Vehicle Cross-Member Opening for Bearing Access
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing assembly and disassembly processes of cross members in motor vehicles are cumbersome, particularly when connecting to the bulkhead or window cross member, requiring partial removal of components like the instrument panel.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an opening in the bearing block area, allowing access to screwing points for easier assembly and disassembly, preferably located behind the combination display device or other removable objects connected to the cross member.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the cross member is connected to the bulkhead or window cross member using conventional fastening methods, then the connection strength is sufficient, but the assembly and disassembly process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The cross member is divided into two separate half-shells that are connected to each other, creating an opening in the assembly. This segmentation allows access to the fastening points of the bearing block without requiring complete disassembly of the entire cross member structure, thereby reducing assembly and disassembly time while maintaining connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The opening in the cross member assembly acts as an intermediary access path to the bearing block fastening points. This intermediate structure allows tools and fasteners to reach the connection points between the bearing block and bulkhead/window cross member without requiring removal of the entire cross member or instrument panel, thus facilitating faster assembly and disassembly.
2Strength
If the cross member structure is made solid and complete for structural integrity, then the structural strength is improved, but the accessibility of fastening points for assembly and disassembly is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The cross member is segmented into two half-shells that are connected but not completely sealed, creating an opening that provides access to the bearing block fastening points. This segmentation maintains the structural strength needed for cockpit support while enabling easier assembly and disassembly operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The cross member assembly has different properties in different regions: the majority of the structure remains solid and complete for structural integrity, while a specific local area contains an opening that provides access to fastening points. This local modification allows ease of operation at critical points without compromising overall structural strength.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the instrument panel and combination display device are made permanently fixed for stability, then the stability of the cockpit module is improved, but the ease of maintenance and component access is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The cockpit module is segmented into separable components including the instrument panel, combination display device, and cross member assembly. The opening in the cross member allows access to bearing block fastening points without requiring complete disassembly, enabling easier maintenance while maintaining stable operation during use.
Solution Approach 2:
The cockpit module components are designed with dynamic characteristics - firmly fixed during operation for stability, but easily separable for maintenance. The opening in the cross member enables this dynamic behavior by providing access to fastening points, allowing the combination display device and instrument panel to be removed or accessed without permanent fixed connections.
Data Source
AI summary
The cross beam (1) has a bearing support (5) and an opening (11) provided in area of the bearing support. The bearing block is provided in area of the steering column, and the opening is provided behind the combi-display device.