Arcuate Energy Absorption Structure for Vehicle Doors
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicle doors lack an effective energy absorption structure that maintains structural integrity while efficiently absorbing various forces.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle door design featuring an interior panel with a housing that contains an energy absorption structure comprising a plurality of arcuate members arranged in rows, where each member includes a central rib and supports that are interconnected, forming a lattice structure to absorb energy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a solid rigid structure is used in the vehicle door, then structural integrity is maintained, but energy absorption capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The energy absorption structure is divided into multiple individual members (24) arranged in rows, where each member consists of separate components (supports 22 and ribs 30) that can deform independently. This segmentation allows the structure to absorb energy through progressive deformation of individual segments while maintaining overall structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The structure employs a lattice-like configuration with intentional voids and spaces between members and within members (central spaces 80). This porous arrangement enables energy absorption through controlled collapse and deformation of the lattice structure, allowing the door to absorb impact energy while maintaining structural framework integrity.
2Loss of energy
If a lattice structure with multiple members is used, then energy absorption capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple members (24) are arranged in parallel rows with similar configurations, creating a repetitive modular pattern. This merging of identical or similar structural elements simplifies manufacturing and assembly while achieving the desired energy absorption through the collective action of multiple identical units.
Solution Approach 2:
Each member configuration serves multiple functions: the supports 22 provide structural framework, the ribs 30 enhance local stiffness, and the interconnected geometry enables energy absorption. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, thereby managing complexity.
3Loss of energy
If arcuate supports with central spaces are used, then energy absorption efficiency is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The supports 22 are formed with arcuate (curved) geometries rather than straight lines. These curved configurations are well-suited for molding and forming processes, allowing for efficient energy absorption through geometric design that can be manufactured with standard precision using conventional automotive manufacturing techniques.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle door includes an interior panel including a housing extending from a first side of the interior panel and defining a cavity. An energy absorption structure is positioned within the cavity and includes a plurality of members arranged in a plurality of rows. Each of the plurality of members includes at least one arcuate support coupled with a rib and having first and second ends. The at least one arcuate support of each member is coupled to the at least one arcuate support of a neighboring member at one of the first and second ends.