Side Load Transfer Device for Body-on-Frame Vehicle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Body on frame vehicles face challenges in effectively transferring and dissipating side loads applied to the rocker panels, which can lead to energy absorption and distribution inefficiencies between the body and frame systems.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of side load transfer devices positioned between the frame rails and rocker panels, which are attached to either the frame or body, and feature deformable structures to absorb and dissipate energy by transferring loads inboard transverse to the longitudinal axis, allowing both rocker panels and frame rails to absorb and dissipate energy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If side loads are applied to the rocker panel, then the body structure experiences increased lateral forces, but the energy absorption and distribution between body and frame systems becomes inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
A side load transfer device is introduced as an intermediary component positioned between the rocker panel and frame rail. This device includes a deformable structure that mediates the load transfer process, enabling efficient energy absorption while maintaining structural integrity. The intermediary device resolves the contradiction by providing a dedicated mechanism for energy management without requiring complex modifications to the entire vehicle structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The deformable structure within the side load transfer device changes its physical parameters (shape, density, or material properties) during load application. This parameter change allows the structure to absorb energy through controlled deformation, transforming the rigid load path into a progressive energy-dissipating mechanism that improves reliability without excessive complexity.
2Strength
If a rigid connection is used between the rocker panel and frame rail, then structural strength is maximized, but energy dissipation during side loads is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The side load transfer device incorporates a deformable structure that transitions from a static rigid connection to a dynamic energy-absorbing mechanism during side load events. The structure is designed to remain relatively rigid under normal conditions but undergoes controlled deformation when subjected to lateral forces, thereby achieving both structural integrity and energy dissipation.
Solution Approach 2:
The deformable structure is pre-configured with energy-absorbing characteristics before load application. This beforehand cushioning allows the structure to progressively absorb energy during deformation, preventing sudden energy transfer to the occupants while maintaining overall structural strength. The cushioning effect is built into the design of the side load transfer device itself.
3Reliability
If the side load transfer device is positioned at the driver seating location, then protection is optimized for the driver, but coverage for other occupants may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The side load transfer device is strategically positioned at the driver seating location to provide localized protection where it is most needed. This local quality approach optimizes the protective effect for the driver while acknowledging that different regions of the vehicle may require different levels or types of protection. The deformable structure's energy absorption characteristics are concentrated at this critical location.
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
This solution enables efficient energy absorption and dissipation, enhancing the structural integrity and safety of the vehicle by allowing both rocker panels and frame rails to contribute to load management, thereby improving the overall energy absorption and distribution within the vehicle's frame system.
Implementation Method 1
the first side load transfer device includes at least one deformable structure operable to deform and absorb energy in response to the applied load
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle includes a frame system having a frame rail that extends along and is laterally offset from a longitudinal axis. A body is mounted to the frame system, and includes a rocker panel that extends along the longitudinal axis, and is disposed outboard of the first frame rail. A side load transfer device is positioned between the frame rail and the rocker panel. The side load transfer device is attached to one of the frame rail or the body. The side load transfer device is operable to transfer an applied load from the rocker panel to the frame rail. The applied load being applied to the rocker panel in an inboard direction transverse to the longitudinal axis.