Rear End Module Coupling Structure for Closed-Section Load Paths

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing coupling structures in vehicles do not effectively form a load path between the wheelhouse and the quarter rear member, leading to partial load concentration and reduced rigidity in the lower corner parts of the rear end module.

Innovation Solution

A coupling structure that integrates an annular rear end module with a quarter rear member, using a connection member to form a closed cross section and incorporate reinforcing members, distributing the load through a defined path.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If reinforcing members are applied separately between the rear end part and the rear floor panel, and between the rear end part and the quarter rear member, then local reinforcement is achieved, but the load path cannot be formed and rigidity is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocal reinforcementVSAvoidload path formation
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple separate reinforcing members into a single integrated annular reinforcing structure that continuously connects the rear floor panel, rear end part, and quarter rear member. This continuous annular structure forms a complete load path, allowing loads to be distributed throughout the entire rear end assembly rather than being concentrated at discrete connection points.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Stability of the object's composition

If the rear end module is formed as an integrated annular structure, then rigidity is improved through load distribution, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproverigidityVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the rear end assembly into distinct functional components: the annular reinforcing structure, the rear end module, and the quarter rear member. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured separately using standard processes, then assembled together to form the complete rigid structure, thereby reducing overall manufacturing complexity while maintaining rigidity benefits.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS12415571B2Coupling structure of rear end module and quarter rear member
Publication Date: 2025.09.16 HYUNDAI MOTOR CO LTD
  • US12415571B2 patent drawing
  • US12415571B2 patent drawing
  • US12415571B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided is a coupling structure of a rear end module and a quarter rear member. The coupling structure includes a quarter rear member located on a rear portion of a side surface of a vehicle; a rear floor panel in which rear side members arranged in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle are bonded to both side surfaces of a bottom surface; a connection member having an upper portion bonded to one side of the quarter rear member and a lower end bonded to the rear floor panel; and a rear end module formed by injection to have an annular shape and coupled to a rear end of the connection member.