Small overlap frontal impact counter-measure

Abstract

An automotive vehicle support structure assembly includes a bumper extending across the front of the vehicle, a longitudinal side member extending rearwardly from the bumper, and a link member extending between the end of the bumper and the side member. The link member is mounted to the side member and bumper via a pair of hinged connections. In the event of a small overlap collision, the link member is configured to contact a colliding barrier and pivot rearwardly in response while maintaining contact with the barrier to transfer the force of the collision inwardly toward the side member.

Description

BACKGROUND[0001]1. Field of the Invention[0002]The present invention generally relates to a structural assembly in a vehicle. More specifically, the invention relates to a structural assembly that responds to a frontal impact, such as a small overlap impact, to limit the frontal impact force on the vehicle cabin.[0003]2. Description of Related Art[0004]Automotive vehicles are often constructed at their front ends to include various support structure for the engine, wheels, suspension, bumper, and related components. These support structures can include longitudinal members that are generally aligned with the longitudinal axis of the vehicle, or lateral members that run in a generally transverse direction relative to the longitudinal members.[0005]The support structures surrounding and supporting the engine compartment are ultimately connected to various structures that define the vehicle cabin. These cabin support structures can include a generally vertical door hinge pillar, the A-...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides a support structure assembly for an automotive vehicle that overcomes the limitations of the prior art. The assembly includes a side member and a link member with an inner mounting portion and an outer mounting portion. The link member has a fixed shape and includes an upper wall portion, a lower wall portion, an inner wall portion, and an outer wall portion. The side member has a front portion, a rear portion, and an intermediate portion. The assembly also includes a bumper with first and second ends and a bumper extension member extending from the first end. The link member is mounted to the bumper extension member and the side member via hinge connections. The support structure assembly provides improved stability and flexibility for the vehicle.

Problems solved by technology

Because the majority of the loading is outside the longitudinal support structures, the impacting body or “barrier” can result in the longitudinal support structure slipping off the barrier.

These structures can ultimately deform due to the collision with the barrier, resulting in encroachment of the structures upon the passenger cabin.

However, the additional reinforcement can result in substantial increases in vehicle mass and material, which are undesirable in terms of cost and fuel mileage.

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