Detachable Quarter Panel Bracket for BLIS Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing configuration requires removal of the Blind Spot Monitoring System (BLIS) module to replace the quarter panel, which is undesirable as it disrupts the sensor's functionality and installation process.
Innovation Solution
A quarter panel bracket with specific attachment features allows the quarter panel to be replaced without removing the BLIS module by positioning the BLIS module on the body inner structure in a way that does not obstruct the attachment features between the bracket and the quarter panel, enabling the quarter panel to be detached without disturbing the BLIS module.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the BLIS module is positioned at the quarter panel location, then the sensor functionality is achieved, but the fastener access is blocked making quarter panel replacement difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket is divided into distinct functional zones: a first attachment feature for the quarter panel and a second attachment feature for the body inner structure. This segmentation allows the BLIS module to be mounted on the body inner structure while the bracket mediates between the quarter panel and body, preventing the sensor from blocking fastener access.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket serves as an intermediary component between the quarter panel and the body inner structure. It provides separate attachment features that allow the BLIS module to be positioned on the body inner structure without interfering with the quarter panel attachment, thus resolving the conflict between sensor placement and fastener access.
2Ease of manufacture
If the BLIS module is removed to replace the quarter panel, then the quarter panel can be replaced, but the sensor installation process is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is segmented into independent features: the first attachment feature connects the bracket to the quarter panel, while the second attachment feature connects the bracket to the body inner structure where the BLIS module is mounted. This allows the quarter panel to be replaced by removing only the fasteners at the first attachment feature, leaving the BLIS module undisturbed.
Solution Approach 2:
The BLIS module is extracted from the quarter panel assembly and mounted separately on the body inner structure. The bracket provides the connection interface, allowing the quarter panel to be removed and replaced without affecting the BLIS module installation.
3Reliability
If the BLIS module covers the attachment features, then the sensor is protected, but the bracket cannot be properly attached
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket includes multiple separated attachment features: first attachment features for the quarter panel and second attachment features for the body inner structure. This segmentation allows the BLIS module to be positioned over the second attachment features without blocking access to the first attachment features, maintaining both sensor protection and proper bracket attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the bracket have different functions: the first attachment features are positioned to be accessible for quarter panel connection, while the second attachment features are positioned to be covered by the BLIS module for protection and stability. This local differentiation allows the module to cover protective areas without interfering with functional attachment points.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus, according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, among other things, a bracket having a first attachment feature configured for attachment to a quarter panel and a second attachment feature configured for attachment to a body inner structure. A BLIS module attaches to the body inner structure without covering the first attachment feature. A method according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, among other things, attaching a quarter panel to a bracket via a first attachment feature, attaching the quarter panel with the bracket to a body inner structure, attaching the bracket to the body inner structure via a second attachment feature, and attaching a BLIS module to the body inner structure without covering the first attachment feature.