Vehicle Framework Die-Cast Member Deformation Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vehicle framework structures with die-cast members are prone to deformation during collisions, as collision loads concentrate at these members, leading to potential structural failures and difficulties in applying a common framework to vehicles of different sizes.

Innovation Solution

A vehicle framework structure where rockers and cross-members are connected by die-cast members, with additional cross-members and outer panels configured to distribute loads and absorb stresses, preventing deformation by acting as a closed-cross section structure during collisions, allowing for easier application across various vehicle sizes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If die-cast members are used to connect rockers and cross-members, then the framework structure can be easily applied to vehicles of different sizes, but the die-cast members are prone to deformation during front or rear collisions due to concentrated collision loads

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different vehicle sizesVSAvoidresistance to collision loads
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the cross-member connection system into multiple segments: a first cross-member connected to both die-cast members, and a second cross-member connected to at least one die-cast member. This segmentation distributes the collision load across multiple connection points rather than concentrating it on single die-cast members, reducing deformation while preserving the adaptability of the framework structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enhances the local structural quality at critical connection points by adding the second cross-member specifically at locations where collision loads are most likely to concentrate on the die-cast members. This localized reinforcement provides additional load paths and structural support precisely where needed, without requiring changes to the overall framework design that would reduce adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Adaptability or versatility

If the framework structure uses standardized units to alter length in the vehicle front-rear direction, then common framework can be employed for vehicles with different power units and sizes, but the joining portions for cross-members at rockers must be specified, reducing ease of application

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommon framework for different power unitsVSAvoidease of applying framework structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal connection system where the first and second cross-members can be configured in multiple arrangements to accommodate different vehicle sizes and power units. The cross-members are designed to connect to the die-cast members in flexible configurations, allowing the same basic framework structure to be adapted to various vehicle platforms without requiring custom joining portions at the rockers, thereby maintaining ease of manufacture while achieving universality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS10822035B2Vehicle framework structure
Publication Date: 2020.11.03 TOYOTA JIDOSHA KK
  • US10822035B2 patent drawing
  • US10822035B2 patent drawing
  • US10822035B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A vehicle framework structure includes: a pair of rockers extending in a vehicle front-rear direction at both sides in a vehicle width direction; a pair of die-cast members, each die-cast member being joined to at least one of a front end portion or a rear end portion of one of the pair of rockers; a first cross-member extending in the vehicle width direction and being connected to the pair of die-cast members; and a second cross-member provided to the pair of die-cast members, at one of a front side or a rear side in the vehicle front-rear direction relative to the first cross-member, the second cross-member extending in the vehicle width direction and connecting the pair of die-cast members.