Vehicle Lower Frame Layout for Stable Side-Impact Load Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle structures struggle to stably absorb collision loads during side collisions, particularly due to unpredictable deformation of rockers and stiffeners, leading to inadequate load distribution and potential damage to the battery case.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle lower portion structure comprising a first frame member with a hat-shaped absorbing member, a second frame member with partitioned absorbing members, and a cross member, all positioned to overlap each other, allowing for stable deformation and load distribution, including a battery frame connected to the second frame member.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a rocker with a hat-shaped stiffener is used to absorb collision load, then part of the collision load can be absorbed, but the deformation is unstable and the load absorption ability cannot be stabilized
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle lower portion is divided into multiple frame members (first frame member, second frame member, cross member) with separate absorbing members positioned at different locations. This segmentation allows each component to contribute to load absorption in a controlled manner, improving overall stability
Solution Approach 2:
The absorbing members are positioned to overlap in the vehicle width direction when viewed from the side, creating a multi-layered absorption system. This spatial arrangement in the width direction enhances the stability and predictability of deformation during side collisions
2Loss of energy
If multiple frame members with absorbing members are added to improve collision load absorption, then load absorption ability improves, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The frame members serve dual functions: they provide structural support for the vehicle body and simultaneously act as collision load absorbing components. The absorbing members are integrated into the frame structure rather than being separate components, reducing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The absorbing members are merged with the frame members to form integrated components. The first frame member includes the first absorbing member, and the second frame member includes the second absorbing member, eliminating the need for separate absorption systems
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
Stable absorption of collision loads is achieved, preventing excessive force from reaching the battery case by sequential deformation of absorbing members and efficient load transmission to the non-collided side, enhancing safety and structural integrity.
Implementation Method 1
the first absorbing member and the second absorbing member are deformed due to a collision load input to the vehicle, thereby absorbing at least part of the collision load
Data Source
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AI summary
A vehicle lower portion structure includes: a first frame member (18) that is disposed at an end in a vehicle width direction in a lower portion of a vehicle, and includes a first absorbing member (24) with a hat-shaped cross-section in the first frame member; a second frame member (30) that is connected to a vehicle-width-direction inner side of the first frame member, and includes a second absorbing member (34) in the second frame member; and a cross member (36) that is disposed on a vehicle-width-direction inner side of the second frame member, extends in the vehicle width direction and is connected to the second frame member, wherein the first absorbing member (24), the second absorbing member (34) and the cross member (36) are disposed at positions that overlap each other in a side view of the vehicle.