Spare Wheel Support Frame Impact Release Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spare wheel support systems in vehicles do not efficiently manage the position and deployment of spare wheels during vehicle impacts, potentially leading to damage or improper deployment.
Innovation Solution
A support frame system with a pivotally connected first end and a releasably connected second end, equipped with a stud and actuator mechanism that automatically releases the stud from the underbody upon detection of certain vehicle impacts, allowing the support frame to pivot and reposition the spare wheel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the support frame is rigidly connected to the underbody, then the spare wheel is securely held in place, but the support frame cannot pivot or reposition during vehicle impacts
Solution Approach 1:
The support frame transitions from a static rigid connection to a dynamic system with pivotable joints and releasable connections. The first end pivotally connects to allow rotation, while the second end can be released upon impact detection, enabling the frame to dynamically adapt its configuration from a secure holding state to a deployed energy-absorbing state.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system is divided into two independent connection points: a first end with pivotal connection and a second end with releasable connection. This segmentation allows each end to perform different functions - the first end provides stable rotation while the second end provides impact-responsive release, resolving the contradiction between secure holding and adaptive repositioning.
2Strength
If the stud remains connected to the underbody during impact, then the support frame structure is maintained, but the fuel tank and critical components may be damaged by impact forces
Solution Approach 1:
The second end of the support frame is designed to be extractable from the underbody connection upon impact detection. This extraction removes the support frame (and attached spare wheel) from the impact zone, preventing the transmission of harmful impact forces to the fuel tank and critical components while maintaining structural integrity through the remaining first end connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The impact event, which could potentially cause damage, is converted into a beneficial trigger that activates the release mechanism. The impact forces the stud to disengage, which in turn allows the support frame to pivot away and absorb energy, protecting vulnerable components. The harmful impact is thus transformed into a protective action.
3Device complexity
If manual release mechanisms are used, then the system is simple and reliable, but the spare wheel cannot automatically deploy during vehicle impacts
Solution Approach 1:
The stud connection system is designed to self-release automatically upon detection of vehicle impact. The impact forces the stud to disengage from the underbody without requiring external actuation. This self-service mechanism maintains simplicity while achieving automatic deployment, as the system uses the impact energy itself to trigger the release rather than requiring separate sensors or actuators.
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 system ensures proper deployment and repositioning of the spare wheel during vehicle impacts, managing energy absorption and preventing damage to the fuel tank and other critical components.
Implementation Method 1
The actuator may include a solenoid between the first portion of the stud and the second portion of the stud
Implementation Method 2
the actuator may be pyrotechnically activated
Implementation Method 3
The vehicle may include a spring between the stud and the underbody. The spring may bias the stud away from the underbody
Implementation Method 4
The support frame includes a first end pivotally connected to the underbody
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle includes an underbody and a support frame supported by the underbody. The support frame is configured to support a spare wheel. The support frame includes a first end pivotally connected to the underbody and a second end releasably connected to the underbody. A tether extends from the support frame to the underbody. The tether is fixed to the support frame and the underbody. A stud is between the support frame and the underbody. The stud is releasably connected to the underbody.