Powertrain Retention Cables for Impact Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motor vehicle powertrain restraint systems during front impacts face challenges in preventing intrusion into the passenger compartment due to insufficient cradle thickness and ground clearance, leading to potential collisions with the apron, especially in suspended engine architectures.
Innovation Solution
A restraint system comprising at least two cables connected to the powertrain and a cradle, with U-shaped cable clamps and omega-shaped supports, allowing the cables to be relaxed in non-impact situations and stretching to retain the powertrain close to the cradle during impacts, eliminating the need for apron reinforcements and being adaptable to various architectures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an impactor is added to improve shock scenario, then powertrain retention is improved, but ground clearance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The restraint system uses flexible cables instead of rigid impactors, allowing the system to adapt dynamically to varying ground clearance conditions. The cables can stretch and conform to the space available between the powertrain and apron, eliminating the need for specific ground clearance requirements while maintaining effective powertrain retention during impact.
2Reliability
If cradle thickness is increased to ensure contact with impactor, then powertrain retention is improved, but vehicle mass increases
Solution Approach 1:
The restraint system replaces the need for thick cradles with flexible cable elements that can effectively retain the powertrain without requiring increased cradle thickness. The flexible cables can conform to the existing cradle geometry and provide sufficient retention force, eliminating the need for additional mass in the cradle structure.
3Reliability
If traditional cable restraint systems are used, then powertrain retention is achieved, but installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The restraint system is divided into modular components including cable elements, mounting brackets, and adjustment mechanisms that can be independently installed and adjusted. This segmentation allows for simpler installation procedures compared to traditional integrated cable systems, as each component can be separately positioned and secured without requiring complex assembly operations.
Data Source
Figure 1a~2
Figure 3a~4b
AI summary
The invention concerns a motor vehicle comprising a powertrain (1) and a reinforcing part referred to as the cradle (2) oriented in a transverse direction relative to a longitudinal extension direction of the vehicle, said cradle (2) being positioned between said powertrain (1) and an apron separating said powertrain (1) from a passenger compartment of the vehicle, characterised in that it further comprises a system (7) for holding back the powertrain (1) in the event of impact and for providing a mechanical link between the power train (1) and the cradle (2).