Wheel-Well Deflector Layout for Small Overlap Crash Load Redirection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle structures are inadequate in managing lateral loads during small overlap front crash events, leading to potential damage and intrusion into the occupant compartment.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a crossmember and deformable structures that apply lateral forces to displace the vehicle laterally, including wedges and load-transmitting structures made from materials like extruded aluminum, which deform to generate lateral forces and direct the wheel away from the occupant compartment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If current vehicle structures are used during small overlap front crash events, then the vehicle structure remains simple and conventional, but lateral load management is inadequate leading to occupant compartment intrusion
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle structure is segmented into distinct functional components: deformable structures (wedges) that generate lateral force, rigid crossmembers that transmit the force, and load-transmitting structures that connect to the occupant compartment. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while collectively managing lateral loads during small overlap crashes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamically responsive deformable structures (wedges) that are designed to deform under crash loads to generate lateral forces. These structures transition from a static configuration to an active force-generating mechanism during collision, allowing the vehicle structure to adapt dynamically to crash conditions rather than relying solely on passive rigid framing.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If deformable structures are added to generate lateral forces, then occupant compartment protection is improved, but the vehicle structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into integrated structures: the deformable wedges serve both as structural components and as active lateral force generators; the crossmembers simultaneously provide structural support and transmit lateral loads; and the load-transmitting structures connect both to the occupant compartment and to the lateral force generation system. This merging reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The crossmember serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the vehicle, transmits lateral forces generated by the deformable structures, and connects to the load-transmitting structures that protect the occupant compartment. This multi-functionality allows a single component to address multiple requirements, reducing overall system complexity despite the addition of deformable structures.
3Force
If rigid crossmembers are used to transmit lateral forces, then force transmission efficiency is improved, but the structure becomes less deformable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different structural qualities to different locations: deformable wedges are positioned at the outer edges where lateral force generation is needed, while rigid crossmembers are positioned centrally where force transmission is critical. The load-transmitting structures have localized deformability to allow controlled deformation for force generation while maintaining overall structural integrity. This local differentiation allows simultaneous optimization of both deformability and rigidity in appropriate locations.
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 effectively reduces vehicle intrusion into the occupant compartment by laterally displacing the vehicle during a collision, thereby mitigating damage and protecting occupants.
Implementation Method 1
The deformable structure is affixed to one lateral side of the vehicle, arranged longitudinally forward of the crossmember, arranged laterally outside of the first frame member, and configured to deform during a small overlap collision. While deforming, the structure applies a lateral force on a first end of the crossmember to cause lateral displacement of the vehicle.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for managing wheel kinematics during a small overlap collision event includes a deflector apparatus. The deflector is configured to direct a wheel away from an occupant compartment of a vehicle. The deflector includes a first section arranged at an inside wall of a wheel well facing a wheel, near the base of a hinge-pillar. The first section includes a hollow structure configured to absorb energy from the collision event by plastically deforming. The deflector also includes a second section arranged at an angle to the wheel and configured to deflect the wheel laterally outwards from the vehicle away from an occupant compartment during the small overlap collision event. The deflector may be formed of extruded aluminum. The system may include an absorber arranged behind the first section and configured to further absorb energy from the collision event by plastically deforming.