Vehicle Lower Arm Weak-Zone Structure for Small Overlap Collisions
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicle suspension systems do not adequately address shock absorption during small overlap collisions, where the amount of overlap between the vehicle front and a collision object is minimal.
Innovation Solution
The lower arm is designed with a second region that is mechanically weaker than the first region, allowing it to deform preferentially during a collision, thereby absorbing impact energy and maintaining the steering function.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the lower arm is designed with uniform strength throughout, then the structural integrity is maintained, but the shock absorption capability during small overlap collisions is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The lower arm is designed with non-uniform strength distribution through varying plate thickness. The first plate portion has a smaller thickness than the second plate portion, creating a fragile portion that deforms preferentially during small overlap collisions. This local quality variation allows the lower arm to absorb collision energy while maintaining overall structural integrity where needed.
2Loss of energy
If the lower arm is made completely rigid, then the steering function is maintained, but the collision energy absorption is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The lower arm is segmented into different functional zones with distinct mechanical properties. The fragile portion (first plate portion) is designed to deform and absorb energy during collisions, while the stronger portion (second plate portion) maintains structural integrity and steering function. This segmentation allows energy dissipation without compromising overall reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The lower arm transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic structure with controlled deformation characteristics. The fragile portion is designed to deform under specific collision conditions (small overlap collisions), allowing the structure to adapt its rigidity based on loading conditions. This dynamic behavior enables energy absorption while preserving steering function under normal operating conditions.
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
Enhances shock absorption during small overlap collisions by allowing the second region to deform first, sandwiching the wheel between the collision object and the vehicle's side sill, thus absorbing collision energy and protecting occupants.
Implementation Method 1
a second region (P2) extending in a vehicle front-rear direction between the first mounting portion (3) and the second mounting portion (4) than a first region (P1) extending in a vehicle width direction between the third mounting portion (5) and the first mounting portion (3)
Data Source
AI summary
A lower arm for an automotive vehicle suspension includes a main body part including first, second and third mounting portions. The first mounting portion extends inward in a vehicle width direction and is attached at a distal end thereof to a vehicle body side. The second mounting portion extends inward in the vehicle width direction and is attached at a distal end thereof to a rear side of the vehicle body with respect to the first mounting portion. The third mounting portion extends outward in the vehicle width direction and is attached at a distal end thereof to a wheel side. A second portion between the first mounting portion and the second mounting portion is configured to be fragile against an input from a front side of the vehicle as compared with a first portion between the first mounting portion and the third mounting portion.