Automotive Bumper Compression Member Vibration Damping
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Automotive bumper covers experience undesirable oscillation due to road and speed-induced vibrations, which affect aesthetics and aerodynamic performance.
Innovation Solution
A compression member is interposed between the bodyside outer element and the outer bumper cover, comprising a first and second compressible region with varying compressibility values, where the second compressible region made of polymeric foam dampens vibrations, reducing perceivable oscillation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If the outer bumper cover thickness is reduced to decrease vehicle weight, then weight is reduced, but the contour of underlying surfaces is transferred through the bumper cover and perceived by the consumer
Solution Approach 1:
A compression member consisting of two foam regions with different compressibility values is introduced as an intermediary layer between the bodyside outer element and the outer bumper cover. This intermediate compression member absorbs and dampens vibrations and surface contour transfers, allowing the use of thinner bumper covers without perceiving underlying surface imperfections.
2Weight of moving object
If the outer bumper cover is made thinner to reduce weight, then manufacturing cost and weight are reduced, but the bumper cover becomes more susceptible to oscillation and vibration
Solution Approach 1:
The compression member is designed with non-uniform local quality, consisting of a first foam region with a first compressibility value and a second foam region with a second compressibility value. The first region (closer to bodyside outer element) has lower compressibility for structural support, while the second region (closer to bumper cover) has higher compressibility for vibration dampening, allowing thin bumper covers to resist oscillation.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a compression member with varying compressibility is added to dampen vibrations, then oscillation is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The compression member is constructed as a composite structure combining two foam materials with different compressibility values. This composite approach allows the single compression member to simultaneously provide structural support and vibration dampening functions, reducing overall device complexity compared to using multiple separate components.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution effectively reduces and eliminates visible oscillation of the bumper cover by transmitting and dampening vibrations, enhancing the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of the vehicle.
Implementation Method 1
a second compressible region composed of a polymeric foam having a second compressibility value that is positioned proximate to the outer bumper cover
Implementation Method 2
the second compressible region made of polymeric foam dampens vibrations, reducing perceivable oscillation
Data Source
AI summary
An automotive bumper assembly and compression member for use therein. The assembly including a compression member has a first compressible region that contacts an outwardly oriented facing surface of a bodyside outer element and a second compressible region composed of a foamed polymeric material that rests in contact with an inwardly oriented surface of an outer bumper cover member. The first and second compressible regions each exhibit compressibility values with the compressibility value of the second compressible region being greater than the compressibility value of the first compressible region.