Layered Deformation Structure for Pulse-Dependent Bumper Rigidity
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motor vehicle deformation structures face conflicting objectives of pedestrian protection and damage minimization at varying collision speeds, requiring complex and costly systems with sensors and actuators to switch between rigid and soft states, which complicates production and increases weight.
Innovation Solution
A deformation structure composed of multiple layers with complementary projections and recesses connected by a deformation control device, allowing for adjustable rigidity levels without sensors or actuators, enabling cost-effective production and adaptable to different vehicle types and requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a soft foam is arranged for pedestrian protection, then pedestrian protection is improved, but damage minimization at low speeds deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The bumper arrangement dynamically changes its mechanical properties between soft and rigid states based on collision detection. The pivotable energy absorption element transitions from a pivoting motion (soft state) to a fixed position (rigid state), allowing the structure to adapt its behavior to different collision scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the physical state parameters of the bumper structure by altering the geometric configuration of the energy absorption element. When pivoted forward, the element creates a longer deformation path (soft state); when fixed, it creates a shorter deformation path (rigid state), thus changing the energy absorption characteristics.
2Strength
If a rigid structure is used for damage minimization, then damage minimization is improved, but pedestrian protection deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The bumper arrangement dynamically changes its mechanical properties between soft and rigid states based on collision detection. The pivotable energy absorption element transitions from a pivoting motion (soft state) to a fixed position (rigid state), allowing the structure to adapt its behavior to different collision scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the physical state parameters of the bumper structure by altering the geometric configuration of the energy absorption element. When pivoted forward, the element creates a longer deformation path (soft state); when fixed, it creates a shorter deformation path (rigid state), thus changing the energy absorption characteristics.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a switchable bumper arrangement with sensors and actuators is implemented, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The crash or pre-crash sensor system automatically triggers the switching mechanism without requiring additional actuators or complex control systems. The energy absorption element is designed to pivot or fix itself based on sensor signals, eliminating the need for motorized actuation systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and eliminates the actuator component from the switchable bumper system. Instead of using motors or hydraulic systems to pivot the energy absorption element, the design relies on sensor-triggered mechanical latching or spring-loaded mechanisms that require no active actuation.
4Strength
If a longer vehicle overhang is used to accommodate deformation space, then energy absorption capacity is improved, but weight and travel dynamics worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The bumper arrangement dynamically changes its mechanical properties between soft and rigid states based on collision detection. The pivotable energy absorption element transitions from a pivoting motion (soft state) to a fixed position (rigid state), allowing the structure to adapt its behavior to different collision scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the physical state parameters of the bumper structure by altering the geometric configuration of the energy absorption element. When pivoted forward, the element creates a longer deformation path (soft state); when fixed, it creates a shorter deformation path (rigid state), thus changing the energy absorption characteristics.
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 deformation structure can be produced simply and cost-effectively, adapting to various applications by adjusting rigidity levels based on collision pulse, reducing material usage and weight while maintaining effective energy absorption and protection at different collision speeds.
Implementation Method 1
a deformation structure (1) which can be deformed at different force levels in a switchable manner in a pulse-dependent manner
Implementation Method 2
there is provided a pivotable energy absorption element which can be pivoted in front of the pedestrian protection element and thereby enables increased energy absorption in the event of collisions in which a higher collision energy absorption capacity of the crash structure of the motor vehicle is required
Data Source
AI summary
A deformation energy absorption structure has at least a first layer and a second layer which are spaced apart from each other and are mounted to be movable relative to each other in the deformation or load direction. The first and second layers have complementary protrusions and recesses, which are designed such that the protrusions of the first layer can dip into the recesses of the second layer and the protrusions of the second layer can dip into the recesses of the first layer. The first layer and the second layer are connected to each other by a deformation control device such that, in the event of a high impulse in the deformation direction, the protrusions of the first layer dip into the recesses of the second layer and the protrusions of the second layer dip into the recesses of the first layer such that the deformation structure is deformed in the deformation direction at a relatively low level of force, and, in the event of a low impulse in the deformation direction, the protrusions of the first layer hit the protrusions of the second layer such that the deformation structure is deformed further in the deformation direction at a relatively high level of force or that a greater force can be transmitted by the deformation structure. The first and second layers are formed from a plurality of deformation base elements which are produced separately from one another and are interconnected.