Moveable Reinforcement Assembly for Frunk Load Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Motor vehicles with front trunks (frunks) require reinforcement structures that absorb loads while maintaining access to the storage compartment, as existing front end assemblies often obstruct access when in closed positions.
Innovation Solution
A moveable reinforcement assembly is integrated into the vehicle's front end assembly, featuring a bar with various interface configurations that absorb loads and interface with fixed components of the front end assembly, allowing the hood to open and close without obstruction, including features like tabs, pins, channels, and pivoting locks to secure the assembly in place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a reinforcement structure is added to the front end assembly, then load absorption capability is improved, but access to the front trunk storage compartment is obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcement assembly is designed as a moveable structure that can rotate between a first position (providing reinforcement when the hood is closed) and a second position (clearing the path when the hood needs to be opened). This dynamic repositioning allows the same structure to serve both reinforcement and access functions at different times.
Solution Approach 2:
The reinforcement assembly is divided into multiple components including a reinforcement bar, mounting bracket, pivot pin, and locking mechanism. This segmentation allows the reinforcement structure to be independently mounted and positioned, enabling it to move out of the way during hood opening while maintaining structural integrity during normal operation.
2Ease of operation
If the reinforcement assembly is made moveable, then access to front trunk is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A pivot pin serves as an intermediary element that enables the reinforcement assembly to rotate between positions without requiring a complex actuation system. The pivot pin, combined with the mounting bracket and locking mechanism, provides a simple yet effective means of achieving moveability while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The reinforcement assembly incorporates a locking mechanism that automatically engages when the hood is in the closed position, securing the reinforcement bar in place without requiring additional actuators or complex control systems. The structure essentially locks itself into the appropriate position based on hood state.
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure relates to a moveable reinforcement assembly for a motor vehicle, such as a motor vehicle with a front trunk (i.e., a “frunk”). An example vehicle includes a front end assembly, a panel moveable relative to the front end assembly between a closed position and an open position, and a reinforcement assembly mounted to the panel and configured to interface with the front end assembly when the panel is in the closed position. The reinforcement assembly effectively absorbs and transfers loads applied thereto while also being moveable so as to not obstruct access to a front trunk.