EP3941804A1 - Vehicle with central tunnel reinforcement and central tunnel reinforcement - Google Patents

Vehicle with central tunnel reinforcement and central tunnel reinforcement

Info

Publication number
EP3941804A1
EP3941804A1 EP20725821.1A EP20725821A EP3941804A1 EP 3941804 A1 EP3941804 A1 EP 3941804A1 EP 20725821 A EP20725821 A EP 20725821A EP 3941804 A1 EP3941804 A1 EP 3941804A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
central tunnel
reinforcement
vehicle
cross member
central
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.)
Pending
Application number
EP20725821.1A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Romain Grosset
Arnaud CORNEFERT
Alexandre SEVRIN
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.)
Stellantis Auto SAS
Original Assignee
PSA Automobiles 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
Application filed by PSA Automobiles SA filed Critical PSA Automobiles SA
Publication of EP3941804A1 publication Critical patent/EP3941804A1/en
Pending legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62D—MOTOR VEHICLES; TRAILERS
    • B62D25/00—Superstructure or monocoque structure sub-units; Parts or details thereof not otherwise provided for
    • B62D25/20—Floors or bottom sub-units
    • 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
    • B62D29/007—Superstructures, understructures, or sub-units thereof, characterised by the material thereof predominantly of special steel or specially treated steel, e.g. stainless steel or locally surface hardened steel
    • 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
    • B60K1/00—Arrangement or mounting of electrical propulsion units
    • B60K1/04—Arrangement or mounting of electrical propulsion units of the electric storage means for propulsion
    • B60K2001/0405—Arrangement or mounting of electrical propulsion units of the electric storage means for propulsion characterised by their position
    • B60K2001/0438—Arrangement under the floor

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a vehicle structure comprising a central tunnel and a front seat cross member.
  • the invention also relates to a vehicle provided with such a structure.
  • Motor vehicles have a central tunnel for the passage of links or for the incorporation of a transmission shaft between the rear axle and the front engine.
  • the central tunnel also receives the exhaust pipe for the evacuation of exhaust gases resulting from the combustion of fuel.
  • the central tunnel is formed by stamped sheets forming the vehicle body. It extends along the longitudinal axis of the vehicle. In the central position, it separates the front seats and crosses part of the passenger compartment lengthwise. Its central location allows you to attach controls, such as a gear lever.
  • the central tunnel and the front stretchers have a shortened length compared to thermal motor vehicles. This makes it possible to place a propulsion battery under the floor, for example under the so-called row 1 front passenger seats.
  • a propulsion battery under the floor, for example under the so-called row 1 front passenger seats.
  • the shortening of the longitudinal structural members has an impact on the rigidity of the entire front structure. It was thus found that in the event of a frontal impact, under the effect of the forces at play, the central tunnel could sometimes lift in its portion inside the passenger compartment. This situation is not acceptable from the point of view of the safety of the occupants of the vehicle. A solution therefore remains to be found to remedy this problem.
  • the aim of the invention is to provide a response to at least one of the problems and drawbacks encountered in the prior art.
  • the aim of the invention is to provide a solution for improving the safety of vehicles with hybrid or electric motor vehicles in that it reduces, or even eliminates, the risks of the central tunnel lifting up in the event of a frontal impact.
  • the invention also aims to provide a solution for both improving vehicle safety while reducing the possibility of generation of vibrations.
  • the invention relates to a motor vehicle comprising a seat floor, a front seat cross member and a central tunnel, the vehicle is remarkable in that it comprises furthermore, a central tunnel reinforcement superimposed over at least part of the length of said central tunnel and showing a rear extension placed in support both on the front seat cross member and on the seat floor.
  • the invention is particularly suitable for motor vehicles with electric or hybrid engines.
  • the invention relates to an electric or hybrid motor vehicle comprising a seat floor, a front seat cross member, a central tunnel and a propulsion battery installed under said seat floor, the vehicle is remarkable in that it further comprises a central tunnel reinforcement superimposed over at least a part of the length of said central tunnel and showing a rear extension placed in support both on the seat cross member and on the floor of seated.
  • the invention consists in providing the junction zone of the central tunnel and of the front seat cross member with a reinforcement arranged for lean on a floor to keep the central tunnel in position.
  • the presence of this reinforcement makes it possible to secure the junction zone and to prevent too sudden lifting of the central tunnel zone in the event of a forward collision.
  • the central tunnel is dimensioned, in its first portion, so as not to extend beyond the cross member front seat thus forming, with the latter, a T-structure.
  • This configuration allows the installation of a sub-floor propulsion battery, the floor then being cut into several portions, the portion of the seat floor being arranged raised relative to the front floor portion receiving the central tunnel.
  • the seat floor is arranged at the same height from the ground as the upper wall of the front seat cross member.
  • the central tunnel reinforcement also acts as a speed control reinforcement making it possible to reduce, or even annihilate, the vibrations which may rise in the gear lever and / or generate unwanted noise.
  • the central tunnel reinforcement is fixed by welding on said central tunnel.
  • the reinforcement does not form a hollow body with the central tunnel. Welding is the simplest and strongest method of attachment. It is also advantageously used for fixing the reinforcement on the seat floor and on the front seat cross member.
  • the central tunnel reinforcement is fixed by its rear extension to both the seat floor and to the front seat cross member by the same fixing means.
  • the fixing means is a three-ply weld point.
  • the vehicle is remarkable in that the central tunnel reinforcement has an upper wall and side wings superimposed on the central tunnel so that the upper wall reinforcement is resting on the upper wall of the central tunnel; preferably, the lateral wings of the reinforcement are in contact with the lateral wings of the central tunnel.
  • the junction between the upper wall and the side wings of the central tunnel shows a rounding and the central tunnel reinforcement has the same rounding at its junction between its upper wall and the side wings so that that the central tunnel reinforcement is in contact with the central tunnel at the level of said roundings.
  • the central tunnel reinforcement comprises an upper wall and side wings and the rear extension is an extension of the upper wall; and / or the rear extension comprises at least one opening for the passage of a fixing screw of a speed control box.
  • the welded reinforcement piece is arranged at the node through which the forces pass in the event of a frontal impact.
  • the reinforcement piece at least partially covers the tunnel central to ensure its hold and rests on the front seat cross member and the seat floor to prevent the central tunnel from lifting in the event of a frontal impact. This holding is reinforced by fixing said reinforcement to the seat floor and / or to the front seat cross member.
  • the central tunnel showing a rear extension placed in support both on the front seat cross member and on the seat floor
  • the vehicle is remarkable in that the rear extension of the central tunnel reinforcement is superimposes at least partly on the rear extension of the central tunnel and has at least one fixing lug for its attachment both to the front seat cross member and to the seat floor.
  • said one or more fixing tabs are arranged so as not to overlap with the rear extension of the central tunnel.
  • the central tunnel and its reinforcement are fixed to the front seat cross member and to the seat floor by different means.
  • the front seat cross member comprising an upper wall and a front wall, the central tunnel comprising side wings showing a rear end, the vehicle is remarkable in that the rear end of the side wings of the tunnel center is placed against the front wall of the front seat cross member.
  • the rear end of the side wings of the central tunnel reinforcement comprises at least one fixing lug resting against the front wall of the front seat cross member. More preferably, the rear end of the side wings of the central tunnel reinforcement comprises at least one fixing lug fixed to the front wall of the front seat cross member.
  • the fact that the rear end of the central tunnel rests against the front seat cross member results from its shortened length for the installation of a sub-floor propulsion battery and the heightening of the floor seat in relation to the front floor.
  • the fixing lugs of the side wings of the reinforcement reinforce the maintenance of the central tunnel by preventing the latter from flaring out under the effect of the forces received during a frontal impact.
  • the fixing of the central tunnel reinforcement on the front wall of the front seat cross member is advantageously done by welding.
  • the central tunnel reinforcement has at least one stiffening rib.
  • the central tunnel reinforcement has at least one stiffening rib extending in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and at least one stiffening rib extending in the transverse direction of the vehicle.
  • the association of the different stiffening ribs forms a network of stiffening ribs.
  • the central tunnel reinforcement has a network of stiffening ribs comprising at least one stiffening rib extending in the longitudinal direction of said reinforcement and at least one stiffening rib extending in the transverse direction of said reinforcement.
  • the function of such a network of stiffening ribs is twofold. On the one hand, it contributes to the stiffening of the central tunnel reinforcement. On the other hand, it makes it possible to annihilate the vibrations which can go back into the gear lever.
  • the central tunnel being a stamped sheet
  • the vehicle is remarkable in that the central tunnel reinforcement is a stamped sheet of a thickness greater than that of the central tunnel.
  • the central tunnel reinforcement is a sheet with a thickness greater than or equal to 0.7 mm; more preferably, of a thickness greater than or equal to 0.8 mm; more preferably still, of a thickness greater than or equal to 0.9 mm.
  • the central tunnel reinforcement is made of two-phase type steel comprising a hard phase consisting of bainite and / or martensite dispersed in a ductile ferritic matrix.
  • a hard phase consisting of bainite and / or martensite dispersed in a ductile ferritic matrix.
  • the use of such a steel is advantageous because of the hardness it presents.
  • the invention relates to a central tunnel reinforcement remarkable in that it has an upper wall and side wings, said reinforcement being dimensioned to at least partly cover a central tunnel with a vehicle according to the first aspect so as to be in contact with said central tunnel at least through its upper wall, and in that it also has a rear extension intended to be placed in support both on the front seat cross member and on the seat floor; preferably, the central tunnel reinforcement also has at least one stiffening rib
  • Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an arrangement according to the invention comprising a central tunnel, a central tunnel reinforcement, a front seat cross member and a seat floor.
  • Figure 2 is a view similar to Figure 1 but from a different viewing angle.
  • the term “include” is synonymous with “include” and is not limiting in that it allows the presence of other elements in the vehicle. It is understood that the term “include” includes the terms “consist of”. Likewise, the terms “lower”, “upper”, “front”, “rear”, “longitudinal” and “transverse” will be understood with respect to the general orientation of the vehicle as taken in its normal sense. Steps. Thus, “lower” will denote a greater proximity to the ground than “upper” along the vertical axis. Likewise, the term “front” will indicate a positioning oriented towards the front of a vehicle in the horizontal direction and its normal direction of travel, and the term “rear” will indicate a positioning oriented towards the rear of a vehicle according to the position. same direction.
  • the invention finds particular application in motor vehicles of the hybrid or electric type.
  • the invention will therefore be described in relation to a motor vehicle of hybrid or electric type, but may be adapted by those skilled in the art to a vehicle with thermal motor.
  • the front part of the floor of a motor vehicle of the hybrid or electric type is shown in Figure 1.
  • the floor (1, 3) of this vehicle is cut into different portions arranged at different heights from the ground.
  • the central tunnel 5 is arranged at the level of the front floor portion 1.
  • the seat floor 3 is raised relative to the front floor 1.
  • This configuration makes it possible to install a propulsion battery (not shown) under the floor. seat 3 by optimizing the space available for said battery and offering it a maximum implantation volume.
  • the front seat cross member 7 is arranged between the front floor 1 and the seat floor 3 and forms a step.
  • the front seat cross member 7 is a pressed steel section having the general shape of a straight S, that is to say that it has a vertical front wall and horizontal lower and upper walls.
  • the central tunnel reinforcement 9 rests in support, and preferably is fixed, on the upper wall of the front seat cross member 7 by its rear extension 1 1 in addition to a support and d 'a possible attachment to the seat floor 3.
  • the central tunnel reinforcement 9 is also attached to the front wall of the front seat cross member 7 by vertical fixing lugs arranged at the rear end of its side walls.
  • the central tunnel 5 is dimensioned to extend in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle until it is placed opposite and, preferably, resting on the wall front of the front seat cross member 7. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the central tunnel 5, in its front portion, does not extend beyond the front seat cross member 7.
  • the vehicle further comprises a central tunnel reinforcement 9 superimposed over at least part of the length of said central tunnel 5 and showing a rear extension 1 1 placed to rest both on the seat cross member 7 and on the seat floor 3.
  • the reinforcement 9 of the central tunnel is a stamped sheet preferably made of steel.
  • the central tunnel reinforcement 9 is made of two-phase type steel comprising a hard phase consisting of bainite and / or martensite dispersed in a ductile ferritic matrix.
  • a hard phase consisting of bainite and / or martensite dispersed in a ductile ferritic matrix.
  • Such steels are commercially available, for example, under the trade name Dual-Phase.
  • the central tunnel reinforcement 9 has a thickness greater than or equal to that of the central tunnel 5.
  • the central tunnel reinforcement 9 consists of a steel sheet with a thickness greater than or equal to 0.7 mm; more preferably, of a thickness greater than or equal to 0.8 mm; more preferably still, of a thickness greater than or equal to 0.9 mm.
  • the reinforcement 9 of the central tunnel advantageously has a shape complementary to that of the central tunnel 5.
  • the central tunnel 5 shows an upper wall and side wings forming an omega or inverted U section open towards the ground.
  • the central tunnel reinforcement 9 also shows an upper wall and side wings, its rear extension 1 1 being an extension of its upper wall.
  • the central tunnel reinforcement 9 is dimensioned to at least partially cover the central tunnel 5 by being superimposed on it and being in contact with it; preferably, the contact area is as large as possible, for example, the contact area is greater than 50% of the area, more preferably greater than 70% of the area of the central tunnel reinforcement.
  • the junction between the top wall and the side wings of the central tunnel 5 shows a rounding and the central tunnel reinforcement 9 has the same rounding at its junction between its upper wall and the side wings so that the roundings are also in contact.
  • the reinforcement 9 of the central tunnel does not form a hollow body with the central tunnel 5. Their contact allows the reinforcement 9 to be attached to the central tunnel 5 by welding.
  • the reinforcement 9 of the central tunnel has a length less than or equal to the length of the central tunnel 5. For example, it has a length less than or equal to 80% of the length of the central tunnel; preferably, a length less than or equal to 50% of the length of the central tunnel 5.
  • the reinforcement 9 of the central tunnel has a height less than or equal to the height of the central tunnel 5. For example, it has a lower height or equal to 90% of the height of the central tunnel, so as not to extend to the front floor 1.
  • the rear extension 11 of the reinforcement 9 of the central tunnel is substantially flat and resting both on the top of the front seat cross member 7 and on the seat floor 3.
  • the rear extension 1 1 has no side wings. It advantageously covers a rear extension (not shown) of the central tunnel 5 placed to bear both on the front seat cross member 7 and on the seat floor 3.
  • the rear extension 1 1 of the reinforcement 9 of central tunnel has at least one fixing lug 13 for its fixing both to the front seat cross member 7 and to the seat floor 3. Said or said fixing lugs 13 are arranged so as not to overlap with the extension rear 11 of the central tunnel 5.
  • the reinforcement 9 of the central tunnel is fixed by the fixing lugs 13 of its rear extension 1 1 both to the seat floor 3 and to the front seat cross member 7 by the same fixing means.
  • the fixing means is a three-ply weld point.
  • the rear end of the central tunnel 5 is placed opposite, or even in abutment, the front wall of the front seat cross member 7.
  • the rear end side wings of the central tunnel reinforcement 9 will also rest against the front wall of the front seat cross member 7.
  • the rear end of the side wings of the reinforcement 9 comprises at least one fixing lug 21 (visible in Figure 2) arranged vertically and resting against the front wall of the front seat cross member 7.
  • the fixing of the central tunnel reinforcement on the front wall of the front seat cross member 7 is advantageously done by welding .
  • the reinforcement 9 of the central tunnel has at least one stiffening rib 15.
  • the central tunnel reinforcement 9 has at least one stiffening rib 15 extending in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and at least one stiffening rib 15 extending in the transverse direction of the vehicle, so as to form a grid. on said reinforcement.
  • Said stiffening ribs 15 extend both on the upper wall of the reinforcement and on its side wings.
  • the rear extension 11 also has ribs 15 for stiffening.
  • the rear end of the rear extension 1 1 of the reinforcement 9 of the central tunnel is positioned opposite a seat reinforcement 17, that is to say say of the transverse reinforcing piece 17 on which the passenger and driver seats are fixed, and possibly on which the devices of seatbelt.
  • the central tunnel reinforcement 9 and the seat reinforcement 17 are not in contact.
  • the reinforcement 9 of the central tunnel also has a speed control reinforcement function.
  • At least one opening for the passage of a fixing screw 19 of the speed control unit will include at least one opening for the passage of a fixing screw 19 of the speed control unit.
  • at least one fastening screw 19 of the speed control unit passes through an opening present on the rear extension of the reinforcement 9 of the central tunnel j

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

Abstract

The invention concerns a motor vehicle comprising a seat floor (3), a front seat crossmember (7) and a central tunnel (5). The vehicle is characterised in that it further comprises a central tunnel reinforcement (9) placed over at least a part of the length of the central tunnel (5) and exhibiting a rear extension (11) placed in abutment both on the front seat crossmember (7) and on the seat floor (3). The invention also relates to such a central tunnel reinforcement (9).

Description

Description Description
Titre de l'invention : VEHICULE AVEC RENFORT DE TUNNEL CENTRAL ET RENFORT Title of the invention: VEHICLE WITH CENTRAL TUNNEL REINFORCEMENT AND REINFORCEMENT
DE TUNNEL CENTRAL FROM CENTRAL TUNNEL
[0001 ] La présente invention revendique la priorité de la demande française 1903001 The present invention claims the priority of the French application 1903001
déposée le 22 Mars 2019 dont le contenu (texte, dessins et revendications) est ici incorporé par référence. filed on March 22, 2019, the content of which (text, drawings and claims) is incorporated here by reference.
[0002] L’invention concerne une structure de véhicule comprenant un tunnel central et une traverse d’assise avant. L’invention concerne également un véhicule doté d’une telle structure. [0002] The invention relates to a vehicle structure comprising a central tunnel and a front seat cross member. The invention also relates to a vehicle provided with such a structure.
[0003] Les véhicules automobiles présentent un tunnel central pour le passage de liaisons ou pour l’incorporation d’un arbre de transmission entre le train arrière et le moteur avant. Pour les véhicules à motorisation de type thermique, le tunnel central reçoit en outre le tuyau d’échappement pour l’évacuation des gaz d’échappement résultant de la combustion du carburant. Le tunnel central est formé par des tôles embouties formant la caisse du véhicule. Il s’étend selon l’axe longitudinal du véhicule. En position centrale, il sépare les sièges avant et croise longitudinalement une partie de l’habitacle. Son emplacement médian permet d’y fixer des commandes, tels qu’un levier de vitesses. [0003] Motor vehicles have a central tunnel for the passage of links or for the incorporation of a transmission shaft between the rear axle and the front engine. For thermal-powered vehicles, the central tunnel also receives the exhaust pipe for the evacuation of exhaust gases resulting from the combustion of fuel. The central tunnel is formed by stamped sheets forming the vehicle body. It extends along the longitudinal axis of the vehicle. In the central position, it separates the front seats and crosses part of the passenger compartment lengthwise. Its central location allows you to attach controls, such as a gear lever.
[0004] Dans les véhicules à motorisation de type électrique ou hybride, le tunnel central et les brancards avant présentent une longueur raccourcie par rapport aux véhicules à motorisation thermique. Ceci permet de placer une batterie de propulsion sous-plancher, par exemple sous les sièges passagers avant, dits de rang 1. Malheureusement, le raccourcissement des éléments de structure longitudinaux a un impact sur la rigidité de l’ensemble de la structure avant. Il a ainsi été constaté qu’en cas de choc frontal, sous l’effet des forces en jeu, le tunnel central pouvait parfois se soulever dans sa portion interne à l’habitacle. Cette situation n’est pas acceptable du point de vue de la sécurité des occupants du véhicule. Une solution reste donc à trouver pour remédier à ce problème. [0004] In electric or hybrid type motor vehicles, the central tunnel and the front stretchers have a shortened length compared to thermal motor vehicles. This makes it possible to place a propulsion battery under the floor, for example under the so-called row 1 front passenger seats. Unfortunately, the shortening of the longitudinal structural members has an impact on the rigidity of the entire front structure. It was thus found that in the event of a frontal impact, under the effect of the forces at play, the central tunnel could sometimes lift in its portion inside the passenger compartment. This situation is not acceptable from the point of view of the safety of the occupants of the vehicle. A solution therefore remains to be found to remedy this problem.
[0005] Il est connu de renforcer les tunnels centraux de véhicules. Un exemple de réalisation d’un tel renfort de tunnel central est donné par le document JP2002154459. Ce document décrit un renfort de tunnel central d’un véhicule à motorisation thermique venant se superposer à ce dernier de sorte à former avec lui un corps creux. Dans l’architecture proposée, le renfort va enjamber la traverse d’assise avant et se superposer aux éléments d’ancrage de la ceinture de sécurité. Des ouvertures sont prévues pour pouvoir souder entre eux les éléments de structure du véhicule disposés sous ledit renfort. La solution proposée est intéressante mais n’est pas adaptée aux véhicules à motorisation de type hybride ou électrique. Par ailleurs, elle implique que la traverse d’assise enjambe le tunnel central, ce qui n’est pas forcément le cas même dans les véhicules à motorisation thermique puisqu’il est également connu de scinder la traverse d’assise avant en deux parties s’étendant de part et d’autre du tunnel central. [0005] It is known to strengthen central vehicle tunnels. An exemplary embodiment of such a central tunnel reinforcement is given by document JP2002154459. This document describes a central tunnel reinforcement of a thermal motor vehicle superimposed on the latter so as to form with it a hollow body. In the proposed architecture, the reinforcement will span the front seat cross member and be superimposed on the seat belt anchor elements. Openings are provided in order to be able to weld together the structural elements of the vehicle arranged under said reinforcement. The proposed solution is interesting but is not suitable for vehicles with hybrid or electric motorization. In addition, it implies that the seat crosspiece spans the tunnel central, which is not necessarily the case even in vehicles with combustion engine since it is also known to split the front seat cross member into two parts extending on either side of the central tunnel.
[0006] Enfin, elle ne répond pas de manière satisfaisante aux problématiques d’acoustique et de qualité perçue rencontrées sur certains véhicules dans lesquels une vibration du boîtier de commande de vitesses fixé au tunnel central peut générer des nuisances sonores et/ou est défavorable à la qualité perçue par l’utilisateur du véhicule. [0006] Finally, it does not respond satisfactorily to the problems of acoustics and perceived quality encountered on certain vehicles in which a vibration of the gear control unit attached to the central tunnel can generate noise pollution and / or is unfavorable to the quality perceived by the user of the vehicle.
[0007] L’invention a pour objectif d’apporter une réponse à au moins un des problèmes et inconvénients rencontrés dans l’art antérieur. En particulier, l’invention a pour objectif de proposer une solution pour améliorer la sécurité des véhicules à motorisation de type hybride ou électrique en ce qu’elle réduit, voire élimine, les risques de soulèvement du tunnel central en cas de choc frontal. L’invention a également pour objectif de proposer une solution pour à la fois améliorer la sécurité des véhicules tout en diminuant la possibilité de génération de vibrations. [0007] The aim of the invention is to provide a response to at least one of the problems and drawbacks encountered in the prior art. In particular, the aim of the invention is to provide a solution for improving the safety of vehicles with hybrid or electric motor vehicles in that it reduces, or even eliminates, the risks of the central tunnel lifting up in the event of a frontal impact. The invention also aims to provide a solution for both improving vehicle safety while reducing the possibility of generation of vibrations.
[0008] A cet effet, et selon un premier aspect, l’invention a pour objet un véhicule automobile comprenant un plancher d’assise, une traverse d’assise avant et un tunnel central, le véhicule est remarquable en ce qu’il comprend en outre un renfort de tunnel central se superposant sur au moins une partie de la longueur dudit tunnel central et montrant une extension arrière placée en appui à la fois sur la traverse d’assise avant et sur le plancher d’assise. [0008] To this end, and according to a first aspect, the invention relates to a motor vehicle comprising a seat floor, a front seat cross member and a central tunnel, the vehicle is remarkable in that it comprises furthermore, a central tunnel reinforcement superimposed over at least part of the length of said central tunnel and showing a rear extension placed in support both on the front seat cross member and on the seat floor.
[0009] L’invention est particulièrement adaptée aux véhicules automobiles à motorisation électrique ou hybride. Aussi, préférentiellement, l’invention a pour objet un véhicule à motorisation électrique ou hybride comprenant un plancher d’assise, une traverse d’assise avant, un tunnel central et une batterie de propulsion implantée sous ledit plancher d’assise, le véhicule est remarquable en ce qu’il comprend en outre un renfort de tunnel central se superposant sur au moins une partie de la longueur dudit tunnel central et montrant une extension arrière placée en appui à la fois sur la traverse d’assise et sur le plancher d’assise. [0009] The invention is particularly suitable for motor vehicles with electric or hybrid engines. Also, preferably, the invention relates to an electric or hybrid motor vehicle comprising a seat floor, a front seat cross member, a central tunnel and a propulsion battery installed under said seat floor, the vehicle is remarkable in that it further comprises a central tunnel reinforcement superimposed over at least a part of the length of said central tunnel and showing a rear extension placed in support both on the seat cross member and on the floor of seated.
[0010] Comme on l’aura compris à la lecture de la définition qui vient d’en être donnée, l’invention consiste à doter la zone de jonction du tunnel central et de la traverse d’assise avant d’un renfort agencé pour prendre appui sur un plancher pour maintenir le tunnel central en position. La présence de ce renfort permet de solidariser la zone de jonction et d’éviter une levée trop brutale de la zone du tunnel central en cas de collision avant. Lorsque le véhicule montre une motorisation électrique ou hybride, le tunnel central est dimensionné, dans sa première portion, pour ne pas s’étendre au-delà de la traverse d’assise avant formant donc, avec cette dernière, une structure en T. Cette configuration permet l’implantation d’une batterie de propulsion sous-plancher, le plancher étant alors découpé en plusieurs portions, la portion de plancher d’assise étant disposée surélevée par rapport à la portion de plancher avant recevant le tunnel central. Le plancher d’assise est disposé à la même hauteur par rapport au sol que la paroi supérieure de la traverse d’assise avant. As will be understood from reading the definition which has just been given, the invention consists in providing the junction zone of the central tunnel and of the front seat cross member with a reinforcement arranged for lean on a floor to keep the central tunnel in position. The presence of this reinforcement makes it possible to secure the junction zone and to prevent too sudden lifting of the central tunnel zone in the event of a forward collision. When the vehicle shows an electric or hybrid drive, the central tunnel is dimensioned, in its first portion, so as not to extend beyond the cross member front seat thus forming, with the latter, a T-structure. This configuration allows the installation of a sub-floor propulsion battery, the floor then being cut into several portions, the portion of the seat floor being arranged raised relative to the front floor portion receiving the central tunnel. The seat floor is arranged at the same height from the ground as the upper wall of the front seat cross member.
[001 1 ] De par sa position, le renfort de tunnel central fait aussi office de renfort de commande de vitesse permettant de réduire, voire d’annihiler, les vibrations pouvant remonter dans le levier de vitesse et/ou générer des bruits indésirables. [001 1] By virtue of its position, the central tunnel reinforcement also acts as a speed control reinforcement making it possible to reduce, or even annihilate, the vibrations which may rise in the gear lever and / or generate unwanted noise.
[0012] Selon un mode de réalisation préféré, le renfort de tunnel central est fixé par soudage sur ledit tunnel central. Le renfort ne forme pas de corps creux avec le tunnel central. Le soudage est le mode de fixation le plus simple et le plus solide. Il est avantageusement utilisé également pour la fixation du renfort sur le plancher d’assise et sur la traverse d’assise avant. [0012] According to a preferred embodiment, the central tunnel reinforcement is fixed by welding on said central tunnel. The reinforcement does not form a hollow body with the central tunnel. Welding is the simplest and strongest method of attachment. It is also advantageously used for fixing the reinforcement on the seat floor and on the front seat cross member.
[0013] Avantageusement, le renfort de tunnel central est fixé par son extension arrière à la fois au plancher d’assise et à la traverse d’assise avant par un même moyen de fixation. De préférence, le moyen de fixation est un point de soudure en trois épaisseurs. [0013] Advantageously, the central tunnel reinforcement is fixed by its rear extension to both the seat floor and to the front seat cross member by the same fixing means. Preferably, the fixing means is a three-ply weld point.
[0014] Idéalement, le tunnel central montrant une paroi supérieure et des ailes latérales, le véhicule est remarquable en ce que le renfort de tunnel central présente une paroi supérieure et des ailes latérales se superposant au tunnel central de manière à ce que la paroi supérieure du renfort soit en appui sur la paroi supérieure du tunnel central ; de préférence, les ailes latérales du renfort sont en contact avec les ailes latérales du tunnel central. Ideally, the central tunnel showing an upper wall and side wings, the vehicle is remarkable in that the central tunnel reinforcement has an upper wall and side wings superimposed on the central tunnel so that the upper wall reinforcement is resting on the upper wall of the central tunnel; preferably, the lateral wings of the reinforcement are in contact with the lateral wings of the central tunnel.
[0015] De préférence encore, la jonction entre la paroi supérieure et les ailes latérales du tunnel central montre un arrondi et le renfort de tunnel central présente un même arrondi au niveau de sa jonction entre sa paroi supérieure et les ailes latérales de manière à ce que le renfort de tunnel central soit en contact avec le tunnel central au niveau desdits arrondis. [0015] Also preferably, the junction between the upper wall and the side wings of the central tunnel shows a rounding and the central tunnel reinforcement has the same rounding at its junction between its upper wall and the side wings so that that the central tunnel reinforcement is in contact with the central tunnel at the level of said roundings.
[0016] Avantageusement, le renfort de tunnel central comprend une paroi supérieure et des ailes latérales et l’extension arrière est un prolongement de la paroi supérieure ; et/ou l’extension arrière comprend au moins un ajour pour le passage d’une vis de fixation d’un boîtier de commande de vitesse. [0016] Advantageously, the central tunnel reinforcement comprises an upper wall and side wings and the rear extension is an extension of the upper wall; and / or the rear extension comprises at least one opening for the passage of a fixing screw of a speed control box.
[0017] La pièce de renfort soudée est disposée au niveau du nœud par lequel transitent les efforts en cas de choc frontal. La pièce de renfort recouvre au moins partiellement le tunnel central pour assurer sa tenue et se pose en appui sur la traverse d’assise avant et le plancher d’assise pour prévenir la levée du tunnel central en cas de choc frontal. Cette tenue est renforcée par la fixation dudit renfort au plancher d’assise et/ou à la traverse d’assise avant. The welded reinforcement piece is arranged at the node through which the forces pass in the event of a frontal impact. The reinforcement piece at least partially covers the tunnel central to ensure its hold and rests on the front seat cross member and the seat floor to prevent the central tunnel from lifting in the event of a frontal impact. This holding is reinforced by fixing said reinforcement to the seat floor and / or to the front seat cross member.
[0018] Avantageusement, le tunnel central montrant une extension arrière placée en appui à la fois sur la traverse d’assise avant et sur le plancher d’assise, le véhicule est remarquable en ce que l’extension arrière du renfort de tunnel central se superpose au moins en partie à l’extension arrière du tunnel central et présente au moins une patte de fixation pour sa fixation à la fois à la traverse d’assise avant et sur le plancher d’assise. De préférence, ladite ou lesdites pattes de fixation sont agencées pour ne pas se superposer à l’extension arrière du tunnel central. Selon l’invention, le tunnel central et son renfort sont fixés à la traverse d’assise avant et au plancher d’assise par des moyens différents. Advantageously, the central tunnel showing a rear extension placed in support both on the front seat cross member and on the seat floor, the vehicle is remarkable in that the rear extension of the central tunnel reinforcement is superimposes at least partly on the rear extension of the central tunnel and has at least one fixing lug for its attachment both to the front seat cross member and to the seat floor. Preferably, said one or more fixing tabs are arranged so as not to overlap with the rear extension of the central tunnel. According to the invention, the central tunnel and its reinforcement are fixed to the front seat cross member and to the seat floor by different means.
[0019] De manière préférentielle, la traverse d’assise avant comprenant une paroi supérieure et une paroi avant, le tunnel central comprenant des ailes latérales montrant une extrémité arrière, le véhicule est remarquable en ce que l’extrémité arrière des ailes latérales du tunnel central se place en appui contre la paroi avant de la traverse d’assise avant. De préférence, l’extrémité arrière des ailes latérales du renfort de tunnel central comprend au moins une patte de fixation se plaçant en appui contre la paroi avant de la traverse d’assise avant. Plus préférentiellement, l’extrémité arrière des ailes latérales du renfort de tunnel central comprend au moins une patte de fixation fixée à la paroi avant de la traverse d’assise avant. Preferably, the front seat cross member comprising an upper wall and a front wall, the central tunnel comprising side wings showing a rear end, the vehicle is remarkable in that the rear end of the side wings of the tunnel center is placed against the front wall of the front seat cross member. Preferably, the rear end of the side wings of the central tunnel reinforcement comprises at least one fixing lug resting against the front wall of the front seat cross member. More preferably, the rear end of the side wings of the central tunnel reinforcement comprises at least one fixing lug fixed to the front wall of the front seat cross member.
[0020] Le fait que l’extrémité arrière du tunnel central se place en appui contre la traverse d’assise avant résulte de sa longueur raccourcie en vue de l’installation d’une batterie de propulsion sous-plancher et de la surélévation du plancher d’assise par rapport au plancher avant. Les pattes de fixation des ailes latérales du renfort viennent renforcer le maintien du tunnel central en évitant à ce dernier de s’évaser sous l’effet des efforts reçus lors d’un choc frontal. La fixation du renfort de tunnel central sur la paroi avant de la traverse d’assise avant se fait avantageusement par soudage. The fact that the rear end of the central tunnel rests against the front seat cross member results from its shortened length for the installation of a sub-floor propulsion battery and the heightening of the floor seat in relation to the front floor. The fixing lugs of the side wings of the reinforcement reinforce the maintenance of the central tunnel by preventing the latter from flaring out under the effect of the forces received during a frontal impact. The fixing of the central tunnel reinforcement on the front wall of the front seat cross member is advantageously done by welding.
[0021] Selon une mise en oeuvre préférée de l’invention, le renfort de tunnel central présente au moins une nervure de rigidification. De préférence, le renfort de tunnel central présente au moins une nervure de rigidification s’étendant selon la direction longitudinale du véhicule et au moins une nervure de rigidification s’étendant selon la direction transversale du véhicule. L’association des différentes nervures de rigidification forme un réseau de nervures de rigidification. Ainsi, avantageusement, le renfort de tunnel central présente un réseau de nervures de rigidification comprenant au moins une nervure de rigidification s’étendant selon la direction longitudinale dudit renfort et au moins une nervure de rigidification s’étendant selon la direction transversale dudit renfort. La fonction d’un tel réseau de nervures de rigidification est double. D’une part, il contribue à la rigidification du renfort de tunnel central. D’autre part, il permet d’annihiler les vibrations pouvant remontrer dans le levier de vitesse. [0021] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the central tunnel reinforcement has at least one stiffening rib. Preferably, the central tunnel reinforcement has at least one stiffening rib extending in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and at least one stiffening rib extending in the transverse direction of the vehicle. The association of the different stiffening ribs forms a network of stiffening ribs. Thus, advantageously, the central tunnel reinforcement has a network of stiffening ribs comprising at least one stiffening rib extending in the longitudinal direction of said reinforcement and at least one stiffening rib extending in the transverse direction of said reinforcement. The function of such a network of stiffening ribs is twofold. On the one hand, it contributes to the stiffening of the central tunnel reinforcement. On the other hand, it makes it possible to annihilate the vibrations which can go back into the gear lever.
[0022] Selon un mode de réalisation préféré, le tunnel central étant une tôle emboutie, le véhicule est remarquable en ce que le renfort de tunnel central est une tôle emboutie d’une épaisseur supérieure à celle du tunnel central. De préférence, le renfort de tunnel central est une tôle d’une épaisseur supérieure ou égale à 0.7 mm ; plus préférentiellement, d’une épaisseur supérieure ou égale 0.8 mm ; plus préférentiellement encore, d’une épaisseur supérieure ou égale 0.9 mm. [0022] According to a preferred embodiment, the central tunnel being a stamped sheet, the vehicle is remarkable in that the central tunnel reinforcement is a stamped sheet of a thickness greater than that of the central tunnel. Preferably, the central tunnel reinforcement is a sheet with a thickness greater than or equal to 0.7 mm; more preferably, of a thickness greater than or equal to 0.8 mm; more preferably still, of a thickness greater than or equal to 0.9 mm.
[0023] De manière préférentielle, le renfort de tunnel central est réalisé en acier de type biphasique comprenant une phase dure constituée de bainite et/ou de martensite dispersée dans une matrice ferritique ductile. L’emploi d’un tel acier est avantageux par la dureté qu’il présente. Preferably, the central tunnel reinforcement is made of two-phase type steel comprising a hard phase consisting of bainite and / or martensite dispersed in a ductile ferritic matrix. The use of such a steel is advantageous because of the hardness it presents.
[0024] Selon un deuxième aspect, l’invention a pour objet un renfort de tunnel central remarquable en ce qu’il présente une paroi supérieure et des ailes latérales, ledit renfort étant dimensionné pour recouvrir au moins en partie un tunnel central d’un véhicule selon le premier aspect de manière à être en contact avec ledit tunnel central au moins par sa paroi supérieure, et en ce qu’il présente en outre une extension arrière destinée à se placer en appui à la fois sur la traverse d’assise avant et sur le plancher d’assise ; de préférence, le renfort de tunnel central présente en outre au moins une nervure de rigidification According to a second aspect, the invention relates to a central tunnel reinforcement remarkable in that it has an upper wall and side wings, said reinforcement being dimensioned to at least partly cover a central tunnel with a vehicle according to the first aspect so as to be in contact with said central tunnel at least through its upper wall, and in that it also has a rear extension intended to be placed in support both on the front seat cross member and on the seat floor; preferably, the central tunnel reinforcement also has at least one stiffening rib
[0025] L’invention sera bien comprise et d’autres aspects et avantages apparaîtront clairement à la lecture de la description qui suit, donnée à titre d’exemple en référence à aux figures annexées sur lesquelles : [0025] The invention will be well understood and other aspects and advantages will become clear on reading the following description, given by way of example with reference to the appended figures in which:
[0026] [Fig.1 ] La figure 1 présente une vue en perspective d’un agencement selon l’invention comprenant un tunnel central un renfort de tunnel central, une traverse d’assise avant et un plancher d’assise. [0026] [Fig.1] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an arrangement according to the invention comprising a central tunnel, a central tunnel reinforcement, a front seat cross member and a seat floor.
[0027] [Fig. 2] La figure 2 est une vue similaire à la figure 1 mais sous un autre angle de vue. [0027] [Fig. 2] Figure 2 is a view similar to Figure 1 but from a different viewing angle.
[0028] Dans la description qui suit, le terme « comprendre » est synonyme de « inclure » et n’est pas limitatif en ce qu’il autorise la présence d’autres éléments dans le véhicule. Il est entendu que le terme « comprendre » inclut les termes « consister en ». [0029] De même, les termes « inférieur », « supérieur », « avant », « arrière », « longitudinal » et « transversal » s’entendront par rapport à l’orientation générale du véhicule tel que pris dans son sens normal de marche. Ainsi, « inférieur » désignera une proximité au sol plus importante que « supérieur » selon l’axe vertical. De même, le terme « avant » indiquera un positionnement orienté vers le devant d’un véhicule selon la direction horizontale et son sens normal de marche, et le terme « arrière » indiquera un positionnement orienté vers l’arrière d’un véhicule selon la même direction. In the following description, the term "include" is synonymous with "include" and is not limiting in that it allows the presence of other elements in the vehicle. It is understood that the term "include" includes the terms "consist of". Likewise, the terms "lower", "upper", "front", "rear", "longitudinal" and "transverse" will be understood with respect to the general orientation of the vehicle as taken in its normal sense. Steps. Thus, “lower” will denote a greater proximity to the ground than “upper” along the vertical axis. Likewise, the term "front" will indicate a positioning oriented towards the front of a vehicle in the horizontal direction and its normal direction of travel, and the term "rear" will indicate a positioning oriented towards the rear of a vehicle according to the position. same direction.
[0030] L’invention trouve une application particulière dans les véhicules automobiles à motorisation de type hybride ou électrique. L’invention sera donc décrite en relation avec un véhicule automobile à motorisation de type hybride ou électrique mais pourra être adaptée par l’homme du métier à un véhicule à motorisation thermique. [0030] The invention finds particular application in motor vehicles of the hybrid or electric type. The invention will therefore be described in relation to a motor vehicle of hybrid or electric type, but may be adapted by those skilled in the art to a vehicle with thermal motor.
[0031] La partie avant du plancher d’un véhicule automobile à motorisation de type hybride ou électrique est représentée en figure 1. Comme on peut le voir, le plancher (1 , 3) de ce véhicule est découpé en différentes portions agencées à des hauteurs différentes par rapport au sol. Le tunnel central 5 est agencé au niveau de la portion de plancher avant 1. Le plancher d’assise 3 est surélevé par rapport au plancher avant 1. Cette configuration permet d’implanter une batterie de propulsion (non représentée) sous le plancher d’assise 3 en optimisant l’espace disponible pour ladite batterie et en lui offrant un volume d’implantation maximal. La traverse d’assise avant 7 est agencée entre le plancher avant 1 et le plancher d’assise 3 et forme une marche. De manière avantageuse, la traverse d’assise avant 7 est un profilé en acier embouti ayant une forme générale de S droit, c’est- à-dire qu’il présente une paroi avant verticale et des parois inférieure et supérieure horizontales. Comme il sera décrit par la suite, le renfort 9 de tunnel central se pose en appui, et préférentiellement se fixe, sur la paroi supérieure de la traverse d’assise avant 7 par son extension arrière 1 1 en plus d’un appui et d’une éventuelle fixation au plancher d’assise 3. De manière complémentaire, le renfort 9 de tunnel central se fixe en outre sur la paroi avant de la traverse d’assise avant 7 par des pattes de fixation verticales agencées à l’extrémité arrière de ses parois latérales. The front part of the floor of a motor vehicle of the hybrid or electric type is shown in Figure 1. As can be seen, the floor (1, 3) of this vehicle is cut into different portions arranged at different heights from the ground. The central tunnel 5 is arranged at the level of the front floor portion 1. The seat floor 3 is raised relative to the front floor 1. This configuration makes it possible to install a propulsion battery (not shown) under the floor. seat 3 by optimizing the space available for said battery and offering it a maximum implantation volume. The front seat cross member 7 is arranged between the front floor 1 and the seat floor 3 and forms a step. Advantageously, the front seat cross member 7 is a pressed steel section having the general shape of a straight S, that is to say that it has a vertical front wall and horizontal lower and upper walls. As will be described later, the central tunnel reinforcement 9 rests in support, and preferably is fixed, on the upper wall of the front seat cross member 7 by its rear extension 1 1 in addition to a support and d 'a possible attachment to the seat floor 3. In a complementary manner, the central tunnel reinforcement 9 is also attached to the front wall of the front seat cross member 7 by vertical fixing lugs arranged at the rear end of its side walls.
[0032] Afin de permettre l’implantation d’une batterie sous-plancher, le tunnel central 5 est dimensionné pour s’étendre selon la direction longitudinale du véhicule jusqu’à se placer en regard et, de préférence, en appui sur la paroi avant de la traverse d’assise avant 7. Selon un mode de réalisation préféré de l’invention, le tunnel central 5, dans sa portion avant, ne s’étend pas au-delà de la traverse d’assise avant 7. In order to allow the installation of a sub-floor battery, the central tunnel 5 is dimensioned to extend in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle until it is placed opposite and, preferably, resting on the wall front of the front seat cross member 7. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the central tunnel 5, in its front portion, does not extend beyond the front seat cross member 7.
[0033] Selon l’invention, le véhicule comprend en outre un renfort 9 de tunnel central se superposant sur au moins une partie de la longueur dudit tunnel central 5 et montrant une extension arrière 1 1 placée en appui à la fois sur la traverse d’assise 7 et sur le plancher d’assise 3. According to the invention, the vehicle further comprises a central tunnel reinforcement 9 superimposed over at least part of the length of said central tunnel 5 and showing a rear extension 1 1 placed to rest both on the seat cross member 7 and on the seat floor 3.
[0034] Le renfort 9 de tunnel central est une tôle emboutie préférentiellement réalisée en acier. The reinforcement 9 of the central tunnel is a stamped sheet preferably made of steel.
Le renfort 9 de tunnel central est réalisé en acier de type biphasique comprenant une phase dure constituée de bainite et/ou de martensite dispersée dans une matrice ferritique ductile. L’emploi d’un tel acier est avantageux par la dureté qu’il présente mais également pour ses bonnes performances lors des opérations d’emboutissage. De tels aciers sont disponibles commercialement, par exemple, sous la dénomination commerciale Dual- Phase. The central tunnel reinforcement 9 is made of two-phase type steel comprising a hard phase consisting of bainite and / or martensite dispersed in a ductile ferritic matrix. The use of such a steel is advantageous by virtue of the hardness it presents but also for its good performance during stamping operations. Such steels are commercially available, for example, under the trade name Dual-Phase.
[0035] Avantageusement, le renfort 9 de tunnel central présente une épaisseur supérieure ou égale à celle du tunnel central 5. Par exemple, le renfort 9 de tunnel central est constitué d’une tôle en acier d’une épaisseur supérieure ou égale à 0.7 mm ; plus préférentiellement, d’une épaisseur supérieure ou égale 0.8 mm ; plus préférentiellement encore, d’une épaisseur supérieure ou égale 0.9 mm. Advantageously, the central tunnel reinforcement 9 has a thickness greater than or equal to that of the central tunnel 5. For example, the central tunnel reinforcement 9 consists of a steel sheet with a thickness greater than or equal to 0.7 mm; more preferably, of a thickness greater than or equal to 0.8 mm; more preferably still, of a thickness greater than or equal to 0.9 mm.
[0036] Le renfort 9 de tunnel central présente avantageusement une forme complémentaire à celle du tunnel central 5. Le tunnel central 5 montre une paroi supérieure et des ailes latérales formant une section en oméga ou en U inversé ouverte en direction du sol. Le renfort 9 de tunnel central montre également une paroi supérieure et des ailes latérales, son extension arrière 1 1 étant un prolongement de sa paroi supérieure. Le renfort 9 de tunnel central est dimensionné pour recouvrir au moins partiellement le tunnel central 5 en se superposant à lui et en étant en contact avec lui ; de préférence, la surface de contact est aussi importante que possible, par exemple, la surface de contact est supérieure à 50 % de la surface, plus préférentiellement supérieure à 70% de la surface du renfort de tunnel central. Idéalement, la jonction entre la paroi supérieure et les ailes latérales du tunnel central 5 montre un arrondi et le renfort 9 de tunnel central présente un même arrondi au niveau de sa jonction entre sa paroi supérieure et les ailes latérales de manière à ce que les arrondis soient en contact également. De manière avantageuse, le renfort 9 de tunnel central ne forme pas de corps creux avec le tunnel central 5. Leur mise en contact permet une fixation du renfort 9 sur le tunnel central 5 par soudage. The reinforcement 9 of the central tunnel advantageously has a shape complementary to that of the central tunnel 5. The central tunnel 5 shows an upper wall and side wings forming an omega or inverted U section open towards the ground. The central tunnel reinforcement 9 also shows an upper wall and side wings, its rear extension 1 1 being an extension of its upper wall. The central tunnel reinforcement 9 is dimensioned to at least partially cover the central tunnel 5 by being superimposed on it and being in contact with it; preferably, the contact area is as large as possible, for example, the contact area is greater than 50% of the area, more preferably greater than 70% of the area of the central tunnel reinforcement. Ideally, the junction between the top wall and the side wings of the central tunnel 5 shows a rounding and the central tunnel reinforcement 9 has the same rounding at its junction between its upper wall and the side wings so that the roundings are also in contact. Advantageously, the reinforcement 9 of the central tunnel does not form a hollow body with the central tunnel 5. Their contact allows the reinforcement 9 to be attached to the central tunnel 5 by welding.
[0037] Le renfort 9 de tunnel central présente une longueur inférieure ou égale à la longueur du tunnel central 5. Par exemple, il présente une longueur inférieure ou égale à 80 % de la longueur du tunnel central ; de préférence, une longueur inférieure ou égale à 50 % de la longueur du tunnel central 5. De même, le renfort 9 de tunnel central présente une hauteur inférieure ou égale à la hauteur du tunnel central 5. Par exemple, il présente une hauteur inférieure ou égale à 90 % de la hauteur du tunnel central, de sorte à ne pas s’étendre jusqu’au plancher avant 1. Ces dimensions réduites du renfort 9 de tunnel central permettent une limitation de la masse globale du véhicule tout en permettant audit renfort 9 de remplir sa fonction. The reinforcement 9 of the central tunnel has a length less than or equal to the length of the central tunnel 5. For example, it has a length less than or equal to 80% of the length of the central tunnel; preferably, a length less than or equal to 50% of the length of the central tunnel 5. Likewise, the reinforcement 9 of the central tunnel has a height less than or equal to the height of the central tunnel 5. For example, it has a lower height or equal to 90% of the height of the central tunnel, so as not to extend to the front floor 1. These reduced dimensions of the reinforcement 9 of the central tunnel allow a limitation of the overall mass of the vehicle while allowing said reinforcement 9 to fulfill its function.
[0038] L’extension arrière 11 du renfort 9 de tunnel central est sensiblement plane et posée en appui à la fois sur le sommet de la traverse d’assise avant 7 et sur le plancher d’assise 3. L’extension arrière 1 1 est dépourvue d’ailes latérales. Elle recouvre avantageusement une extension arrière (non représentée) du tunnel central 5 placée en appui à la fois sur la traverse d’assise avant 7 et sur le plancher d’assise 3. De préférence, l’extension arrière 1 1 du renfort 9 de tunnel central présente au moins une patte de fixation 13 pour sa fixation à la fois à la traverse d’assise avant 7 et au plancher d’assise 3. Ladite ou lesdites pattes de fixation 13 sont agencées pour ne pas se superposer à l’extension arrière 11 du tunnel central 5. Ainsi, le renfort 9 de tunnel central est fixé par les pattes de fixation 13 de son extension arrière 1 1 à la fois au plancher d’assise 3 et à la traverse d’assise avant 7 par un même moyen de fixation. De préférence, le moyen de fixation est un point de soudure en trois épaisseurs. The rear extension 11 of the reinforcement 9 of the central tunnel is substantially flat and resting both on the top of the front seat cross member 7 and on the seat floor 3. The rear extension 1 1 has no side wings. It advantageously covers a rear extension (not shown) of the central tunnel 5 placed to bear both on the front seat cross member 7 and on the seat floor 3. Preferably, the rear extension 1 1 of the reinforcement 9 of central tunnel has at least one fixing lug 13 for its fixing both to the front seat cross member 7 and to the seat floor 3. Said or said fixing lugs 13 are arranged so as not to overlap with the extension rear 11 of the central tunnel 5. Thus, the reinforcement 9 of the central tunnel is fixed by the fixing lugs 13 of its rear extension 1 1 both to the seat floor 3 and to the front seat cross member 7 by the same fixing means. Preferably, the fixing means is a three-ply weld point.
[0039] Comme vu plus haut, l’extrémité arrière du tunnel central 5 se place en regard, voire en appui, de la paroi avant de la traverse d’assise avant 7. C’est pourquoi de manière préférentielle, l’extrémité arrière des ailes latérales du renfort 9 de tunnel central va également se placer en appui contre la paroi avant de la traverse d’assise avant 7. A cette effet, l’extrémité arrière des ailes latérales du renfort 9 comprend au moins une patte de fixation 21 (visible en figure 2) agencée verticalement et se plaçant en appui contre la paroi avant de la traverse d’assise avant 7. La fixation du renfort de tunnel central sur la paroi avant de la traverse d’assise avant 7 se fait avantageusement par soudage. As seen above, the rear end of the central tunnel 5 is placed opposite, or even in abutment, the front wall of the front seat cross member 7. This is why preferably, the rear end side wings of the central tunnel reinforcement 9 will also rest against the front wall of the front seat cross member 7. For this purpose, the rear end of the side wings of the reinforcement 9 comprises at least one fixing lug 21 (visible in Figure 2) arranged vertically and resting against the front wall of the front seat cross member 7. The fixing of the central tunnel reinforcement on the front wall of the front seat cross member 7 is advantageously done by welding .
[0040] Selon une mise en oeuvre préférée de l’invention, le renfort 9 de tunnel central présente au moins une nervure 15 de rigidification. De préférence, le renfort 9 de tunnel central présente au moins une nervure 15 de rigidification s’étendant selon la direction longitudinale du véhicule et au moins une nervure 15 de rigidification s’étendant selon la direction transversale du véhicule, de sorte à former un quadrillage sur ledit renfort. Lesdites nervures 15 de rigidification s’étendent à la fois sur la paroi supérieure du renfort et sur ses ailes latérales. De préférence, l’extension arrière 11 présente également des nervures 15 de rigidification. [0040] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the reinforcement 9 of the central tunnel has at least one stiffening rib 15. Preferably, the central tunnel reinforcement 9 has at least one stiffening rib 15 extending in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and at least one stiffening rib 15 extending in the transverse direction of the vehicle, so as to form a grid. on said reinforcement. Said stiffening ribs 15 extend both on the upper wall of the reinforcement and on its side wings. Preferably, the rear extension 11 also has ribs 15 for stiffening.
[0041] Selon un mode de réalisation préféré de l’invention, l’extrémité arrière de l’extension arrière 1 1 du renfort 9 de tunnel central se positionne en regard d’un renfort d’assise 17, c’est-à-dire de la pièce de renfort 17 transversale sur laquelle sont fixés les sièges passager et conducteur, et éventuellement, sur laquelle vont s’ancrer les dispositifs de ceinture de sécurité. Avantageusement, le renfort 9 de tunnel central et le renfort d’assise 17 ne sont pas en contact. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the rear end of the rear extension 1 1 of the reinforcement 9 of the central tunnel is positioned opposite a seat reinforcement 17, that is to say say of the transverse reinforcing piece 17 on which the passenger and driver seats are fixed, and possibly on which the devices of seatbelt. Advantageously, the central tunnel reinforcement 9 and the seat reinforcement 17 are not in contact.
[0042] Le renfort 9 de tunnel central a aussi une fonction de renfort de commande de vitesse. The reinforcement 9 of the central tunnel also has a speed control reinforcement function.
A cette fin, il comprendra au moins un ajour pour le passage d’une vis de fixation 19 du boîtier de commande de vitesse. Avantageusement, au moins une vis de fixation 19 du boîtier de commande de vitesse traverse un ajour présent sur l’extension arrière du renfort 9 de tunnel central j To this end, it will include at least one opening for the passage of a fixing screw 19 of the speed control unit. Advantageously, at least one fastening screw 19 of the speed control unit passes through an opening present on the rear extension of the reinforcement 9 of the central tunnel j

Claims

Revendications Claims
[Revendication 1] Véhicule automobile comprenant un plancher d’assise (3), une traverse d’assise avant (7) et un tunnel central (5), le véhicule est caractérisé en ce qu’il comprend en outre un renfort (9) de tunnel central se superposant sur au moins une partie de la longueur dudit tunnel central (5) et montrant une extension arrière (11 ) placée en appui à la fois sur la traverse d’assise avant (7) et sur le plancher d’assise (3). [Claim 1] Motor vehicle comprising a seat floor (3), a front seat cross member (7) and a central tunnel (5), the vehicle is characterized in that it further comprises a reinforcement (9) of central tunnel superimposed over at least part of the length of said central tunnel (5) and showing a rear extension (11) placed in support both on the front seat cross member (7) and on the seat floor (3).
[Revendication 2] Véhicule selon la revendication 1 , caractérisé en ce que le renfort (9) de tunnel central est fixé par son extension arrière (11 ) à la fois au plancher d’assise (3) et à la traverse d’assise avant (7) par un même moyen de fixation, de préférence le moyen de fixation est un point de soudure en trois épaisseurs. [Claim 2] Vehicle according to Claim 1, characterized in that the central tunnel reinforcement (9) is fixed by its rear extension (11) both to the seat floor (3) and to the front seat cross member. (7) by the same fixing means, preferably the fixing means is a weld point in three thicknesses.
[Revendication 3] Véhicule selon l’une des revendications 1 ou 2, le tunnel central (5) montrant une extension arrière placée en appui à la fois sur la traverse d’assise avant (7) et sur le plancher d’assise (3), le véhicule est caractérisé en ce que l’extension arrière (1 1 ) du renfort (9) de tunnel central se superpose au moins en partie à l’extension arrière du tunnel central (5) et présente au moins une patte de fixation (13) pour sa fixation à la fois à la traverse d’assise avant (7) et sur le plancher d’assise (3) ; de préférence, ladite ou lesdites pattes de fixation (13) sont agencées pour ne pas se superposer à l’extension arrière du tunnel central (5). [Claim 3] Vehicle according to one of claims 1 or 2, the central tunnel (5) showing a rear extension placed in support both on the front seat cross member (7) and on the seat floor (3) ), the vehicle is characterized in that the rear extension (1 1) of the reinforcement (9) of the central tunnel is superimposed at least in part on the rear extension of the central tunnel (5) and has at least one fixing lug (13) for its attachment both to the front seat cross member (7) and to the seat floor (3); preferably, said one or more fixing lugs (13) are arranged so as not to overlap with the rear extension of the central tunnel (5).
[Revendication 4] Véhicule selon l’une des revendications 1 à 3, caractérisé en ce que le renfort (9) de tunnel central présente au moins une nervure (15) de rigidification ; de préférence, le renfort (9) de tunnel central présente au moins une nervure (15) de rigidification s’étendant selon la direction longitudinale du véhicule et au moins une nervure (15) de rigidification s’étendant selon la direction transversale du véhicule. [Claim 4] Vehicle according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the central tunnel reinforcement (9) has at least one stiffening rib (15); preferably, the central tunnel reinforcement (9) has at least one stiffening rib (15) extending in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and at least one stiffening rib (15) extending in the transverse direction of the vehicle.
[Revendication 5] Véhicule selon la revendication 1 à 4, caractérisé en ce que le renfort (9) de tunnel central est fixé par soudage sur ledit tunnel central (5) ; et/ou en ce que le véhicule est à motorisation électrique ou hybride comprenant une batterie de propulsion implantée sous ledit plancher d’assise (3). [Claim 5] Vehicle according to claim 1 to 4, characterized in that the central tunnel reinforcement (9) is fixed by welding on said central tunnel (5); and / or in that the vehicle has an electric or hybrid engine comprising a propulsion battery installed under said seat floor (3).
[Revendication 6] Véhicule selon l’une des revendications 1 à 5, le tunnel central (5) étant une tôle emboutie, le véhicule est caractérisé en ce que le renfort (9) de tunnel central est une tôle emboutie d’une épaisseur supérieure à celle du tunnel central (5) ; de préférence, le renfort (9) de tunnel central est une tôle d’une épaisseur supérieure ou égale à 0.8 mm. [Claim 6] Vehicle according to one of claims 1 to 5, the central tunnel (5) being a stamped sheet, the vehicle is characterized in that the reinforcement (9) of the central tunnel is a stamped sheet of greater thickness to that of the central tunnel (5); preferably, the central tunnel reinforcement (9) is a sheet with a thickness greater than or equal to 0.8 mm.
[Revendication 7] Véhicule selon l’une des revendications 1 à 6, la traverse d’assise avant (7) comprenant une paroi supérieure et une paroi avant, le tunnel central (5) comprenant des ailes latérales montrant une extrémité arrière, le véhicule est caractérisé en ce que l’extrémité arrière des ailes latérales du tunnel central (5) se place en appui contre la paroi avant de la traverse d’assise avant (7); de préférence, l’extrémité arrière des ailes latérales du renfort (9) de tunnel central comprend au moins une patte de fixation (21 ) fixée à la paroi avant de la traverse d’assise avant (7). [Claim 7] Vehicle according to one of claims 1 to 6, the front seat cross member (7) comprising an upper wall and a front wall, the central tunnel (5) comprising side wings showing a rear end, the vehicle is characterized in that the rear end of the side wings of the central tunnel (5) rests against the front wall of the front seat cross member (7); preferably, the rear end of the side wings of the central tunnel reinforcement (9) comprises at least one fixing lug (21) fixed to the front wall of the front seat cross member (7).
[Revendication 8] Véhicule selon l’une des revendications 1 à 7, caractérisé en ce que le renfort (9) de tunnel central est réalisé en acier de type biphasique comprenant une phase dure constituée de bainite et/ou de martensite dispersée dans une matrice ferritique ductile. [Claim 8] Vehicle according to one of Claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the reinforcement (9) of the central tunnel is made of two-phase type steel comprising a hard phase consisting of bainite and / or martensite dispersed in a matrix. ductile ferritic.
[Revendication 9] Véhicule selon l’une de revendication 1 à 8, caractérisé en ce que le renfort (9) de tunnel central comprend une paroi supérieure et des ailes latérales et en ce que l’extension arrière (1 1 ) est un prolongement de la paroi supérieure ; et/ou en ce que l’extension arrière (1 1 ) comprend au moins un ajour pour le passage d’une vis de fixation (19) d’un boîtier de commande de vitesse. [Claim 9] Vehicle according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the reinforcement (9) of the central tunnel comprises an upper wall and side wings and in that the rear extension (1 1) is an extension of the upper wall; and / or in that the rear extension (1 1) comprises at least one opening for the passage of a fixing screw (19) of a speed control box.
[Revendication 10] Renfort (9) de tunnel central caractérisé en ce qu’il présente une paroi supérieure et des ailes latérales, ledit renfort (9) de tunnel central étant dimensionné pour recouvrir au moins en partie un tunnel central (5) d’un véhicule automobile selon l’une des revendications 1 à 9 de manière à être en contact avec ledit tunnel central (5) au moins par sa paroi supérieure, et en ce qu’il présente en outre une extension arrière (1 1 ) configurée pour se placer en appui à la fois sur une traverse d’assise avant (7) et sur un plancher d’assise (3) ; de préférence, le renfort (9) de tunnel central présente en outre au moins une nervure (15) de rigidification. j [Claim 10] Central tunnel reinforcement (9) characterized in that it has an upper wall and side wings, said central tunnel reinforcement (9) being dimensioned to at least partly cover a central tunnel (5) of a motor vehicle according to one of claims 1 to 9 so as to be in contact with said central tunnel (5) at least by its upper wall, and in that it further has a rear extension (1 1) configured to lean on both a front seat cross member (7) and a seat floor (3); preferably, the central tunnel reinforcement (9) also has at least one stiffening rib (15). j
EP20725821.1A 2019-03-22 2020-03-04 Vehicle with central tunnel reinforcement and central tunnel reinforcement Pending EP3941804A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1903001A FR3093984B1 (en) 2019-03-22 2019-03-22 VEHICLE WITH CENTRAL TUNNEL REINFORCEMENT AND CENTRAL TUNNEL REINFORCEMENT
PCT/FR2020/050435 WO2020193894A1 (en) 2019-03-22 2020-03-04 Vehicle with central tunnel reinforcement and central tunnel reinforcement

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CN (1) CN113613986A (en)
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WO (1) WO2020193894A1 (en)

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JP7464561B2 (en) 2021-04-05 2024-04-09 トヨタ自動車株式会社 Vehicle body
FR3121906B1 (en) * 2021-04-15 2023-05-26 Psa Automobiles Sa Hybrid type vehicles

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JP2002154459A (en) 2000-11-21 2002-05-28 Suzuki Motor Corp Lower body structure of automobile
JP4752471B2 (en) * 2005-12-01 2011-08-17 マツダ株式会社 Vehicle body structure at the bottom of the vehicle
WO2008084097A1 (en) * 2007-01-11 2008-07-17 Gm Global Technology Operations, Inc. Body for a motor vehicle
JP5821424B2 (en) * 2011-08-31 2015-11-24 マツダ株式会社 Vehicle body structure
DE102012109464B4 (en) * 2012-10-05 2020-01-30 Dr. Ing. H.C. F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft Modular seat cross member
CN106314568B (en) * 2015-06-30 2018-12-11 长城汽车股份有限公司 A kind of vehicle and vehicle floor
JP6227681B2 (en) * 2016-01-12 2017-11-08 本田技研工業株式会社 Body structure
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CN113613986A (en) 2021-11-05

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