the mounting support 30 and the outer screen 24 meet. The invention places a fusible system in an overlapping zone which is capable of materializing a hard point.

[0069] [Fig. 3] shows a mounting bracket 30 for a motor vehicle bumper system. The motor vehicle corresponds to that shown in connection with one of Figures 1 to 2.

[0070] The detection device 26 is shown in dotted lines, in the housing 54. The housing 54 is here a through-housing. It forms a longitudinal passage through the receiving portion 52. The receiving portion 52 materializes a mounting frame around the detection device 26. The receiving portion 52 and the fixing portion 40 are superimposed. They are a lower portion and an upper portion respectively.

[0071] The mesh 58 of fusible ribs 56 forms cavities 60 open longitudinally inwards. The cavities 60 form at least two horizontal rows of cavities 60. The cavities 60 are distributed over the entire transverse width and the entire height of the fixing portion 40. The fusible ribs 56 thus delimit Programmed deformation boxes. They are configured to break during a collision with a speed greater than or equal to a threshold speed. These boxes behave like crushable boxes or sacrificial boxes, generally referred to by the English term "crash box".

[0072] The mesh 58 extends transversely continuously over the entire width of the housing 54. Thus, the area occupied by the detection device 26 is preserved in the event of a collision. The fusible ribs 56 extend between the fixing means (not shown). This aspect makes it possible to provide cushioning between the points anchored to the external screen. The transmission of forces is more homogeneous; which facilitates the control of deformation during a collision.

[0073] In this case, the fusible ribs 56 define a first set of ribs in a first direction, and a second set of ribs in a second direction which is inclined relative to the first direction. The fusible ribs 56 form crosspieces. The two directions are perpendicular in order to form generally cubic cavities 60. The sets are contiguous, which improves the resistance.

[0074] [Fig. 4] is a vertical section of the assembly 18 for a motor vehicle. The motor vehicle corresponds to that shown in relation to one of Figures 1 to 3. The cross member 16 is shown in dotted lines. The section passes through the first fixing means 44.

[0075] The vertical wall 42 comprises an inner surface 62 and an outer surface 64 longitudinally opposite the inner surface 62. The fusible ribs 56 project from the inner surface 62. They extend inwardly from the vertical wall 42.

[0076] The fusible ribs 56 comprise a first rib 66 at the edge of the fixing portion 40 and having a first thickness 68. The first rib 66 defines a rim. The fusible ribs 56 further comprise at least one second rib 70 with a second thickness 72 less than the first thickness 68, for example by at least 10%, preferably by at least 20%. The second rib 70 extends from the first rib 66, for example horizontally or vertically. This configuration optimizes the rigidity and the energy absorption capacity.

[0077] The fixing portion 40 is hollowed out. It comprises a joining wall 76 which connects the vertical wall 42 to the receiving portion 52. The vertical wall 42 and the joining wall 76 each comprise a plate. The joining wall 76 may be bent in order to increase the stiffness of the mounting bracket 30. It is inclined relative to the vertical wall 42, for example at an angle of between 45° and 90°. The mesh 58 extends vertically from the joining wall 76. The mesh 58 extends vertically and transversely along the joining wall 76, which further contributes to the rigidity.

[0078] The first fixing means 44 and the second fixing means (not shown) comprise a first longitudinal length 78, and the fusible ribs 56 comprise a second longitudinal length 80 greater than the first longitudinal length 78. Preferably, the second longitudinal length 80 is at least twice, or at least three times, greater than the first longitudinal length 78. The second longitudinal length 80 is an average length or a minimum length. In the event of a collision, the fusible ribs 56 are stressed in compression before the first fixing means 44 and the second fixing means, which allows better cushioning since they come into contact with the cross member 16 first.

[0079] The bumper skin 22 comprises an outer panel 38 (partially shown) with a fixing edge 82. The fixing edge 82 is horizontal. It comprises a fixing flange 84 fixed to the outer screen 24, in this case to the air intake grille 32. Thus the air intake grille 32 is fixed to the fixing edge 82 and overlaps it vertically. It forms a spacer. The mesh 58 extends vertically at the fixing edge 82 of the bumper skin 22. Thus, the cushioning is generated at the fixing edge 82, which makes it possible to compensate for the rigidity of the latter.

[0080] The mesh 58, and in particular the fusible ribs 56, is opposite the cross member 16. The fusible ribs 56 are vertically at the level of the cross member 16. In the event of a frontal collision, the assembly 18 moves back until the fusible ribs 56 reach the cross member 16. When the compressive force exceeds a force threshold; for example correlated with a collision speed threshold; the fusible ribs 56 give way. This rupture absorbs energy from the deformation of the assembly 18, and preserves the detection device 26 since the accelerations it undergoes are restricted. During repairs, in a certain proportion of cases, the detection device 26 remains functional and only the mounting support 30 needs to be replaced. This significantly reduces repair costs.

[0081] According to a preferred embodiment, the mounting bracket is made of a plastic or composite material. The plastic material may comprise a thermoplastic material or a thermosetting material. According to a preferred embodiment, the plastic material is selected from the group comprising polypropylene, polyamide, polyphthalamide, polyetheretherketone, polyphenylene sulfide, polyamide-imide, polyetherimide, polyarylamide, polyepoxide, unsaturated polyester, vinylester or polyester-vinylester resins. For example, the composite material comprises a matrix of a plastic material as described above with a reinforcement. For example, the reinforcement comprises glass or carbon fibers.

[0082] The mounting support is made by injection. Thus the mesh is in one piece, which which improves its behavior in the event of a collision. During demolding, the mounting support is extracted according to the opening direction of the cavities, or at least along the fusible ribs. Thus, the addition of the latter does not constrain the manufacturing process. The invention optimizes the physical preservation of the detection device, and manufacturing costs.

[0083] The invention comprises the combination of all the embodiments shown by all the figures.

[0084] Figures 2 to 3 are isometric views. They each respect a specific scale, real angles and real proportions.

Claims

Claims

1. An assembly (18) for a bumper system (20) of a motor vehicle (10); the assembly (18) comprising a bumper skin (22) with an outer screen (24); an obstacle detection device (26); a mounting bracket (30) comprising a fixing portion (40) with a vertical wall (42), first fixing means (44), second fixing means (46) fixed to the outer screen (24); and a receiving portion (52) with a housing (54), the detection device (26) being arranged in said housing (54); characterized in that the fixing portion (40) comprises fusible ribs (56) forming a mesh (58) extending transversely from the first fixing means (44) to the second fixing means (46);said fusible ribs (56) projecting from the vertical wall (42) and being capable of breaking when the fixing portion (40) is compressed longitudinally during a collision at said fixing portion (40).;

2. Assembly (18) according to claim 1, characterized in that the fusible ribs (56) extend vertically and / or horizontally at the level of the first fixing means (44) and the second fixing means (46).

3. Assembly (18) according to one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that the vertical wall (42) comprises an internal surface (62) and an external surface (64) longitudinally opposite the internal surface (62), the fusible ribs (56) projecting from the internal surface (62); preferably, the mesh (58) is continuous over the width of the fixing portion (40), and over the entire height of the fixing portion (40).

4. Assembly (18) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the fusible ribs (56) comprise a first rib (66) at the edge of the fixing portion (40) and having a first thickness (68), and a second rib (70) with a second thickness (72) less than the first thickness (68); preferably the second rib (70) extends from the first rib (66).

5. Assembly (18) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the fixing portion (40) comprises a joining wall (76) which connects the vertical wall (42) to the receiving portion (52); the wall of junction (76) being inclined relative to the vertical wall (42); the mesh (58) extending vertically from the junction wall (76).

6. Assembly (18) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the first fixing means (44) and the second fixing means (46) comprise a first longitudinal length (78), and the fusible ribs (56) comprise a second longitudinal length (80) greater than the first longitudinal length (78); preferably, the second longitudinal length (80) is at least three times greater than the first longitudinal length (78).

7. Assembly (18) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the mesh (58) forms cavities (60) open longitudinally towards the inside; preferably, said cavities (60) form at least two horizontal rows of cavities (60).

8. An assembly (18) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the bumper skin (22) comprises an outer panel (38) with a fixing edge (82), and the outer screen (24) is an air intake grille (32) fixed to the fixing edge (82); the mesh (58) extending vertically at said fixing edge (82).

9. Motor vehicle (10) comprising a bumper system (20) with an assembly, characterized in that the assembly (18) is in accordance with one of claims 1 to 8; preferably, the bumper system (20) is a front bumper system.

10. Motor vehicle (10) according to claim 9, characterized in that the motor vehicle (10) comprises a structure (12) with a cross member (16), the fusible ribs (56) are vertically at the level of said cross member (16).

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