Vehicle Radar Mounting with Retractable Accordion Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Motor vehicle radars positioned close to the front face are vulnerable to damage from low-impact collisions, such as pedestrian collisions, due to their exposed location, which can lead to deformation or damage, compromising detection precision and safety.
Innovation Solution
A retractable support system with accordion-type fold lines and adjustable angles and thicknesses, allowing the radar to move from a close to a more remote position upon impact, combining stiffness and flexibility to absorb energy and prevent damage, while maintaining detection accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the radar is positioned close to the front face of the vehicle to improve detection precision and avoid beam obstruction, then the detection accuracy is improved, but the radar becomes vulnerable to damage from low-impact collisions
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure transitions from a static rigid mounting to a dynamic system with foldable elements that can change configuration. The support includes fold lines that allow the radar to move from a first position (close to front face) to a second position (retracted), enabling the structure to adapt its state based on impact conditions while maintaining detection precision when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure is designed with predetermined fold lines and geometric configurations that create energy-absorbing mechanisms before impact occurs. The foldable geometry inherently provides cushioning capacity, allowing the structure to deform in a controlled manner during low-impact collisions to protect the radar
2Stability of the object's composition
If the support structure is made stiff to maintain radar stability during operation, then detection precision is maintained, but the radar cannot retract to avoid impact damage
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into multiple segments or portions connected by fold lines, allowing different parts to have different mechanical properties. The segmented design enables the support to maintain stability in its deployed configuration while allowing controlled deformation and retraction when impacted, resolving the contradiction between stiffness and flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure utilizes geometric parameters (fold line angles, segment dimensions) that can be optimized to achieve both stiffness during normal operation and flexibility during impact. By carefully selecting parameters such as fold line locations and angles, the structure transitions between stable and retractable states based on loading conditions
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
The support system effectively protects the radar from low-impact shocks by retracting and absorbing impact energy, reducing material damage and the risk of injury, while ensuring precise detection and compliance with pedestrian protection standards.
Implementation Method 1
The dimension of the fold lines can be variable in order to guide the deformation of the support for radar in the event of an impact
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a mounting for a radar of a vehicle, comprising a main element (5) and a receiving element (6), the main element (5) comprising two parts (16, 17). The first part (16) cooperates with the receiving element (6) arranged at the front of the vehicle (3) and the second part (17) cooperates with the radar (1). Furthermore, the two parts (16, 17) of the main element (5) are joined by at least one retractable lug (18, 19, 20) comprising at least one fold line.