Multifunction Support for Vehicle Functional Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for mounting and positioning functional elements on a motor vehicle body are complex, requiring multiple adjustments and expensive tools, particularly challenging for components like the bonnet, water box, and light projector, due to geometric complexity and limited access, which complicates installation and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A multifunction support system that includes fixing elements for the body, mounting elements for functional components like light projectors and bonnets, and positioning elements that prevent vertical movement of the bonnet in the closed position, along with end elements for the water box that facilitate easy installation by allowing longitudinal movement and watertight sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If functional elements are positioned independently on the body using conventional methods, then each element can be precisely positioned, but the assembly process becomes tedious and requires heavy expensive tools due to geometric complexity and iterative adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functional elements (water box, light projector, grille, wiper mechanism) into a single integrated assembly unit that is positioned and fixed as one group relative to the body, eliminating the need for independent positioning of each element and reducing assembly complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The functional elements are pre-assembled and pre-positioned relative to each other before being mounted on the body, allowing for preliminary adjustments to be made in a controlled environment rather than during final installation
2Device complexity
If a one-piece water box is used, then the structure is simplified, but installation becomes very tricky and sometimes impossible due to limited access and constraining obstacles in the engine compartment
Solution Approach 1:
The water box is divided into multiple separable parts (front part, rear part, central part) that can be independently maneuvered and installed through limited access areas, with each segment able to pass through constraints that would block a one-piece design
Solution Approach 2:
The water box segments are designed to nest within or alongside each other during installation, allowing compact passage through tight spaces in the engine compartment while maintaining the complete functional structure
3Reliability
If bonnet supports project inwards to support the bonnet, then the bonnet is properly supported, but they form constraining obstacles for the installation of the water box
Solution Approach 1:
The bonnet supports are designed with movable or adjustable characteristics, allowing them to be repositioned or reconfigured during water box installation to clear the installation path, then returned to their support function afterward
Solution Approach 2:
Temporary support structures or intermediary elements are used during water box installation to maintain bonnet support functionality while providing clear access paths for water box components
4Strength
If the water box is installed over a previously fixed wiper mechanism, then the wiper shafts provide structural support, but the water box cannot move in the transverse direction which limits ease of fitting
Solution Approach 1:
The water box installation path is routed through a different spatial dimension or orientation that avoids conflict with the wiper shafts, allowing transverse movement capability to be maintained during installation while still achieving proper final positioning
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a multifunctional support (10) intended for the mounting of functional elements of a motor vehicle on the vehicle body, said multifunctional support (10) comprising: securing elements (14) for securing the multifunctional support (10) to at least one associated element of the body, such as a fender support (12) and/or a liner of an A-pillar (11); and mounting elements for maintaining at least one headlamp (18) and/or a bonnet (29) on the multifunctional support (10), the headlamp performing a lighting function and the bonnet closing the vehicle engine compartment when in the closed bonnet position. The support (10) is characterised in that it comprises mounting elements for maintaining all or part of a header tank (19, 20) on the multifunctional support (10), said header tank being intended to collect water and/or separate the air to be conveyed to a ventilation circuit of the vehicle.