Modular ECU Mounting Bracket for Crowded Chassis Spaces
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for mounting electronic control modules on vehicle chassis are hindered by crowded spaces, making installation and removal difficult due to the presence of other components and thick wire harnesses, and they fail to effectively absorb shock and vibration.
Innovation Solution
A modular, generally planar bracket with mounting feet and bosses oriented along different Cartesian axes, allowing for secure attachment of electronic control modules on multiple surfaces, reducing mass and oscillation through strategic voids and using slots for fasteners, and incorporating vibration-absorbing washers for improved stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If electronic controllers are mounted using conventional single-plane methods, then the mounting structure is simple, but the installation and removal become difficult due to crowded spaces and thick wire harnesses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from conventional single-plane mounting to a two-plane mounting structure. The bracket includes a first planar surface and a second planar surface positioned at an angle (e.g., perpendicular) to the first surface, allowing electronic controllers to be mounted on both planes. This dimensional change enables installation in crowded spaces by utilizing vertical or angular clearance rather than only horizontal space, and allows wire harnesses to be routed between the two planes rather than around components in a single plane.
2Area of stationary object
If mounting locations are crowded with other vehicle components, then space utilization is maximized, but the servicing of electronic controllers becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
By mounting controllers on two perpendicular or angled planes rather than a single plane, the invention maximizes the use of available three-dimensional space in crowded mounting locations. The two-plane configuration allows controllers to be positioned in spatial niches that would be inaccessible with single-plane mounting, while still providing adequate access for servicing through the open space between the two planes.
3Reliability
If conventional mounting methods are used, then the mounting structure is straightforward, but vibration and shock protection is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The two-plane mounting structure provides superior vibration and shock protection compared to single-plane mounting. By distributing the mounting points across two perpendicular or angled planes, the structure creates a more rigid spatial configuration that resists vibrational forces from multiple directions. The controllers are effectively anchored in three-dimensional space rather than being constrained to a single plane, reducing oscillation and improving reliability in harsh automotive environments.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular assembly for mounting electronic control modules is disclosed. The modular assembly comprises a generally planar bracket having a main portion having a first side and a second side opposite of the first side, and at least mounting three feet extending from said main portion. At least four mounting points are located near a perimeter of each of the first and second surfaces. At least one electronic control module is attached to the mounting points on the first surface and at least one electronic control module is attached to the mounting points on the second surface.