Set for regulated air intake of motor vehicle

The regulating device with a peripheral frame and vertical stops addresses the safety and repairability challenges of controlled air intake modules by enabling adaptive movement during different collision types, enhancing safety and reducing component damage.

FR3158688A1Pending Publication Date: 2025-08-01STELLANTIS AUTO SAS
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Patent Information

Application Number
FR2024000904
Authority / Receiving Office
FR · FR
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-01-30
Publication Date
2025-08-01

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing controlled air intake modules in motor vehicles face challenges in optimizing safety during pedestrian impacts while maintaining repairability during frontal collisions, as they often create hard points that compromise deformability and increase the risk of damage to mechanical components.

Method used

The assembly includes a regulating device with a peripheral frame and vertical stops that allow longitudinal movement during pedestrian impacts, and provide support during wall impacts, featuring a longitudinal clearance and mechanical play to adapt to different collision scenarios.

Benefits of technology

This design enhances safety by minimizing leg injuries during pedestrian impacts and reduces the risk of damage to mechanical parts during wall collisions, while maintaining optimal aerodynamic performance.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The invention relates to an assembly for regulated air intake of a motor vehicle. The assembly comprises: a lower cross member (16) with a front surface (60); a regulating device (22) comprising a peripheral frame (40) with an upper surface (44) and a lower surface (46) above the lower cross member; shutter blades (48) through the peripheral frame; an actuator (50) for driving the shutter blades. The peripheral frame comprises at least one vertical stop (56) with a rear surface (58) projecting under the lower surface facing the lower cross member; the assembly having a longitudinal clearance (62) between the rear surface (58) and the front surface (60) so as to allow longitudinal movement of the vertical stop (56) relative to the lower cross member in the event of pedestrian impact at the regulating device (22). Figure to be published with the abstract: Figure 4
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Description

Title of the invention: Assembly for regulated air intake of a motor vehicle

[0001] The invention relates to collision at a regulated air intake of a motor vehicle. The invention relates to an air regulation device in a front bumper of a motor vehicle. The invention relates more specifically to an assembly for a regulated air intake of a motor vehicle. The invention also relates to a motor vehicle.

[0002] To optimize the aerodynamics of motor vehicles, reduce their energy consumption and CO2 emissions, controlled air intakes are now installed on the front of said vehicles. They make it possible to optimize aerodynamics by adjusting the air intake to just what is necessary. The closer they are to the overall surface, the greater the aerodynamic gain. These controlled air intakes are equipped with movable flaps. These movable flaps are part of a controlled air intake module generally designated by the acronym "MEAP". They are capable of being controlled by an engine between an open position when it is necessary to increase heat exchange; and a closed position otherwise, in order to reduce aerodynamic drag and reduce the vehicle's fuel consumption.

[0003] The controlled air intake module is typically fixed under the upper bumper crossmember and on the bumper deflector, that is to say on deformable elements. It will therefore move in the event of an impact towards the motor-fan unit, carried by the bumper crossmember(s).

[0004] On electric vehicles in particular, there will often be two cross members dedicated to shock absorption, one aligned with the vehicle's side members, and another with the cradle. Since these electric vehicles are less demanding in terms of air intake surface area, the cassette of the controlled air intake module will very often be located opposite the single air intake on the shield, between the two cross members.

[0005] A controlled air intake module will generally comprise a support on which the said cassette(s) are held and which is fixed to the front face of the motor-fan unit. This fixing is done for example by means of four links arranged at the four corners of the controlled air intake module. In the event of an impact, the assembly formed by the motor-fan unit and the controlled air intake module moves towards the rear of the vehicle along the longitudinal axis thereof, pushed by the bumper elements including the supports, the frames. This is made possible by fixing the motor-fan unit to the lower and upper front crossmembers by means of movable studs configured to unclip when sufficient pressure is exerted on the motor-fan unit and to allow a depression stroke along the longitudinal axis of the vehicle over a predefined distance, for example 40 mm.

[0006] Unfortunately, the addition of elements in the upper part of the bumper crossmember can cause certain disadvantages such as the generation of hard points under the hood. These hard points become detrimental to the vehicle's deformability requirements in the event of a pedestrian impact. They imply a reduction in the compressible nature of the front end or an increased risk of damage to the motor-fan assembly in the event of an impact against a rigid element. Such risks reduce the classification of the vehicle according to the RCAR system, the acronym for which corresponds to the English expression "Research Council for Automobile Repairs".

[0007] Indeed, the behavior of the controlled air intake module optimized for pedestrian impact cases differs from that expected during an impact with a rigid vertical element: for example a wall.

[0008] During a pedestrian impact, it is mainly the pedestrian's leg that initiates contact with the vehicle via the front face of the latter, therefore at the level of the controlled air intake module and the lower deflector. Optimally, the controlled air intake module must move back upon contact with the leg, without opposing any force to it. Only the deflector must rest on the lower crossmember to take up the force in order to achieve a satisfactory level of performance in the event of a leg impact. Therefore, the objective is to have a low point of contact as early as possible and as low as possible to effectively send the lower limb of the leg back and thus reduce knee elongations, that is to say by keeping the leg as straight as possible.

[0009] Conversely, an impact with a rigid element must allow the energy of the impact to be absorbed while avoiding as much as possible damage to the functional elements of the vehicle in order to ensure optimal repairability. In the case of such an impact, the controlled air intake module must rest on the lower crossmember of the bumper to avoid damaging the cooling facade via an excessive force input on the air duct. The two scenarios of pedestrian impact and wall impact are therefore contradictory: in the first case, the controlled air intake module must slide above the lower crossmember without effort; in the second case, it must rest on it.

[0010] Document FR3041581B1 describes a controlled air intake fixed under the upper bumper crossmember and on the bumper deflector, i.e. on deformable elements. There is therefore displacement in the event of an impact in the direction of the motor-fan unit, carried by the bumper crossmember. In the event of a pedestrian impact, a fusible tab will allow the longitudinal displacement of the controlled air intake module towards the motor-fan unit; conversely, in the event of a rigid frontal impact, the air intake module The controlled air intake will act as an absorber to protect the motor-fan unit. This solution provides a gain in terms of safety. It is based on a certain compromise between safety and repairability during pedestrian impact and wall impact respectively. However, there is a need to further improve safety, and in particular to offer another compromise.

[0011] The invention aims to address at least one of the problems or drawbacks encountered in the prior art. In particular, the invention aims to improve the safety of a motor vehicle during a pedestrian impact. The invention also aims to optimize safety during a pedestrian impact and repairability during a frontal collision against a wall, at a regulated air intake of a motor vehicle.

[0012] According to a first aspect, the invention proposes an assembly for regulated air intake of a motor vehicle, said assembly comprising: a lower cross member with a front surface; a regulating device comprising a peripheral frame with an upper surface and a lower surface above the lower cross member; at least one shutter blade through the peripheral frame; an actuator configured to drive the at least one shutter blade; remarkable in that the peripheral frame comprises at least one vertical stop with a rear surface projecting under the lower surface facing the lower cross member; the assembly having a longitudinal clearance between the rear surface and the front surface so as to allow longitudinal movement of the vertical stop relative to the lower cross member in the event of pedestrian impact at the regulating device.

[0013] The invention adapts the vertical stop by associating it with mechanical play, such as a travel stroke, in order to retract the regulation device in the event of a pedestrian impact involving a leg. This stop can also provide support in the event of an impact against a wall, in order to protect the mechanical parts placed behind it.

[0014] Preferably, the regulating device comprises at least one fixing lug projecting from the upper surface.

[0015] Preferably, the at least one fixing lug comprises two transversely offset fixing lugs.

[0016] Preferably, the front surface comprises an upper edge, the rear surface comprises a lower edge; the assembly has a first radius between the fixing lug and the lower edge, and a second radius between the fixing lug and the upper edge, the second radius being greater than the first radius.

[0017] Preferably, the peripheral frame comprises a front face, a rear face, a central section between the front face and the rear face, the fixing lug being at the level of the front face, and / or the vertical stop is longitudinally at the level of the central section.

[0018] Preferably, the at least one vertical stop comprises a row of stiffening ribs.

[0019] Preferably, said stiffening ribs are in front of the rear surface.

[0020] Preferably, the at least one vertical stop extends transversely over at least one half of the at least one shutter blade.

[0021] Preferably, the longitudinal clearance comprises a longitudinal length of at least 50 mm.

[0022] Preferably, the at least one vertical stop has a height of between 10 and 30 mm and / or a thickness of between 1 and 3 mm.

[0023] Preferably, the front surface is under the regulating device.

[0024] Preferably, the peripheral frame is a first frame forming a first regulation module, the regulation device further comprising a second regulation module identical to the first regulation module.

[0025] Preferably, the fixing lug comprises a fixing orifice, the first radius and the second radius are measured from said orifice.

[0026] Preferably, the at least one stop extends over the entire width of the lower surface of the peripheral frame of the regulation device.

[0027] Preferably, the at least one or each fixing lug has a transverse width of between 35 mm and 55 mm and / or a longitudinal length of between 22 mm and 80 mm.

[0028] Preferably, the lower surface is vertically opposite the upper surface.

[0029] Preferably, the regulated air inlet comprises a protective grille in front of the regulation device.

[0030] Preferably, the lower stop extends vertically at the level of the lower crosspiece.

[0031] Preferably, the regulation device comprises a longitudinal passage passing longitudinally through the peripheral frame.

[0032] Preferably, the at least one vertical stop extends transversely over the entire width of the longitudinal passage.

[0033] According to another aspect, the invention provides a motor vehicle, comprising a regulated air intake with an assembly, remarkable in that the assembly is in accordance with the invention.

[0034] Preferably, the regulated air inlet comprises a bumper skin surrounding said regulated air inlet, an upper cross member extending above the upper surface of the peripheral frame, and an air duct communicating with the peripheral frame.

[0035] Preferably, the motor vehicle comprises a lower deflector vertically at the level of the lower cross member, and has a longitudinal spacing between the front surface of the lower cross member and the lower deflector, the longitudinal spacing being less than the longitudinal clearance; more preferably at least five times less.

[0036] Preferably, the motor vehicle comprises an upper cross member vertically above the upper surface.

[0037] Preferably, the fixing lug extends vertically under the upper crosspiece.

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] [Fig.l] is a side view of a motor vehicle according to the invention.

[0041] [Fig.2] shows a motor vehicle front bumper system according to the invention, hitting a pedestrian's leg.

[0042] [Fig. 3] is a rear view of a regulating device for an input assembly regulated air supply for a motor vehicle according to the invention.

[0043] [Fig.4] is a section of an assembly for a regulated vehicle air intake automobile according to the invention.

[0044] [Fig.5] is a bottom view of a peripheral frame stop of a device regulation for a motor vehicle assembly according to the invention.

[0045] [Fig.6] is a section of an assembly for a regulated vehicle air intake automobile according to the invention, upon impact against a wall.

[0046] 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 designate respectively that which is oriented towards the outside of the vehicle and towards the inside of the vehicle.

[0047] In the present description, the term “longitudinal”, the term “longitudinally”, the term “transverse”, and the term “transversely” are used according to the reference system 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 vehicle's primary direction of travel. The term "rear" refers to the opposite of the front of the vehicle.

[0048] 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.

[0049] In the present description, the ranges of values include the limits which delimit them.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] In this description, the technical characteristics are defined in the assembly configuration of the assembly, unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0053] Throughout the description, the different figures use the same reference signs to designate identical or similar entities.

[0054] [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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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. In the front part, the structure 12 comprises at least one crossmember, preferably two crossmembers. The crossmembers are also referred to as transverse beams.

[0057] These crosspieces comprise an upper crosspiece 14 and a lower crosspiece 16. They are superimposed. Each crosspiece is associated with a shock absorber 18. A shock absorber 18 is capable of absorbing the energy of an impact in the event of an impact. pedestrian and / or low-speed impact. Low speed means a speed of no more than 15 km / h. In the event of a pedestrian hitting a leg, it limits possible injuries. The shock absorber 18 comprises a foam block, or an air pocket. It contributes to safety.

[0058] The motor vehicle 10 further comprises a regulated air inlet 20, also called a controlled air inlet. The regulated air inlet 20 is equipped with a regulating device 22 which forms an incoming flow control passage. The regulating device 22 modulates the incoming air flow, and optionally cuts it off. The regulated air inlet 20 is advantageously a central inlet and / or a lower inlet. It communicates with the environment of the motor vehicle 10. The regulated air inlet 20 generally has a protective grille (not shown) integrated into the bumper skin 24 of the front bumper system 26. The bumper skin surrounds said regulated air inlet 20.

[0059] The motor vehicle may, for example, be a private motor vehicle or a utility motor vehicle.

[0060] According to one embodiment of the invention, the motor vehicle is an electric motor vehicle. For example, the motor vehicle comprises a single regulated air inlet; preferably in the lower half of the bumper skin.

[0061] [Fig. 2] shows a front bumper system 26 of a motor vehicle during a pedestrian collision simulation against a dummy. The front bumper system 26 here strikes a dummy's leg 28. The motor vehicle may correspond to that shown in relation to [Fig. 1].

[0062] The leg 28 reaches the front bumper system 26 at the regulated air inlet 20. The regulating device 22 forms a passage and an inflow control door. It is upstream of the heat exchanger faceplate 30. The regulating device 22 communicates with the heat exchanger faceplate 30 via an air duct 32. For example, the heat exchanger faceplate 30 is a cooling faceplate. The heat exchanger faceplate 30 contributes to the cooling of the vehicle interior, and optionally to the cooling of a heat engine.

[0063] When the leg 28 is pushed in, it moves closer to the regulating device 22 which is vertically between the lower crosspiece 16 and the upper crosspiece 14. When the pushing in reaches a certain depth, the regulating device 22 is likely to push the air duct 32. In certain circumstances, too much recoil of the latter is likely to damage the heat exchanger front 30. Such an event aggravates the damage.

[0064] The lower deflector 34 houses a shock absorber 18. At the start of a pedestrian impact, the leg 28 encounters the lower deflector 34. It is configured to reach the leg 28 at the start of the collision in order to keep it straight and limit twisting at the knee. This limits injuries, and therefore contributes to safety.

[0065] The lower deflector 34 is under the regulating device 22. It faces the lower cross member 16. It bears on it during the pedestrian impact. The lower deflector 34 is at the level of the lower cross member 16. It has a longitudinal gap 36 between a front surface of the lower cross member 16 and the lower deflector 34. During the impact, the longitudinal gap 36 closes.

[0066] The regulated air inlet 20 is protected by a grille 54. The grille 54 blocks projections and masks the regulation device 22. The grille 54 is integrated into the bumper skin.

[0067] [Fig. 3] shows, from the rear, a regulating device 22 for regulated air intake of a motor vehicle. The motor vehicle may correspond to that shown in relation to one of Figures 1 to 2.

[0068] The regulation device 22, also called a cassette, comprises at least one regulation module 38. In this case, it comprises two symmetrical regulation modules 38. They are similar or identical. The regulation device 22 is therefore split into two lateral portions. In the remainder of the description, the two regulation modules 38 will be described with reference to one of the two.

[0069] The regulating module 38 comprises a peripheral frame 40. The peripheral frame 40 surrounds a longitudinal passage 42 through the regulating device 22. The peripheral frame 40 forms a closed loop around the longitudinal passage 42. The peripheral frame 40 generally has a rectangular shape. However, any other shape can be adopted. The peripheral frame 40 comprises an upper surface 44 and a lower surface 46 above the lower crossmember (not shown).

[0070] The regulation module 38 comprises at least one shutter blade 48 through the peripheral frame 40 and / or the longitudinal passage 42. The shutter blades 48 are rotatable. Each shutter blade 48 is movable between an open position and a closed position which opposes a flow circulation through the longitudinal passage 42. The movements and the intermediate positions of the shutter blades 48 make it possible to regulate the air flow.

[0071] The regulation device 22 comprises an actuator 50. The actuator 50 is for example a rotating motor or a cylinder. It is electric or pneumatic. The actuator 50 is configured to drive the shutter blades 50. It contributes to the air inlet control. The actuator 50 is common to the two regulation modules 38.

[0072] The regulating device 22 comprises at least one fixing tab 52 projecting from the upper surface 44. In the present embodiment, two fixing lugs 52 are provided. Each fixing lug 52 is associated with one of the peripheral frames 40. Each fixing lug has a fixing hole intended to be fixed to the bumper skin. Each fixing lug 52 has a transverse width of between 35 mm and 55 mm and / or a longitudinal length of between 20 mm and 80 mm.

[0073] According to one embodiment of the invention, the regulation device comprises a single regulation module, or three regulation modules.

[0074] [Fig. 4] shows a section of an assembly including a regulating device 22 and a lower cross member 16 of a motor vehicle. The motor vehicle may correspond to that presented in relation to one of figures 1 to 3. The assembly optionally includes the upper cross member 14 (partially shown.

[0075] The lower cross member 16 comprises a profile. It is hollow and has a rectangular profile. The lower cross member 16 is preferably metallic. It is connected to the structure of the motor vehicle. It can be arched forward. It is capable of deforming by absorbing the energy of a frontal impact at the level of the regulating device 22.

[0076] The regulating device 22 comprises a peripheral frame 40 with an upper surface 44 and a lower surface 46 which are generally horizontal. The lower surface 46 is vertically opposite the upper surface 44. The regulating device 22 further comprises at least one shutter blade 48 through the peripheral frame 40 and an actuator 50 for driving the shutter blades 48. The shutter blades 48 are here in a closed configuration. The upper surface 44 is generally horizontal.

[0077] The peripheral frame 40 comprises at least one vertical stop 56 with a rear surface 58 projecting under the lower surface 46 facing the lower cross member 16. The rear surface 58 is opposite the lower cross member 16. The rear surface 58 is parallel to the front surface 60 of the lower cross member 16. It is vertical and perpendicular to the lower surface 46. The vertical stop 56 preferably extends over the entire transverse width of the lower surface 46 for the transmission of forces.

[0078] The assembly has a longitudinal clearance 62 between the rear surface 58 of the vertical stop 56 and the front surface 60 of the lower cross member 16. These surfaces overlap. They cover each other vertically. The longitudinal clearance 62 allows a longitudinal displacement of the vertical stop 56 relative to the lower cross member 16 in the event of a pedestrian impact at the level of the regulation device 22, or more generally at the level of the regulated air inlet. The longitudinal clearance 62 allows a recoil of the regulation device 22 relative to the lower cross member 16 in the event of a pedestrian impact as in the event of a wall impact.

[0079] The longitudinal clearance 62 measures at least 50 mm. This value optimizes safety and sealing.

[0080] The regulating device 22 comprises a fixing lug 52 extending from the upper surface 44. The fixing lug 52 forms the top of the peripheral frame 40. The fixing lug 52 materializes a tipping point in the event of a pedestrian impact. The combination of the two fixing lugs 52 forms a hinge with a transverse tipping axis.

[0081] The front surface 60 of the lower cross member 16 comprises an upper edge 64. The upper edge 64 extends transversely. The upper edge 64 is generally horizontal. It may be formed by a rounding of the lower cross member 16. The rear surface 58 of the vertical stop 56 comprises a lower edge 66, for example running along the upper edge 64. The assembly has a first radius 68 extending from the fixing lug 52 to the lower edge 66, and a second radius 70 extending from the fixing lug 52 to the upper edge 64. The second radius 70 is longer than the first radius 68, preferably from 1 mm to 30 mm, more preferably from 3 mm to 10 mm. The radii may be measured from the fixing holes. They may be perpendicular to the transverse direction.

[0082] Thanks to the difference in radii, in the event of a pedestrian impact whose leg pushes the regulating device 22 in the lower part, the latter tilts backwards without opposing any resistance to said leg. In particular, the vertical stop 56 moves longitudinally by reducing the longitudinal play 62, then avoids the lower cross member 16 by going around it from above. The risk of a hard point being present is reduced, which helps to reduce possible injuries. The range of difference in radii also optimizes the compactness and the bearing capacity of the vertical stop 56 against the lower cross member 16 for the wall impact.

[0083] The peripheral frame 40 comprises a front face 72, a rear face 74, a central section 76. The central section 76 preferably extends over a longitudinal half of the regulating device 22, more preferably of the peripheral frame 40. The central section 76 is longitudinally between the front face 72 and the rear face 74. The fixing lug 52 is at the level of the front face 72, which facilitates the tilting towards the rear of the regulating device 22 in the event of an impact, in addition to a rise of the vertical stop 56. The vertical stop 56 is longitudinally at the level of the central section 76. Generally, the vertical stop 56 is longitudinally in the center of the peripheral frame 40. This improves the transmission of force, and prevents the tearing of the vertical stop 56 in the event that it reaches the lower cross member 16.

[0084] The vertical stop 56 is vertically spaced from the lower deflector 34. The lower deflector 34 is vertically at the level of the lower crosspiece 16. The longitudinal spacing 36 longitudinally separates the front surface 60 from the lower deflector 34. The longitudinal spacing 36 is less than the longitudinal clearance 62. The longitudinal spacing 36 is at least two times less, preferably at least five times less, more preferably at least ten times less than the longitudinal clearance 62.

[0085] [Fig. 5] shows from the front a vertical stop 56 of a regulating device for a motor vehicle. The motor vehicle may correspond to that presented in relation to one of Figures 1 to 4. The present vertical stop 56 is representative of each vertical stop 56 of the regulating device.

[0086] The vertical stop 56 includes a row of stiffening ribs 78. The stiffening ribs 78 extend vertically from the bottom surface 46. The vertical stop 56 includes a rear wall 80 forming the rear surface 58. The stiffening ribs 78 extend forward of the rear wall 80. The stiffening ribs 78 are forward of the rear surface 58. The stiffening ribs 78 reinforce the vertical stop 56, and limit its risk of tearing off in the event of contact with the bottom cross member (not shown).

[0087] The vertical stop 56 extends transversely over at least one half of the at least one shutter blade (not shown) overhanging it. Preferably, the vertical stop 56 extends transversely over the entire shutter blade.

[0088] The vertical stop 56 has a height between 10 and 30 mm. The height is measured vertically. This height range provides a compromise between compactness and support of the rear surface 58 in the event of contact with the lower crossbar. This also provides a compromise on the ease of bypassing the lower crossbar when the control device tilts in the event of a pedestrian impact.

[0089] The vertical stop 56 has a thickness between 1.00 mm and 3.00 mm. This thickness is the thickness of the rear wall 80. This thickness range optimizes rigidity and mass.

[0090] According to one embodiment of the invention, the regulation device comprises a vertical stop per regulation module. According to an alternative, the regulation device comprises a transverse row of vertical stops for each regulation module.

[0091] [Fig.6] shows the assembly for regulated air intake of a motor vehicle. The motor vehicle corresponds to that shown in relation to one of Figures 1 to 5. The assembly is shown during an impact against a wall: the regulating device 22 moves back, and the vertical stop 56 bears against the lower cross member 16. This type of impact is also called a repairable impact when the speed remains below a threshold.

[0092] Upon encountering the wall, the bumper skin pushes the regulating device 22 which moves back. It generally performs a translation. The vertical stop 56 approaches of the lower cross member 16. The peripheral frame 40 can rest on it. The longitudinal clearance 62 shortens. The regulating device 22 moves back under the upper cross member 14, avoiding a lower stud 82 extending from the latter.

[0093] Thus, the regulation device 22 is capable of following two behaviors in the event of a frontal impact. In the event of a pedestrian striking a leg, it tilts without the appearance of a hard point. On the other hand, in the event of an impact against a flat, vertical obstacle such as a wall, the regulation device 22 translates backwards. However, its travel is limited by the vertical stop 56 when it comes to bear against the lower crosspiece 16. The risk of damaging the heat exchanger facade is contained.

[0094] According to a preferred embodiment, the peripheral frame 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.

[0095] The peripheral frame 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.

[0096] The invention comprises the combination of all the embodiments illustrated by all the figures.

[0097] Figures 2 to 6 are isometric views. They each respect a specific scale, real angles and real proportions.

Claims

Claims

1. Assembly for regulated air intake (20) of a motor vehicle (10), said assembly comprising: a lower cross member (16) with a front surface (60); a regulating device (22) comprising a peripheral frame (40) with an upper surface (44) and a lower surface (46) above the lower cross member (16); at least one shutter blade (48) through the peripheral frame (40); an actuator (50) configured to drive the at least one shutter blade (48); characterized in that the peripheral frame (40) comprises at least one vertical stop (56) with a rear surface (58) projecting under the lower surface (46) facing the lower cross member (16);the assembly having a longitudinal clearance (62) between the rear surface (58) and the front surface (60) so as to allow longitudinal movement of the vertical stop (56) relative to the lower cross member (16) in the event of pedestrian impact at the level of the regulation device (22).;

2. Assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the regulating device (22) comprises at least one fixing lug (52) projecting from the upper surface (44); preferably the at least one fixing lug (52) comprises two fixing lugs (52) offset transversely.

3. An assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that the front surface (60) comprises an upper edge (64), the rear surface (58) comprises a lower edge (66); the assembly has a first radius (68) between the fixing lug (52) and the lower edge (66), and a second radius (70) between the fixing lug (52) and the upper edge (64), the second radius (70) being greater than the first radius (68).

4. Assembly according to one of claims 2 to 3, characterized in that the peripheral frame (40) comprises a front face (72), a rear face (74), a central section (76) between the front face (72) and the rear face (74), the fixing lug (52) being at the level of the front face (72), and / or the vertical stop (56) is longitudinally at the level of the central section (76).

5. Assembly according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the at least one vertical stop (56) comprises a row of stiffening ribs (78); preferably said stiffening ribs (78) are in front of the rear surface (58).

6. Assembly according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the at least one vertical stop (56) extends transversely over at least one half of the at least one closure blade (48).

7. Assembly according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the longitudinal clearance (62) comprises a longitudinal length of at least 50 mm.

8. Assembly according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the at least one vertical stop (56) has a height of between 10 and 30 mm and / or a thickness of between 1 and 3 mm.

9. Motor vehicle (10), comprising a regulated air inlet (20) with an assembly, characterized in that the assembly is in accordance with one of claims 1 to 8, preferably the regulated air inlet (20) comprises a bumper skin (24) surrounding said regulated air inlet (20), an upper cross member (14) extending above the upper surface (44) of the peripheral frame (40), and an air duct (32) communicating with the peripheral frame (40).

10. Motor vehicle (10) according to claim 9, characterized in that the motor vehicle (10) comprises a lower deflector (34) vertically at the level of the lower cross member (16), and has a longitudinal spacing (36) between the front surface (60) of the lower cross member (16) and the lower deflector (34), the longitudinal spacing (36) being less than the longitudinal clearance (62); preferably at least five times less.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

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