Motor Vehicle Opening Panel Reinforcing Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manufacturing and logistics costs of motor vehicle hatches and doors are high due to the complex, three-dimensional stiffening frames used, which are bulky and require costly shaping and transportation.
Innovation Solution
A motor vehicle opening assembly featuring elongate reinforcing elements and connecting elements that form a continuous, simple-shaped frame, reducing manufacturing costs by allowing easier production, transportation, and storage, and improving stiffness through improved stress distribution and adhesion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a complex three-dimensional stiffening frame is used to reinforce the opening panel, then the structural strength and stiffness are improved, but the manufacturing cost and logistics cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The stiffening frame is divided into multiple separate reinforcing elements that can be manufactured independently using simple processes, then assembled onto the opening panel. This segmentation allows each element to be produced cost-effectively without complex three-dimensional shaping, while collectively providing the required structural strength when assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The reinforcing elements are designed to be substantially planar (two-dimensional) rather than complex three-dimensional shapes. These planar elements are arranged and connected in three-dimensional space to form the stiffening frame, separating the manufacturing simplicity of 2D elements from the structural functionality of 3D configuration.
2Strength
If a complex three-dimensional stiffening frame is used to reinforce the opening panel, then the structural strength and stiffness are improved, but the logistics cost for transport and storage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is segmented into multiple flat reinforcing elements that can be stored in a compact, space-efficient manner compared to a single bulky three-dimensional frame. These segmented elements occupy less storage volume and can be transported more efficiently, reducing logistics costs while maintaining structural integrity when assembled.
3Ease of manufacture
If simple-shaped reinforcing elements are used, then the manufacturing cost and logistics cost are reduced, but the structural strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple simple-shaped reinforcing elements are combined and connected through connecting elements on the opening panel to form a collective stiffening structure. The merging of these simple elements creates a composite system that achieves the required structural strength, distributing the load across multiple components rather than relying on a single complex element.
Solution Approach 2:
The reinforcing elements are strategically positioned and connected at specific locations on the opening panel where structural support is most needed. The connecting elements are integrated into the panel at key stress points, providing localized reinforcement that collectively enhances the overall structural strength while using simple-shaped individual components.
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly consisting of an opening panel of a motor vehicle and at least two reinforcing elements. Each reinforcing element has an elongate shape and two ends, the panel comprising at least two connecting elements, each reinforcing element being connectable to the panel in such a way that each end of the reinforcing elements is at least partially superposed on one of the connecting elements, the reinforcing elements and connecting elements forming at least one continuous frame when the reinforcing elements and the panel are connected.