Vehicle RCM Bracket With Sliding Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicle restraint control modules are prone to damage in severe collisions due to inadequate mounting, leading to potential unplanned or timed deployment issues when seat tracks become detached or deformed, causing direct contact and force exertion on the module.
Innovation Solution
A bracket system comprising a base plate with laterally elongated slots and an intermediate plate secured by fasteners, allowing lateral shifting of the restraint control module during side impacts, and featuring limited slip connectors to absorb lateral forces, reducing contact pressure and preventing module damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the restraints control module is rigidly attached to the floor, then the module is securely fixed, but the module is vulnerable to damage from lateral forces during side impact collisions
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system transitions from a static rigid attachment to a dynamic system that allows controlled movement. The intermediate plate can shift laterally within the elongated slots of the base plate when subjected to collision forces, enabling the system to adapt to impact conditions while protecting the control module.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediate plate is introduced as a mediator between the control module and the floor mounting structure. This intermediate component absorbs and distributes lateral forces, preventing direct transmission of impact forces to the control module while maintaining secure attachment during normal operation.
2Area of stationary object
If the control module is positioned close to the seat tracks, then space is optimized, but the module is at risk of contact damage when seat tracks detach or deform
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system allows dynamic adjustment of the control module position through lateral movement of the intermediate plate within the elongated slots. This enables the module to shift away from potential contact zones during collision while maintaining compact installation in normal conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The design incorporates built-in protective spacing and movement capability that cushions the control module against potential contact from deformed seat tracks. The elongated slots provide pre-established movement paths that allow the module to clear hazardous zones before impact occurs.
3Stability of the object's composition
If fasteners are tightly secured to prevent movement, then the module remains stable, but lateral forces during collision cannot be absorbed
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener system combines stable attachment with controlled movement capability. The fasteners securely hold the intermediate plate during normal operation but allow lateral displacement when collision forces exceed a threshold, enabling both stability and force absorption.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system merges the functions of secure fixation and controlled movement into a single integrated structure. The base plate with elongated slots and the intermediate plate with holes work together to provide both rigid attachment and lateral shift capability within the same mounting mechanism.
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 bracket system effectively reduces the lateral contact force on the restraint control module during collisions, minimizing the risk of damage by providing additional clearance and controlled movement, thus ensuring timely and accurate deployment of safety restraints.
Implementation Method 1
A limited slip connector fixedly secures the lower and upper slide surfaces together until a lateral force exceeding a predetermined level is applied to the plate causing the plate to slide laterally on the base
Data Source
AI summary
A bracket and restraints control module assembly attached to the tunnel in the floor of a vehicle. The bracket includes a base plate and an intermediate plate supporting the restraints control module. The intermediate plate defines a plurality of holes and is secured by a limited slip connector assembly that extend through laterally elongated slots defined by the base plate and holes in the intermediate plate, respectively. The connector assembly is tightened to a predetermined level of torque so that the intermediate plate can slide relative to the base plate on upper and lower slide surfaces when a collision force of sufficient magnitude is applied to the bracket and RCM assembly.