Transverse Shock Absorber Module for Offset Impact Energy Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current shock absorption modules in motor vehicles are inefficient in distributing impact force evenly during oblique or offset impacts, leading to suboptimal energy absorption, as the absorbers are primarily designed for axial forces and lack effective coupling between beams.
Innovation Solution
A shock absorption module with a transverse shock absorber that bears directly on a crossmember and plates, optimizing energy absorption by positioning the incompressible crosspiece between the impact point and the spar, allowing the absorber to fully utilize its absorption function and increasing the effective surface area for impact energy absorption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If absorbers are positioned only in the extension of the longerons (crash box type), then the module is simpler in structure, but the energy absorption is insufficient during oblique or offset impacts because the absorbers cannot transfer oblique forces effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a transverse dimension to the absorber arrangement by positioning absorbers at the ends of a transverse beam perpendicular to the longitudinal members. This dimensional change allows the system to handle oblique and offset impacts effectively, as the transverse beam can transfer forces from multiple directions to the longitudinal members, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and energy absorption efficiency.
2Strength
If the crosspiece is rigid and incompressible, then it maintains spacing between side members effectively, but it transfers impact energy directly to the spar without absorption, reducing overall energy absorption capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the structural system into distinct functional components: the transverse beam maintains spacing between longitudinal members, while separate absorbers positioned at the ends of the transverse beam handle energy absorption. This segmentation allows each component to optimize its specific function without compromising the other, resolving the contradiction between maintaining structural spacing and absorbing impact energy.
3Reliability
If absorbers are positioned to bear on the crosspiece, then the coupling between beams is improved, but the effective surface area for impact energy absorption is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the transverse beam as an intermediary element that connects the longitudinal members and provides mounting points for absorbers. The absorbers bear on the transverse beam rather than directly on the longitudinal members, which maintains reliable beam coupling while the broader transverse beam structure preserves effective surface area for impact energy absorption. The intermediary transverse beam resolves the contradiction between coupling reliability and absorption surface area.
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 configuration enhances the module's ability to absorb impact energy, providing greater protection and reducing the risk of energy transfer to the spar, while maintaining the spacing between side members during impacts, thus improving overall shock energy absorption efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The energy absorption is done by longitudinal compression (also called by 'botellement' of these absorbers)
Implementation Method 2
shock absorption module making it possible in particular to prevent, during an insurance shock, the deformation of the side members
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6A~6D
AI summary
The invention relates to a shock-absorbing module (1) intended for being arranged on the side rails (2) of a motor vehicle, the module (1) including at least one shock absorber (3), a crossmember (5) extending in a transverse direction of the vehicle, and two plates (4) suitable for being added directly onto the front or rear surface of the side rails (2), characterised in that: the shock absorber (3) extends in a transverse direction of the vehicle, and rests directly on the crossmember (5); each side end of the shock absorber (3) rests directly on a first area (6) of one of the plates (4); and each side end of the crossmember (5) rests directly on a second area (7) of one of the plates (4) and/or rests directly on an area (7') of the side rails (2).