System for absorbing and distributing side impact energy utilizing an integrated battery pack and side sill assembly
US8702161B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 6, 2012 |
| Grant date | Apr 22, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 6, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60K1/04
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An energy absorbing and distributing side impact system for use with a vehicle is provided, the system utilizing a collapsible side sill along with multiple vehicle cross-members to achieve the desired level of vehicle side impact resistance, the combination of these elements absorbing and distributing the impact load throughout the vehicle structure. A battery pack enclosure that includes a plurality of cross-members that transverse the battery pack enclosure also help to absorb and distribute at least a portion of the load received when either the first or second side of the vehicle receives a side impact. In this configuration the battery pack enclosure is positioned between the front and rear vehicle suspension assemblies and mounted between, and mechanically coupled to, the side sill assemblies. In addition to providing rigidity, strength and impact resistance, the battery pack cross-members segregate the batteries contained within the battery pack enclosure into battery groups.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.