Movable Front End Module Support for Low-Speed Impact Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support devices for vehicle front end modules are costly to produce and assemble, and they do not effectively ensure improved impact protection at different impact speeds, particularly at low speeds and for pedestrian protection.
Innovation Solution
A support device with a frame component that includes a movement device, allowing the frame component to move relative to the vehicle structure. This movement device can include a spring and/or damper to enhance impact protection by adjusting the spring hardness or damper constant, enabling the support device to absorb and distribute impact forces effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a hard and stable fender structure is created to avoid damage in parking bumps, then protection against low-speed impact is improved, but the structure becomes rigid and cannot protect pedestrians in higher speed impacts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the fender structure movable rather than rigid. The frame component is coupled to the vehicle structure through a movement device that allows the fender to move in the direction of impact forces, enabling adaptation to different impact scenarios while maintaining protection capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the structural parameter from fixed to movable by introducing a movement device with defined movement freedom. This allows the fender structure to dynamically adjust its position based on impact conditions, resolving the contradiction between needing rigidity for low-speed protection and flexibility for pedestrian safety
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple diverse parts are used to create a soft fender structure for pedestrian protection, then protection across different speeds is improved, but the assembly outlay and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into a single integrated frame component that combines the fender structure, sensor mounting, and movement capabilities. This consolidation reduces the number of separate parts and simplifies assembly while maintaining the ability to provide protection across different impact speeds through the movement device
Solution Approach 2:
The frame component is designed as a multi-functional element that serves as both the structural fender, the sensor platform, and the moving assembly. The movement device provides universal protection capability across different impact scenarios without requiring separate components for each function
3Stability of the object's composition
If sensors are rigidly fixed to the vehicle structure, then their position is stable, but they may be damaged in low-speed impacts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent protects sensors by coupling them to the movable frame component rather than rigidly fixing them to the vehicle structure. The movement device allows the sensor platform to move with the fender during impact, preventing damage while maintaining operational stability through the controlled movement freedom
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 support device provides improved impact protection at various impact speeds, including low-speed collisions and pedestrian protection, while reducing production and assembly costs. It ensures that sensors and lighting elements remain undamaged and can reset to their original position after an impact, maintaining their functionality.
Implementation Method 1
The moving element has a spring
Implementation Method 2
The moving element has a spring and/or a damper
Data Source
AI summary
A support device of a front end module of a vehicle is provided for fastening the front end module to a vehicle structure. The support device has a frame component. The frame component is provided for attaching a bumper cover and/or a decorative grille and for attaching at least one sensor. The support device has at least one movement device by which the frame component can move relative to the vehicle structure. A vehicle includes the support device and a vehicle structure, wherein the support device is mounted on the vehicle structure via the at least one movement device so that, in the event of an impact at low speed, the support device moves in the direction of the vehicle structure and, after the impact, moves away from the vehicle structure again into its initial position.