Modular Vehicle Body Connection Structure for PBV Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle body connection structures for Purpose Built Vehicles (PBVs) limit versatility and increase costs due to fixed configurations, restricting their use and efficiency in changing purposes.
Innovation Solution
A modular connection structure featuring an under body with a mounting unit, a variable part with a mounting unit, and an outer cross member, allowing easy reconfiguration of the vehicle body to accommodate different types of services by dispersing collision loads and securing the seat and load path.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed configuration connection structure is used, then the vehicle body structure is simple and strong, but the versatility and adaptability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle body is divided into a common underbody and a replaceable upper body module. The upper body module includes a variable part mounting unit that can be selectively connected to the underbody mounting unit, allowing the same underbody to support different upper body configurations for various vehicle types (hailing, delivery, cab, etc.).
Solution Approach 2:
The underbody mounting unit and upper body mounting unit are designed with universal connection interfaces that enable the same mounting structure to accommodate multiple types of upper bodies. The outer cross member and connection support provide a universal mounting platform that can be configured for different vehicle purposes without requiring separate dedicated structures for each vehicle type.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a modular connection structure is used, then the versatility and ease of replacement are improved, but the collision load dispersing capability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The outer cross member is integrated with the connection support to form a unified structural assembly. This merged structure creates a closed space with the rear floor, forming a rigid frame that distributes collision loads across multiple structural elements (outer cross member, connection support, rear floor, underbody mounting unit) rather than concentrating forces at single connection points.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection support includes a curved surface that interfaces with the outer cross member and rear floor, creating a distributed load path. The curved geometry allows for progressive load transfer across the connection interface, enhancing the structural integrity and collision load dispersing capability of the modular assembly.
3Productivity
If the upper body is easily replaceable, then the vehicle utilization is increased and costs are reduced, but the connection reliability may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The underbody mounting unit and upper body mounting unit are pre-configured with matching connection interfaces and alignment features during manufacturing. The outer cross member and connection support are pre-assembled as a integrated unit with predetermined mounting positions, ensuring that when the upper body is replaced, the connection process is straightforward and maintains high reliability through proper alignment and secure fastening.
Data Source
AI summary
A connection structure of a vehicle body can include an under body with an under body mounting unit mounted thereon, and a variable part including a variable part mounting unit selectively connected to the under body mounting unit and an outer cross member mounted on an upper portion of the variable part mounting unit.