Floating device and vehicle

Abstract

A floating device and a vehicle. The floating device is configured to be connected to a front end of a vehicle; the floating device comprises an airbag assembly (30); the airbag assembly (30) is connected to the front end, and the airbag assembly (30) comprises an airbag (31); and the airbag (31) is configured to inflates when the wading depth of the vehicle is greater than or equal to a first preset depth, such that the front end floats, so as to adjust the orientation of the vehicle in water, thereby effectively preventing the front end from sinking and the risk of water ingress when the front end sinks.

Description

A floating device and a vehicle

[0001] Cross-reference to Related Applications

[0002] The present application claims priority to the Chinese patent application No. 202423052261.6, filed on December 10, 2024, and entitled "A floating device and a vehicle", the content of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present application relates to the technical field of vehicles, and in particular to a floating device and a vehicle. BACKGROUND

[0004] When a vehicle encounters heavy rain and the like, the vehicle will be in an environment with accumulated water. In order to avoid the vehicle from being flooded, causing damage to the engine, electronic devices, lines and interior of the vehicle, the vehicle has a floating state to float on water. At present, due to the heavy head of the vehicle, the vehicle has the problem of sinking of the vehicle head when in the floating state.

[0005] SUMMARY

[0006] The present application provides a floating device and a vehicle to solve the technical problem of sinking of the vehicle head when the vehicle floats on water in the prior art.

[0007] In a first aspect, the present application provides a floating device, which is used to be connected with a vehicle head, and includes an air bag assembly connected with the vehicle head, and the air bag assembly includes an air bag. The air bag is used to be inflated when the water depth of the vehicle is greater than or equal to a first preset depth, so that the vehicle head floats.

[0008] In some embodiments of the present application, the air bag assembly further includes an air bag box provided with a placement space. The air bag is arranged in the placement space, and at least part of the air bag is separated from the placement space when the air bag is inflated.

[0009] In some embodiments of the present application, the air bag box includes a box cover body and a box shell body, and the box cover body and the box shell body surround to form the placement space. At least part of the box cover body is separated from the box shell body. When the air bag is inflated, the air bag pushes away the box cover body, and at least part of the air bag is separated from the placement space.

[0010] In some embodiments of the present application, the box cover body is clamped with the box shell body.

[0011] In some embodiments of the present application, the side wall of the box shell body is provided with buckles, and the periphery of the box cover body is provided with clamping grooves. The box cover body is buckled at the box opening of the box shell body, and one buckle is arranged in each clamping groove to connect the box cover body to the box shell body in a separable manner.

[0012] In some embodiments of this application, a clearance opening is provided at the front of the vehicle; an airbag assembly is disposed inside the front of the vehicle and corresponds to the clearance opening; when the airbag is inflated, at least a portion of the airbag protrudes through the clearance opening, causing the front of the vehicle to float.

[0013] In some embodiments of this application, the airbag assembly includes an airbag box, and the airbag box is provided with a box cover; the clearance opening is larger than the box cover; when the airbag is inflated, the airbag pushes the box cover to detach the box cover from the airbag box, and the box cover passes through the clearance opening to the outside of the vehicle.

[0014] In some embodiments of this application, the airbag assembly further includes an inflation mechanism that is in communication with the airbag and is used to inflate the airbag.

[0015] In some embodiments of this application, the airbag assembly includes an airbag box; at least two inflation mechanisms are arranged along a first direction and are respectively connected to the airbag box.

[0016] In some embodiments of this application, an airbag is provided, and the airbag is connected to all inflation mechanisms respectively.

[0017] In some embodiments of this application, the inflation mechanism includes an air tank or an air pump.

[0018] In some embodiments of this application, the floating device further includes a venting mechanism, which is connected to the air bladder and is used to release gas from the air bladder.

[0019] In some embodiments of this application, the inflation mechanism includes an air tank, the air tank is provided with a triggering mechanism, the triggering mechanism is used to open the air tank and release the gas in the airbag; the deflation mechanism is a triggering mechanism.

[0020] In some embodiments of this application, the deflation mechanism is an air extraction mechanism that is connected to the airbag.

[0021] In some embodiments of this application, the floating device further includes a support assembly, which is connected to the front of the vehicle and the airbag assembly respectively, so as to connect the airbag assembly and the front of the vehicle.

[0022] In some embodiments of this application, the bracket assembly includes a first connector and a second connector, the first connector and the second connector extending along a first direction respectively, the first connector and the second connector being connected, the first connector being connected to the front of the vehicle, and the second connector being connected to the airbag assembly.

[0023] In some embodiments of this application, the bracket assembly is also used for connection to the vehicle frame.

[0024] In some embodiments of this application, the bracket assembly further includes a fourth connector, one end of which is connected to the second connector and the other end of which is connected to the vehicle frame.

[0025] In some embodiments of this application, the airbag assembly further includes an airbag bracket and an airbag housing, one end of the airbag bracket is connected to the airbag housing, and the other end of the airbag bracket is connected to a second connector via a fourth connector.

[0026] In some embodiments of this application, the floating device further includes a recovery mechanism connected to the airbag, which is used to reel in the airbag.

[0027] In some embodiments of this application, the recycling mechanism includes a recycling motor and a winding component, which are connected by a drive mechanism; the winding component is connected to the airbag, and the recycling motor drives the winding component to rotate in order to wind up the airbag.

[0028] In some embodiments of this application, the floating device further includes a baffle assembly connected to the front of the vehicle and blocking the clearance opening; when the airbag is inflated, the baffle assembly opens the clearance opening, allowing at least a portion of the airbag to extend out of the clearance opening and out to the outside of the vehicle.

[0029] In some embodiments of this application, the baffle assembly includes a baffle and a locking mechanism. The baffle is rotatably connected to the front of the vehicle and blocks the clearance opening. The locking mechanism is connected to both the baffle and the front of the vehicle, and the baffle and the front of the vehicle are locked or unlocked by the locking mechanism.

[0030] In some embodiments of this application, the baffle includes a baffle body and an extension, which are connected; the end of the baffle body away from the extension is connected to a locking mechanism; the extension extends from the baffle body in a direction away from the baffle body, and the extension is rotatably connected to the front of the vehicle.

[0031] In some embodiments of this application, the baffle assembly further includes at least one limiting plate, which is disposed around the outer periphery of the clearance opening; the limiting plate is used to limit the deployment direction of the airbag when it is inflated, so that the airbag deploys towards the clearance opening.

[0032] In some embodiments of this application, the locking mechanism is a self-locking mechanism.

[0033] In some embodiments of this application, the floating device further includes a water level monitoring module and a control module. The water level monitoring module is used to monitor the wading depth of the vehicle. The control module is electrically connected to the water level monitoring module and the airbag assembly, respectively. The control module is used to control the airbag assembly to activate and inflate the airbag when the wading depth of the vehicle is greater than or equal to a first preset depth.

[0034] Secondly, embodiments of this application also provide a vehicle, which includes a cab and a floating device as described above, with the cab connected to the floating device.

[0035] In some embodiments of this application, the front of the vehicle includes a front protective device, which is connected to a buoyancy device.

[0036] In some embodiments of this application, the vehicle further includes a frame, the longitudinal beams of which are connected to the support assembly of the floating device.

[0037] Compared with prior art, this application has the following advantages:

[0038] In this embodiment, the buoyancy device is connected to the front of the vehicle. When the buoyancy device is in use, if the vehicle's wading depth is greater than or equal to a first preset depth, the airbag inflates to make the front of the vehicle float, thereby adjusting the vehicle's posture in the water and effectively avoiding the risk of the front of the vehicle sinking and the water ingress associated with it.

[0039] The above description is merely an overview of the technical solution of this application. In order to better understand the technical means of this application and to implement it in accordance with the contents of the specification, and to make the above and other objects, features and advantages of this application more obvious and understandable, specific embodiments of this application are given below. Attached Figure Description

[0040] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below.

[0041] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the airbag assembly arrangement and a portion of the side structure of the vehicle in an embodiment of this application;

[0042] Figure 2 is a structural schematic diagram of part A in Figure 1, enlarged view;

[0043] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the airbag assembly in an embodiment of this application;

[0044] Figure 4 is a front view of the airbag assembly in an embodiment of this application;

[0045] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the support assembly in an embodiment of this application;

[0046] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the front protection device in an embodiment of this application;

[0047] Figure 7 is a front view of the front protective device in an embodiment of this application;

[0048] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the vehicle frame structure in an embodiment of this application;

[0049] Figure 9 is a structural schematic diagram of the airbag assembly arrangement position and a partial top view of the vehicle equipped with it in an embodiment of this application.

[0050] Figure 10 is a structural schematic diagram of part B in Figure 9, enlarged view;

[0051] Figure 11 is a structural schematic diagram of the cross-sectional view of DD in Figure 10;

[0052] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the airbag assembly and the support assembly after assembly in an embodiment of this application;

[0053] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the bracket assembly and the vehicle frame after assembly in an embodiment of this application;

[0054] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of the assembled bracket assembly, frame, and front protective device in an embodiment of this application.

[0055] Figure 15 is a structural schematic diagram of an enlarged view of part C in Figure 14;

[0056] Figure 16 is a schematic diagram of the airbag assembly and the vehicle mounted thereon in the airbag closed state in an embodiment of this application.

[0057] Figure 17 is a schematic diagram of the airbag assembly and the vehicle mounted thereon in the airbag deployment state in an embodiment of this application;

[0058] Figure 18 is a partial structural schematic diagram of the vehicle layout in an embodiment of this application;

[0059] Figure 19 is a partial structural schematic diagram of the vehicle layout in an embodiment of this application.

[0060] Reference numerals: 10. Front protective device; 11. First mounting hole; 12. Side wing bracket; 20. Bracket assembly; 21. First connector; 22. Second connector; 23. Third connector; 24. Fourth connector; 25. Fifth connector; 30. Airbag assembly; 31. Airbag; 32. Airbag box; 321. Box shell; 322. Box cover; 323. Buckle; 324. Slot; 325. Bending part; 33. Air supply pipe; 34. Airbag bracket; 341. Fifth mounting hole; 40. Inflation mechanism; 41. Air tank; 50. Baffle assembly; 51. Baffle; 511. Baffle body; 512. Extension; 52. Locking mechanism; 53. Rotating shaft; 54. Limiting plate; 60. Frame; 61. Longitudinal beam; 62. Second mounting hole; 63. Third mounting hole; 64. Fourth mounting hole; 65. Frame end plate; 71. First bolt; 72. Second bolt; 74. Fourth bolt; 75. Fifth bolt; 76. Sixth bolt; 77. First bracket; 78. Fastening mechanism; 79. First nut; 80. Second nut; 81. Seventh bolt; 82. Eighth bolt; 83. Ninth bolt; 84. Front bumper wiring harness; 85. Front compartment wiring harness; 86. Water depth sensor; 87. Left vehicle body domain controller; 88. Rearview mirror; 89. Left front door wiring harness; 90. Vehicle controller; 91. Instrument panel wiring harness; 92. Airbag assembly controller; X, First direction; Y, Second direction; Z, Third direction. Detailed Implementation

[0061] Exemplary embodiments of the present application will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. While exemplary embodiments of the present application are shown in the drawings, it should be understood that the present application may be implemented in various forms and should not be limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this application will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the present application to those skilled in the art.

[0062] This application provides a floating device installed inside a vehicle. The floating device can adjust the vehicle's posture when the vehicle is wading through water to prevent water from entering the vehicle.

[0063] Referring to Figures 1 to 17, the buoyancy device is used to connect to the front of the vehicle. The buoyancy device includes an airbag assembly 30, which is connected to the front of the vehicle. The airbag assembly 30 includes an airbag 31. The airbag 31 is used to inflate when the vehicle's wading depth is greater than or equal to a first preset depth, so that the front of the vehicle floats.

[0064] The floating device in this embodiment is connected to the front of the vehicle. When the floating device is in use, if the vehicle's wading depth is greater than or equal to a first preset depth, the airbag 31 inflates to make the front of the vehicle float, thereby adjusting the vehicle's posture in the water and effectively avoiding the risk of the front of the vehicle sinking and the risk of water ingress caused by the front of the vehicle sinking.

[0065] In some embodiments, the airbag assembly 30 further includes an airbag box 32, which has a placement space; the airbag 31 is disposed within the placement space, and when the airbag 31 is inflated, at least a portion of the airbag 31 is released from the placement space. In the above structure of the embodiments of this application, the airbag 31 is disposed within the placement space of the airbag box 32, and the airbag box 32 can serve to protect the airbag 31.

[0066] In some embodiments, to prevent the airbag 31 from completely detaching from the placement space when inflated, thus affecting the storage of the airbag 31 after use, a portion of the airbag 31 is connected to the airbag box 32 so that when the airbag 31 is inflated and deployed, a portion of the airbag 31 remains connected to the airbag box 32.

[0067] In some embodiments, the airbag box 32 includes a box cover 322 and a box shell 321, which enclose a placement space. At least a portion of the box cover 322 can be detached from the box shell 321. When the airbag 31 is inflated, the airbag 31 pushes open the box cover 322, and at least a portion of the airbag 31 is released from the placement space.

[0068] In the above structure of the embodiment of this application, at least a portion of the box cover 322 can be detached from the box shell 321 so that when the airbag 31 is inflated, the airbag 31 can push open the box cover 322 and at least a portion of the airbag 31 automatically detaches from the placement space. The way in which the airbag 31 detaches from the placement space has the advantages of being simple and convenient.

[0069] In some embodiments, the lid 322 is snapped into the housing 321. This snap-fit ​​connection has the advantages of being simple and convenient, and allows the airbag 31 to push open the lid 322 to open the placement space when inflated, so that the airbag 31 can automatically detach from the placement space and unfold.

[0070] In some embodiments, the side wall of the box housing 321 is provided with a buckle 323; the box cover 322 is provided with slots 324 around its perimeter, and the box cover 322 is fastened to the box opening of the box housing 321. Each slot 324 is provided with a buckle 323 to detachably connect the box cover 322 to the box housing 321.

[0071] Referring to Figure 4, the lid 322 has bends 325 around its perimeter, extending toward the side wall of the housing 321. Slots 324 are provided on the bends 325. The lid 322 is fastened to the opening of the housing 321. Each slot 324 contains a latch 323, allowing the lid 322 to be detachably connected to the housing 321, offering advantages of simplicity and convenience.

[0072] It is understandable that multiple buckles 323 and slots 324 are provided to achieve a reliable connection between the box shell 321 and the box cover 322.

[0073] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG4, a plurality of bending portions 325 are provided, and the plurality of bending portions 325 are spaced apart around the periphery of the box cover 322.

[0074] In some embodiments, a clearance opening is provided at the front of the vehicle; the airbag assembly 30 is disposed inside the front of the vehicle and corresponds to the clearance opening; when the airbag 31 is inflated, at least a portion of the airbag 31 extends through the clearance opening, causing the front of the vehicle to float.

[0075] In this embodiment, the airbag assembly 30 is located inside the front of the vehicle, and the airbag assembly 30 does not affect the appearance of the vehicle. An opening is provided at the front of the vehicle; when the airbag 31 is inflated, at least a portion of the airbag 31 extends through the opening. This allows the front of the vehicle to float, and eliminates the need for space inside the front of the vehicle for the airbag 31 to inflate and deploy, resulting in a more compact vehicle structure.

[0076] In some embodiments, the airbag assembly 30 includes an airbag housing 32, with a cover 322 provided in the airbag housing 32; the clearance opening is larger than the cover 322; when the airbag 31 is inflated, the airbag 31 pushes the cover 322, causing the cover 322 to detach from the airbag housing 32, and the cover 322 passes through the clearance opening to the outside of the vehicle. The above structure of this embodiment avoids the cover 322 obstructing the airbag 31; moreover, it eliminates the need for a separate space for the cover 322 after it separates from the airbag housing 32, reducing the volume occupied by the flotation device and making the vehicle structure more compact.

[0077] In some embodiments, the airbag assembly 30 further includes an inflation mechanism 40, which is connected to the airbag 31 and is used to inflate the airbag 31. In the above structure of the embodiments of this application, the inflation mechanism 40 inflates the airbag 31, causing the airbag 31 to inflate and deploy.

[0078] In some embodiments, the airbag assembly 30 includes an airbag box 32; the inflation mechanism 40 has at least two, the at least two inflation mechanisms 40 are arranged along a first direction X and are respectively connected to the airbag box 32.

[0079] In this embodiment, the vehicle has a first direction X, a second direction Y, and a third direction Z. The first direction X is the left-right direction of the vehicle, the second direction Y is the front-rear direction of the vehicle, and the third direction Z is the height direction of the vehicle. The airbag box 32 is arranged along the left-right direction of the vehicle, and the first direction X is in the same direction as the length direction of the airbag box 32.

[0080] In some embodiments, one airbag 31 is provided, and the airbag 31 is connected to all inflation mechanisms 40. In the above structure of this application embodiment, all inflation mechanisms 40 inflate the airbag 31 simultaneously, so that the airbag 31 can be inflated and deployed quickly. The floating device can quickly adjust the vehicle's attitude in the water, effectively avoiding the risk of the front of the vehicle sinking and the water ingress associated with it.

[0081] In some embodiments, the inflation mechanism 40 includes an air tank 41, which is connected to the housing 321 of the airbag box 32 and communicates with the airbag 31, and the air tank 41 inflates the airbag 31 with gas.

[0082] In other embodiments, the inflation mechanism 40 includes an air pump connected to the vehicle, the airbag box 32, or the support assembly 20 of the floating device, and the air pump is in communication with the airbag 31 to inflate the airbag 31 with gas.

[0083] Gas can be injected into the airbag 31 by the gas storage tank 41 or the air pump, both of which have the advantage of rapid gas injection.

[0084] In some embodiments, the floating device further includes a deflation mechanism, which is connected to the airbag 31 and is used to release the gas in the airbag 31. In the above structure of the embodiments of this application, the deflation mechanism is used to release the gas in the airbag 31 to reduce the volume of the airbag 31 after use, making it easier to store the airbag 31 after use.

[0085] In some embodiments, the deflation mechanism is connected to the vehicle, the airbag box 32, or the bracket assembly 20. The deflation mechanism may also be set in other locations according to usage requirements, and this application embodiment does not specifically limit this.

[0086] In some embodiments, the inflation mechanism 40 includes an air tank 41, which is provided with a triggering mechanism for opening the air tank 41 and releasing the gas in the airbag 31; the deflation mechanism is a triggering mechanism.

[0087] In this embodiment, the triggering mechanism can connect the gas tank 41 and the airbag 31, causing the gas tank 41 to inflate the airbag 31. The triggering mechanism can also open the gas tank 41 to release the gas in the airbag 31. After the gas is released, the airbag 31 shrinks in size, making it easier to store the airbag 31 later.

[0088] It is understood that the triggering mechanism can be located at the outlet of the gas storage tank 41 to achieve the above-mentioned function. The triggering mechanism is a conventional structure installed on the gas storage tank 41, and the specific structure of the triggering mechanism will not be described in detail in this embodiment.

[0089] In some embodiments, the deflation mechanism is an air extraction mechanism connected to the airbag 31. After the airbag 31 is used, the air extraction mechanism extracts the gas from the airbag 31 to facilitate subsequent storage of the airbag 31.

[0090] In some embodiments, the floating device further includes a bracket assembly 20, which is connected to the front of the vehicle and the airbag assembly 30 respectively, so as to connect the airbag assembly 30 and the front of the vehicle and realize the installation and fixation of the airbag assembly 30.

[0091] In some embodiments, the bracket assembly 20 includes a first connector 21 and a second connector 22, which extend along a first direction, are connected, the first connector 21 is connected to the front of the vehicle, and the second connector 22 is connected to the airbag box 32 of the airbag assembly 30.

[0092] In this embodiment, the airbag box 32 extends along the first direction X. With the first connector 21 and the second connector 22 extending along the first direction X respectively, the connection area between the first connector 21 and the front of the vehicle is larger, and the connection area between the second connector 22 and the airbag box 32 is also larger. The bracket assembly 20 has the advantage of a more reliable connection.

[0093] In some embodiments, the bracket assembly 20 further includes a third connector 23, one end of which is connected to the first connector 21 and the other end of which is connected to the second connector 22, thereby connecting the first connector 21 and the second connector 22 by the third connector 23.

[0094] In some embodiments, the bracket assembly 20 is also used to connect to the vehicle frame 60. In the above structure of the embodiments of this application, the bracket assembly 20 is also used to connect to the vehicle frame 60, which can increase the reliability of the bracket assembly 20, so that the airbag assembly 30 is reliably installed in the vehicle, and can provide sufficient strength to resist the buoyancy generated by the airbag 31.

[0095] In some embodiments, the bracket assembly 20 further includes a fourth connector 24, one end of which is connected to the second connector 22, and the other end of which is connected to the vehicle frame 60. In the above structure of this application embodiment, the fourth connector 24 is used to connect the bracket assembly 20 to the vehicle frame 60.

[0096] In some embodiments, the airbag assembly 30 further includes an airbag support 34 and an airbag housing 32, one end of the airbag support 34 is connected to the airbag housing 32, and the other end of the airbag support 34 is connected to the second connector 22 via a fourth connector 24.

[0097] Specifically, one end of the airbag bracket 34 is connected to the housing 321 of the airbag box 32, and the other end of the airbag bracket 34 is connected to the fourth connector 24. The airbag box 32 is connected to the second connector 22 through the airbag bracket 34 and the fourth connector 24, thereby realizing the connection between the airbag box 32 and the bracket assembly 20.

[0098] In some embodiments, other connection structures, such as connectors, reinforcing plates, etc., may be provided between the airbag box 32 and the second connector 22 to increase the reliability of the connection between the airbag box 32 and the bracket assembly 20.

[0099] In some embodiments, the bracket assembly 20 further includes a fifth connector 25, one end of the fourth connector 24 is connected to the second connector 22, and the other end of the fourth connector 24 is connected to the fifth connector 25. The fifth connector 25 is used to connect to the vehicle frame 60. That is, the bracket assembly 20 is connected to the vehicle frame 60 through the fourth connector 24 and the fifth connector 25.

[0100] In some embodiments, the end of the frame 60 facing the bracket assembly 20 is provided with a frame end plate 65; the fourth connector 24 has a quadrilateral structure and the fifth connector 25 has a plate structure, with the fourth connector 24 connected to the fifth connector 25 on all four sides, and the fifth connector 25 connected to the frame end plate 65; wherein the first direction X and the second direction Y are perpendicular.

[0101] In this embodiment, the fourth connector 24 has a quadrilateral structure with a cross-section perpendicular to the second direction Y, resulting in relatively high structural strength and stability. The fifth connector 25 is connected to the frame end plate 65 via a plate-to-plate fit connection, further enhancing the structural strength of the connection between the bracket assembly 20 and the frame 60.

[0102] In some embodiments, the floating device further includes a retrieval mechanism connected to the airbag 31, which is used to reel in the airbag 31. In the above structure of this application embodiment, using the retrieval mechanism to reel in the airbag 31 has the advantages of being simple and convenient for storing the airbag 31.

[0103] In some embodiments, the retrieval mechanism includes a retrieval motor and a winding component, which are connected by a drive mechanism. The winding component is connected to the airbag 31, and the retrieval motor drives the winding component to rotate in order to wind up the airbag 31. After use, the floating device of this embodiment starts the retrieval motor, which drives the winding component to rotate in order to wind up the airbag 31, thus having the advantages of simple and convenient storage of the airbag 31.

[0104] In some embodiments, the recovery motor is connected to the airbag box 32; the winding component is disposed in the airbag box 32 and connected to the airbag 31.

[0105] It is understood that the transmission connection between the recycling motor and the winding component in the above structure can be that the output shaft of the recycling motor is connected to the winding component, or the recycling motor and the winding component can be connected through a transmission structure such as a gear set or a transmission chain. This application embodiment does not specifically limit this.

[0106] The specific structure of the winding component can also be set according to the usage requirements. For example, the winding component can be a columnar structure, as long as the usage requirements are met.

[0107] In some embodiments, the floating device further includes a baffle assembly 50, which is connected to the front of the vehicle and blocks the clearance opening; when the airbag 31 is inflated, the baffle assembly 50 opens the clearance opening, allowing at least a portion of the airbag 31 to extend out of the clearance opening and onto the outside of the vehicle.

[0108] In this embodiment, when the airbag 31 is not inflated, the baffle assembly 50 blocks the clearance opening, which can prevent the airbag assembly 30 from being exposed to the outside of the vehicle. On the one hand, this prevents the airbag assembly 30 from affecting the appearance of the vehicle, and on the other hand, the baffle assembly 50 can play a protective role, preventing the vehicle from directly hitting the airbag assembly 30 in the event of a collision, which could lead to damage to the airbag assembly 30 or accidental activation.

[0109] In some embodiments, the baffle assembly 50 includes a baffle 51 and a locking mechanism 52. The baffle 51 is rotatably connected to the front of the vehicle and blocks the passage. The locking mechanism 52 is connected to the baffle 51 and the front of the vehicle respectively, and the baffle 51 and the front of the vehicle are locked or unlocked by the locking mechanism 52.

[0110] In this embodiment, when the floating device is not in use, the baffle assembly 50 blocks the clearance opening, and the locking mechanism 52 locks the baffle 51 and the front protective device 10, ensuring that the baffle assembly 50 is in a locked state and connected to the front protective device 10. After the airbag 31 is inflated, the locking mechanism 52 releases the baffle 51 and the front protective device 10, allowing the baffle 51 to rotate and open the clearance opening, from which the airbag 31 extends.

[0111] Understandably, after the locking mechanism 52 releases the locking baffle 51 from the front of the vehicle, the airbag 31 pushes the baffle 51 to move outwards from the vehicle to prevent the baffle 51 from affecting the inflation and deployment of the airbag 31.

[0112] In some embodiments, the baffle 51 includes a baffle body 511 and an extension 512, which are connected together; one end of the baffle body 511 away from the extension 512 is connected to a locking mechanism 52; the extension 512 extends from the baffle body 511 in a direction away from the baffle body 511 and is rotatably connected to the front of the vehicle.

[0113] In this embodiment, the baffle body 511 is a long strip-shaped structure, and the baffle body 511 is mainly used to block the clearance opening. The baffle 51 is rotatably connected to the front of the vehicle via an extension 512. The clearance opening has the same shape as the baffle 51, and includes the baffle body 511 and the extension 512.

[0114] In some embodiments, two extensions 512 are provided, and the two extensions 512 are spaced apart along the first direction X.

[0115] In some embodiments, a pivot 53 is provided on the front of the vehicle, and a protrusion is provided on the extension 512. The pivot 53 passes through the protrusion to rotatably connect the front of the vehicle and the extension 512.

[0116] In some embodiments, the baffle assembly 50 further includes at least one limiting plate 54, which is disposed around the outer periphery of the clearance opening; the limiting plate 54 is used to limit the deployment direction of the airbag 31 when it is inflated, so that the airbag 31 deploys towards the clearance opening.

[0117] In this embodiment, the limiting plate 54 limits the deployment direction of the airbag 31 when it is inflated, so that the airbag 31 deploys towards the clearance opening. On the one hand, the airbag 31 contacts the locking mechanism 52 to unlock the locking mechanism 52, and on the other hand, the airbag 31 pushes open the unlocked baffle 51.

[0118] In some embodiments, each locking mechanism 52 is disposed between two adjacent limiting plates 54. When the airbag 31 is inflated, the airbag 31 will contact the limiting plate 54 and be blocked by the limiting plate 54, and then effectively contact the locking mechanism 52 to unlock the locking mechanism 52.

[0119] In some embodiments, referring to FIG6, five limiting plates 54 are provided on the upper side of the baffle 51, and one limiting plate 54 is provided on each of the left and right sides of the baffle 51. A total of two locking mechanisms 52 are provided, and each locking mechanism 52 is disposed between two adjacent limiting plates 54.

[0120] In some embodiments, the limiting plate 54 has a first limiting portion and a second limiting portion connected to each other. One end of the first limiting portion is connected to the front of the vehicle, and the other end of the first limiting portion is connected to the second limiting portion. The second limiting portion faces the airbag box 32 of the airbag assembly 30 and is located on the upper side of the box cover 322 of the airbag assembly 30. In the third direction Z, the locking mechanism 52 is located on the lower side of the first limiting portion and the second limiting portion, and the locking mechanism 52 faces the box cover 322. The first direction X, the second direction Y and the third direction Z are perpendicular to each other.

[0121] In this embodiment, the second limiting part can provide a limit for the airbag 31, restricting the direction of airbag 31 inflation and unfolding, so that the airbag 31 unfolds according to a preset position, thereby squeezing the locking mechanism 52 and the baffle 51.

[0122] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism 52 is a self-locking mechanism. This self-locking mechanism is one that can be unlocked by pressing. When the airbag 31 presses the locking mechanism 52, the locking mechanism 52 can be unlocked, which has the advantage of being simple and convenient to unlock.

[0123] In some embodiments, the floating device further includes a water level monitoring module and a control module. The water level monitoring module is used to monitor the wading depth of the vehicle. The control module is electrically connected to the water level monitoring module and the airbag assembly 30 respectively. The control module is used to control the airbag assembly 30 to start and inflate the airbag 31 when the wading depth of the vehicle is greater than or equal to a first preset depth.

[0124] The connection positions of the water level monitoring module and the control module to the front of the vehicle can be set according to usage requirements. For example, the water level monitoring module can be set on the rearview mirror 88 of the vehicle.

[0125] In this embodiment, the water level monitoring module and the control module can automatically control the airbag assembly 30 to inflate the airbag 31 when the vehicle's wading depth is greater than or equal to a first preset depth, thus exhibiting a high degree of automation.

[0126] In some embodiments, the water level monitoring module is a water depth detector 86, etc., and the appropriate module can be selected according to the usage requirements in actual use.

[0127] In some embodiments, to prevent the airbag assembly 30 from being accidentally deployed, the flotation device further includes a user confirmation module, which is electrically connected to the control module. When the vehicle's wading depth is greater than or equal to a first preset depth, the control module sends a signal to the user confirmation module for user confirmation on whether to deploy the airbag 31, thus preventing the airbag assembly 30 from being accidentally deployed.

[0128] In some embodiments, the front of the vehicle includes multiple structural components, such as a front protective device 10. In this embodiment, the connection between the buoyancy device and the front protective device 10 is taken as an example. Referring to Figures 1 to 17, the connection method and working process of the buoyancy device are as follows:

[0129] The floating device includes a support assembly 20, an airbag assembly 30, an inflation mechanism 40, and a baffle assembly 50. The support assembly 20 is connected to the front protective device 10 and the longitudinal beam 61 of the frame 60, respectively. The front protective device 10 is connected to the frame 60. The airbag assembly 30 includes an airbag 31 and an airbag box 32. The airbag box 32 also includes a box shell 321 and a box cover 322.

[0130] Referring to Figures 3 and 4, the floating device includes two air tanks 41, each with its own triggering mechanism. The air tanks 41 are fixed to the airbag housing 32 via four first brackets 77 and eight first bolts 71. Each air tank 41 is connected to the airbag 31 via an air supply pipe 33, which is fixed to the airbag housing 32 via a fastening mechanism 78. The airbag 31 is fixed to the back of the airbag housing 32 by twenty-two second bolts 72, twelve of which simultaneously fix the airbag housing 32 and the airbag bracket 34 together. On the front of the airbag housing 32, the housing shell 321 and the cover 322 are connected by a snap-fit ​​mechanism, forming a mounting space. The airbag 31 is placed within this mounting space to prevent damage during normal vehicle operation. The airbag box 32 is secured to the fourth connector 24 of the bracket assembly 20 using eight bolts or other fasteners via its two built-in airbag brackets 34. Each bolt or other fastener passes through a fifth mounting hole 341.

[0131] Referring to Figure 5, the bracket assembly 20 includes a first connector 21, a second connector 22, a third connector 23, a fourth connector 24, and a fifth connector 25. The third connector 23 is connected to the second connector 22 by four fifth bolts 75. The fifth connector 25 includes six sixth bolts 76 and two second nuts 80, which are used to fix the fifth connector 25 to the frame end plate 65 of the longitudinal beam 61. The first connector 21 is provided with two fourth bolts 74 and two first nuts 79, which are used to connect the first connector 21 to the front protective device 10.

[0132] Referring to Figure 6, the side wing brackets 12 on both sides of the front protective device 10 are provided with a plurality of seventh bolts 81. The seventh bolts 81 are used to connect the side wing brackets 12 to the frame 60 and to connect the side wing brackets 12 to the front protective device 10. The bottom of the front protective device 10 is provided with four eighth bolts 82, which are used to connect the bottom of the front protective device 10 to the frame 60.

[0133] Referring to Figure 8, the frame 60 is a beam-type frame structure. The frame 60 includes four second mounting holes 62 for fixing the bottom of the front protective device 10. The frame end plate 65 is provided with two ninth bolts 83 and six third mounting holes 63 for mounting the fifth connector 25. The side of the frame 60 is provided with six fourth mounting holes 64 for fixing the side wing bracket 12.

[0134] Furthermore, the airbag box 32 is fixed to the fourth connector 24 using eight bolts or other fasteners via its two built-in airbag brackets 34; the fifth connector 25 is fixed to the third mounting hole 63 and the ninth bolt 83 of the frame end plate 65 using six sixth bolts 76 and two second nuts 80. The front protective device 10 is fixed to the first nut 79 and the fourth bolt 74 on the first connector 21 via the first mounting hole 11 using two bolts or other fasteners and two nuts. The front protective device 10 is also connected to the fourth mounting hole 64 on the frame 60 via the side wing brackets 12 on both sides using six seventh bolts 81. The bottom of the front protective device 10 is also fixed to the second mounting hole 62 on the frame 60 via four eighth bolts 82.

[0135] Figure 16 shows a schematic diagram of the flotation device and its mounted vehicle with the airbag 31 in the closed state. The airbag 31 is enclosed within the airbag box 32 and is protected by the front protective device 10 for safety during normal driving. Figure 17 shows a schematic diagram of the flotation device and its mounted vehicle with the airbag 31 in the inflated and deployed state.

[0136] In some embodiments, the entire process of the deployment and retrieval of the airbag 31 in the flotation device is as follows:

[0137] When the vehicle encounters a situation requiring buoyancy, the water depth sensor 86 located on the vehicle's external rearview mirror 88 detects that the water depth exceeds a first preset depth (the first preset depth is set according to usage requirements, for example, 1.4m). Upon detecting this, it sends a signal to enter buoyancy mode. This signal is transmitted via the left vehicle body domain controller 87 to the vehicle controller 90, and the vehicle enters buoyancy mode. Once in buoyancy mode, a signal to deploy the airbag 31 is sent to the control module. The control module then transmits this signal to the central control screen (which serves as a user confirmation module), asking the user whether to deploy the airbag 31. If the user confirms, the air tank 41 receives the deployment signal from the user, and the airbag 31 inflates. When the airbag 31 fills the airbag box 32, the airbag 31 continues to inflate and will push open the box cover 322. After the airbag 31 breaks through the box cover 322, it will impact the two locking mechanisms 52 due to the restriction of the baffle 51. After breaking through the locking mechanisms 52, the baffle 51 will rotate around the two pivots 53 to open the clearance opening. The airbag 31 will then fully deploy outside the front protective device 10 to adjust the vehicle's floating posture in the water. The entire process of the airbag 31 fully deploying will be completed within a preset time (e.g., 10 seconds).

[0138] When the vehicle leaves the floating section and no longer needs to float, the water depth sensor 86 located on the vehicle's external rearview mirror 88 detects that the water depth is lower than the second preset depth (the second preset depth is set according to usage requirements, for example, the second preset depth is 1.1m). It will then issue a signal to exit the floating mode. This signal is transmitted to the vehicle controller 90 via the left vehicle body domain controller 87, and the vehicle exits the floating mode. After exiting the floating mode, a signal to open the air tank 41 is sent to the control module. The control module then transmits the signal to the central control screen, asking the user whether to open the air tank 41. If the user clicks "confirm," the trigger mechanism of the air tank 41 will receive the user's signal and open the air tank 41. The airbag 31 will begin to deflate. After the gas in the airbag 31 is released, the user must manually roll up the airbag 31 and place it into the airbag box 32, then push the baffle 51 back to its original position. The locking mechanism 52 will then lock the baffle 51 and the front protective device 10. After use and storage, the airbag 31 can be disassembled and replaced with the air tank 41. The airbag 31 is reusable, reducing user costs.

[0139] In some embodiments, the various devices are electrically connected via wiring harnesses, and the specific connection method is not limited in this application embodiment. For example, the floating device also includes an airbag assembly controller 92. Referring to Figures 18 and 19, one end of the front bumper cable 84 is connected to the airbag assembly 30, and the other end of the front bumper cable 84 is connected to the front compartment wiring harness 85. The front compartment wiring harness 85 is then connected to the left vehicle body domain controller 87 and the airbag assembly controller 92. The water depth detector 86 is connected to the left vehicle body domain controller 87 via the left front door wiring harness 89. The left vehicle body domain controller 87 is connected to the vehicle controller 90 via the front compartment wiring harness 85 and the instrument panel wiring harness 91. The front bumper cable 84, the front compartment wiring harness 85, the left front door wiring harness 89, and the instrument panel wiring harness 91 are used for the transmission of electrical signals. The airbag assembly controller 92, the left vehicle body domain controller 87, and the vehicle controller 90 work together to better realize the function of the airbag assembly 30.

[0140] In some embodiments, the gas storage tank 41 is replaced as follows:

[0141] Remove the fifth bolt 75, the eighth bolt 82, and the seventh bolt 81 to disassemble the front protective device 10. Remove the sixth bolt 76 and the ninth bolt 83 to disassemble the bracket assembly 20 with the airbag assembly 30. Remove the bolts on the fifth mounting hole 341 to disassemble the airbag assembly 30. Remove the fastening mechanism 78 and the first bolt 71 to disassemble the air tank 41.

[0142] The installation of the air tank 41 after replacement is the reverse of the disassembly steps. Install the fastening mechanism 78 and the first bolt 71 to install the air tank 41 onto the airbag housing 32. Install the bolts on the fifth mounting hole 341 to connect the airbag assembly 30 to the bracket assembly 20. Install the sixth bolt 76 and the ninth bolt 83 to connect the bracket assembly 20 to the vehicle frame 60. Install the fifth bolt 75, the eighth bolt 82, and the seventh bolt 81 to connect the front protective device 10 to the bracket assembly 20 and the vehicle frame 60 respectively.

[0143] In this embodiment, to accommodate the airbag 31, an abutment is provided on the front protective device 10 for the airbag 31 to deploy. The airbag 31 is installed inside the airbag housing 32. The front protective device 10 and the airbag housing 32 ensure the safety of the airbag 31 during normal driving, preventing the airbag assembly 30 from being accidentally triggered and causing the airbag 31 to inflate. Furthermore, the bracket assembly 20 is connected to both the front protective device 10 and the vehicle frame 60, providing sufficient strength to resist the buoyancy generated by the airbag 31. When the vehicle's wading depth is greater than or equal to a first preset depth, the airbag 31 inflates, causing the front of the vehicle to float, thus adjusting the vehicle's posture in the water and effectively preventing the front of the vehicle from sinking and the risk of water ingress. Since the airbag 31 does not float the entire vehicle in the water, the force borne by the airbag 31 is relatively small, and the airbag 31 can prolong the floating time.

[0144] This application also provides a vehicle, which includes a cab and a floating device as described above, with the cab connected to the floating device.

[0145] When the vehicle's wading depth is greater than or equal to the first preset depth, the buoyancy device inflates the airbag 31, causing the front of the vehicle to float, thereby adjusting the vehicle's posture in the water and effectively avoiding the risk of the front of the vehicle sinking and the water ingress associated with it.

[0146] In some embodiments, the front of the vehicle includes a front protective device 10 connected to a buoyancy device; the front protective device 10 is a metal skid bar. The main function of the metal skid bar is to provide protection for the vehicle, such as an off-road vehicle, especially in complex terrain environments. Moreover, the metal skid bar is made of metal, possessing high strength and durability. Therefore, the metal skid bar protects the airbag assembly 30, preventing direct impact to the airbag assembly 30 during collisions or other incidents, thus avoiding damage to the airbag assembly 30 and accidental deployment.

[0147] In some embodiments, the vehicle further includes a frame 60, the longitudinal beams 61 of which are connected to the support assembly 20.

[0148] In the embodiments of this application, the floating device and the vehicle can be referenced to each other and have the same or similar beneficial effects as any of the aforementioned floating devices. To avoid repetition, they will not be described again here.

[0149] It should be noted that, in this document, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used merely to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes the element.

[0150] The various embodiments in this specification are described in a related manner. The same or similar parts between the various embodiments can be referred to each other. Each embodiment focuses on describing the differences from other embodiments.

[0151] The above are merely preferred embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application are included within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A floating device for connection to the front of a vehicle, characterized in that, The floating device includes, An airbag assembly (30) is connected to the front of the vehicle. The airbag assembly (30) includes an airbag (31). The airbag (31) is used to inflate when the wading depth of the vehicle is greater than or equal to a first preset depth, so that the front of the vehicle floats.

2. The floating device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The airbag assembly (30) also includes an airbag box (32) having a placement space; The airbag (31) is disposed within the placement space, and when the airbag (31) is inflated, at least a portion of the airbag (31) is dislodged from the placement space.

3. The floating device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The airbag box (32) includes a box cover (322) and a box shell (321), the box cover (322) and the box shell (321) enclosing the placement space, and at least a portion of the box cover (322) can be detached from the box shell (321); When the airbag (31) is inflated, the airbag (31) pushes open the box cover (322), and at least a portion of the airbag (31) detaches from the placement space.

4. The floating device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The lid (322) is engaged with the shell (321).

5. The floating device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The side wall of the housing (321) is provided with a buckle (323); The box cover (322) is provided with slots (324) around its perimeter. The box cover (322) is fastened to the box opening of the box shell (321). Each slot (324) is provided with a buckle (323) to detachably connect the box cover (322) to the box shell (321).

6. The floating device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The front of the vehicle is equipped with a clearance; The airbag assembly (30) is disposed inside the front of the vehicle and corresponds to the clearance opening; when the airbag (31) is inflated, at least a portion of the airbag (31) protrudes through the clearance opening, causing the front of the vehicle to float.

7. The floating device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The airbag assembly (30) includes an airbag box (32) and the airbag box (32) is provided with a box cover (322); The clearance opening is larger than the cover body (322); when the airbag (31) is inflated, the airbag (31) pushes the cover body (322) to detach the cover body (322) from the airbag box (32), and the cover body (322) passes through the clearance opening to the outside of the vehicle.

8. The floating device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The airbag assembly (30) further includes an inflation mechanism (40) which is connected to the airbag (31) and is used to inflate the airbag (31).

9. The floating device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The airbag assembly (30) includes an airbag box (32); The inflation mechanism (40) has at least two, and the at least two inflation mechanisms (40) are arranged along the first direction (X) and are respectively connected to the airbag box (32).

10. The floating device according to claim 9, characterized in that, One airbag (31) is provided, and the airbag (31) is connected to all the inflation mechanisms (40).

11. The floating device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The inflation mechanism (40) includes an air tank (41) or an air pump.

12. The floating device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The floating device also includes a venting mechanism, which is connected to the air bag (31) and is used to release the gas in the air bag (31).

13. The floating device according to claim 12, characterized in that, The inflation mechanism (40) includes an air tank (41), and the air tank (41) is provided with a triggering mechanism, which is used to open the air tank (41) and release the gas in the airbag (31); The venting mechanism is the triggering mechanism.

14. The floating device according to claim 12, characterized in that, The deflation mechanism is an air extraction mechanism that is connected to the airbag (31).

15. The floating device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The floating device also includes a support assembly (20), which is connected to the front of the vehicle and the airbag assembly (30) respectively, so as to connect the airbag assembly (30) and the front of the vehicle.

16. The floating device according to claim 15, characterized in that, The support assembly (20) includes, A first connector (21) and a second connector (22) extend along a first direction, the first connector (21) and the second connector (22) are connected, the first connector (21) is connected to the front of the vehicle, and the second connector (22) is connected to the airbag assembly (30).

17. The floating device according to claim 16, characterized in that, The bracket assembly (20) is also used to connect to the vehicle frame (60).

18. The floating device according to claim 17, characterized in that, The bracket assembly (20) further includes a fourth connector (24), one end of which is connected to the second connector (22), and the other end of which is connected to the frame (60).

19. The floating device according to claim 18, characterized in that, The airbag assembly (30) further includes an airbag bracket (34) and an airbag box (32). One end of the airbag bracket (34) is connected to the airbag box (32), and the other end of the airbag bracket (34) is connected to the second connector (22) through the fourth connector (24).

20. The floating device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The floating device also includes a recovery mechanism connected to the airbag (31), which is used to retract the airbag (31).

21. The floating device according to claim 20, characterized in that, The recycling mechanism includes a recycling motor and a winding component, which are connected by a drive mechanism. The winding component is connected to the airbag (31), and the recycling motor drives the winding component to rotate in order to wind up the airbag (31).

22. The floating device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The floating device also includes a baffle assembly (50), which is connected to the front of the vehicle and blocks the clearance opening; When the airbag (31) is inflated, the baffle assembly (50) opens the clearance opening, allowing at least a portion of the airbag (31) to extend out of the clearance opening and onto the outside of the vehicle.

23. The floating device according to claim 22, characterized in that, The baffle assembly (50) includes, A baffle (51) is rotatably connected to the front of the vehicle and blocks the clearance opening; The locking mechanism (52) is connected to the baffle (51) and the front of the vehicle respectively. The baffle (51) and the front of the vehicle are locked or unlocked by the locking mechanism (52).

24. The floating device according to claim 23, characterized in that, The baffle (51) includes a baffle body (511) and an extension (512), and the baffle body (511) and the extension (512) are connected. The end of the baffle body (511) facing away from the extension (512) is connected to the locking mechanism (52); The extension (512) extends from the baffle body (511) in a direction away from the baffle body (511), and the extension (512) is rotatably connected to the front of the vehicle.

25. The floating device according to claim 23, characterized in that, The baffle assembly (50) further includes at least one limiting plate (54) which is disposed around the outer periphery of the clearance opening; The limiting plate (54) is used to limit the deployment direction of the airbag (31) when it is inflated, so that the airbag (31) deploys towards the clearance opening.

26. The floating device according to claim 23, characterized in that, The locking mechanism (52) is a self-locking mechanism.

27. The floating device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The floating device also includes, A water level monitoring module, wherein the water level monitoring module is used to monitor the wading depth of the vehicle; The control module is electrically connected to the water level monitoring module and the airbag assembly (30) respectively. The control module is used to control the airbag assembly (30) to start and inflate the airbag (31) when the vehicle wading depth is greater than or equal to a first preset depth.

28. A vehicle, characterized in that, The vehicle includes a cab and a floating device as described in any one of claims 1-27, wherein the cab is connected to the floating device.

29. The vehicle according to claim 28, characterized in that, The front of the vehicle includes a front protective device (10), which is connected to the floating device.

30. The vehicle according to claim 29, characterized in that, The vehicle also includes a frame (60), the longitudinal beams (61) of which are connected to the support assembly (20) of the floating device.

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