Vehicle Pillar Inner Panel Reinforcement via Rocker Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
The rigidity of the lower section of a vehicle pillar inner panel is compromised when an opening is formed for device mounting, and the use of separate reinforcing members increases the number of components, leading to inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle side structure configuration that includes a rocker and a pillar with an extended reinforcing section that integrates with the rocker, enhancing the pillar's rigidity without additional reinforcing members, by extending the reinforcing section outward from the opening's periphery and joining it to the rocker's upper section, thereby transmitting loads effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an opening is formed in the lower section of the pillar inner panel for device mounting, then device mounting capability is improved, but rigidity of the pillar inner panel deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcing section is integrated into the pillar inner panel as a unified structure rather than being a separate component. The extended-out section forms an integral part of the pillar inner panel that surrounds the opening, providing reinforcement while maintaining structural continuity and avoiding the need for additional separate reinforcing members.
Solution Approach 2:
The reinforcing section extends in the vehicle width direction (lateral dimension) from the opening periphery to create an extended-out section. This lateral extension creates a broader load distribution area that enhances rigidity by engaging more of the pillar's structural capacity in the horizontal plane.
2Strength
If a separate reinforcing member is attached to the lower section of the pillar inner panel to improve rigidity, then rigidity is improved, but the number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcing section is formed as an integral part of the pillar inner panel through a unified structure. The extended-out section that extends laterally from the opening periphery is continuously formed with the pillar inner panel, eliminating the need for separate reinforcing members and reducing component count while maintaining reinforcement functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The pillar inner panel serves multiple functions: it provides the structural framework of the pillar, creates the opening for device mounting, and incorporates the reinforcing section with extended-out portions that provide structural reinforcement. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated separate reinforcing components.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle side structure includes: a rocker disposed along a vehicle front-rear direction at a lower section of a vehicle side; and a pillar disposed along a vehicle up-down direction at the vehicle side whereby a lower end section of the pillar is joined to the rocker, the pillar including: a pillar inner panel disposed at a vehicle interior inner side, and a pillar outer panel disposed at a vehicle interior outer side of the pillar inner panel, and the pillar having an opening, formed at a lower section of the pillar inner panel, the pillar inner panel having formed therein a reinforcing section including an extended-out section that extends out toward an outer side in a vehicle width direction from an entire periphery of a peripheral edge of the opening, and a lower section of the reinforcing section being joined to an upper section of the rocker.