Description:AN ASSEMBLY FOR IMPROVING VEHICLE TORSIONAL RIGIDITY
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present subject matter described herein relates to a rear structure of a vehicle body. The present invention is particularly related to an assembly for improving a torsional rigidity of a vehicle.
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
[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] In traditional vehicle structures, the provision for child seat anchoring often falls short of providing sufficient rigidity, especially with the increasing height of child seats. Additionally, the need to enhance the overall torsional rigidity of vehicles poses challenges in terms of increased weight, assembly time, and cost when using separate structures for child seat anchorage and enhancing torsional rigidity of the vehicle.

[0004] The existing state of the art in vehicle design, particularly concerning the provision for child seat anchoring and overall torsional rigidity, presents several notable disadvantages that the present invention aims to overcome.

[0005] The existing designs often struggle to provide adequate torsional rigidity, especially as modern vehicle designs evolve. Further, with the increased height of child seats, there is a requirement to enhance structural rigidity of the child anchorage structure. The conventional anchoring provisions for child seats are not well-equipped to accommodate the rising height of modern child seats. As a result, the existing designs may not securely and optimally anchor these seats, compromising safety and functionality.
[0006] Also, previous solutions have attempted to address the challenges of child seat anchoring and torsional rigidity independently, leading to the use of two separate structures. This approach not only adds complexity to the design but also contributes to increased weight, which can adversely affect the vehicle's overall performance and fuel efficiency. The lack of an integrated solution limits the versatility of existing designs. They may not efficiently adapt to different child seat configurations or provide a unified approach to enhance both child seat anchoring and torsional rigidity.
[0007] In light of these challenges, there is a need to overcome the limitations of the prior art.
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 increase overall torsional rigidity.
[0010] It is another object of the present disclosure to seamlessly integrate anchoring provisions for child seats, accommodating the evolving design and safety requirements associated with modern child seats.
[0011] It is another object of the present disclosure to eliminate the need for separate structures, reducing complexity and streamlining the overall design.
[0012] It is another object of the present disclosure to meet the desired performance criteria and cost-effective manufacturing processes, thereby minimizing assembly time and production costs.
[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 OF INVENTION
[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 an assembly for improving a torsional rigidity of a vehicle while securing provisions of a child seat in the vehicle. The assembly comprises a longitudinal member positioned transversally in the vehicle and joined with a left wheelhouse at a left end and a right wheelhouse at a right end, a reinforcement member interposed in between the left wheelhouse and the longitudinal member at the left end, and in between the right wheelhouses and the longitudinal member at the right end, respectively, and a bracket interposed in between the longitudinal member and the reinforcement members.
[0016] In an aspect, the longitudinal member further comprises, a plurality of U-shaped members configured to be coupled with a child seat, wherein the U-shaped members are positioned on the longitudinal member corresponding to the position of the child seat on a rear seat of the vehicle.
[0017] In an aspect, the reinforcement member comprises, an oval-shaped base with walls extending angularly away from the circumference of the oval-shaped base and a mounting flange extending vertically outward from the walls in a parallel direction of the oval-shaped base.
[0018] In an aspect, the reinforcement member is divided by a step portion into two halves, where the first half of the two halves defines a first wall that is greater in height than a second wall of the second half.
[0019] In an aspect, the first wall of the first half having greater height defines at least two fastening holes.
[0020] In an aspect, the mounting flange extending along one vertex of the oval-shaped base is longer than the mounting flange extending along other vertex of the oval-shaped base, wherein the longer mounting flange has a step portion.
[0021] In an aspect, the portion of the mounting flange defined by the step portion overlaps over a joint portion of the wheelhouse to form a three-ply joint.
[0022] In an aspect, the mounting flange is spot-welded to the wheelhouse.
[0023] In an aspect, the bracket comprises, a mounting portion configured to be horizontally mounted to the first wall by means of fasteners, an inserting portion extending in a direction of the longitudinal member, wherein the inserting portion has a semi-circular embossed portion to receive the longitudinal member, a flange extending vertically upwards from the bracket and a step portion dividing the mounting portion and the inserting portion.
[0024] In an aspect, a supporting member is provided at an intermediate portion of the longitudinal member, wherein the supporting member is coupled to a floor 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] Fig. 1 illustrates a top view of an assembly according to the present invention;
[0028] Fig. 2 illustrates an exploded view of the assembly according to the present disclosure;
[0029] Fig. 3a illustrates the crossectional view of a reinforcement member connected to a wheel house according to the present disclosure;
[0030] Fig. 3b illustrates a perspective view of the reinforcement member according to the present disclosure;
[0031] Fig. 3c illustrates a bottom view of the reinforcement member according to the present disclosure;
[0032] Fig. 4 illustrates a perspective view of a bracket according to the present disclosure.
[0033] 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 WITH REFERENCE TO THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS

[0034] 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.
[0035] 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.
[0036] 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.
[0037] 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.
[0038] 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.
[0039] 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.
[0040] The present invention discloses an assembly aimed at improving the torsional rigidity of a vehicle. The assembly facilitates a streamlined and efficient solution for enhancing the torsional rigidity of the vehicle as well as providing child seat mounting provision without resorting to the conventional use of two separate structures, thereby minimizing weight, assembly time, and costs.
[0041] Referring to FIG. 1, the assembly (100) is illustrated. The assembly (100) comprises a longitudinal member (101) positioned in a transverse orientation within the vehicle. The longitudinal member (101) is interconnected to the left wheelhouse (104a) at a left end (202a) and the right wheelhouse (104b) at a right end (202b), effectively creating a robust structural linkage.
[0042] A reinforcement member (103a, 103b) is interposed between the left wheelhouse (104a) and the longitudinal member (101) at the left end (202a), and symmetrically between the right wheelhouse (104b) and the longitudinal member (101) at the right end (202b). To ensure the structural integrity and cohesiveness of the assembly (100), a bracket (105a, 105b) serves as a connecting element, positioned between the longitudinal member (101) and the reinforcement members (103a, 103b).
[0043] Referring to Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, the longitudinal member (101), a central component within the assembly (100) for enhancing vehicle torsional rigidity, serves as a critical element in fortifying the overall structural integrity of the vehicle. The longitudinal member (101) is positioned in a transverse orientation within the vehicle and spans between the left wheelhouse (104a) and the right wheelhouse (104b), forming a structural link that significantly contributes to the torsional rigidity enhancement.
[0044] In an embodiment, the longitudinal member (101) incorporates a series of U-shaped members (201a, 201b, 201c, 201d) that are provided along its length. Each U-shaped member (201a, 201b, 201c, 201d) is configured to serve as a dedicated attachment point for securing a child seat, ensuring optimal safety and stability. The arrangement of the U-shaped members (201a, 201b, 201c, 201d) aligns with the standardized positions of ISOFIX anchors, promoting ease of installation and compatibility with a wide range of child seats designed to adhere to ISOFIX standards. This embodiment not only reinforces the structural integrity of the assembly but also enhances its practicality by providing a purposeful integration of features that cater to the specific needs of child seat anchoring systems, thereby contributing to the overall safety and convenience of the vehicle's rear seating arrangement.
[0045] In this embodiment, the longitudinal member (101) may accommodate diverse shapes, allowing manufacturers to tailor the structure according to the unique characteristics of different vehicle models. For instance, the longitudinal member (101) may adopt a tubular shape, a truss structure, or any other geometric configuration that enhances its torsional rigidity properties based on the constraints of a particular vehicle model.
[0046] In an embodiment of the assembly (100), the longitudinal member (101) is designed with adaptability in mind, allowing for various shapes and configurations to suit different vehicle models and requirements. The longitudinal member (101), encompasses a broader scope, accommodating variations in cross-sectional profiles. The design flexibility permits the use of different shapes, such as cylindrical, rectangular, or any other geometric form, based on the specific structural demands of the vehicle and manufacturing considerations
[0047] Referring to Fig. 1 and Fig. 3, the reinforcement member (103a, 103b) comprises an oval-shaped base (302) that forms the foundation of the reinforcement member (103a, 103b). Extending angularly away from the circumference of the oval-shaped base (302) is walls (311a, 311b), creating a C-shaped cross-section. This configuration ensures the ability of the reinforcement member (103a, 103b) to withstand torsional forces effectively and also provides a closed section that is interposed between the left wheelhouse (104a) and the longitudinal member (101) at the left end (202a), as well as between the right wheelhouse (104b) and the longitudinal member (101) at the right end (202b). The C-shaped configuration aids in distributing and resisting torsional forces, ensuring that the reinforcement member (103a, 103b) effectively reinforces the overall assembly (100).
[0048] Further, the reinforcement member (103a, 103b) is divided into two halves (306a, 306b) by a step portion (305). The first half (306a) features a first wall (311a) which is greater in height than a second wall (311b) of the second half (306b), enhancing its load-bearing capacity. The heightened first wall (311a) includes at least two fastening holes (307a, 307b), offering secure attachment points for additional structural elements.
[0049] A mounting flange (304) extends vertically outward from the walls (311a, 311b) in parallel direction of the oval-shaped base (302). The mounting flange (304) plays a critical role in connecting the reinforcement member (103a, 103b) to the wheelhouses (104a, 104b) and contributes to the overall stability of the assembly (100). Notably, the mounting flange (304) is spot-welded to the wheelhouses (104a, 104b), ensuring a durable and steadfast connection. The spot welding ensures a robust connection, enhancing the structural integrity of the assembly (100). The spot-welded joint forms a stable linkage between the reinforcement member (103a, 103b) and the wheelhouses (104a, 104b), effectively distributing loads and torsional forces across the vehicle body.
[0050] Further, a mounting flange (310) is provided that extends along one vertex of the oval-shaped base (302), featuring a step portion (309). The longer mounting flange (310) contributes to the structural resilience of the reinforcement member (103a, 103b). A portion of the mounting flange (310) defined by the step portion (309) overlaps the joint portion of the wheelhouses (104a, 104b), forming a three-ply joint that further enhances the overall strength and torsional rigidity. This configuration further fortifies the connection, creating a robust and integrated linkage that enhances torsional rigidity.
[0051] Further, the first wall (311a) of the reinforcement member (103a, 103b) features at least two fastening holes (307a, 307b). The fastening holes (307a, 307b) enable secure attachment to the reinforcement member (103a, 103b) and thereby to the wheelhouses (104a, 104b), contributing to the overall stability of the assembly (100).
[0052] The distribution of forces within the assembly (100) ensures optimal load-bearing capacity and torsional rigidity. The mounting flange (310) with its step portion (309) is a key element in this force distribution mechanism.

[0053] When the assembly (100) experiences external forces or loads, such as those encountered during vehicle operation or under dynamic conditions, these forces are transmitted to the vehicle body through the reinforcement member (103a, 103b). The first half (306a) of the reinforcement member (103a, 103b), with its heightened first wall (311a) and fastening holes (307a, 307b), is designed to bear a significant portion of these forces.

[0054] As the forces are applied, the mounting flange (310), being longer and featuring the step portion (309), plays a crucial role in the force distribution process. The extended length of the mounting flange (310) allows for a broader contact area, effectively spreading the forces over a larger surface.

[0055] Moreover, the step portion (309) of the mounting flange (310) is positioned to overlap with the joint portions of the wheelhouses (104a, 104b). This overlapping section forms the three-ply joint, creating additional rigidity at a critical juncture. The forces transmitted through the mounting flange (310) are thus efficiently distributed across the three-ply joint portion, providing enhanced structural integrity and torsional resistance.

[0056] Ref. Fig. 1 and Fig. 4, in another embodiment, a bracket (105a, 105b) is a pivotal component within the assembly (100) designed to enhance the torsional rigidity of a vehicle. The bracket (105a, 105b) is positioned between the longitudinal member (101) and the reinforcement members (103a, 103b). The bracket (105a, 105b) plays a crucial role in providing structural support, facilitating secure connections, and ensuring the overall stability of the assembly (100).
[0057] The bracket (105a, 105b) comprises a mounting portion (401) that horizontally attaches to the first wall (311a) using fasteners (402a, 402b). This horizontal orientation enhances stability and provides a robust connection point.
[0058] In an embodiment, the fasteners (402a, 402b) may include bolts, screws, rivets, or other suitable connecting elements that facilitate a secure and stable attachment. The fasteners (402a, 402b) ensure optimal performance in terms of load-bearing capacity and resistance to torsional forces.
[0059] An inserting portion (403) extends towards the longitudinal member (101) and features a semi-circular embossed portion (404) designed to securely receive the cylindrical shape of the longitudinal member (101). The semi-circular embossed portion (404) ensures a snug fit, adding to the overall stability of the connection. The flanges (405a, 405b) extend vertically upwards from the bracket (105a, 105b), and the flange (405a, 405b) serves a dual purpose by reinforcing the assembly (100) and contributing to effective load distribution. In an embodiment, the inserting portion (403) has more height than the mounting portion (401).
[0060] Further, a step portion (406) strategically divides the mounting portion (401) and the inserting portion (403), enhancing the overall robustness of the bracket (105a, 105b). Collectively, these features improve the torsional rigidity and supports child seating arrangements.
[0061] Also, a supporting member (106) serves a crucial role in the assembly (100) for improving vehicle torsional rigidity. The supporting member (106) is positioned at an intermediate portion of the longitudinal member (101), and the supporting member (106) contributes to the overall structural integrity and stability of the vehicle. The supporting member (106) is specifically designed to enhance the load-bearing capabilities of the assembly (100) and reinforce its connection to the floor of the vehicle.

TECHNICAL ADVANTAGES

[0062] The present invention significantly improves the torsional rigidity of the vehicle. This results in better stability and handling during various driving conditions, contributing to overall safety.

[0063] The present invention enhances the safety and convenience of installing child seats in the vehicle.

[0064] The overall enhancement in vehicle torsional rigidity directly correlates with improved safety standards, making the disclosed assembly a valuable contribution to vehicle design and manufacturing.

[0065] 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.”
[0066] 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. An assembly (100) for improving torsional rigidity of a vehicle, the assembly (100) comprising:
a longitudinal member (101) positioned transversally in the vehicle and joined with a left wheelhouse (104a) at a left end (202a) and a right wheelhouse (104b) at a right end (202b);
a reinforcement member (103a, 103b), interposed in between the left wheelhouse (104a) and the longitudinal member (101) at the left end (202a) and in between the right wheelhouses (104a, 104b) and the longitudinal member (101) at the right end (202b), respectively; and
a bracket (105a, 105b) interposed in between the longitudinal member (101) and the reinforcement members (103a, 103b).

2. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the longitudinal member (101) further comprises:
a plurality of U-shaped members (201a, 201b, 201c, 201d) configured to be coupled with a child seat, wherein
the U-shaped members (201a, 201b, 201c, 201d) are positioned on the longitudinal member (101) corresponding to a position of the child seat on a rear seat of the vehicle.

3. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the reinforcement member (103a, 103b) comprises:
an oval-shaped base (302) with walls (311a, 311b) extending angularly away from a circumference of the oval-shaped base (302); and
a mounting flange (304) extending vertically outward from the walls (311a, 311b) in a parallel direction of the oval-shaped base (302).

4. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the reinforcement member (103a, 103b) is divided by a step portion (305) into two halves (306a, 306b), where the first half (306a) of the two halves (306a, 306b) defines the first wall (311a) which is greater in height than the second wall (311b) of the second half (306b).

5. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the first wall (311a) of the first half (306a) having greater height defines at least two fastening holes (307a, 307b).

6. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the mounting flange (310) extending along one vertex of the oval-shaped base (302) is longer than the mounting flange (304) extending along other vertex of the oval-shaped base (302), wherein the longer mounting flange (310) has a step portion (309).

7. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the portion of the mounting flange (310) defined by the step portion (309) overlaps over a joint portion of the wheelhouse (104a, 104b) to form a three-ply joint.

8. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the mounting flange (304) is spot-welded to the wheelhouse (104a, 104b).

9. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the bracket (105a, 105b) comprises,
a mounting portion (401) configured to be horizontally mounted to the first wall (311a) by means of fasteners (402a, 402b);
an inserting portion (403) extending in a direction of the longitudinal member (101), wherein the inserting portion (403) has a semi-circular embossed portion (404) to receive the longitudinal member (101);
a flange (405a, 405b) extending vertically upwards from the bracket (105a, 105b); and
a step portion (406) dividing the mounting portion (401) and the inserting portion (403).
10. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein a supporting member (106) is provided at an intermediate portion of the longitudinal member (101), wherein the supporting member (106) is coupled to a floor of the vehicle.