Subframe brace apparatus and related assemblies for use with vehicles

US11390327B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• TOYOTA MOTOR ENGINEERING & MANUFACTURING NORTH AMERICA, INC. · US

Inventors

• Kyler Tolman · Ann Arbor, US
• Alex Taylor · Chelsea, US
• Ryan M. Mahn · Lake Stevens, US
• Robert D. Smith · Cincinnati, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Apr 14, 2020
• Grant date: Jul 19, 2022
• Expiry date: Sep 17, 2040

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B62D27/06
• WIPO field: Transport
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

Subframe brace apparatus and related assemblies for use with vehicles are disclosed. A disclosed vehicle assembly includes a subframe of a vehicle, a vehicle body structure, and a brace attaching the subframe to the vehicle body structure. A body of the brace includes a first end coupled to the subframe and a second end coupled to the vehicle body structure. The first end of the body is configured to remain connected to the subframe during an offset frontal vehicle impact event in which the subframe applies a first load to the first end. The first end of the body is also configured to separate from the subframe during a full frontal vehicle impact event in which the subframe applies a second load to the first end.