Spare Wheel Tray Reinforcing Element for Vibration Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current solutions for reducing noise in vehicle passenger compartments due to vibrations from the rear floor, particularly the spare wheel tray, are ineffective in counteracting deformations and resulting vibrations, leading to persistent noise issues.
Innovation Solution
A reinforcing element with curved holding edges and a quadrilateral shape is mechanically connected to the central and peripheral parts of the spare wheel tray attachment zone, featuring openings for fastening elements and a 'U' shaped central region, which is mounted to stiffen the tray and control resonance frequencies, thereby reducing vibrations and noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If reinforcing ribs are defined in the rear floor areas, then some vibration resistance is provided, but deformations and vibrations are not effectively counteracted
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcing element is divided into multiple functional zones: a central region with a cavity for fastening elements, peripheral regions with openings for attachment, and curved holding edges that engage with relief structures. This segmentation allows each zone to perform its specific function optimally while working together to provide comprehensive reinforcement.
Solution Approach 2:
The reinforcing element is arranged within the spare wheel tray opening, nesting the reinforcement structure inside the existing floor structure. The element fits within the attachment zone and engages with relief structures on the inner face of the floor, creating a nested configuration that maximizes reinforcement while minimizing intrusion into the passenger compartment.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a stiffening element is added to the spare wheel tray, then vibration control improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcing element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural reinforcement to prevent deformations, acts as a vibration damper through its geometry and material properties, provides attachment points for fastening elements, and engages with relief structures for additional support. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The reinforcing element has a thin-walled construction with a central cavity and U-shaped cross-section, providing high stiffness-to-weight ratio. The curved holding edges and geometric features provide reinforcement without requiring thick walls or heavy materials, maintaining flexibility while preventing deformations.
Data Source
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Figure 7~8
AI summary
The invention relates to a motor vehicle floorpan (1), notably a rear floorpan, provided with a spare wheel well (2) and with a reinforcing element (3), the floorpan (1) comprising a fixing zone (4) comprising a bottom of the spare wheel well (2), in which zone the said reinforcing element (3) is arranged, being mechanically connected to the said fixing zone (4), notably to central and peripheral parts (5a, 5b) defined in said fixing zone (4).