EP1412243A1 - Motor vehicle chassis with central bearing structure made of aluminium - Google Patents

Motor vehicle chassis with central bearing structure made of aluminium

Info

Publication number
EP1412243A1
EP1412243A1 EP01980629A EP01980629A EP1412243A1 EP 1412243 A1 EP1412243 A1 EP 1412243A1 EP 01980629 A EP01980629 A EP 01980629A EP 01980629 A EP01980629 A EP 01980629A EP 1412243 A1 EP1412243 A1 EP 1412243A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
chassis according
central
transverse
structural
plate
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP01980629A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Guy Negre
Cyril Negre
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
MDI Motor Development International SA
Original Assignee
MDI Motor Development International SA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Family has litigation
First worldwide family litigation filed litigation Critical https://patents.darts-ip.com/?family=8855611&utm_source=***_patent&utm_medium=platform_link&utm_campaign=public_patent_search&patent=EP1412243(A1) "Global patent litigation dataset” by Darts-ip is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Application filed by MDI Motor Development International SA filed Critical MDI Motor Development International SA
Publication of EP1412243A1 publication Critical patent/EP1412243A1/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62D—MOTOR VEHICLES; TRAILERS
    • B62D21/00—Understructures, i.e. chassis frame on which a vehicle body may be mounted
    • B62D21/02—Understructures, i.e. chassis frame on which a vehicle body may be mounted comprising longitudinally or transversely arranged frame members
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
    • B60K15/00—Arrangement in connection with fuel supply of combustion engines or other fuel consuming energy converters, e.g. fuel cells; Mounting or construction of fuel tanks
    • B60K15/03—Fuel tanks
    • B60K15/063—Arrangement of tanks
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
    • B60K15/00—Arrangement in connection with fuel supply of combustion engines or other fuel consuming energy converters, e.g. fuel cells; Mounting or construction of fuel tanks
    • B60K15/03—Fuel tanks
    • B60K15/063—Arrangement of tanks
    • B60K15/067—Mounting of tanks
    • B60K15/07—Mounting of tanks of gas tanks
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62D—MOTOR VEHICLES; TRAILERS
    • B62D21/00—Understructures, i.e. chassis frame on which a vehicle body may be mounted
    • B62D21/16—Understructures, i.e. chassis frame on which a vehicle body may be mounted having fluid storage compartment
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62D—MOTOR VEHICLES; TRAILERS
    • B62D23/00—Combined superstructure and frame, i.e. monocoque constructions
    • B62D23/005—Combined superstructure and frame, i.e. monocoque constructions with integrated chassis in the whole shell, e.g. meshwork, tubes, or the like
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62D—MOTOR VEHICLES; TRAILERS
    • B62D29/00—Superstructures, understructures, or sub-units thereof, characterised by the material thereof
    • B62D29/008—Superstructures, understructures, or sub-units thereof, characterised by the material thereof predominantly of light alloys, e.g. extruded

Definitions

  • the invention relates more particularly to a chassis for a motor vehicle made of light alloy, and in particular of aluminum or aluminum alloy.
  • the The invention provides a motor vehicle chassis comprising at least one central load-bearing structure on which are mounted suspension members of the vehicle undercarriages and at least one floor element, characterized in that the central structure comprises at least two transverse structural elements in general form of panels, front and rear, made in particular of aluminum or aluminum alloy which are structurally connected by a series of parallel longitudinal members of longitudinal orientation each of which consists of a piece of profile, made in particular of aluminum or aluminum alloy, including two end sections moth-eaten front and rear are fixed by bonding to the structural front and rear panels respectively.
  • the central structure comprises at least two transverse structural elements in general form of panels, front and rear, made in particular of aluminum or aluminum alloy which are structurally connected by a series of parallel longitudinal members of longitudinal orientation each of which consists of a piece of profile, made in particular of aluminum or aluminum alloy, including two end sections moth-eaten front and rear are fixed by bonding to the structural front and rear panels respectively.
  • Each end section of a beam is received in a sleeve of cross section complementary to that of the beam which is carried by the corresponding structural transverse plate, and in that the section is glued in the sleeve;
  • each structural transverse plate is produced by molding
  • Each sleeve is made integrally in one piece with the transverse plate which carries it;
  • each spar is a straight piece of tube;
  • the central structure comprises at least four beams which are arranged substantially at the four corners of the structural transverse plates whose general shape is generally rectangular;
  • At least one spar extends longitudinally through a fixing sleeve, beyond the structural plate which carries this sleeve;
  • the central supporting structure only comprises two transverse end, front and rear structural panels (14, 16); the central structure is covered with a covering element comprising at least one horizontal central plate, which can in particular constitute a floor element, and vertical lateral cheeks of longitudinal orientation, the cross section of which is in the general shape of a U, or of overturned U, and which is fixed by gluing on longitudinal members belonging to the central structure;
  • a covering element comprising at least one horizontal central plate, which can in particular constitute a floor element, and vertical lateral cheeks of longitudinal orientation, the cross section of which is in the general shape of a U, or of overturned U, and which is fixed by gluing on longitudinal members belonging to the central structure;
  • the central siruclus delimits a centraj box in which tanks are arranged, in particular high pressure compressed air tanks.
  • the sleeves can be replaced by studs or sorts of stubs penetrating inside the side member tubes, this arrangement also making it possible not to require d '' machining (the studs coming from foundry) with the use of a thick glue.
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view, partially broken away, of three-quarters front left and from above which illustrates an embodiment of a motor vehicle chassis according to the teachings of the invention which comprises in addition, in addition to the chassis structure, the two running gear and the engine with its transmission;
  • FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the chassis shown in FIG. 1 and from which certain elements and components have been removed in order to better show the design of the central support structure;
  • FIG. 3 is a left side view along arrow F3 of Figure 2;
  • Figure 4 is a top view of Figure 3;
  • FIG. 5 is an end view according to arrow F5 in FIG. 3.
  • the chassis 10 of the motor vehicle which is shown in the figures has a general symmetry of design with respect to a median longitudinal vertical plane and all the elements and components corresponding to this general symmetry will be designated by the same reference numbers, whether they are arranged left or right of the median plane.
  • the chassis shown in FIG. 1 is essentially constituted by a central supporting structure 12 delimited longitudinally towards the front by a structural plate transverse, or couple, front 14 and by a transverse structural plate, or couple, rear 16.
  • the chassis 10 also comprises, at the front of the front torque
  • Each plate or transverse couple 14, 16 is here of generally rectangular shape with their upper and lower edges (corresponding to the length of the rectangular plate) which extend in horizontal parallel planes.
  • Each plate or transverse couple 14, 16 is preferably made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy, for example by molding.
  • Each plate 14, 16 is here shown in the form of a solid element but, without departing from the scope of the invention, it is of course possible to produce it in the form of an openwork or partially hollowed out element. It is also possible to provide reinforcing ribs on each of the plates 14, 16.
  • the central structure 12 comprises parallel longitudinal members of generally longitudinal orientation, each of which is produced in the form of a section or piece of a light alloy profile, and in particular of a aluminum or aluminum alloy.
  • the central support structure 12 comprises four corner beams, that is to say two lower beams 22 and two upper beams 24 which are respectively arranged substantially in the vicinity of the lower and upper angles of the front 14 and rear 16 pairs.
  • the central support structure 12 here comprises a fifth central longitudinal beam 26 which extends in the median plane of symmetry of the chassis and which is arranged in the vicinity of the upper edges of the plates
  • Each beam 22, 24, 26 is here produced in the form of a piece of a cylindrical tube of circular annular section.
  • each end or end section of a spar extends through a complementary sleeve carried by the corresponding plate.
  • the front longitudinal end section 28 of the spar 26 extends through a front sleeve 30 produced in one piece with the front pair 14 and which extends longitudinally rearward from the rear transverse face of the front pair 14 in the direction of the rear pair 16.
  • the rear longitudinal end section 31 of the central beam 26 extends through a mounting and fixing sleeve 32 produced in one piece with the rear torque 16 and which extends longitudinally forward. towards the other plate from the front transverse face of the rear torque 16.
  • the end sections 28 and 32 of the central beam 26 are fixed by gluing in the corresponding sleeves 30 and 32.
  • all the mounting and fixing sleeves carried by the same transverse plate or pair 14 are fixed by gluing in the corresponding sleeves 30 and 32.
  • each transverse plate 14, 16 carries five cylindrical sleeves 30, 32 respectively.
  • the beams 22 and the central beam 26 extend longitudinally only between the two transverse plates 14 and 16, that is to say that the sleeves 30 and 32 which receive them can be blind, while the upper beams 24 each extend longitudinally rearward beyond the plane of the rear transverse torque 16, that is to say that the upper sleeves 32 which receive them are through.
  • the two upper side members 24 are extended rearwards by rear end segments 34 which are here connected by a cross member 36 which is made, like the side members 24, in the form of a piece of profile.
  • the rearward extension 34, 36 can in particular constitute a protective element in the event of an impact and also participate in the stiffening of the entire chassis.
  • the embodiment according to the invention makes it possible, from a pair of front 14 and rear 16 pairs, to make chassis of different lengths, that is to say using cutter beams 22, 24, 26 to the desired length.
  • the design according to the invention thus has great modularity for the production of the chassis 10. It can also be seen in the figures, and this only by way of nonlimiting example, that the same assembly and fixing techniques make it possible to produce the mounting the front axle 18 on the front transverse face of the front transverse torque 14 by means of sleeves 38 which may belong to the front torque 14 or to a structural transverse element 40 attached to the front face of the front torque 14.
  • the rear transverse face of the rear transverse couple 16 may comprise sleeves 42 produced for example from material by molding in one piece with the rear transverse torque 16.
  • the general design of the central structure 12 with its longitudinal members arranged globally at the periphery of the transverse couples 14 and 16 makes it possible to release a large internal space to delimit a housing or central box of large dimensions and which is structurally protected by the side members.
  • this central space tanks 46 of fuel or gas under pressure such as compressed air under high pressure when the vehicle engine, arranged here in overhang at the rear of the rear transverse torque 16, is a motor supplied totally or partially with compressed air in accordance with the technology implemented by the applicant for the propulsion of vehicles.
  • the particularly simple shape and structure of the central support structure also makes it possible to dress it with an insert 48 which here has, in cross section, a general shape of an inverted U and which comprises, extending longitudinally between the two pairs transverse 14 and 16, a horizontal upper back 50 constituting a floor element of the vehicle and two side cheeks of vertical orientation 52 which match the shape and dimensions of the side members 22 and 24.
  • the insert 48 is for example fixed by gluing on the side members and it can thus participate in the stiffening of the assembly.
  • the element 48 can be a sheet metal, steel or light alloy element, but it can also be produced in the form of an element made of synthetic material, for example with a honeycomb structure.
  • the covering surface 48 is distinguished from the side members, which are the only longitudinal structural elements constituting the chassis, that is to say the central load-bearing structure which gives rigidity and impact resistance to the assembly.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Transportation (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Sustainable Development (AREA)
  • Sustainable Energy (AREA)
  • Architecture (AREA)
  • Structural Engineering (AREA)
  • Body Structure For Vehicles (AREA)

Abstract

The invention concerns a motor vehicle chassis (10) comprising at least a central bearing structure (12) whereon are mounted suspension members (18, 20) of the vehicle running gears and at least a floor element. The invention is characterised in that the central structure (12) comprises at least two transverse structural elements generally shaped like front and rear panels (14, 16), made in particular of aluminium or aluminium alloy which are linked by a series of longitudinally oriented parallel side-members (22, 24, 26) each of which consists of part of a profiled section, made in particular of aluminium or aluminium alloy, whereof two front (28) and rear (31) segments are bonded to the structural front (14) and rear (16) panels respectively.

Description

CHASSIS DE VEHICULE AUTOMOBILE A STRUCTURE CENTRALE PORTEUSE EN ALUMINIUM L'invention concerne plus particulièrement un châssis de véhicule automobile réalisé en alliage léger, et notamment en aluminium ou en alliage d'aluminium. The invention relates more particularly to a chassis for a motor vehicle made of light alloy, and in particular of aluminum or aluminum alloy.
On a déjà proposé de nombreuses conceptions d'un châssis de véhicule faisant appel à l'aluminium ou à un alliage d'aluminium pour sa réalisation, notamment en vue de réduire le poids du châssis. Toutes les conceptions connues nécessitent soit de réaliser des éléments de formes complexes par des procédés de mise en œuvre coûteux, soit font appel à des techniques d'assemblage et de fixation telles que le soudage qui sont particulièrement difficiles à maîtriser et à mettre en œuvre à un prix réduit.Many designs of a vehicle chassis have already been proposed using aluminum or an aluminum alloy for its production, in particular with a view to reducing the weight of the chassis. All known designs require either to produce elements of complex shapes by costly implementation methods, or use assembly and fixing techniques such as welding which are particularly difficult to master and to implement. a reduced price.
Afin de remédier à ces inconvénients, tout en permettant de plus de proposer une conception modulaire pour réaliser des châssis de dimensions différentes, et notamment de longueurs différentes, en faisant appel aux mêmes éléments constitutifs ou à un nombre réduit de ces composants du châssis, l'invention propose un châssis de véhicule automobile comportant au moins une structure centrale porteuse sur laquelle sont montés des organes de suspension des trains roulants du véhicule et au moins un élément de plancher, caractérisé en ce que la structure centrale comporte au moins deux éléments structurels transversaux en forme générale de panneaux, avant et arrière, réalisés notamment en aluminium ou en alliage d'aluminium qui sont reliés structurellement par une série de longerons parallèles d'orientation longitudinale dont chacun est constitué par un morceau de profilé, réalisé notamment en aluminium ou en alliage d'aluminium, dont deux tronçons d'extrémité avant et arrière sont fixés par collage aux panneaux structurels avant et arrière respectivement. Selon d'autres caractéristiques de l'invention :In order to overcome these drawbacks, while at the same time making it possible to propose a modular design for producing chassis of different dimensions, and in particular of different lengths, by using the same constituent elements or a reduced number of these chassis components, the The invention provides a motor vehicle chassis comprising at least one central load-bearing structure on which are mounted suspension members of the vehicle undercarriages and at least one floor element, characterized in that the central structure comprises at least two transverse structural elements in general form of panels, front and rear, made in particular of aluminum or aluminum alloy which are structurally connected by a series of parallel longitudinal members of longitudinal orientation each of which consists of a piece of profile, made in particular of aluminum or aluminum alloy, including two end sections moth-eaten front and rear are fixed by bonding to the structural front and rear panels respectively. According to other characteristics of the invention:
- chaque tronçon d'extrémité d'un longeron est reçu dans un manchon de section transversale complémentaire de celle du longeron qui est porté par la plaque transversale structurelle correspondante, et en ce que le tronçon est collé dans le manchon ;- Each end section of a beam is received in a sleeve of cross section complementary to that of the beam which is carried by the corresponding structural transverse plate, and in that the section is glued in the sleeve;
- les manchons portés par une plaque transversale structurelle s'étendent depuis l'une des faces de cette plaque, longitudinalement en direction de l'autre plaque ; - chaque plaque transversale structurelle est réalisée par moulage ;- The sleeves carried by a structural transverse plate extend from one of the faces of this plate, longitudinally in the direction of the other plate; - each structural transverse plate is produced by molding;
- chaque manchon est réalisé venu de matière en une seule pièce avec la plaque transversale qui le porte ;- Each sleeve is made integrally in one piece with the transverse plate which carries it;
- chaque longeron est un morceau rectiligne de tube ; - la structure centrale comporte au moins quatre longerons qui sont agencés sensiblement aux quatre angles des plaques transversales structurelles dont la forme générale est globalement rectangulaire ;- each spar is a straight piece of tube; - The central structure comprises at least four beams which are arranged substantially at the four corners of the structural transverse plates whose general shape is generally rectangular;
- au moins un longeron s'étend longitudinalement à travers un manchon de fixation, au-delà de la plaque structurelle qui porte ce manchon ;- At least one spar extends longitudinally through a fixing sleeve, beyond the structural plate which carries this sleeve;
- la structure centrale porteuse ne comporte que deux panneaux structurels transversaux d'extrémité, avant et arrière (14, 16) ; - la structure centrale est couverte d'un élément d'habillage comportant au moins une plaque centrale horizontale, pouvant notamment constituer un élément de plancher, et de joues latérales verticales d'orientation longitudinale, dont la section transversale est en forme générale de U, ou de U renversé, et qui est fixé par collage sur des longerons appartenant à la structure centrale ;- the central supporting structure only comprises two transverse end, front and rear structural panels (14, 16); the central structure is covered with a covering element comprising at least one horizontal central plate, which can in particular constitute a floor element, and vertical lateral cheeks of longitudinal orientation, the cross section of which is in the general shape of a U, or of overturned U, and which is fixed by gluing on longitudinal members belonging to the central structure;
- la siruclure centrale délimite un caisson centraj dans lequel sont agencés des réservoirs, notamment des réservoirs d'air comprimé à haute pression. Sans sortir du cadre de l'invention et à titre de variante représentant un équivalent mécanique, les manchons peuvent être remplacés par des plots ou sortes de moignons pénétrant à l'intérieur des tubes de longerons, cette disposition permettant en outre de ne pas nécessiter d'usinage (les plots venant de fonderie) avec l'utilisation d'une colle épaisse.- the central siruclus delimits a centraj box in which tanks are arranged, in particular high pressure compressed air tanks. Without departing from the scope of the invention and as a variant representing a mechanical equivalent, the sleeves can be replaced by studs or sorts of stubs penetrating inside the side member tubes, this arrangement also making it possible not to require d '' machining (the studs coming from foundry) with the use of a thick glue.
D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention apparaîtront à la lecture de la description détaillée qui va suivre pour la compréhension de laquelle on se reportera aux dessins annexés dans lesquels :Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear on reading the detailed description which follows for the understanding of which reference will be made to the appended drawings in which:
- la figure 1 est une vue schématique en perspective, avec arrachement partiel, de trois-quarts avant gauche et de dessus qui illustre un exemple de réalisation d'un châssis de véhicule automobile conforme aux enseignements de l'invention qui comporte notamment, outre la structure du châssis, les deux trains roulants ainsi que le moteur avec sa transmission ;- Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view, partially broken away, of three-quarters front left and from above which illustrates an embodiment of a motor vehicle chassis according to the teachings of the invention which comprises in addition, in addition to the chassis structure, the two running gear and the engine with its transmission;
- fa figure 2 est une vue en perspective du châssis représenté à la figure 1 et dont on a enlevé certains éléments et composants afin de mieux faire apparaître la conception de la structure centrale porteuse ;FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the chassis shown in FIG. 1 and from which certain elements and components have been removed in order to better show the design of the central support structure;
- la figure 3 est une vue latérale de gauche selon la flèche F3 de la figure 2 ;- Figure 3 is a left side view along arrow F3 of Figure 2;
- la figure 4 est une vue de dessus de la figure 3 ;- Figure 4 is a top view of Figure 3;
- la figure 5 est une vue d'extrémité selon la flèche F5 de la figure 3.FIG. 5 is an end view according to arrow F5 in FIG. 3.
Le châssis 10 de véhicule automobile qui est représenté aux figures présente une symétrie générale de conception par rapport à un plan vertical longitudinal médian et tous les éléments et composants correspondant à cette symétrie généraie seront désignés par les mêmes chiffres de référence, qu'ils soient agencés à gauche ou à droite du plan médian.The chassis 10 of the motor vehicle which is shown in the figures has a general symmetry of design with respect to a median longitudinal vertical plane and all the elements and components corresponding to this general symmetry will be designated by the same reference numbers, whether they are arranged left or right of the median plane.
Le châssis représenté à là figure 1 est constitué pour l'essentiel par une structure centraie porteuse 12 délimitée longitudinalement vers l'avant par une plaque structurelle transversale, ou couple, avant 14 et par une plaque structurelle transversale, ou couple, arrière 16.The chassis shown in FIG. 1 is essentially constituted by a central supporting structure 12 delimited longitudinally towards the front by a structural plate transverse, or couple, front 14 and by a transverse structural plate, or couple, rear 16.
Tous les longerons qui s'étendent entre les deux plaques 14 et 16 sont des tronçons rectilignes. Le châssis 10 comporte aussi, à l'avant du couple avantAll the longitudinal members which extend between the two plates 14 and 16 are rectilinear sections. The chassis 10 also comprises, at the front of the front torque
14, un train roulant avant directeur 18 et, à l'arrière du couple transversal arrière 16, un train roulant arrière 20.14, a front running gear 18 and, at the rear of the rear transverse torque 16, a rear running gear 20.
La conception générale des deux trains avant 18 et arrièreThe general design of the two front 18 and rear axles
20 représentés aux figures est donnée uniquement à titre d'exemple et est indépendante de la conception générale de la structure centrale 12 du châssis conforme aux enseignements de l'invention.20 shown in the figures is given only by way of example and is independent of the general design of the central structure 12 of the chassis in accordance with the teachings of the invention.
Chaque plaque ou couple transversal 14, 16 est ici de forme générale rectangulaire avec leurs bords supérieurs et inférieurs (correspondant à la longueur de la plaque rectangulaire) qui s'étendent dans des plans parallèles horizontaux.Each plate or transverse couple 14, 16 is here of generally rectangular shape with their upper and lower edges (corresponding to the length of the rectangular plate) which extend in horizontal parallel planes.
Chaque plaque ou couple transversal 14, 16 est de préférence réalisée en aluminium ou en alliage d'aluminium, par exemple par moulage.Each plate or transverse couple 14, 16 is preferably made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy, for example by molding.
Chaque plaque 14, 16 est ici représentée sous la forme d'un élément plein mais, sans sortir du cadre de l'invention, il est bien entendu possible de la réaliser sous la forme d'un élément ajouré ou partiellement évidé. Il est aussi possible de prévoir des nervures de renfort sur chacune des plaques 14, 16.Each plate 14, 16 is here shown in the form of a solid element but, without departing from the scope of the invention, it is of course possible to produce it in the form of an openwork or partially hollowed out element. It is also possible to provide reinforcing ribs on each of the plates 14, 16.
Outre les deux couples transversaux 14 et 16, la structure centrale 12 comporte des longerons parallèles d'orientation générale longitudinale dont chacun est réalisé sous la forme d'un tronçon ou morceau d'un profilé en alliage léger, et notamment d'un profilé en aluminium ou en alliage d'aluminium.In addition to the two transverse couples 14 and 16, the central structure 12 comprises parallel longitudinal members of generally longitudinal orientation, each of which is produced in the form of a section or piece of a light alloy profile, and in particular of a aluminum or aluminum alloy.
Dans l'exemple de réalisation illustré aux figures, la structure centrale porteuse 12 comporte quatre longerons d'angles, c'est-à-dire deux longerons inférieurs 22 et deux longerons supérieurs 24 qui sont respectivement agencés sensiblement au voisinage des angles inférieurs et supérieurs des couples avant 14 et arrière 16.In the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the central support structure 12 comprises four corner beams, that is to say two lower beams 22 and two upper beams 24 which are respectively arranged substantially in the vicinity of the lower and upper angles of the front 14 and rear 16 pairs.
Comme on peut le voir aux figures, la structure centrale porteuse 12 comporte ici un cinquième longeron longitudinal central 26 qui s'étend dans le plan médian de symétrie du châssis et qui est agencé au voisinage des bords supérieurs des plaquesAs can be seen in the figures, the central support structure 12 here comprises a fifth central longitudinal beam 26 which extends in the median plane of symmetry of the chassis and which is arranged in the vicinity of the upper edges of the plates
14 et 16.14 and 16.
Tous les longerons qui s'étendent entre les deux plaques 14 et 16 sont des tronçons rectilignes. Chaque longeron 22, 24, 26 est ici réalisé sous la forme d'un morceau d'un tube cylindrique de section annulaire circulaire.All the longitudinal members which extend between the two plates 14 and 16 are rectilinear sections. Each beam 22, 24, 26 is here produced in the form of a piece of a cylindrical tube of circular annular section.
Toutefois, l'invention n'est pas limitée à des longerons comportant une telle section circulaire. Pour la fixation et l'assemblage de chaque longeron qui s'étend au moins entre les plaques 14 et 16, chaque extrémité ou tronçon d'extrémité d'un longeron s'étend à travers un manchon complémentaire porté par la plaque correspondante.However, the invention is not limited to beams comprising such a circular section. For fixing and assembling each spar which extends at least between the plates 14 and 16, each end or end section of a spar extends through a complementary sleeve carried by the corresponding plate.
Ainsi, à titre d'exemple pour la description, et en se reportant notamment à la figure 4, on voit que le tronçon d'extrémité longitudinal avant 28 du longeron 26 s'étend à travers un manchon avant 30 réalisé en une seule pièce avec le couple avant 14 et qui s'étend longitudinalement vers l'arrière depuis la face transversale arrière du couple avant 14 en direction du couple arrière 16.Thus, by way of example for the description, and with particular reference to FIG. 4, it can be seen that the front longitudinal end section 28 of the spar 26 extends through a front sleeve 30 produced in one piece with the front pair 14 and which extends longitudinally rearward from the rear transverse face of the front pair 14 in the direction of the rear pair 16.
De la même manière, le tronçon d'extrémité longitudinale arrière 31 du longeron central 26 s'étend à travers un manchon de montage et de fixation 32 réalisé en une seule pièce avec le couple arrière 16 et qui s'étend longitudinalement vers l'avant en direction de l'autre plaque depuis la face transversale avant du couple arrière 16.Likewise, the rear longitudinal end section 31 of the central beam 26 extends through a mounting and fixing sleeve 32 produced in one piece with the rear torque 16 and which extends longitudinally forward. towards the other plate from the front transverse face of the rear torque 16.
Conformément aux enseignements de l'invention, les tronçons d'extrémités 28 et 32 du longeron central 26 sont fixés par collage dans les manchons correspondants 30 et 32. Sur les figures, tous les manchons de montage et de fixation portés par une même plaque transversale ou couple 14,In accordance with the teachings of the invention, the end sections 28 and 32 of the central beam 26 are fixed by gluing in the corresponding sleeves 30 and 32. In the figures, all the mounting and fixing sleeves carried by the same transverse plate or pair 14,
16 sont désignés par les mêmes chiffres de référence, respectivement 30 et 32, quels que soient les longerons qu'ils reçoivent.16 are designated by the same reference numbers, 30 and 32 respectively, whatever the side members they receive.
Ainsi, pour le montage et la fixation des cinq longerons 22, 24, 26, chaque plaque transversale 14, 16 porte cinq manchons cylindriques 30, 32 respectivement.Thus, for mounting and fixing the five longitudinal members 22, 24, 26, each transverse plate 14, 16 carries five cylindrical sleeves 30, 32 respectively.
Comme on peut le voir sur les figures, les longerons 22 et le longeron central 26 ne s'étendent longitudinalement qu'entre les deux plaques transversales 14 et 16, c'est-à-dire que les manchons 30 et 32 qui les reçoivent peuvent être borgnes, tandis que les longerons supérieurs 24 s'étendent chacun longitudinalement vers l'arrière au-delà du plan du couple transversal arrière 16, c'est-à-dire que les manchons supérieurs 32 qui les reçoivent sont débouchants.As can be seen in the figures, the beams 22 and the central beam 26 extend longitudinally only between the two transverse plates 14 and 16, that is to say that the sleeves 30 and 32 which receive them can be blind, while the upper beams 24 each extend longitudinally rearward beyond the plane of the rear transverse torque 16, that is to say that the upper sleeves 32 which receive them are through.
Ainsi, les deux longerons supérieurs 24 se prolongent vers l'arrière par des segments d'extrémité arrière 34 qui sont ici reliés par une traverse 36 qui est réalisée, comme les longerons 24, sous la forme d'un morceau de profilé.Thus, the two upper side members 24 are extended rearwards by rear end segments 34 which are here connected by a cross member 36 which is made, like the side members 24, in the form of a piece of profile.
Le prolongement vers l'arrière 34, 36 peut notamment constituer un élément de protection en cas de choc et participer également à la rigidification de l'ensemble du châssis.The rearward extension 34, 36 can in particular constitute a protective element in the event of an impact and also participate in the stiffening of the entire chassis.
On comprend aisément que la réalisation selon l'invention permet, à partir d'une paire de couples avant 14 et arrière 16 de réaliser des châssis de longueurs différentes, c'est-à-dire en utilisant des longerons 22, 24, 26 coupés à la longueur souhaitée.It is easy to understand that the embodiment according to the invention makes it possible, from a pair of front 14 and rear 16 pairs, to make chassis of different lengths, that is to say using cutter beams 22, 24, 26 to the desired length.
La conception selon l'invention présente ainsi une grande modularité pour la réalisation du châssis 10. On voit également sur les figures, et ceci uniquement à titre d'exemple non limitatif, que les mêmes techniques d'assemblage et de fixation permettent de réaliser le montage du train avant 18 sur la face transversale avant du couple transversal avant 14 au moyen de manchons 38 qui peuvent appartenir au couple avant 14 ou à un élément transversal structurel 40 rapporté sur la face avant du couple avant 14.The design according to the invention thus has great modularity for the production of the chassis 10. It can also be seen in the figures, and this only by way of nonlimiting example, that the same assembly and fixing techniques make it possible to produce the mounting the front axle 18 on the front transverse face of the front transverse torque 14 by means of sleeves 38 which may belong to the front torque 14 or to a structural transverse element 40 attached to the front face of the front torque 14.
Il en est de même pour la fixation des éléments de suspension du train arrière ou du groupe motopropulseur, pour laquelle la face transversale arrière du couple transversal arrière 16 peut comporter des manchons 42 réalisés par exemple venus de matière par moulage en une seule pièce avec le couple transversal arrière 16.It is the same for the fixing of the suspension elements of the rear axle or of the powertrain, for which the rear transverse face of the rear transverse couple 16 may comprise sleeves 42 produced for example from material by molding in one piece with the rear transverse torque 16.
Comme on peut le voir à la figure 1 , la conception générale de la structure centrale 12 avec ses longerons agencés globalement à la périphérie des couples transversaux 14 et 16 permet de dégager un espace interne important pour délimiter un logement ou caisson central de grandes dimensions et qui est protégé structurellement par les longerons. Conformément à un aspect de l'invention, il est possible d'aménager ou d'agencer dans cet espace central des réservoirs 46 de carburant ou de gaz sous pression tel que de l'air comprimé sous haute pression lorsque le moteur du véhicule, agencé ici en porte-à-faux à l'arrière du couple transversal arrière 16, est un moteur alimenté totalement ou partiellement en air comprimé conformément à la technologie mise en œuvre par le demandeur pour la propulsion des véhicules.As can be seen in FIG. 1, the general design of the central structure 12 with its longitudinal members arranged globally at the periphery of the transverse couples 14 and 16 makes it possible to release a large internal space to delimit a housing or central box of large dimensions and which is structurally protected by the side members. According to one aspect of the invention, it is possible to arrange or arrange in this central space tanks 46 of fuel or gas under pressure such as compressed air under high pressure when the vehicle engine, arranged here in overhang at the rear of the rear transverse torque 16, is a motor supplied totally or partially with compressed air in accordance with the technology implemented by the applicant for the propulsion of vehicles.
La forme et la structure particulièrement simples de la structure centrale porteuse permettent aussi de l'habiller d'un élément rapporté 48 qui présente ici, en section transversale, une forme générale de U renversé et qui comporte, s'étendant longitudinalement entre les deux couples transversaux 14 et 16, un dos supérieur horizontal 50 constituant un élément de plancher du véhicule et deux joues latérales d'orientation verticale 52 qui épousent la forme et les dimensions des longerons 22 et 24.The particularly simple shape and structure of the central support structure also makes it possible to dress it with an insert 48 which here has, in cross section, a general shape of an inverted U and which comprises, extending longitudinally between the two pairs transverse 14 and 16, a horizontal upper back 50 constituting a floor element of the vehicle and two side cheeks of vertical orientation 52 which match the shape and dimensions of the side members 22 and 24.
L'élément rapporté 48 est par exemple fixé par collage sur les longerons et il peut ainsi participer à la rigidification de l'ensemble. L'élément 48 peut être un élément en tôle, d'acier ou d'alliage léger, mais il peut être aussi réalisé sous la forme d'un élément en matériau synthétique, par exemple à structure en nid d'abeilles. L'étêtement 48 d'habillage se distingue toutefois des longerons qui sont les seuls éléments structurels longitudinaux constitutifs du châssis, c'est-à-dire de la structure centrale porteuse qui confère la rigidité et la résistance aux chocs à l'ensemble. The insert 48 is for example fixed by gluing on the side members and it can thus participate in the stiffening of the assembly. The element 48 can be a sheet metal, steel or light alloy element, but it can also be produced in the form of an element made of synthetic material, for example with a honeycomb structure. The covering surface 48 is distinguished from the side members, which are the only longitudinal structural elements constituting the chassis, that is to say the central load-bearing structure which gives rigidity and impact resistance to the assembly.

Claims

REVENDICATIONS
1. Châssis (10) de véhicule automobile comportant au moins une structure centrale porteuse (12) sur laquelle sont montés des organes de suspension (18, 20) des trains roulants du véhicule et au moins un élément de plancher, caractérisé en ce que la structure centrale (12) comporte au moins deux éléments structurels transversaux en forme générale de panneaux (14, 16), avant et arrière, réalisés notamment en aluminium ou en alliage d'aluminium qui sont reliés structurellement par une série de longerons (22, 24, 26) parallèles d'orientation longitudinale dont chacun est constitué par un morceau de profilé, réalisé notamment en aluminium ou en alliage d'aluminium, dont deux tronçons d'extrémité avant (28) et arrière (31 ) sont fixés par collage aux panneaux structurels avant (14) et arrière (16) respectivement.1. Chassis (10) of a motor vehicle comprising at least one central supporting structure (12) on which are mounted suspension members (18, 20) of the running gear of the vehicle and at least one floor element, characterized in that the central structure (12) comprises at least two transverse structural elements in the general form of panels (14, 16), front and rear, made in particular of aluminum or aluminum alloy which are structurally connected by a series of beams (22, 24 , 26) parallels of longitudinal orientation each of which consists of a piece of profile, made in particular of aluminum or aluminum alloy, of which two front (28) and rear (31) end sections are fixed by gluing to the panels structural front (14) and rear (16) respectively.
2. Châssis selon la revendication 1 , caractérisé en ce que chaque tronçon d'extrémité (28, 31 ) d'un longeron est reçu dans un manchon (30, 32) de section transversale complémentaire de celle du longeron qui est porté par la plaque transversale structurelle correspondante (14, 16), et en ce que le tronçon (28, 31 ) est collé dans le manchon (30, 32).2. Chassis according to claim 1, characterized in that each end section (28, 31) of a spar is received in a sleeve (30, 32) of cross section complementary to that of the spar which is carried by the plate corresponding structural transverse (14, 16), and in that the section (28, 31) is glued into the sleeve (30, 32).
3. Châssis selon la revendication 2, caractérisé en ce que les manchons (30, 32) portés par une plaque transversale structurelle (14, 16) s'étendent depuis l'une des faces de cette plaque (14, 16), longitudinalement en direction de l'autre plaque (14, 16).3. Chassis according to claim 2, characterized in that the sleeves (30, 32) carried by a structural transverse plate (14, 16) extend from one of the faces of this plate (14, 16), longitudinally in direction of the other plate (14, 16).
4. Châssis selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que chaque plaque transversale structurelle (14, 16) est réalisée par moulage.4. Chassis according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each structural transverse plate (14, 16) is produced by molding.
5. Châssis selon la revendication 4 prise en combinaison avec l'une des revendications 2 ou 3, caractérisé en ce que chaque manchon (30, 32) est réalisé venu de matière en une seule pièce avec la plaque transversale (14, 16) qui le porte. 5. Chassis according to claim 4 taken in combination with one of claims 2 or 3, characterized in that each sleeve (30, 32) is made integrally in one piece with the transverse plate (14, 16) which The door.
6. Châssis selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes caractérisé en ce que les manchons sont remplacés par des plots pénétrant à l'intérieur des tubes de longerons.6. Chassis according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sleeves are replaced by studs penetrating inside the side member tubes.
7. Châssis selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que chaque longeron (22, 24, 26) est un morceau rectiligne de tube.7. Chassis according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each beam (22, 24, 26) is a straight piece of tube.
8. Châssis selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que la structure centrale comporte au moins quatre longerons (22, 24) qui sont agencés sensiblement aux quatre angles des plaques transversales structurelles (14, 16) dont la forme générale est globalement rectangulaire.8. Chassis according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the central structure comprises at least four beams (22, 24) which are arranged substantially at the four corners of the structural transverse plates (14, 16) whose general shape is generally rectangular.
9. Châssis selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce qu'au moins un longeron (24) s'étend longitudinalement à travers un manchon de fixation (32), au-delà de la plaque structurelle (16) qui porte ce manchon (32).9. Chassis according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one spar (24) extends longitudinally through a fixing sleeve (32), beyond the structural plate (16) which carries this sleeve (32).
10. Châssis selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que la structure centrale porteuse ne comporte que deux panneaux structurels transversaux d'extrémité, avant et arrière (14, 16).10. Chassis according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the central support structure comprises only two transverse end, front and rear structural panels (14, 16).
1 1. Châssis selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que la structure centrale (12) est couverte d'un élément d'habillage (48) comportant au moins une plaque centrale horizontale (50), pouvant notamment constituer un élément de plancher, et de joues latérales verticales (52) d'orientation longitudinale, dont la section transversale est en forme générale de U, ou de U renversé, et qui est fixé par collage sur des longerons appartenant à la structure centrale.1 1. Chassis according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the central structure (12) is covered with a covering element (48) comprising at least one horizontal central plate (50), which can in particular constitute a floor element, and vertical side cheeks (52) of longitudinal orientation, the cross section of which is in the general shape of a U, or of an inverted U, and which is fixed by gluing on side members belonging to the central structure.
12. Châssis selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que la structure centrale (12) délimite un caisson central dans lequel sont agencés des réservoirs (46), notamment des réservoirs (46) d'air comprimé à haute pression. 12. Chassis according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the central structure (12) delimits a central box in which tanks (46) are arranged, in particular tanks (46) of high pressure compressed air.
EP01980629A 2000-10-23 2001-10-23 Motor vehicle chassis with central bearing structure made of aluminium Withdrawn EP1412243A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR0013532 2000-10-23
FR0013532A FR2815596B1 (en) 2000-10-23 2000-10-23 MOTOR VEHICLE CHASSIS WITH ALUMINUM CARRIER CENTRAL STRUCTURE
PCT/FR2001/003280 WO2002034610A1 (en) 2000-10-23 2001-10-23 Motor vehicle chassis with central bearing structure made of aluminium

Publications (1)

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EP1412243A1 true EP1412243A1 (en) 2004-04-28

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EP01980629A Withdrawn EP1412243A1 (en) 2000-10-23 2001-10-23 Motor vehicle chassis with central bearing structure made of aluminium

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EP (1) EP1412243A1 (en)
AU (1) AU2002212429A1 (en)
FR (1) FR2815596B1 (en)
WO (1) WO2002034610A1 (en)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2844766B1 (en) * 2002-09-25 2005-06-17 Aixam Mega MOTOR VEHICLE
FR2907091A1 (en) 2006-10-16 2008-04-18 Mdi Motor Dev Internat Sa METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING A STRUCTURAL HULL OF AN ECONOMIC CAR
GB2458956A (en) * 2008-04-04 2009-10-07 Gordon Murray Design Ltd Vehicle chassis
FR3083486B1 (en) * 2018-07-09 2020-07-17 Psa Automobiles Sa DEVICE FOR FIXING A GAS TANK, SUCH AS HYDROGEN, IN A VEHICLE

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2614256B1 (en) * 1987-04-23 1991-07-12 Girodin Marius ROLLING VEHICLE STRUCTURE.
FR2712555B1 (en) * 1993-11-16 1996-01-19 Smh Management Services Ag Chassis for a motor vehicle.
US5370418A (en) * 1993-11-19 1994-12-06 Pugh; Nicholas Integrated chassis and compressed gas fuel system of an automotive vehicle
US5660428A (en) * 1995-01-11 1997-08-26 Xcorp, Inc. Recyclable, low-cost, collision-resistant automobile chassis and body
DE19708404A1 (en) * 1996-03-03 1997-10-30 Stromboli Ag Chassis for motor vehicle

Non-Patent Citations (1)

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Title
See references of WO0234610A1 *

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AU2002212429A1 (en) 2002-05-06
WO2002034610A1 (en) 2002-05-02
FR2815596B1 (en) 2003-07-25
FR2815596A1 (en) 2002-04-26

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