Modular Structural Unit for Vehicle Chassis Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle structural systems lack flexibility and efficiency in tailoring vehicles to specific needs, as they often require extensive modifications to preexisting chassis and struggle to integrate rigidity with finish and accessory surfaces effectively.
Innovation Solution
A structural unit comprising bows and optimized prefabricated multifunctional members that provide rigidity, finish surfaces, and anchorage for both body and accessory elements, allowing for easy assembly into a range of vehicle types without the need for additional jigs or extensive modifications to the chassis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional vehicle structural systems are used, then vehicles can be assembled with preexisting chassis, but extensive modifications are required and flexibility to tailor vehicles to specific needs is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle body is divided into modular structural units (A, B, C, D) that can be independently assembled and configured. Each unit contains standardized components (bows, cross-members, pillars) that can be selectively combined to create different vehicle types, eliminating the need for extensive chassis modifications while providing flexibility for specific needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The structural units are designed with universal interfaces and standardized components that can be adapted to multiple vehicle configurations. The same basic structural unit can serve different functions (cargo, passenger, specialized) through modular attachments, providing versatility without requiring complex custom modifications for each application.
2Device complexity
If structural units are designed to integrate rigidity with finish and accessory surfaces, then fewer components are needed, but the design complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions are merged into single structural members. For example, cross-members simultaneously provide structural rigidity, mounting surfaces for accessories, and attachment points for body panels. This consolidation reduces the total number of components while the standardized design processes keep manufacturing complexity manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
Structural members are designed as multifunctional elements that perform multiple roles: the bows provide both structural support and mounting surfaces for doors and panels; cross-members provide rigidity and accessory anchorage. This multi-functionality reduces component count while using repeatable design patterns that simplify manufacturing.
3Productivity
If prefabricated structural members are used to assemble bows, then assembly time is reduced, but the precision of bow spacing and rigidity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Critical dimensions and spacing are predetermined in the design of the prefabricated structural members. The bows and cross-members are manufactured with pre-established geometry and attachment features that ensure precise spacing when assembled, eliminating the need for complex on-site measurements while maintaining manufacturing precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The structure is segmented into prefabricated modules with standardized connection interfaces. These modules are designed to fit together with precise tolerances, allowing rapid assembly while maintaining structural integrity and accurate bow spacing through the standardized connection systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A structural unit comprising an assembly of bows longitudinally spaced and secured together by structural members, which is easily and rigidly assembled by using sliding connections of extrusions, for subsequent fitting to a range of preexisting chassis, to yield specific vehicles.