Automotive front bumper frame with camera

The bumper frame's innovative design with inclined branches and a central recess ensures safe retraction of electronic devices during collisions, addressing the constraint of camera movement and enhancing safety and repairability in motor vehicle bumper systems.

FR3162699A1Pending Publication Date: 2025-12-05STELLANTIS AUTO SAS
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Patent Information

Application Number
FR2024005453
Authority / Receiving Office
FR · FR
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-05-28
Publication Date
2025-12-05

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing motor vehicle bumper designs constrain the movement of front-mounted cameras and other electronic devices during pedestrian collisions, potentially causing injuries due to rigid components forming hard points, and fail to optimize safety and repairability.

Method used

A front bumper frame with a lower part featuring an enlarged central recess and lateral recesses, allowing for the free movement of electronic devices by inclining branches at angles between 10° and 50°, and incorporating a connecting bar for attachment to the bumper crossmember, ensuring no hard points form during impacts.

Benefits of technology

The frame design enhances safety by preventing electronic devices from becoming obstacles during collisions, meeting safety standards and optimizing repairability by allowing devices to retract without causing injury, while maintaining aerodynamic considerations.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The invention relates to a frame (18) for a front bumper system (14) for a motor vehicle, the frame (18) comprising: a vertical axis (92), a horizontal upper portion (20), a lower portion (22) extending vertically below the upper portion; said lower portion comprising two lateral pillars, a central zone (52) with a central passage (30) running longitudinally through the lower portion (22); the central zone and the lateral pillars being intended to be fixed to a front bumper crossmember (16) of the motor vehicle. The central zone (52) comprises a first arm (26) and a second arm (28), each inclined with respect to the vertical axis (92) at an angle of inclination (60) between 10° and 50°, the first arm (26) and the second arm (28) diverging from each other towards the upper portion (20). Figure to be published with the abbreviation: Figure 5
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Description

Title of the invention: Front bumper frame for motor vehicles with camera

[0001] The invention relates to passive safety in the event of a pedestrian collision involving a motor vehicle. More specifically, the invention relates to a motor vehicle bumper frame. The invention also relates to a motor vehicle.

[0002] A motor vehicle is equipped at the front with impact protection devices such as the bumper, designed to absorb the impact energy in the event of a collision by deforming in a controlled manner, so as to protect the occupants of the vehicle's passenger compartment in the event of a collision, as well as vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians, involved in less severe impacts. The bumper is attached on one side to crossmembers connected to the vehicle's structure, which are dedicated to shock absorption, and on the other side to a bumper frame. This frame supports the bumper and also allows for the attachment of various elements and accessories, such as the grille, the logo, related lighting devices, as well as various sensors, which may include a camera, and their mounting brackets.

[0003] Some of these elements are arranged transversely in the middle of the front of the vehicle. In the event of a frontal collision, they come into direct contact with the obstacle. Because some of these elements have rigid parts, they are less likely to deform and can add stresses, particularly if the obstacle is a pedestrian. Consequently, they form hard points that can cause significant injuries to the pedestrian. Safety standards therefore require the presence of free space to allow for the movement of these elements under the effect of an impact.

[0004] However, the area of ​​space required for a front camera is generally occupied by a central pillar of the front bumper skin frame. This central pillar blocks the camera's movement, or forces it to be moved backward. An alternative solution would be to move the central camera forward. However, the placement of these components is also constrained by considerations of compactness and compliance with aerodynamic requirements.

[0005] Document FR3136424 A1 describes a front bumper reinforcement for a motor vehicle comprising a front panel supporting a structural element for mounting a camera and its bracket. The structural element includes a central post with an open window in which the camera and its bracket are mounted, allowing the camera and its bracket to recoil freely in the event of a frontal impact on the vehicle. This solution improves safety. However, there is a need to further enhance the level of safety.

[0006] New stylistic trends, such as the integration of a lighting signature on the front of the vehicle, concentrate several electronic elements in the center of the bumper, where the bumper frame incorporates a central support leg. This area becomes incompressible during a regulatory impact due to the stacking of the frame support leg, the camera, and the illuminated grille.

[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 improve the safety of a motor vehicle during a pedestrian collision. The invention also aims to optimize safety and repairability during a pedestrian collision involving the front of a motor vehicle.

[0008] According to a first aspect, the invention provides a frame for a front bumper system for a motor vehicle, the frame comprising: a vertical axis, a horizontal upper part, a lower part extending vertically under the upper part; said lower part comprising two lateral pillars, a central zone with a central passage running longitudinally through the lower part; the central zone and the lateral pillars being intended to be fixed to a bumper crossmember of the motor vehicle; notable in that the central zone comprises a first branch and a second branch each inclined with respect to the vertical axis at an angle of inclination between 10° and 50°, the first branch and the second branch moving away from each other towards the upper part.

[0009] It will be understood that the invention proposes a frame with a lower part having an enlarged central recess, in addition to two lateral recesses. These recesses allow free movement for electronic devices such as the camera and grille lighting devices, in order to ensure the absence of hard points during a frontal impact with a vulnerable road user, such as a pedestrian.

[0010] Preferably, the angle of inclination is between 20° and 40°.

[0011] Preferably, that the central zone comprises a horizontal connecting bar joining the first branch and the second branch, said connecting bar being vertically opposite the upper part.

[0012] Preferably, the first branch and the second branch are transversely spaced apart at the level of the connecting bar.

[0013] Preferably, the connecting bar includes fastening means configured to be fixed to the bumper crossmember.

[0014] Preferably, the first branch and the second branch each have a fusible zone.

[0015] Preferably, each fusible zone includes a thinning.

[0016] Preferably, the first branch and / or the second branch are straight.

[0017] According to another aspect, the invention proposes an assembly for a front bumper system, comprising a frame and at least one electronic device, notable in that the frame conforms to the invention.

[0018] Preferably, the assembly further comprises a grille covering the lower part, and a longitudinal gap between the grille and the first arm of at least 50 mm.

[0019] Preferably, the at least one electronic device comprises a mounting bracket and a housing attached to the mounting bracket; the mounting bracket is between the first and second branches and has a width; vertically at the level of the mounting bracket, the first and second branches have a spacing greater than said width.

[0020] Preferably, the at least one electronic device comprises at least one sensor and at least one light device.

[0021] Preferably, the sensor comprises a camera above at least one light device; the camera and at least one light device being fixed to the grille.

[0022] Preferably, at least one electronic device is transversely distanced from the first branch and the second branch.

[0023] Preferably, the at least one electronic device is transversely spaced away from the side pillars and the at least one electronic device further comprises an electronic card.

[0024] According to another aspect, the invention proposes a motor vehicle comprising a front bumper system with a frame, notable in that the frame conforms to the invention.

[0025] Preferably, the motor vehicle further comprises at least one electronic device, the at least one electronic device and the armature forming an assembly according to the invention.

[0026] Each feature introduced by the expression "preferably" given in relation to one of the aspects of the invention applies to all other aspects of the invention.

[0027] The invention will be well understood and other aspects and advantages will become clear upon reading the following description, given with reference to the attached figures listed below.

[0028] Fig. 1 is a front view of a motor vehicle according to the invention.

[0029] Figure 2 is a rear front view of a bumper frame and crossmember. of a motor vehicle according to the invention.

[0030] Fig. 3 shows a perspective view of a motor vehicle bumper frame according to the invention.

[0031] Figure 4 shows a horizontal cross-sectional view of an assembly for a system of motor vehicle bumper according to the invention.

[0032] Figure 5 shows, from the rear, an assembly for a bumper system motor vehicle according to the invention.

[0033] In the following description, the term "include" is synonymous with "include" and is not limiting in that it permits the presence of other elements in the motor vehicle to which it relates. It is understood that the term "include" includes the terms "consist of". The terms "external" and "internal" shall respectively designate what is oriented towards the outside of the vehicle and towards the inside of the vehicle.

[0034] In this description, the terms "longitudinal," "longitudinally," "transverse," and "transversely" are used with respect to the vehicle's frame of reference in the mounting configuration. The term "longitudinal" refers to the principal direction of travel of the vehicle. The term "transverse" refers to a direction perpendicular to the principal direction of travel of the vehicle. The term "front" refers to the principal direction of travel of the vehicle. The term "rear" refers to the opposite of the front of the vehicle.

[0035] 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 right-handed trihedron whose orientation is preserved throughout the figures.

[0036] In this description, the ranges of values ​​include the bounds that delimit them.

[0037] In the present description, the equality between the values ​​is not to be understood in the strict sense insofar as each equality allows a variation of at most 10%, preferably at most 5%, more preferably at most 2%, between these values.

[0038] In this description, the terms "vertical" and "horizontal" are not to be understood in their strict sense. Indeed, they allow an inclination of at most 20°, preferably at most 10°, more preferably at most 5°, and even more preferably at most 2°; with respect to the strict meaning of these terms.

[0039] In this description, the technical characteristics are defined in the assembly mounting configuration, unless otherwise explicitly stated.

[0040] Throughout the description, the different figures use the same reference signs to designate identical or similar entities.

[0041] Figure 1 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.

[0042] The motor vehicle 10 comprises a structure 12. The structure 12 forms an outer body, or the main frame of the motor vehicle. The structure 12 delineates different compartments of the motor vehicle 10, including the passenger compartment, the cargo area, and the engine compartment (not shown). The structure 12 may be formed from an assembly of stamped and welded sheet metal. It is advantageously metallic.

[0043] The structure 12 connects various parts of the motor vehicle 10, including the openings. The structure 12 forms a mounting support for the powertrain, suspension systems, steering system, and braking systems.

[0044] The motor vehicle 10 has a front bumper system 14 on its front face. The front bumper system 14 includes at least one bumper crossmember 16. The bumper crossmember 16 is attached to the structure 12 of the motor vehicle. It is capable of absorbing the energy of a collision with another vehicle by deforming. The bumper crossmember 16 is an internal component hidden from view by the end user of the vehicle. This component reinforces a bumper skin 40, which is visible from the outside.

[0045] The bumper system 14 also includes at least one frame 18. The frame 18 is a reinforcement frame for the bumper skin 40.

[0046] The front bumper system 14 includes a grille 38. The grille 38 is a protective panel. It protects the radiators in the front compartment. It can form a mesh. The grille 38 is held in position by the frame 18. It is optionally illuminated. The grille 38 serves as a support for various equipment, including a camera 46, also called a front camera, and a logo 44. The camera 46 is optionally a panoramic camera or a wide-angle camera.

[0047] The motor vehicle can, for example, be a private motor vehicle or a commercial motor vehicle.

[0048] Figure 2 shows a frame 18 of a motor vehicle bumper system according to the invention, seen in perspective. The motor vehicle may correspond to the one shown in relation to Figure 1.

[0049] The frame 18 comprises an upper part 20 and a lower part 22 extending vertically beneath the upper part 20. The upper part 20 is intended to extend beneath the front hood. The upper part 20 forms a plate that extends horizontally and transversely.

[0050] The lower part 22 comprises two lateral pillars 24 and a central area 52. The central area 52 is a support area. It rests on the bumper crossmember 16. Said central area 52 comprises a first arm 26 and a second arm 28. These can be a left arm and a right arm. The two side pillars 24, first branch 26 and second branch 28 connect the upper part 20 to the bumper crossmember 16.

[0051] The first branch 26 and the second branch 28 are each inclined with respect to a vertical axis at an angle of inclination between 10° and 50°, the first branch 26 and the second branch 28 diverging from each other towards the upper part 20. The first branch 26 and the second branch 28 are inclined with respect to the upper part from 40° to 80°. The first branch 26 and the second branch 28 form a V. The first branch 26 and the second branch 28 transversely define a central passage 30. Said central passage 30 is through the central zone 52.

[0052] The side pillars 24 each form a lateral end of the lower part 22. They are fixed to the bumper crossmember 16 by fastening means 36. Two side passages 32 are each delimited by a side pillar 24 and the central area 52. The side passages 32 and the central passage 30 cross longitudinally the lower part 22.

[0053] A horizontal connecting bar 34 transversely links the first branch 26 to the second branch 28. The connecting bar 34 connects their lower ends. The connecting bar 34 is vertically opposite the upper part 20. The first branch 26 and the second branch 28 are transversely spaced apart at the connecting bar 34. They diverge upwards, which allows the central passage 30 to be widened at the top.

[0054] More space becomes available for the camera 46 and the logo 44, which is optionally illuminated by a dedicated lighting device. In the event of a pedestrian impact, neither the camera 46 nor its mounting bracket and the logo 44 will form a hard point when positioned in line with the central passage 30. Safety is improved.

[0055] The connecting bar 34 includes fastening means 36 that attach it to the bumper crossmember 16. The connecting bar 34 is a lower bar and extends transversely. It is a fastening bar. The connecting bar 34 is vertically opposite the upper part 20 along the arms.

[0056] Indirectly, the frame 18 supports electronic devices 42. These electronic devices 42 may be sensors and / or lighting devices. For example, the electronic devices 42 may include the camera 46, a logo lighting device (not shown) 44, grille lighting devices, or a combination thereof. The electronic devices 42 also include an electronic board (not shown). The electronic board is configured to control the power supply to the lighting devices.

[0057] The frame 18 has lateral passages 32. The lateral passages 32 are delimited by the lateral pillars 24 and the central zone 52. Each lateral passage 32 is bordered laterally by a lateral pillar 24 and the first branch 26 or the second branch 28. Electronic devices 42 are arranged in the longitudinal extension of these lateral passages 32. Thus, in the event of a pedestrian impact, these same electronic devices 42 do not form hard points coming into contact with the frame 18.

[0058] The electronic devices 42 are distributed transversely on the grille, and with respect to the frame 18, such that they are positioned opposite the side passages 32 or the central passage 30. The electronic devices 42 are transversely spaced away from the side pillars 24, the first branch 26 and the second branch 28 and vertically spaced away from the upper part 20 and the connecting bar 34. Thus, the camera 46 and the logo lighting device 44 are placed transversely in the middle of the central area 52, vertically spaced away from the upper part 20.

[0059]

[0060] Figure 3 shows a bumper frame 18 of a motor vehicle according to the invention, viewed in perspective. The motor vehicle may correspond to the one shown in relation to one of Figures 1 to 2.

[0061] The upper part 20 of the frame 18 has an edge 54 with a lower face 56, said edge 54 extending transversely at the front of said upper part 20. This edge 54 includes transverse slots 58 for receiving attachment means for the grille (not shown). The edge 54 is a front edge. It forms the front end of the upper part 20, and preferably of the frame 18.

[0062] The side pillars 24 connect the edge 54, from the lower face 56, to the bumper crossmember 16. The side pillars 24 are straight and extend primarily vertically. Each comprises a parallelepiped section 62 extending vertically from the edge 54. Each parallelepiped section 62 includes a horizontal support bracket 64 extending transversely from said parallelepiped section 62 outwards from the motor vehicle, at a distance from the lower face 56. The horizontal support brackets 64 rest on the bumper crossmember 16 and carry the fastening means 36 that allow said mounting crossmember 16 to be attached to the frame 18.

[0063] The parallelepiped sections 62 are oriented so that a main face 66 of each parallelepiped section 62 faces the central zone 52. This orientation of the main face 66 optimizes the rigidity of the reinforcement 18. Advantageously, a reinforcing plate 68 extends perpendicularly to each main face 66 from the lower face 56 to the horizontal support lug 64. This also contributes to the rigidity of the reinforcement 18.

[0064] The first arm 26 and the second arm 28 extend vertically from the edge 54 towards the bumper crossmember 16. They are longitudinally thin and straight blades. They form ribbons. The first arm 26 and the second arm 28 generally have a constant width and a constant thickness. They are straight along their entire length. This straightness, as well as the angle of inclination, contributes to the rigidity of the frame 18. Thus, the frame provides rigidity against transverse movements of the upper part relative to the bumper crossmember 16.

[0065] The first branch 26 and the second branch 28 each comprise a flat face 70 parallel to the lower part 22. As shown in the present figure, the lower part is on the front face of the frame 18. Ribs 72 project perpendicularly from said flat face 70, extending between the edge 54 and the bumper cross member 16. The ribs 72 stiffen the frame 18.

[0066] The first branch 26 and the second branch 28 each have a fusible zone 74 located between the edge 54 and the connecting bar 34. This fusible zone 74 includes a thinning of the ribs 72. Each fusible zone 74 forms a point of rupture. During a frontal impact under predefined conditions, the first branch 26 and the second branch 28 will rupture at the fusible zone 74. The central zone 52 then moves backward so as not to form a hard point. This feature allows the shock absorbers to dissipate a maximum of the impact energy.

[0067] The connecting bar 34 links the first branch 26 to the second branch 28 at their bases. It includes a transverse rim 76 parallel to the bumper crossmember 16 and extending perpendicularly to the upper part 20. It extends vertically and transversely.

[0068] The fastening means 36 may include axial fasteners such as pins, screws, rivets, nuts, or clips or hooks. These means facilitate both assembly and, if necessary, disassembly when it is necessary to replace the frame 18.

[0069] The various parts of the frame 18, including the upper part 20, the lateral pillars 24, the first arm 26 and the second arm 28, as well as the connecting bar 34, are made from material. The frame 18 is preferably produced by molding.

[0070] According to a preferred embodiment, the frame 18 is made of a plastic or composite material. The plastic material may include 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, and polyester resins. unsaturated, vinyl ester, or polyester-vinylester. For example, the composite material comprises a matrix of a plastic material as described above with reinforcement. For example, the reinforcement comprises glass or carbon fibers.

[0071] The frame 18 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 vehicle's environmental footprint.

[0072] Figure 4 shows a horizontal cross-sectional view of an assembly for a motor vehicle bumper system. The motor vehicle may correspond to the one shown in relation to one of Figures 1 to 3. The cross-section is vertical at the level of camera 46.

[0073] The bumper system assembly 14 comprises a frame 18 and at least one electronic device 42. This electronic device 42 is supported by a grille 38. The grille 38 is integrated into the bumper skin 40. The bumper skin 40 comprises at least one panel, preferably several panels fixed to one another. The frame 18 forms a lining, an internal reinforcement of the bumper skin 40.

[0074] The grille 38 has a rear face 84. The grille 38 is connected to the frame 18 by being fixed by its rear face 84 to the edge of the upper part of the frame 18 by fastening means cooperating with the transverse slots (not shown). The grille 38 can be supported by a vertical wall 82, also called the "grille base". Said vertical wall 82 is then fixed to the edge of the upper part by fastening means cooperating with the transverse slots, such as hooks or clips.

[0075] The grille 38 and the vertical wall 82 are longitudinally positioned at a distance forward of the lower portion 22. The grille 38 overlaps the lower portion 22. There is a longitudinal gap 90 of at least 50 mm between the grille 38 and the first elements of the lower portion 22, such as the first arm 26 and the second arm 28. This longitudinal gap 90 allows the grille 38 to deform during a low-speed impact without damaging either the frame 18 or the grille 38. This protects the electronic devices 42 connected to it. The longitudinal gap 90 is an average gap.

[0076] Advantageously, the grille 38 comprises polycarbonate, which gives it high resistance combined with the ability to deform under the effect of an impact before returning to its initial position.

[0077] The electronic devices 42 are attached to the rear face 84. They may include one or more sensors such as a camera 46 and its mounting bracket 86, as well as grille lighting devices 50 and their electronic boards 88. These devices The electronic components 42, particularly the electronic boards 88, represent potential points of failure that could cause bodily injury to a pedestrian involved in a head-on collision with the motor vehicle. The camera 46 includes a housing 80. The housing 80 contains the components of the camera 46. The housing 80 is attached to the mounting bracket 86. It is preferably waterproof.

[0078] Advantageously, the bumper system assembly 14 is configured such that the electronic devices 42 are positioned opposite the side passages 32 or the center passage 30. The electronic devices 42 are transversely distanced from the side pillars 24, the first arm 26, and the second arm 28. The electronic devices 42 are also vertically distanced from the upper portion 20, the connecting bar 34, and the bumper crossmember 16. The bumper crossmember 16 has an arched shape. It is connected to shock absorbers at the rear.

[0079] In this way, in the event of a collision with a pedestrian, the electronic devices 42 can retract a distance of at least 90 mm without creating an obstacle that would prevent the grille from being pushed inward. This eliminates the effect of a hard point and reduces potential personal injury.

[0080] More specifically, the camera 46 and its mounting bracket 86 move back into the central passage 30 and the grille's light devices 50 and their electronic boards 88 move back into the side passages 32. If the impact causes the grille 38 to move back into the central area 52 over a distance greater than 50 mm, the first arm 26 and the second arm 28 will bend and, if necessary, break at the level of the fusible area 74, allowing the grille to move back at least 90 mm; always without any hard point.

[0081] This configuration thus enables the motor vehicle to meet the safety requirements as defined by the applicable standards.

[0082]

[0083] Figure 5 shows a frame 18 for a front bumper system of a motor vehicle. The motor vehicle may correspond to the one shown in relation to one of Figures 1 to 4.

[0084] The bumper system assembly 14 includes a frame 18 and at least one electronic device 42.

[0085] The frame 18 has a vertical axis 92. The vertical axis 92 is along the Z-axis. It is shown in a central position, however, it could be offset transversely. The vertical axis 92 is a geometric axis.

[0086] The reinforcement 18 also includes an upper portion 20 extending horizontally across the entire width of the reinforcement. A lower portion 22 extends the reinforcement 18 vertically beneath the upper portion 20. The lower portion 22 includes two lateral pillars (not shown), a central area 52 with a central passage 30 running longitudinally through the lower part 22, under the upper part 20. The central area 52 accommodates at least one electronic device 42 and a logo 44 (shown from the back).

[0087] The central zone 52 comprises a first branch 26 and a second branch 28, each inclined with respect to the vertical axis 92 at an angle of inclination 60 between 10° and 50°. The first branch 26 and the second branch 28 each comprise a mean axis 98. A mean axis 98 may be a central axis of the corresponding branch. Each angle of inclination 60 is measured between the vertical axis 92 and one of the mean axes 98.

[0088] The angles of inclination 60 of the first arm 26 and the second arm 28 are between 15° and 45°. The angles of inclination 60 of the first arm 26 and the second arm 28 are between 20° and 40°, preferably between 20° and 30°. The first arm 26 and the second arm 28 diverge from each other towards the upper part. They converge towards the bottom; towards the bumper crossmember 16.

[0089] This configuration widens the central passage 30 at the top, a section generally used for sensors such as the camera 46, in order to increase visibility. More space is available both for installation and for movement in the event of a pedestrian collision.

[0090] At least one of the electronic devices 42 includes a mounting bracket 86 and optionally a housing 80. The housing 80 is attached to the mounting bracket 86 and protects said electronic device 42. The mounting bracket 86 is between the first branch 26 and the second branch 28.

[0091] The mounting bracket 86 has a width 94 measured transversely. This width 94 is a maximum width. Vertically at the mounting bracket 86, the first arm 26 and the second arm 28 have a spacing 96 greater than this width 94. This spacing 96 is measured horizontally. This spacing 96 is a minimum spacing. Thus, in the event of a pedestrian impact at the mounting bracket 86, it is free to move backward between the first arm 26 and the second arm 28.

[0092] Two grille lights 50 are positioned between a side pillar and the first arm 26, and respectively between the other side pillar and the second arm 28, vertically at a distance from the upper part 20 and the bumper crossmember 16. Their electronic boards 88 have the same configuration. Thus, in the event of a pedestrian impact, these electronic lights 42 retract without hitting the frame 18, and therefore without creating an early resistance point in the retraction kinematics of the bumper system 14.

[0093] The invention comprises a combination of all the embodiments illustrated by all the figures.

[0094] Figures 2 to 5 are isometric views. Each one conforms to a specific scale, actual angles, and actual proportions.

Claims

Demands

1. Front bumper system frame (18) for a motor vehicle (10), the frame (18) comprising: a vertical axis (92), a horizontal upper portion (20), a lower portion (22) extending vertically below the upper portion (20); said lower portion (22) comprising two lateral pillars (24), a central area (52) with a central passage (30) running longitudinally through the lower portion (22); the central area (52) and the lateral pillars (24) being intended to be fixed to a bumper crossmember (16) of the motor vehicle (10); characterized in that the central zone (52) comprises a first branch (26) and a second branch (28) each inclined with respect to the vertical axis (92) at an angle of inclination (60) between 10° and 50°, the first branch (26) and the second branch (28) moving away from each other towards the upper part (20).

2. Frame (18) according to claim 1, characterized in that the angle of inclination (60) is between 20° and 40°.

3. A frame (18) according to any one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that the central area (52) comprises a horizontal connecting bar (34) joining the first branch (26) and the second branch (28), said connecting bar (34) being vertically opposite the upper part (20); preferably, the first branch (26) and the second branch (28) are transversely spaced apart at the level of the connecting bar (34).

4. Frame (18) according to claim 3, characterized in that the connecting bar (34) has fastening means (36) configured to be fixed to the bumper crossmember (16).

5. Reinforcement (18) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the first branch (26) and the second branch (28) each comprise a fusible zone (74); preferably, each fusible zone (74) comprises a thinning.

6. Assembly for a front bumper system (14), comprising a frame (18) and at least one electronic device (42), characterized in that the frame (18) conforms to any one of claims 1 to 5, preferably, the assembly further comprises a grille (38) covering the lower part (22), and a gap longitudinal between the grille (38) and the first arm (26) of at least 50 mm.

7. Assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that at least one electronic device (42) comprises a mounting bracket (86) and a housing (80) attached to the mounting bracket (86); the mounting bracket (86) is between the first arm (26) and the second arm (28) and has a width (94); vertically at the level of the mounting bracket (86), the first arm (26) and the second arm (28) comprise a gap (96) greater than said width (94).

8. Assembly according to any one of claims 6 to 7, characterized in that the at least one electronic device (42) comprises at least one sensor and at least one light device (50); preferably, the sensor comprises a camera (46) above the at least one light device (50); the camera and the at least one light device (50) being fixed to the grille (38).

9. Assembly according to any one of claims 6 to 8, characterized in that the at least one electronic device (42) is transversely distanced from the first branch (26) and the second branch (28); preferably, the at least one electronic device (42) is transversely distanced from the side pillars (24) and the at least one electronic device (42) further comprises an electronic card (88).

10. Motor vehicle (10) comprising a front bumper system (14) with a frame (18), characterized in that the frame (18) conforms to any one of claims 1 to 5; preferably, the motor vehicle (10) further comprises at least one electronic device (42), the at least one electronic device (42) and the frame (18) forming an assembly according to any one of claims 6 to 9.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • IMPROVED front bumper frame for automobiles

    FR3136424A1

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    CN107380265A