Automotive mudguard with fixing hooks

Abstract

The invention relates to a mudguard (20) attached to a side fender, particularly inside a rear wheel arch of a motor vehicle. The mudguard comprises a vertically extending inner wall (24); a concave outer edge (36); an arched wall (38) between the inner wall and the outer edge; first fastening means (28); and second fastening means (32) transversely at the outer edge (36) and at a distance from the first fastening means. The second fastening means (32) comprise a retaining hook (34) with a downward-facing vertical groove for hooking the retaining hook (34) onto a vertically extending attachment support. Figure to be published with the abstract: Figure 3

Description

Title of the invention: Motor vehicle mud flap with fixing hooks

[0001] The invention relates to a motor vehicle mudguard. The invention relates to the holding of a motor vehicle mudguard. The subject of the invention is a motor vehicle mudguard. The subject of the invention is also a motor vehicle.

[0002] A wheel arch of a motor vehicle is generally equipped with a mudguard, or mud flap. Such equipment comprises a shell partially enveloping a wheel in order to intercept projections occurring during the movement of the vehicle. In a known manner, a mudguard is fixed to the structure of the vehicle using screws; or more generally fixing pins.

[0003] In particular, a mudguard has several fixing lugs allowing it to be fixed to the vehicle body. Some fixing lugs extend vertically and provide fixing in the vertical direction, or Z-shaped fixing. The tops of these lugs then have support facets receiving a fixing axis via an orifice. The fixing axes are attached to the vehicle body. One or more horizontal fixing lugs are used for X-shaped fixing, or longitudinal fixing.

[0004] Document WO2017006003Al presents a motor vehicle comprising: a body, a mudguard secured to the body, a fuel flap, in which the mudguard comprises a gutter having a collector and a channel, the collector being placed directly above the fuel flap. The mudguard comprises an external edge with fixing lugs having horizontal bearing surfaces. These bearing surfaces have fixing orifices fixed to the body.

[0005] However, the fixing of the fixing lugs is indirect since a fixing plate is necessary since the body is vertical opposite these fixing lugs. Furthermore, the fixing requires a certain care since the mudguard is an element that is both extended and flexible. Before and during the fixing by screws, the mudguard must be held precisely by the operator in order to align the different holes.

[0006] The invention aims to address at least one of the problems or drawbacks encountered in the prior art. In particular, the invention aims to simplify the mounting of a motor vehicle mudguard. The invention also aims to optimize the ergonomics and the maintenance at different stages of fixing a motor vehicle mudguard.

[0007] According to a first aspect, the invention proposes a motor vehicle mudguard; the mudguard comprising a vertically extending inner wall; a concave-shaped outer edge; an arcuate wall between the inner wall and the outer edge; first fastening means; second fastening means transversely at the outer edge and at a distance from the first fastening means; remarkable in that the second fastening means comprise a retaining hook with a vertical groove open downwards in order to hook the retaining hook to a vertically extending hooking support.

[0008] The invention adds a retaining hook at the outer edge. This feature allows the mudguard to be suspended from a support. The retaining hook ensures fixing in two stages: before fixing via the first fixing means, then after this fixing. The fixing obtained is more durable; but also more ergonomic.

[0009] Preferably, the retention hook comprises a stiffening rib extending vertically.

[0010] Preferably, the second fixing means comprise an external stop vertically at the level of the retention hook.

[0011] Preferably, the external edge comprises a notch extending to the retention hook.

[0012] Preferably, the retention hook comprises a retention branch, the vertical groove being between the external stop and the retention branch.

[0013] Preferably, the external stop extends longitudinally in front and behind the retention branch.

[0014] Preferably, the arcuate wall comprises a tubular portion, an internal junction between the tubular portion and the internal wall, an external junction between the tubular portion and the external edge; the retention hook being formed in the external junction.

[0015] Preferably, the retention hook is a first retention hook, the second fixing means further comprising a second retention hook longitudinally distant from the first retention hook.

[0016] Preferably, the second retention hook is identical to the first retention hook.

[0017] Preferably, the arcuate wall comprises an upper half and a lower half, the retention hook being in the upper half.

[0018] Preferably, longitudinally, the arched wall comprises a central section, the retention hook being in the central section.

[0019] Preferably, the second fixing means are above the external edge.

[0020] Preferably, the second fixing means are fixing means external.

[0021] Preferably, the retention branch extends vertically.

[0022] Preferably, the hook comprises an external stop facing outwards, a retention branch; the vertical groove is transversely between the external stop and the retention branch.

[0023] Preferably, the second retention hook is longitudinally distant from the first retention hook by at least 5 cm, or at least 10 cm.

[0024] Preferably, the external edge is transversely between the retention branch and the internal wall.

[0025] Preferably, the external stop projects transversely.

[0026] Preferably, the internal wall, the arched wall and the retention hook are made in one piece.

[0027] According to another aspect, the invention provides a motor vehicle mudguard; the mudguard comprising a vertically extending inner wall; an arcuate wall extending transversely from the inner wall; an outer edge transversely opposite the inner wall relative to the arcuate wall, and comprising a concave shape; the outer edge or the inner wall comprises external fixing means; remarkable in that the external fixing means comprise a retaining hook with a vertical groove open downwards in order to hook the retaining hook to a hooking support extending vertically.

[0028] According to another aspect, the invention provides a motor vehicle mudguard; the mudguard comprising a vertically extending inner wall; an arcuate wall extending transversely from the inner wall; an outer edge transversely opposite the inner wall relative to the arcuate wall, the outer edge comprising a concave shape and extending vertically at the inner wall; remarkable in that the outer edge comprises a retaining hook with a vertical groove open downwards in order to hook the retaining hook to a vertically extending hooking support.

[0029] According to another aspect, the invention provides a motor vehicle comprising a structure, a mudguard; remarkable in that the mudguard is in accordance with the invention.

[0030] Preferably, the structure comprises a lateral wing comprising a hooking orifice; the retention hook being fixed to said hooking orifice.

[0031] Preferably, the lateral wing comprises a stiffening imprint extending longitudinally and / or vertically at the level of the attachment orifice and the retention hook.

[0032] Preferably, the motor vehicle comprises fixing pins engaged in the first fixing means and transversely at a distance from the retaining hook.

[0033] Preferably, the mudguard is a rear mudguard.

[0034] Preferably, the lateral wing forms the attachment support.

[0035] Each characteristic introduced by the expression “preferably” given in relation to one of the aspects of the invention applies to all the other aspects of the invention.

[0036] The invention will be well understood and other aspects and advantages will appear clearly on reading the following description, given with reference to the appended figures and listed below.

[0037] [Fig.l] is a side view of a motor vehicle according to the invention.

[0038] [Fig.2] is a side view of a wheel arch of a motor vehicle according to the invention.

[0039] [Fig. 3] is a side view of a motor vehicle mudguard according to the invention.

[0040] [Fig.4] illustrates the operation of attaching an external edge of a mudguard to a side wing of a motor vehicle according to the invention.

[0041] [Fig. 5] is a cross-section of a motor vehicle wheel arch according to the invention.

[0042] [Fig.6] is an isometric view of a motor vehicle mudguard retaining hook according to the invention.

[0043] 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 mudguard to which it relates. It is understood that the term "comprise" includes the terms "consist of". The terms "external" and "internal" will designate respectively that which is oriented towards the outside of the vehicle and towards the inside of the vehicle.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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°; in relation to the strict meaning of these terms.

[0047] In this description, the technical characteristics are defined in the mudguard mounting configuration, unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0048] Throughout the description, the different figures use the same reference signs to designate identical or similar entities.

[0049] [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.

[0050] 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 passenger compartment, the cargo compartment, the engine compartment (not shown). The structure 12 may be formed from an assembly of stamped sheets welded to each other.

[0051] The structure 12 connects different parts of the motor vehicle 10 including the openings. The structure 12 forms a mounting support for the powertrain, the suspension systems, the steering system, the braking systems which are connected to the different wheels 14.

[0052] Each wheel 14 is received in a wheel arch 16. A wheel arch 16 forms a recess in the structure 12 which allows vertical movements and directional movements of a wheel 14. Advantageously, the wheel arches 16, in particular the rear wheel arches, comprise mudguards (not shown). A mudguard forms a screen, a shield, intercepting projections. It contributes to watertightness.

[0053] The wheel arch 16 is delimited by a bodywork element, such as a side wing 18. The side wing 18 forms the external surface of the motor vehicle 10.

[0054] The motor vehicle may, for example, be a private motor vehicle or a utility motor vehicle.

[0055] [Fig. 2] shows a wheel arch 16 equipped with a mudguard 20 of a motor vehicle. The motor vehicle corresponds to that shown in relation to [Fig. 1]. Neither the wheel, nor its suspension system, nor its braking system are shown for the sake of clarity. In this case, the wheel arch 16 is a rear wheel arch.

[0056] The side wing 18 has a concave edge 22 which delimits the wheel arch 16. The concave edge 22 is oriented downwards. The side wing 18 is optionally equipped with a trim (not shown) of the concave edge 22. The trim is a part of finish that hides fixing means.

[0057] The mudguard 20 comprises an internal wall 24 extending vertically. The internal wall 24 is notched. It comprises a central slot 26 for the passage of the suspension system. The central slot 26 extends vertically. The mudguard 20 comprises first fixing means 28. The first fixing means 28 comprise, for example, internal fixing orifices 30 formed on the internal wall 24. The first fixing means 28 are fixed by axes to the structure 12 of the motor vehicle.

[0058] The mudguard 20 further comprises second fixing means 32. The second fixing means 32 comprise at least one, preferably at least two, retaining hooks 34.

[0059] At least one or each retaining hook 34 includes a downwardly open vertical groove for hooking the retaining hook to a hooking support, such as the side wing 18, extending vertically. Each retaining hook is attached to the concave edge 22 of the side wing 18. The concave edge 22 partially obscures the mudguard 20.

[0060] [Fig. 3] shows a mudguard 20 for a motor vehicle. The motor vehicle corresponds to that shown in relation to one of Figures 1 to 2. It may include a front end with an aerodynamic mud flap.

[0061] The mudguard 20 comprises an inner wall 24 extending vertically. The inner wall 24 is perpendicular to the transverse direction. It is generally planar. The mudguard 20 also comprises an outer edge 36. The outer edge 36 is concave in shape and faces downward. It extends vertically at the level of the inner wall 24.

[0062] The mudguard 20 also comprises an arcuate wall 38. The arcuate wall 38 is between the inner wall 24 and the outer edge 36. The arcuate wall 38 may be an upper wall. The arcuate wall 38 may have a constant curvature around a central transverse axis, for example the axis of rotation 64 of the wheel (not shown). The arcuate wall 38 may comprise stiffening ribs in order to fix its radius of curvature, and optionally forming a channel for channeling a liquid.

[0063] The first fixing means 28 comprise fixing studs 40. The fixing studs 40 extend radially, that is to say perpendicularly with respect to the axis of rotation 64 of the wheel associated with the mudguard 20. The fixing studs 40 each comprise a pierced bearing surface intended to be against the structure of the motor vehicle. The fixing studs 40 are formed on the arcuate wall 38. Transversely, they form central fixing means. The fixing studs 40, like the internal fixing orifices 30, are transversely spaced from the external edge 36. In general, the first fixing means 28 are transversely dirty away from the outer edge 36.

[0064] The second fixing means 32 are transversely at the level of the external edge 36. The second fixing means 32 are separate and distinct from the first fixing means 28. The second fixing means 32 are transversely at a distance from the first fixing means 28.

[0065] The second fastening means 32 comprise at least one retaining hook 34 whose hooking groove is vertical. The retaining hook 34 has a downward opening in order to hook onto a hooking support (not shown) which extends vertically. The opening is formed by the hooking groove. Each retaining hook 34 makes it possible to hold the mudguard 20 at a given height.

[0066] When an operator inserts the mudguard 20 into its support, it is held in the high position by means of the retaining hook. From then on, the mudguard 20 remains in place while an operator fixes it using fixing pins 56 in the first fixing means 28. Thus, fixing is easier. The invention provides a gain in ergonomics. Furthermore, each retaining hook 34 provides a dual function since it provides a temporary hold in position during the fixing phase, then a defined hold after locking of the fixing pins 56. The fixing pins 56 are transversely spaced from each retaining hook 34, which allows a transverse distribution of the fixing means, and therefore a more stable hold.

[0067] The second fastening means 32 comprise a first retaining hook 42 and a second retaining hook 44 longitudinally spaced from the first retaining hook 42. The second retaining hook 44 is identical to the first retaining hook 42. The longitudinal offset between these hooks improves the stability of the mudguard 20. It prevents tilting relative to a transverse axis. The fastening operation is simpler since the orientation of the mudguard 20 is fixed as soon as the hooks are both attached to their support. The mudguard 20 is self-stable. For example, the second retaining hook 44 is longitudinally spaced from the first retaining hook 42 by at least: 3 cm, or 5 cm, or 7 cm, or 10 cm. The first retaining hook 42 and the second retaining hook 44 are vertically at the same level. They overlap vertically.

[0068] The arcuate wall 38 comprises an upper half 46 and a lower half 48. At least one or each retention hook 34 is in the upper half 46. The retention hook 34 is in the upper half of the inner wall 24. This high position contributes to the stability of the mudguard 20 once suspended. The attachment becomes simpler. Preferably, the retention hook 34 is in the upper quarter of the arcuate wall 38. Preferably, the retention hook 34 is above the center of gravity of the mudguard 20.

[0069] Longitudinally, the arcuate wall 38 comprises a central section, extending to the more than half, or at most a third, of the arched wall. The retention hook 34 is in the central section. This brings the retention hook 34 closer to the center of gravity. The balance before fixation is improved.

[0070] The mudguard 20 is optionally a single piece. The retaining hook 34, the arcuate wall 38 and the internal wall 24 are made in one piece. They can be produced by molding an injected plastic resin.

[0071] [Fig. 4] shows an operation of attaching a mudguard 20 to a side wing 18 of a motor vehicle. The motor vehicle corresponds to that presented in relation to one of FIGS. 1 to 3. During the attachment operation, the mudguard 20 is introduced into the wheel arch 16 in the vertical direction, and pressed upwards against the structure.

[0072] The outer edge 36 of the mudguard 20 generally forms a line with a continuous curvature. The outer edge 36 generally matches the concave edge 22 of the side wing 18. The outer edge 36 comprises a notch 50 extending to the retention hook 34. The notch 50 forms a discontinuity in the outer edge 36. Preferably, the outer edge 36 comprises a notch 50 associated with each retention hook 34.

[0073] Each retention hook 34 comprises a vertical groove 52 intended to receive a support zone of the side wing 18 in order to maintain the mudguard 20 in height. The vertical groove 52 passes longitudinally through. The vertical groove 52 is open downwards. It comprises a downward insertion direction, and an upward retention direction.

[0074] The lateral wing 18 comprises a hooking orifice 54 associated with each retaining hook 34. In this case, the lateral wing 18 comprises two hooking orifices 54. The hooking orifices 54 are above the concave edge 22; preferably above its top.

[0075] For each retaining hook 34, the lateral wing 18 comprises a stiffening imprint 58. The stiffening imprint 58 may be a stamping. It forms a stiffening irregularity. The stiffening imprint 58 may be inward in order to facilitate the mounting of an exterior finishing element. The stiffening imprint 58 extends longitudinally and / or vertically at the level of the associated hooking orifice 54 and the retaining hook 34. The stiffening imprint 58 delimits a hollow in which a hooking orifice 54 is placed. Thus, the stiffening imprint 58 delimits a strengthened hooking zone. The hooking support, in this case the lateral wing 18, does not deform under the effect of the weight of the mudguard 20.

[0076] [Fig. 5] is a section of the mudguard 20 and the side wing 18 delimiting a wheel arch 16 of a motor vehicle. The motor vehicle corresponds to that presented in relation to one of figures 1 to 4.

[0077] The mudguard 20 comprises a vertically extending inner wall 24; an arcuate wall 38 extending from the inner wall 24; an outer edge 36 transversely opposite the inner wall 24; first fastening means (not shown); second fastening means 32 spaced from the first fastening means. The second fastening means 32 comprise external fastening means and / or upper fastening means. The second fastening means 32 comprise a retaining hook 34 with a downwardly open vertical groove for suspending the retaining hook from a vertically extending attachment support. The retaining hook 34 is engaged in a attachment orifice 54 bordered by a stiffening imprint 58. The stiffening imprint 58 forms a hollow on the outer face of the side wing 18.

[0078] The retention hook 34 forms a transverse end of the mudguard 20. The retention hook 34 includes a stiffening rib 60 extending vertically. This orientation strengthens the retention hook 34, and reduces deformations of the outer edge 36. The retention hook 34 is configured to support the weight of the mudguard 20. At the outer edge 36, the side wing 18 extends vertically. The side wing 18 extends vertically along the entire length of the outer edge 36.

[0079] The arcuate wall 38 comprises a tubular portion 62, forming its main portion. It extends transversely over at least half of the mudguard 20. The tubular portion 62 generally extends horizontally. It has a constant radius relative to the axis of rotation 64 of the wheel; or varying by at most 10%, preferably by at most 5%; relative to its average radius. The arcuate wall 38 comprises an internal junction 66 between the tubular portion 62 and the internal wall 24; an external junction 68 between the tubular portion 62 and the external edge 36. The external junction 68 has a bent profile. The retention hook 34 is formed in the external junction 68. The stiffening grooves 70 are formed on the tubular portion 62. This configuration makes it possible to offset the retention hook 34, but also to install it in a rigid zone of the mudguard 20.

[0080] [Fig. 6] shows a retaining hook 34 for a motor vehicle mudguard. The motor vehicle corresponds to that shown in relation to one of Figures 1 to 5.

[0081] The retaining hook 34 comprises at least one stiffening rib 60, preferably two stiffening ribs 60, extending vertically. Each stiffening rib 60 projects transversely from the outer junction 68. The stiffening rib 60 transversely passes through the outer edge 36. The outer edge 36 may comprise a stiffening rim. The outer edge 36 comprises a notch 50 extending to the retaining hook 34. The notch 50 forms a vertical notch. It facilitates demolding.

[0082] The second fixing means 32 comprise an external stop 72. The external stop 72 is intended to bear against the side wing, against its internal face. The external stop 72 is vertically at the level of the retention hook 34. This configuration improves the positioning precision provided by the second fixing means 32. This also contributes to the rigidity of the mudguard at the level of the retention hook 34. The external stop 72 comprises a vertical blade extending at the level of the retention hook 34.

[0083] The retaining hook 34 comprises a retaining branch 74. The retaining branch 74 forms a vertical tab. Each stiffening rib 60 extends into the retaining branch 74. The vertical groove 52 of the retaining hook 34 is between the outer stop 72 and the retaining branch 74. The outer stop 72 extends longitudinally in front and behind the retaining hook 34. The outer stop 72 may be in two parts, with the retaining branch 74 between them.

[0084] The present figure is described in relation to a single retention hook 34, which is for example a first retention hook. However, the characteristics described above apply to each retention hook, for example to the second retention hook longitudinally distant from the first retention hook. In particular, the second retention hook is associated with another external stop identical to that of the first retention hook.

[0085] According to a preferred embodiment, the mudguard 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.

[0086] The mudguard comprises at least 10% by weight of recycled plastic material based on the total weight of the plastic material; preferably from 10 to 80% by weight; more preferably from 20 to 60% by weight or from 30 to 40% by weight. The use of recycled plastic material reduces the ecological footprint of the vehicle.

[0087] The invention comprises the combination of all the embodiments shown by all the figures.

[0088] Figures 2 to 6 are isometric views. They each respect a specific scale, real angles and real proportions.

Claims

Claims

1. Mudguard (20) for a motor vehicle (10); the mudguard (20) comprising a vertically extending inner wall (24); a concave outer edge (36); an arcuate wall (38) between the inner wall (24) and the outer edge (36); first fastening means (28); second fastening means (32) transversely at the outer edge (36) and at a distance from the first fastening means (28); the second fastening means (32) comprise a retaining hook (34) with a vertical groove (52) open downwards in order to hook the retaining hook (34) to a vertically extending hooking support.

2. Mud flap (20) according to claim 1, characterized in that the retaining hook (34) comprises a stiffening rib (60) extending vertically.

3. Mudguard (20) according to one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that the second fixing means (32) comprise an external stop (72) vertically at the level of the retaining hook (34); preferably, the external edge (36) comprises a notch (50) extending to the retaining hook (34).

4. Mudguard (20) according to claim 3, characterized in that the retaining hook (34) comprises a retaining branch (74), the vertical groove (52) being between the external stop (72) and the retaining branch (74); preferably, the external stop (72) extends longitudinally in front and behind the retaining branch (74).

5. Mudguard (20) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the arcuate wall (38) comprises a tubular portion (62), an internal junction (66) between the tubular portion (62) and the internal wall (24), an external junction (68) between the tubular portion (62) and the external edge (36); the retention hook (34) being formed in the external junction (68).

6. Mudguard (20) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the retaining hook (34) is a first retaining hook (42), the second fixing means (32) further comprising a second retaining hook (44) longitudinally distant from the first retaining hook (42); preferably the second retaining hook (44) is identical to the first retaining hook (42).

7. Mudguard (20) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that

8.

9.

10. that the arcuate wall (38) comprises an upper half (46) and a lower half (48), the retaining hook (34) being in the upper half (46). Motor vehicle (10) comprising a structure (12), a mudguard (20); characterized in that the mudguard (20) conforms to one of claims 1 to 7; preferably the structure (12) comprises a lateral wing (18) comprising a hooking orifice (54); the retaining hook (34) being fixed to said hooking orifice (54). Motor vehicle (10) according to claim 8, characterized in that the lateral wing (18) comprises a stiffening imprint (58) extending longitudinally and / or vertically at the level of the attachment orifice (54) and the retention hook (34). Motor vehicle (10) according to one of claims 8 to 9, characterized in that the motor vehicle (10) comprises fixing pins (56) engaged in the first fixing means (28) and transversely at a distance from the retaining hook (34).

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