Off-Center Impact Structure for Vehicle Body Energy Redirection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicle structures fail to effectively absorb and redirect impact energy during off-center impact tests, leading to excessive loading on certain components and inadequate protection against rotational deformation.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an off-center impact structure comprising a front side member with a hollow interior, an outboard wall, and an elongated member that extends through the side member to absorb and redirect impact forces, distributing energy laterally and reducing the impact on critical components like the dash-wall and A-pillar.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional vehicle structures are used, then the structure is simpler, but the impact energy absorption and redirection capability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The front side member is segmented into multiple functional zones: a body attachment structure for connecting to the vehicle body, an elongated member for impact absorption, and a hollow interior for energy redirection. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while collectively providing comprehensive impact protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The elongated member is positioned within the hollow interior of the front side member, creating a nested configuration. The hollow interior acts as a containment space that directs impact forces along the elongated member, maximizing energy absorption while minimizing overall structural complexity.
2Loss of energy
If additional structural elements are added to absorb impact energy, then impact energy absorption improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The front side member serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support for the vehicle body, contains the elongated impact absorption member, redirects impact forces, and dissipates kinetic energy. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The hollow interior of the front side member is designed with specific dimensional parameters that optimize impact force redirection. The elongated member's length, position, and cross-sectional dimensions are carefully selected to maximize energy dissipation through controlled deformation during impact events.
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
This configuration enhances the vehicle's ability to absorb and redirect impact energy, reducing the risk of rotational deformation and distributing forces to minimize damage during off-center collisions, thereby improving safety and structural integrity.
Implementation Method 1
the body attachment structure deforms and moves into contact with the elongated member transferring impact force to the elongated member
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle body structure includes a front side member, a body attachment structure and an off-center impact structure. The body attachment structure is attached to an outboard wall of the front side member along a front-section forward of an outboard opening and extends in an outboard direction from the front side member. The off-center impact structure has an elongated member with a straight portion that extends through the outboard opening and into a hollow interior of the front side member. The elongated member is fixedly coupled to the outboard wall of the front side member adjacent to, spaced apart from and rearward of the body attachment structure. In response to an impact event of an off-center impact test the body attachment structure deforms and moves into contact with the elongated member transferring impact force to the elongated member.