Description:A MOUNTING STRUCTURE FOR A MUFFLER HANGER

TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present subject matter described herein relates to a muffler assembly in a vehicle. The present invention is particularly related to a mounting structure to improve the vibration performance of a muffler hanger in a vehicle.

BACKGROUND
[0002] Background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present subject matter. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
[0003] A muffler hanger plays a crucial role in maintaining the structural integrity of the exhaust system while minimizing undesirable vibrations transmitted to the vehicle body. The muffler hanger is typically situated within the exhaust system of a vehicle. Its primary function is to support and secure the muffler, which is a component of the exhaust system responsible for reducing noise produced by the exhaust gases. The muffler hanger is positioned along the exhaust system, and its placement varies depending on the vehicle's design.
[0004] Common locations for muffler hangers include attachment points near the rear of the vehicle, along the exhaust pipes, or muffler assembly. The number of hangers and their specific placements depend on the exhaust design and the weight distribution of the components it supports.
[0005] The conventional muffler hanger often encounters challenges in effectively mitigating vibration-induced noise and ensuring long-term durability.
[0006] Moreover, existing muffler hanger configurations frequently fall short of providing optimal resistance against various types of deformation. The limitations extend to the support structures' ability to counteract both axial and lateral forces, contributing to compromised durability and potential long-term structural integrity issues.
[0007] In light of these challenges, there is a need to provide an improved muffler hanger support structure that can comprehensively address vibration, deformation, attachment, and loading challenges while offering enhanced stability and ease of integration within diverse exhaust system configurations.

OBJECTS OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0008] It forms an object of the present disclosure to overcome the aforementioned and other drawbacks/limitations in the existing solutions available in the form of related prior arts.
[0009] It is a primary objective of the present disclosure to significantly reduce vibration transmitted from the muffler to the vehicle body, thereby minimizing noise and enhancing overall driving comfort.
[0010] It is another object of the present disclosure to effectively restrict both bending and lateral deformation of the muffler hanger, ensuring long-term durability and stability.
[0011] It is another object of the present disclosure to withstand axial forces and promote consistent performance under various loading conditions.
[0012] It is another object of the present disclosure to improve the overall stability of the muffler hanger, preventing unwanted movement and potential wear.
[0013] These and other objects and advantages of the present subject matter will be apparent to a person skilled in the art after consideration of the following detailed description taken into consideration with accompanying drawings in which preferred embodiments of the present subject matter are illustrated.

SUMMARY
[0014] A solution to one or more drawbacks of existing technology and additional advantages are provided through the present disclosure. Additional features and advantages are realized through the technicalities of the present disclosure. Other embodiments and aspects of the disclosure are described in detail herein and are considered to be a part of the claimed disclosure.
[0015] The present disclosure provides a solution in the form of a mounting structure to improve the vibration performance of a muffler hanger in a vehicle, the mounting structure comprises a muffler hanger receiving portion, a flange extending from each side of the muffler hanger receiving portion to form a quad-flanged structure that facilitates mounting on a horizontal surface of a underbody of a vehicle, a first side supporting structure provided along a first longitudinal side of the muffler hanger receiving portion, a second side supporting structure provided along a second longitudinal side of the muffler hanger receiving portion, where the first side supporting structure and the second side supporting structure are facing each other along the longitudinal direction (X) and a U-shaped groove is formed between the first side supporting structure and the second side supporting structure and configured to receive the muffler hanger.
[0016] In an aspect, the first side supporting structure is defined as a longitudinal ribbed structure at the top.
[0017] In an aspect, a step profile is provided in between the first side supporting structure and the flange, where one end of the step profile is joined with the flange and the other end is connected with the first side supporting structure.
[0018] In an aspect, the second side supporting structure is a longitudinal embossed structure with a flat top surface.
[0019] In an aspect, the second side supporting structure is tapered along an axial direction of the muffler hanger.
[0020] In an aspect, at least two flanges are extended horizontally, and at least two flanges are extended in a vertical downwards direction.
[0021] In an aspect, the vertical height of the first side supporting structure is greater than the height of the second side supporting structure.
[0022] In an aspect, the longitudinal sides of the muffler hanger receiving portion are greater than a transverse side of the muffler hanger receiving portion.
[0023] In an aspect, the first side supporting structure and the second side supporting structure extend in the same direction from the longitudinal sides of the muffler hanger receiving portion.
[0024] In an aspect, the muffler hanger receiving portion defines a closed section profile with the underbody of the vehicle.
[0025] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS
[0026] It is to be noted, however, that the appended drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of the present subject matter and are therefore not to be considered for limiting of its scope, for the present disclosure may admit to other equally effective embodiments. The detailed description is described with reference to the accompanying figures. In the figures, a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears. The same numbers are used throughout the figures to reference like features and components. Some embodiments of system or methods or structure in accordance with embodiments of the present subject matter are now described, by way of example, and with reference to the accompanying figures, in which:
[0027] Figs. 1A and 1B illustrates a muffler hanger assembled on a mounting structure in a perspective view according to the present invention;
[0028] Fig. 2A and 2B illustrate a perspective view of the mounting structure according to the present disclosure.
[0029] The figures depict embodiments of the present subject matter for illustration only. A person skilled in the art will easily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the disclosure described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION
[0030] The detailed description of various exemplary embodiments of the disclosure is described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the embodiments are described herein in such details as to communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of details provided herein is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
[0031] It is also to be understood that various arrangements may be devised that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, embody the principles of the present disclosure. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects, and embodiments of the present disclosure, as well as specific examples, are intended to encompass equivalents thereof.
[0032] It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions/acts noted may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two figures shown in succession may be executed concurrently or may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality/acts involved.
[0033] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which example embodiments belong. It will be further understood that terms, e.g., those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.
[0034] In the following detailed description of the embodiments of the disclosure, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration of specific embodiments in which the disclosure may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The following description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.
[0035] Hereinafter, a description of an embodiment with several components in communication with each other does not imply that all such components are required. On the contrary, a variety of optional components are described to illustrate the wide variety of possible embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0036] The present invention discloses a mounting structure to improve the vibration performance of a muffler hanger in a vehicle. The present invention dampens vibration to minimize noise and enhance driving comfort, which is achieved by restricting both bending and lateral deformation.
[0037] Referring to FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B, the mounting structure (100) is provided to enhance the vibration performance of a muffler hanger (101) in a vehicle. A muffler hanger receiving portion (201 given in Fig. 2A) ensures a precise fit on the horizontal surface of an underbody (102) of a vehicle, providing a stable foundation.
[0038] Referring to FIG. 1A and FIG. 2A. The mounting structure (100) comprises a muffler hanger receiving portion (201) and at least four flanges (205a, 205b, 205c, 205d) forming a quad-flanged structure. This configuration facilitates secure mounting on the horizontal surface of the underbody (102) of the vehicle.
[0039] In an embodiment, the muffler hanger receiving portion (201) defines a closed section profile (as depicted in the section A-A’), enhancing the overall structural integrity and load-bearing capacity. The closed section profile may be M-shaped section. This embodiment ensures compatibility with the underbody (102) of the vehicle, creating a robust and reliable mounting solution.
[0040] The mounting structure (100) is positioned on the underbody (102) of the vehicle to ensure optimal functionality. The muffler hanger receiving portion (201) is designed for secure placement on the horizontal surface of the underbody (102), promoting a stable and reliable connection. The quad-flanged structure, with flanges (205a, 205b, 205c, 205d) extending from each side of the muffler hanger receiving portion (201), facilitates a secure and precise fit onto the surface of the underbody (102).
[0041] Further, the horizontal extension of at least two flanges (205b, 205c) ensures a broad contact area with the horizontal surface of the underbody (102), enhancing stability and load distribution. Simultaneously, the two flanges (205a, 205d) on the transverse side (208a, 208b) are extended in a vertical downward direction (as seen from vehicle upside down view in Fig. 2A and 2B) to provide additional reinforcement and contribute to the overall rigidity of the mounting structure (100). The other two flanges (205a, 205d) ensure a broad contact area with the transverse surface of the underbody (102).
[0042] In one embodiment, each flange within the set of flanges (205a, 205b, 205c, 205d) is configured with distinct shapes and varying sizes, thereby optimizing the surface area based on specific structural requirements. This design consideration allows for a tailored approach, ensuring that each flange (205a, 205b, 205c, 205d) is strategically shaped and sized to address its unique functional demands within the mounting structure (100). By customizing the geometry of individual flanges (205a, 205b, 205c, 205d), the embodiment enhances the overall effectiveness of the quad-flanged structure, optimizing load distribution, and promoting a secure and efficient connection to the horizontal surface of the underbody (102).
[0043] Also, the quad-flanged arrangement of the flanges (205a, 205b, 205c, 205d) simplifies the installation process and also establishes robust spot weld connections across multiple directions (along vehicle width (BL), length (TL), and height (WL) directions) i.e., significantly improving the stability of the mounting structure (100). The flanges (205a, 205b, 205c, 205d) play a pivotal role in securing the mounting structure (100) to the underbody (102), ensuring reliability, and effectively mitigating unwanted vibrations transmitted from the muffler to the vehicle body.
[0044] Ref. FIG. 1A and FIG. 2B, a first and a second side supporting structures (202, 203) are key components contributing to the overall stability and functionality of the mounting structure (100). The positioning of the mounting structure (100) ensures that the first side supporting structure (202) and the second side supporting structure (203), located along the longitudinal sides (207a, 207b) of the muffler hanger receiving portion (201), face each other along the longitudinal direction (X), enhancing the structural integrity of the mounting.
[0045] In an embodiment, the first side supporting structure (202) is positioned along the first longitudinal side (207a) of the muffler hanger receiving portion (201). The first side supporting structure (202) has a longitudinal ribbed structure (209) at the top. The longitudinal ribbed structure (209) serves multiple functions. Firstly, the longitudinal ribbed structure (209) contributes to the structural integrity of the mounting structure (100), imparting rigidity and strength to resist bending and lateral deformation of the muffler hanger (101). Secondly, the longitudinal ribbed structure (209) enhances comprehensive vibration damping by effectively minimizing the transmission of vibrations from the muffler to the vehicle body, thereby contributing to reduced noise and improved driving comfort.
[0046] In an embodiment, a step profile (210) in the mounting structure (100) is positioned between the first side supporting structure (202) and the flange (205c), serving as a key feature to enhance its structural characteristics. The step profile (210) provides a gradual transition in elevation, connecting the top of the first side supporting structure (202) to the flange (205c). One end of the step profile (210) is seamlessly joined with the flange (205c), while the other end is connected to the base of the first side supporting structure (202). The step profile (210) contributes to the overall stability of the mounting structure (100) by distributing loads efficiently between the first side supporting structure (202) and the flange (205c). Secondly, the step profile (210) functions as a stress-absorbing element, dissipating strain energy and promoting resilience. The step profile (210) optimizes the load distribution and reinforces the structural integrity of the mounting structure (100).
[0047] The second side supporting structure (203) in the mounting structure (100) provides robust reinforcement along the second longitudinal side (206b) of the muffler hanger receiving portion (201).
[0048] In an embodiment, the second side supporting structure (203) takes the form of a longitudinal embossed structure with a flat top surface, combining strength and efficiency. The embossed structure adds structural rigidity and overall durability to the mounting structure (100). Additionally, the flat top surface enhances contact and support for the muffler hanger (101). An important feature of the second side supporting structure (203) is its tapered design along the axial direction of the muffler hanger (101). The tapering optimizes the load-bearing capacity at specific points, ensuring that the structure can effectively withstand axial forces and provide consistent support under various loading conditions. The placement of the second side supporting structure (203), facing the first side supporting structure (202) along the longitudinal direction (X), creates a balanced and stable configuration, enhancing the overall performance and reliability of the mounting structure (100) in vehicles.
[0049] Additionally, a U-shaped groove (204) is integrated into the mounting structure (100). The U-shaped groove (204) plays a crucial role in securely accommodating the muffler hanger (101). The U-shaped groove (204) is positioned between the first side supporting structure (202) and the second side supporting structure (203) along the longitudinal direction (X). The design of the groove (204) is characterized by its U-shaped configuration, creating a channel that matches the contours of the muffler hanger (101).
[0050] The U-shaped groove (204) ensures a snug and stable fit for the muffler hanger (101) within the mounting structure (100), preventing unnecessary movement or vibration. The U-shaped groove (204) acts as a secure housing for the muffler hanger (101), enhancing the overall stability and effectiveness of the mounting structure (100) in dampening vibrations.
TECHNICAL ADVANTAGES
[0051] The present invention significantly reduces vibrations transmitted from the muffler to the vehicle body, leading to a quieter and more comfortable driving experience.
[0052] The mounting structure in the present invention addresses axial and lateral deformations of the muffler hanger through several features. First, the quad-flanged structure, formed by flanges extending from each side of the muffler hanger receiving portion, facilitates secure mounting on the horizontal surface of a vehicle body underbody. This configuration provides stability and restricts lateral movement, preventing undesired lateral deformations.
[0053] Furthermore, the first and second side supporting structures, positioned along the longitudinal sides of the muffler hanger receiving portion and facing each other, play a crucial role in overcoming axial deformations. The first and second side supporting structures provide additional reinforcement and support, limiting the bending and axial movement of the muffler hanger. The U-shaped groove formed between these supporting structures is configured to receive the muffler hanger securely, preventing axial displacement.
[0054] The spot weld connections across multiple directions i.e. lengthwise, heightwise, and widthwise improve overall stability, preventing unwanted movement and potential wear of the mounting structure.
[0055] The present invention accommodates diverse vehicle configurations, allowing seamless integration into different models and variants.
[0056] It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as “open” terms (e.g., the term “including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “includes but is not limited to,” etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation, no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to disclosures containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an” (e.g., “a” and/or “an” should typically be interpreted to mean “at least one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. Also, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of “two recitations,” without other modifiers, typically means at least two recitations or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, and C, etc.” is used, in general, such construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, and C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances, where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, or C, etc.” is used, in general, such construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, or C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms or both terms. For example, the phrase “A or B” will be understood to include the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B.”
[0057] It will be further appreciated that functions or structures of a plurality of components or steps may be combined into a single component or step, or the functions or structures of one-step or component may be split among plural steps or components. The present disclosure contemplates all of these combinations. Unless stated otherwise, dimensions and geometries of the various structures depicted herein are not intended to be restrictive of the disclosure, and other dimensions or geometries are possible. Also, while a feature of the present disclosure may have been described in the context of only one of the illustrated embodiments, such feature may be combined with one or more other features of other embodiments, for any given application. It will also be appreciated from the above that the fabrication of the unique structures herein and the operation thereof also constitute methods in accordance with the present disclosure. The present disclosure also encompasses intermediate and end products resulting from the practice of the methods herein. The use of “comprising” or “including” also contemplates embodiments that “consist essentially of” or “consist of” the recited feature. , Claims:We claim:
1. A mounting structure (100) to improve the vibration performance of a muffler hanger (101) in a vehicle, the mounting structure (100) comprising:
a muffler hanger receiving portion (201);
a flange (205a, 205b, 205c, 205d) extending from each side of the muffler hanger receiving portion (201) to form a quad-flanged structure that facilitates mounting on a horizontal surface of an underbody (102) of a vehicle;
a first side supporting structure (202) provided along a first longitudinal side (206a) of the muffler hanger receiving portion (201);
a second side supporting structure (203) provided along a second longitudinal side (206b) of the muffler hanger receiving portion (201), where the first side supporting structure (202) and the second side supporting structure (203) are facing each other along the longitudinal direction (X); and
a U-shaped groove (204) is formed between the first side supporting structure (202) and the second side supporting structure (203) and configured to receive the muffler hanger (102).
2. The mounting structure (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first side supporting structure (202) is defined as a longitudinal ribbed structure (209) at the top.
3. The mounting structure (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein a step profile (210) is provided in between the first side supporting structure (202) and the flange (205c), where one end of the step profile (210) is joined with the flange (205c) and other end is connected with the first side supporting structure (202).
4. The mounting structure (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second side supporting structure (203) is a longitudinal embossed structure with a flat top surface.
5. The mounting structure (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second side supporting structure (203) is tapered along an axial direction of the muffler hanger (102).
6. The mounting structure (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least two flanges (205b, 205c) are extended horizontally and at least two flanges (205a, 205d) are extended in a vertical downwards direction.
7. The mounting structure (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the vertical height of the first side supporting structure (202) is greater than the height of the second side supporting structure (203).
8. The mounting structure (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein a longitudinal side (207a, 207b) of the muffler hanger receiving portion (201) is greater than a transverse side (208a, 208b) of the muffler hanger receiving portion (201).
9. The mounting structure (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first side supporting structure (202) and the second side supporting structure (203) extend in the same direction from the longitudinal sides (207a, 207b) of the muffler hanger receiving portion (201).
10. The mounting structure (100) as claimed in claim 9, wherein the muffler hanger receiving portion (201) defines a closed section profile with the underbody (102) of the vehicle.