Motor Vehicle Compartment Closure Damping via Eccentric Cam and Deformable Buffer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing closing systems for motor vehicle compartments are complex and expensive due to the use of separate damping devices, which require additional space, specific geometries, and fasteners, increasing overall system complexity and cost.
Innovation Solution
An integrated damping system using a pair of cams with eccentric portions and an elastically deformable buffer, mounted to a support structure, which slows down the oscillating assembly's movement from the closed to fully open position through friction and compression, eliminating the need for separate damping devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate damping devices (springs, hydraulic or pneumatic dissipators) are used in the closing system, then effective damping of the oscillating assembly is achieved, but the system becomes more complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The damping function is merged with the support structure itself. The support structure incorporates a damping element (elastically deformable body) and a cam mechanism directly into its design, eliminating the need for separate damping devices. This integration reduces the number of components while maintaining effective damping of the oscillating assembly during opening/closing operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, houses the damping element, and incorporates the cam mechanism for controlling the oscillating assembly's movement. This multi-functionality reduces the overall system complexity by combining what were previously separate components into a single integrated structure.
2Reliability
If separate damping devices are used in the closing system, then damping function is provided, but additional space and specialized geometries are required
Solution Approach 1:
The damping element is integrated within the support structure's existing volume. The elastically deformable body is positioned within the support structure and works in conjunction with the cam mechanism, utilizing the same space that would otherwise be required for structural support alone. This eliminates the need for additional dedicated space for damping components.
3Reliability
If separate damping devices with specialized fasteners are used, then damping is achieved, but manufacturing and assembly become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The damping element is integrated as part of the support structure, eliminating the need for separate fasteners and assembly steps. The support structure can be manufactured as a single piece or pre-assembled unit with the damping element already in place, simplifying both manufacturing and installation processes compared to installing separate damping devices with specialized fasteners.
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 integrated damping system simplifies the closing system design, reduces costs, and provides effective damping without the need for additional space or specialized components, enhancing the overall operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
a damping device (30) comprising a pair of cams (32) each having an outer surface with an eccentric portion (34), and an elastically deformable buffer (36) mounted to a support structure (12) and cooperating with the outer surface of the cams (32)
Implementation Method 2
cooperating with the outer surface of the cams (32) to slow down the movement of the oscillating assembly (16)
Data Source
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AI summary
The system comprises a support structure (12) in which a passage (14) is defined. An oscillating assembly (16) defines a container compartment (18) and is hinged at said passage (14) between a closed position and a fully open position. There is also a damping device (30) configured for damping or slowing down the movement of the oscillating assembly (16) in a predetermined tract of the travel from the closed position to the fully open position. The damping device (30) comprises a cam (32) carried by the oscillating assembly (16), which has an outer surface with an eccentric portion (34), and a buffer (36) made of elastically deformable material, mounted to the support structure (12) and co-operating with said outer surface. In the predetermined tract, the eccentric portion (34) pushes the buffer (36) that exerts friction against the cam (32), thereby damping or slowing down the movement of the oscillating assembly (16) .