WO2018055158A1 - Apparatus and method for attaching a vehicle component to a vehicle structural component - Google Patents
Apparatus and method for attaching a vehicle component to a vehicle structural component Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- WO2018055158A1 WO2018055158A1 PCT/EP2017/074219 EP2017074219W WO2018055158A1 WO 2018055158 A1 WO2018055158 A1 WO 2018055158A1 EP 2017074219 W EP2017074219 W EP 2017074219W WO 2018055158 A1 WO2018055158 A1 WO 2018055158A1
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- WO
- WIPO (PCT)
- Prior art keywords
- vehicle
- planar surface
- engagement element
- vehicle component
- mounting bracket
- Prior art date
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Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62D—MOTOR VEHICLES; TRAILERS
- B62D65/00—Designing, manufacturing, e.g. assembling, facilitating disassembly, or structurally modifying motor vehicles or trailers, not otherwise provided for
- B62D65/02—Joining sub-units or components to, or positioning sub-units or components with respect to, body shell or other sub-units or components
- B62D65/024—Positioning of sub-units or components with respect to body shell or other sub-units or components
- B62D65/026—Positioning of sub-units or components with respect to body shell or other sub-units or components by using a jig or the like; Positioning of the jig
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62D—MOTOR VEHICLES; TRAILERS
- B62D65/00—Designing, manufacturing, e.g. assembling, facilitating disassembly, or structurally modifying motor vehicles or trailers, not otherwise provided for
- B62D65/02—Joining sub-units or components to, or positioning sub-units or components with respect to, body shell or other sub-units or components
- B62D65/14—Joining sub-units or components to, or positioning sub-units or components with respect to, body shell or other sub-units or components the sub-units or components being passenger compartment fittings, e.g. seats, linings, trim, instrument panels
Definitions
- the present disclosure relates to an apparatus and method for attaching a vehicle component to a vehicle structural component. Aspects of the invention relate to a vehicle component mounting bracket, to a use of a vehicle component mounting bracket, to a vehicle, and to a method of attaching a vehicle component to a vehicle structural component.
- Assembly lines for the production of automobiles typically comprise a stage of assembly whereby vehicle components are lowered onto a mounting bracket attached to an automobile structure, such as a vehicle body or chassis. The lowered component is then aligned and retained in place using a fastener.
- a mounting bracket will typically contain the necessary fitments corresponding to necessary for a connection between the bracket and a vehicle component, so that the component can be retained to the mounting bracket.
- the mounting bracket will typically be shaped so that when the component is retained to the mounting bracket, the vehicle component will occupy an indented position in respect of the vehicle structure.
- the mounting bracket will typically comprise holes to receive a locating pin of the component used to aid alignment of the vehicle component with the mounting bracket. During assembly, the component is lowered so that the locating pin enters the hole on the mounting bracket. The locating pin and hole are respectively positioned so that the corresponding fitments on the mounting point and vehicle component are aligned when the locating pin is positioned in the hole of the mounting point.
- takt time is the time allocated for an individual task of assembly to be completed. It is desirable to reduce the takt time for attaching a vehicle component to a vehicle structure, to increase the assembly rate of the assembly line.
- a vehicle component mounting bracket comprises at least one planar surface comprising a recess to receive an engagement element of a vehicle component, and at least one abutment which protrudes from the planar surface, the abutment being configured to direct motion of the engagement element to engage the engagement element with the recess.
- the vehicle component mounting bracket is suitable for use in a vehicle assembly line.
- the abutment may direct motion of the engagement element in a direction parallel to the planar surface.
- the vehicle component mounting bracket as described herein is used for mounting a vehicle component to a vehicle structure on a vehicle assembly line.
- a vehicle comprises the vehicle component mounting bracket as described herein.
- the vehicle comprises an assembly of the vehicle component mounting bracket attached to a vehicle structural component and a vehicle component attached to the vehicle component mounting bracket.
- a method for attaching a vehicle component to a vehicle structural component on a vehicle assembly line comprises the step of attaching a bracket to a vehicle structural component, wherein the bracket comprises at least one planar surface with a recess therein, and at least one abutment protruding from the planar surface.
- the method comprises the step of providing a vehicle component with at least one engagement element configured to engage with the recess.
- the method comprises bringing the engagement element into contact with the planar surface; and moving the engagement element along the planar surface, towards the abutment. Whereby movement of the engagement element is controlled by the abutment to direct the engagement element to engage with the recess.
- the bracket comprises a planar surface and an abutment that depends therefrom, the bracket provides clear haptic feedback via the engagement element for a user when positioning the vehicle component. Firstly the engagement element can be lowered rapidly until contact is made with the planar surface, which provides a distinct hard point giving feedback to an operator. Then the engagement element is moved towards the abutment and directed to the recess. Contact with the abutment provides a second hard point.
- the bracket may allow the engagement element to be engaged with the recess using two distinct motions having clear haptic hard points from first contact of the engagement element with the planar surface and contact of the engagement element with the recess. Because the motions are applied in perpendicular directions, each with clear hard points (and also optionally with accompanying noise), the two motions can be sequentially rapidly applied by the user, more so than other fitting motions.
- aspects provide apparatus or a method for connecting a vehicle component to a mounting bracket that provides improved reduction in assembly time.
- the planar surface also provides a large target area which may allow for more for rapid, coarse movement of the vehicle component to contact the planar surface. Because the abutment controls motion parallel to the planar surface, rapid, coarse movement may also be employed to locate the engagement element with the recess.
- the takt time for connecting a component to a vehicle can be significantly reduced.
- the bracket may further facilitate use of rapid coarse control of the motion of the vehicle component by an automated actuator.
- the bracket may be any vehicle component mounting bracket as described herein.
- the bracket may be integrally formed on the vehicle structural component.
- the at least one abutment may protrude in a direction perpendicular from the planar surface. This may further increase the feedback to the user when an engagement element contacts the abutment.
- a portion of the at least one abutment may be positioned to be coincident with an edge of recess.
- the vehicle component mounting bracket may comprise at least one fixing point for receiving at least one fixing to attach the vehicle component to the bracket. In embodiments, the vehicle component mounting bracket may comprise at least one fixing point for receiving at least one fixing to attach the bracket to a vehicle structural component.
- the planar surface may form part of a projection that extends outwardly from the body of the vehicle component mounting bracket. This provide a large contact area without substantially increasing mass or cost of the bracket. A larger planar surface may further improve the ease with which the engagement element can be brought into contact with the planar surface. Thus it may provide further improvements to the takt time allocated.
- the planar surface may form part of a detachable portion that is detachable from the body of the bracket.
- the planar surface may be removable from the body of the bracket by removing the detachable portion. These may further provide increased surface area without additional weight penalty, and in the case of the latter, may additionally reduce the volume occupied by the bracket in the vehicle.
- the planar surface may comprise a surface area of at least 500 mm 2 or 1000 mm 2 or 1500 mm 2 . In embodiments, the planar surface may comprise a surface area not exceeding 1600 mm 2 or 2200 mm 2 or 3000 mm 2 . These may further provide a suitable surface area of a planar surface for use in an assembly line. In embodiments, the planar surface may be configured so that when in use with a vehicle chassis, it is orientated substantially horizontally with reference to horizontal ground as the vehicle chassis would stand upon it. In embodiments the planar surface faces upwards, in reference to a vehicle chassis.
- the bracket may comprise two or more planar surfaces. In embodiments, the bracket may comprise two or more abutments.
- a vehicle may comprise at least one vehicle component mounting bracket.
- vehicle structural component may be an automobile chassis or body.
- vehicle component may be an automobile seat.
- at least one fixing may be applied to retain the vehicle component to the bracket after the engagement element has engaged with the recess.
- At least one fixing may be applied to retain the bracket to the vehicle structural component.
- the planar surface may be removed after an engagement element has engaged with a recess.
- the engagement element and/or vehicle component may be moved using machine assisted lifting.
- the inventors have found that the bracket described herein when used with machine assisted may provide further improvements of takt time.
- an engagement element may comprise a proximal portion that conforms to the shape of the abutment and at least part of the planar surface; and a distal portion that engages with the recess. Such a configuration may provide a further improved distribution of stresses.
- Figure 2 shows a representation of an embodiment bracket and a vehicle component in a side view
- Figure 3 shows a representation of an embodiment bracket in a plan view
- Figure 4 shows a representation of an embodiment
- Figure 5 shows a representation of an embodiment bracket or an embodiment assembly of a vehicle show in in a side view
- Figure 6 shows a representation of an embodiment
- Figure 7 shows a flow chart of an embodiment method
- Figure 8 shows a representation of a vehicle comprising an embodiment bracket.
- vehicle 50 may refer to but is not limited to automobiles.
- vehicle component may refer to but is not limited to a component or assembly of components fitted to a vehicle as part of the assembly of the vehicle.
- vehicle component mounting bracket (also referred to as “bracket” herein) may refer to but is not limited to any bracket to provide a mount onto which a vehicle component is to be fitted as part of assembly of the vehicle. In particular, this may refer to a bracket used to mount a vehicle component to a vehicle structural component.
- vehicle structural component or “vehicle structure” may refer to but is not limited to a component of the structure of the vehicle. In particular, this may refer to the chassis, body, pillars, floor or other substantial structure that performs a structural or support function for vehicle components.
- assembly line may refer to but is not limited to any form of progressive assembly. In particular, this may refer to a process whereby parts are added as the vehicle moves from workstation to workstation.
- planar surface may refer to but is not limited to a surface, or a body comprising a surface that has a portion which extends in a two dimensional plane. In particular, this may refer to a substantially flat surface.
- cess may refer to but is not limited to a portion that extends below the planar surface. This may include amongst others holes, grooves, channels and voids etc.
- abutment may include but is not limited to any protuberance or structure protruding or depending from the planar surface.
- engagement element may include but is not limited to any structure configured to facilitate positioning of the vehicle component by locating in a recess.
- fixing may refer to but is not limited to any fastener, non-limiting examples include bolts, screws, clips, rivets, circlips, adhesives and welds.
- fixing point may refer to any feature configured to receive a fixing to create a secure connection. This may include but is not limited to holes, threaded holes, clips.
- horizontal may refer to a plane substantially parallel to the ground. When used in relation to a vehicle, vehicle structure, vehicle body, or chassis, this may refer to the horizontal plane of the vehicle, vehicle structure or chassis is orientated in its intended orientation in relation to horizontal ground.
- the vehicle mounting bracket 2 comprises a substantially planar surface 4.
- the bracket also comprises a recess 6 shown in Figure 1 as a circular hole which extends below the planar surface.
- the recess 6 is shaped to receive a corresponding engagement element 12 of a vehicle component 10.
- the bracket 2 also comprises an abutment 8 which projects from the planar surface 4.
- the abutment 8 is configured so that when an engagement element 12 is moved into the abutment 8, the abutment 8 directs the motion of the engagement element 8 towards the recess 6.
- an engagement element 12 of the vehicle component 10 can be positioned within the recess 6 of the vehicle component mounting bracket 2. In embodiments this may cause corresponding fixing points 20, 22 on the bracket 2 and vehicle component 10, and/or vehicle structural component 18 to be aligned, to attach the vehicle component 10 to the vehicle component mounting bracket 2, and/or the vehicle structural component 18.
- the engagement element 12 of the vehicle component 10 may be moved to the recess 6, by first moving the engagement element 12 to contact the planar surface 4. Then moving the engagement element 12 in a plane parallel to the planar surface 4 into the abutment. The abutment directs the engagement element 12 towards the recess 6 until the engagement element 12 is coincident with the recess 6.
- the abutment may be a surface perpendicular to the planar surface, along which the engagement element can move.
- the abutment may be shaped as a V-shaped wedge for example, which pushes the engagement element 12 towards recess 6 as it is moved against the abutment 8, as shown by arrow 15 in figure 3.
- An alternative arrangement is shown in figure 6, where the abutment 8 is shaped as an arcuate or U-shaped wedge,
- the engagement element 12 may comprise a proximal portion 12a that conforms to the shape of the abutment 8 and at least part of the planar surface 4, and a distal portion 12b that engages with the recess 6.
- the fixings may be any fastener. In embodiments, the fixings may be any of bolts, screws, clips, rivets, circlips, adhesives and/or welds.
- the fixing points may be any feature configured to receive a fixing to create a secure connection.
- the fixing may be any of holes, threaded holes or clips, for example.
- the vehicle component 10 may comprise any component or assembly of components fitted to a vehicle. In embodiments, the vehicle component 10 may comprise an automobile seat.
- the vehicle structural component 18 may comprise any vehicle component performing a structural or support function. In embodiments, this may comprise an automobile chassis or components of an automobile body.
- the abutment 8 may protrude in a direction substantially perpendicular from the planar surface, as shown in figure 1 .
- the abutment 8 may comprise a planar face perpendicular to the planar surface 4 as shown in figure 1 .
- a portion of the abutment 8 may be positioned to be coincident with an edge of the recess 6, as shown in figure 1 .
- the abutment may be spaced from the recess.
- the abutment 8 may be shaped to have one or more tapers. When viewed perpendicular to the planar surface, a taper of the abutment 8 may lead towards the recess 6.
- the abutment may comprise one taper, or may comprise two tapers (as shown in figure 1 ) which taper in opposing directions to the recess.
- the tapers may be arranged to comprise a portion that converges at the recess.
- the tapers may be arranged to comprise a substantially v-shaped portion as shown in figure 1 .
- a pair of tapers may comprise a curved portion (e.g. U-shaped).
- the tapers may meet at the recess.
- the abutment 8 may comprise a radius of similar size and coaxial with the recess where the recess 6 is a circular hole, or with the engagement element 12 where it is a cylindrical element.
- the abutment 8 may be configured to restrict the motion of the engagement element 12 to prevent motion of the engagement element 12 from the centre of the planar surface 4 from exceeding the position of the recess 6 in the said direction.
- the bracket 2 may be considered to comprise a body portion (roughly illustrated as 26 in figure 1 ).
- the body portion 26 may refer to the portion of the bracket 2 that primarily carries the stresses between the vehicle component 10 and vehicle structural component 18 when assembled, or may provide the necessary spacing between these components.
- the body portion 26 may be considered as a region separate to a projection or "tongue" that may extend from the body 24.
- the planar surface may be wholly or partially comprised as part of the projection or tongue extending from the body.
- the projection or tongue portion 24 may be minimally exposed to stresses between the vehicle structural component 18 and vehicle component 10, when compared to the body portion 26.
- the bracket 2 may comprise a detachable portion (not shown), which may be a projection or tongue portion 26.
- the planar surface 4 may be wholly or partially comprised as part of the detachable portion.
- the detachable portion may be removably attached to the body portion, for example using pins and corresponding holes or a slot from which the detachable portion may be extracted. Other removable arrangements are also envisioned. Such an arrangement may enable the detachable portion to be removed once an engagement element 12 has been located into a recess 6.
- the planar surface 4 may comprises a surface area of at least 500 mm 2 or 1000 mm 2 or 1500 mm 2 . Other values for surface area are useful,
- the planar surface may be arranged so that when the bracket 2 is in use with, or attached to a vehicle structure such as a vehicle body, the planar surface 4 extends substantially in the horizontal plane and is facing upwards, in relation to the vehicle structure.
- an engagement element 12 may be brought into contact with the planar surface by lowering it in the vertical direction.
- embodiments may comprise a bracket 2 comprising two or more planar surfaces 4a, 4b.
- a bracket 2 may comprise two or more abutments 8a, 8b.
- the engagement element 12 may comprise a pin shaped protuberance from the vehicle component 10.
- the engagement element 12 may depend downwards from the vehicle component 12, when the vehicle component is orientated in its orientation of intended use in a vehicle.
- the engagement element 12 may comprise a resilient member, which may comprise of steel.
- Assembly 40 shows a vehicle component 10 having engagement element 12 located within recess 6, the vehicle component 10 being attached to bracket 2 by fixing 14, wherein the fixing 14 is represented by a threaded bolt in figure 5.
- the fixing 14 connects a fixing point on the bracket 20 to a fixing point of the vehicle component, which are represented as hole and a threaded hole in figure 5.
- the bracket is also attached to a vehicle structure 18 by fixing 16. Whereby the fixing 16 is represented by a threaded bolt in figure 5.
- the fixing 16 attaches the bracket to the vehicle structure using a fixing point 22 on the bracket, represented as a threaded hole 22 in figure 5.
- the assembly shown in figure 5 may be comprised as part of a vehicle (in particular an automobile) and may be comprised as a part-assembled vehicle.
- a method 100 comprising the steps of attaching a bracket 2 to a vehicle structural component 18 as shown in 101 ; the bracket may be any bracket as described herein.
- Providing a vehicle component 10 having an engagement element is shown in step 102.
- Bringing the engagement element 12 into contact with the planar surface 4 is shown in step 103.
- Moving the engagement element 12 along the planar surface 4 towards the abutment 8, whereby movement of the engagement element 12 is controlled by the abutment 8 to direct the engagement element 12 to engage with the recess 6 is shown in step 104.
- engaging with the recess 6 may comprise lowering the engagement element 12 into the recess 6.
- the method 100 may comprise the step of, applying at least one fixing 14 to retain the vehicle component 10 to the bracket 2 after the engagement element 12 has engaged with the recess 6 (not shown). In embodiments, the method 100 may comprise the step of, applying at least one fixing 14 to retain the vehicle component 10 to the vehicle structural component.
- the method 100 may comprise the step of, applying at least one fixing 16 to retain the bracket 2 to a vehicle structural component 12 after the engagement element 12 has engaged with the recess 6 (not shown).
- the method may comprise the step of removing the planar surface 4 after the engagement element 12 has engaged with the recess 6 (not shown).
- the vehicle component 10 (and thus the engagement element 12) are moved using machine assisted lifting.
- the vehicle component 10 may be moved solely by hand (i.e. by operator alone) or by machine (i.e. without operator input).
- a vehicle 50 is shown according to another aspect of the present invention.
- the vehicle 50 shown in figure 8 comprises an assembly 40 of the vehicle component mounting bracket 2 attached to a vehicle structural component 18 and a vehicle component 10 attached to the bracket 2.
- a vehicle 50 may comprise at least one such assembly 40.
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Abstract
Embodiments of the present invention provide vehicle component mounting bracket for use in a vehicle assembly line, the bracket (2) comprising at least one planar surface (4) comprising a recess (6) to receive an engagement element (12) of a vehicle component (10), at least one abutment (8) which protrudes from the planar surface (4), the abutment arranged to direct motion of the engagement element (12) in a direction parallel to the planar surface (4) to engage the engagement element (12) with the recess (6), which provides a reduction of takt time when used in an assembly line.
Description
APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR ATTACHING A VEHICLE COMPONENT TO A VEHICLE STRUCTURAL COMPONENT
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present disclosure relates to an apparatus and method for attaching a vehicle component to a vehicle structural component. Aspects of the invention relate to a vehicle component mounting bracket, to a use of a vehicle component mounting bracket, to a vehicle, and to a method of attaching a vehicle component to a vehicle structural component.
BACKGROUND
Assembly lines for the production of automobiles typically comprise a stage of assembly whereby vehicle components are lowered onto a mounting bracket attached to an automobile structure, such as a vehicle body or chassis. The lowered component is then aligned and retained in place using a fastener.
A mounting bracket will typically contain the necessary fitments corresponding to necessary for a connection between the bracket and a vehicle component, so that the component can be retained to the mounting bracket. The mounting bracket will typically be shaped so that when the component is retained to the mounting bracket, the vehicle component will occupy an indented position in respect of the vehicle structure. The mounting bracket will typically comprise holes to receive a locating pin of the component used to aid alignment of the vehicle component with the mounting bracket. During assembly, the component is lowered so that the locating pin enters the hole on the mounting bracket. The locating pin and hole are respectively positioned so that the corresponding fitments on the mounting point and vehicle component are aligned when the locating pin is positioned in the hole of the mounting point.
On an assembly line, takt time is the time allocated for an individual task of assembly to be completed. It is desirable to reduce the takt time for attaching a vehicle component to a vehicle structure, to increase the assembly rate of the assembly line.
It is an object of embodiments of the invention to at least mitigate one or more of the problems of the prior art.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Aspects and embodiments of the invention provide a vehicle component mounting bracket, a vehicle, a use and a method as defined in any one of the accompanying claims.
In an aspect, a vehicle component mounting bracket comprises at least one planar surface comprising a recess to receive an engagement element of a vehicle component, and at least one abutment which protrudes from the planar surface, the abutment being configured to direct motion of the engagement element to engage the engagement element with the recess.
In embodiments, the vehicle component mounting bracket is suitable for use in a vehicle assembly line.
In embodiments, the abutment may direct motion of the engagement element in a direction parallel to the planar surface. In an aspect, the vehicle component mounting bracket as described herein is used for mounting a vehicle component to a vehicle structure on a vehicle assembly line.
In an aspect, a vehicle comprises the vehicle component mounting bracket as described herein. In embodiments, the vehicle comprises an assembly of the vehicle component mounting bracket attached to a vehicle structural component and a vehicle component attached to the vehicle component mounting bracket.
In an aspect, there is a method for attaching a vehicle component to a vehicle structural component on a vehicle assembly line. The method comprises the step of attaching a bracket to a vehicle structural component, wherein the bracket comprises at least one planar surface with a recess therein, and at least one abutment protruding from the planar surface. The method comprises the step of providing a vehicle component with at least one engagement element configured to engage with the recess. The method comprises bringing the engagement element into contact with the planar surface; and moving the engagement element along the planar surface, towards the abutment. Whereby movement of the engagement element is
controlled by the abutment to direct the engagement element to engage with the recess.
Because the bracket comprises a planar surface and an abutment that depends therefrom, the bracket provides clear haptic feedback via the engagement element for a user when positioning the vehicle component. Firstly the engagement element can be lowered rapidly until contact is made with the planar surface, which provides a distinct hard point giving feedback to an operator. Then the engagement element is moved towards the abutment and directed to the recess. Contact with the abutment provides a second hard point. The bracket may allow the engagement element to be engaged with the recess using two distinct motions having clear haptic hard points from first contact of the engagement element with the planar surface and contact of the engagement element with the recess. Because the motions are applied in perpendicular directions, each with clear hard points (and also optionally with accompanying noise), the two motions can be sequentially rapidly applied by the user, more so than other fitting motions.
Thus, aspects provide apparatus or a method for connecting a vehicle component to a mounting bracket that provides improved reduction in assembly time.
The planar surface also provides a large target area which may allow for more for rapid, coarse movement of the vehicle component to contact the planar surface. Because the abutment controls motion parallel to the planar surface, rapid, coarse movement may also be employed to locate the engagement element with the recess.
When apparatus or methods of the invention are employed on a vehicle assembly line, the takt time for connecting a component to a vehicle can be significantly reduced.
Benefits are also application for automated or partially-automated processes whereby the bracket may further facilitate use of rapid coarse control of the motion of the vehicle component by an automated actuator. In embodiments, the bracket may be any vehicle component mounting bracket as described herein.
In embodiments, the bracket may be integrally formed on the vehicle structural component.
In embodiments, the at least one abutment may protrude in a direction perpendicular from the planar surface. This may further increase the feedback to the user when an engagement element contacts the abutment.
In embodiments, a portion of the at least one abutment may be positioned to be coincident with an edge of recess.
In embodiments, the vehicle component mounting bracket may comprise at least one fixing point for receiving at least one fixing to attach the vehicle component to the bracket. In embodiments, the vehicle component mounting bracket may comprise at least one fixing point for receiving at least one fixing to attach the bracket to a vehicle structural component.
In embodiments, the planar surface may form part of a projection that extends outwardly from the body of the vehicle component mounting bracket. This provide a large contact area without substantially increasing mass or cost of the bracket. A larger planar surface may further improve the ease with which the engagement element can be brought into contact with the planar surface. Thus it may provide further improvements to the takt time allocated.
In embodiments, the planar surface may form part of a detachable portion that is detachable from the body of the bracket. In embodiments the planar surface may be removable from the body of the bracket by removing the detachable portion. These may further provide increased surface area without additional weight penalty, and in the case of the latter, may additionally reduce the volume occupied by the bracket in the vehicle.
In embodiments, the planar surface may comprise a surface area of at least 500 mm2 or 1000 mm2 or 1500 mm2. In embodiments, the planar surface may comprise a surface area not exceeding 1600 mm2 or 2200 mm2 or 3000 mm2. These may further provide a suitable surface area of a planar surface for use in an assembly line.
In embodiments, the planar surface may be configured so that when in use with a vehicle chassis, it is orientated substantially horizontally with reference to horizontal ground as the vehicle chassis would stand upon it. In embodiments the planar surface faces upwards, in reference to a vehicle chassis.
In embodiments, the bracket may comprise two or more planar surfaces. In embodiments, the bracket may comprise two or more abutments.
In embodiments a vehicle may comprise at least one vehicle component mounting bracket.
In embodiments, vehicle structural component may be an automobile chassis or body. In embodiments, the vehicle component may be an automobile seat. In embodiments, at least one fixing may be applied to retain the vehicle component to the bracket after the engagement element has engaged with the recess.
In embodiments, at least one fixing may be applied to retain the bracket to the vehicle structural component.
In embodiments, the planar surface may be removed after an engagement element has engaged with a recess.
In embodiments, the engagement element and/or vehicle component may be moved using machine assisted lifting. The inventors have found that the bracket described herein when used with machine assisted may provide further improvements of takt time.
In embodiments, an engagement element may comprise a proximal portion that conforms to the shape of the abutment and at least part of the planar surface; and a distal portion that engages with the recess. Such a configuration may provide a further improved distribution of stresses.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying figures, in which:
Figure 1 shows a representation of an embodiment bracket;
Figure 2 shows a representation of an embodiment bracket and a vehicle component in a side view;
Figure 3 shows a representation of an embodiment bracket in a plan view;
Figure 4 shows a representation of an embodiment;
Figure 5 shows a representation of an embodiment bracket or an embodiment assembly of a vehicle show in in a side view;
Figure 6 shows a representation of an embodiment;
Figure 7 shows a flow chart of an embodiment method; and
Figure 8 shows a representation of a vehicle comprising an embodiment bracket. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
As used herein, "vehicle" 50 may refer to but is not limited to automobiles.
As used herein, "vehicle component" may refer to but is not limited to a component or assembly of components fitted to a vehicle as part of the assembly of the vehicle.
As used herein, "vehicle component mounting bracket" (also referred to as "bracket" herein) may refer to but is not limited to any bracket to provide a mount onto which a vehicle component is to be fitted as part of assembly of the vehicle. In particular, this may refer to a bracket used to mount a vehicle component to a vehicle structural component.
As used herein, "vehicle structural component" or "vehicle structure" may refer to but is not limited to a component of the structure of the vehicle. In particular, this may refer to the chassis, body, pillars, floor or other substantial structure that performs a structural or support function for vehicle components.
As used herein, "assembly line" may refer to but is not limited to any form of progressive assembly. In particular, this may refer to a process whereby parts are added as the vehicle moves from workstation to workstation. As used herein, "planar surface" may refer to but is not limited to a surface, or a body comprising a surface that has a portion which extends in a two dimensional plane. In particular, this may refer to a substantially flat surface.
As used herein, "recess" may refer to but is not limited to a portion that extends below the planar surface. This may include amongst others holes, grooves, channels and voids etc.
As used herein, "abutment" may include but is not limited to any protuberance or structure protruding or depending from the planar surface.
As used herein, "engagement element" may include but is not limited to any structure configured to facilitate positioning of the vehicle component by locating in a recess. As used herein, "fixing" may refer to but is not limited to any fastener, non-limiting examples include bolts, screws, clips, rivets, circlips, adhesives and welds.
As used herein, "fixing point" may refer to any feature configured to receive a fixing to create a secure connection. This may include but is not limited to holes, threaded holes, clips.
As used herein, "horizontal" may refer to a plane substantially parallel to the ground. When used in relation to a vehicle, vehicle structure, vehicle body, or chassis, this may refer to the horizontal plane of the vehicle, vehicle structure or chassis is orientated in its intended orientation in relation to horizontal ground.
Referring to figure 1 and 2, an embodiment vehicle component mounting bracket 2 is shown. The vehicle mounting bracket 2 comprises a substantially planar surface 4. The bracket also comprises a recess 6 shown in Figure 1 as a circular hole which extends below the planar surface. The recess 6 is shaped to receive a corresponding engagement element 12 of a vehicle component 10. The bracket 2 also comprises an abutment 8 which projects from the planar surface 4.
The abutment 8 is configured so that when an engagement element 12 is moved into the abutment 8, the abutment 8 directs the motion of the engagement element 8 towards the recess 6.
Thus an engagement element 12 of the vehicle component 10 can be positioned within the recess 6 of the vehicle component mounting bracket 2. In embodiments this may cause corresponding fixing points 20, 22 on the bracket 2 and vehicle component 10, and/or vehicle structural component 18 to be aligned, to attach the vehicle component 10 to the vehicle component mounting bracket 2, and/or the vehicle structural component 18.
The engagement element 12 of the vehicle component 10 may be moved to the recess 6, by first moving the engagement element 12 to contact the planar surface 4. Then moving the engagement element 12 in a plane parallel to the planar surface 4 into the abutment. The abutment directs the engagement element 12 towards the recess 6 until the engagement element 12 is coincident with the recess 6.
For example, in embodiments the abutment may be a surface perpendicular to the planar surface, along which the engagement element can move. Referring to figure 3, the abutment may be shaped as a V-shaped wedge for example, which pushes the engagement element 12 towards recess 6 as it is moved against the abutment 8, as shown by arrow 15 in figure 3. An alternative arrangement is shown in figure 6, where the abutment 8 is shaped as an arcuate or U-shaped wedge,
In embodiments, with reference to figure 6, the engagement element 12 may comprise a proximal portion 12a that conforms to the shape of the abutment 8 and at least part of the planar surface 4, and a distal portion 12b that engages with the recess 6.
In embodiments, the fixings may be any fastener. In embodiments, the fixings may be any of bolts, screws, clips, rivets, circlips, adhesives and/or welds.
In embodiments, the fixing points may be any feature configured to receive a fixing to create a secure connection. In embodiments, the fixing may be any of holes, threaded holes or clips, for example.
In embodiments, the vehicle component 10 may comprise any component or assembly of components fitted to a vehicle. In embodiments, the vehicle component 10 may comprise an automobile seat.
In embodiments, the vehicle structural component 18 may comprise any vehicle component performing a structural or support function. In embodiments, this may comprise an automobile chassis or components of an automobile body. In embodiments, the abutment 8 may protrude in a direction substantially perpendicular from the planar surface, as shown in figure 1 . The abutment 8 may comprise a planar face perpendicular to the planar surface 4 as shown in figure 1 . However, alternative structures to the aforementioned are also envisioned. In embodiments, a portion of the abutment 8 may be positioned to be coincident with an edge of the recess 6, as shown in figure 1 . Alternatively the abutment may be spaced from the recess.
In embodiments, the abutment 8 may be shaped to have one or more tapers. When viewed perpendicular to the planar surface, a taper of the abutment 8 may lead towards the recess 6. For example, the abutment may comprise one taper, or may comprise two tapers (as shown in figure 1 ) which taper in opposing directions to the recess. In embodiments, where the abutment comprises a plurality of tapers, the tapers may be arranged to comprise a portion that converges at the recess. In embodiments, the tapers may be arranged to comprise a substantially v-shaped portion as shown in figure 1 . However, tapers with curved surfaces are also envisioned, for example, a pair of tapers may comprise a curved portion (e.g. U-shaped). In embodiments, the tapers may meet at the recess. In embodiments, where the tapers meet, the abutment 8 may comprise a radius of similar size and coaxial with the recess where the recess 6 is a circular hole, or with the engagement element 12 where it is a cylindrical element. In embodiments, the abutment 8 may be configured to restrict the motion of the engagement element 12 to prevent motion of the engagement element 12 from the
centre of the planar surface 4 from exceeding the position of the recess 6 in the said direction.
In embodiments, the bracket 2 may be considered to comprise a body portion (roughly illustrated as 26 in figure 1 ). The body portion 26 may refer to the portion of the bracket 2 that primarily carries the stresses between the vehicle component 10 and vehicle structural component 18 when assembled, or may provide the necessary spacing between these components. In embodiments, the body portion 26 may be considered as a region separate to a projection or "tongue" that may extend from the body 24. In embodiments, the planar surface may be wholly or partially comprised as part of the projection or tongue extending from the body.
In embodiments, where the bracket comprises an assembly, the projection or tongue portion 24 may be minimally exposed to stresses between the vehicle structural component 18 and vehicle component 10, when compared to the body portion 26.
In embodiments, the bracket 2 may comprise a detachable portion (not shown), which may be a projection or tongue portion 26. In embodiments, the planar surface 4 may be wholly or partially comprised as part of the detachable portion. The detachable portion may be removably attached to the body portion, for example using pins and corresponding holes or a slot from which the detachable portion may be extracted. Other removable arrangements are also envisioned. Such an arrangement may enable the detachable portion to be removed once an engagement element 12 has been located into a recess 6.
In embodiments, the planar surface 4 may comprises a surface area of at least 500 mm2 or 1000 mm2 or 1500 mm2. Other values for surface area are useful,
In embodiments, the planar surface may be arranged so that when the bracket 2 is in use with, or attached to a vehicle structure such as a vehicle body, the planar surface 4 extends substantially in the horizontal plane and is facing upwards, in relation to the vehicle structure. Thus, in embodiments, an engagement element 12 may be brought into contact with the planar surface by lowering it in the vertical direction. With reference to figure 4, embodiments may comprise a bracket 2 comprising two or more planar surfaces 4a, 4b. In embodiments, a bracket 2 may comprise two or more abutments 8a, 8b.
In embodiments, the engagement element 12 may comprise a pin shaped protuberance from the vehicle component 10. In embodiments the engagement element 12 may depend downwards from the vehicle component 12, when the vehicle component is orientated in its orientation of intended use in a vehicle. In embodiments, the engagement element 12 may comprise a resilient member, which may comprise of steel.
Referring to figure 5, an embodiment assembly, or assembly of a vehicle is shown. Assembly 40 shows a vehicle component 10 having engagement element 12 located within recess 6, the vehicle component 10 being attached to bracket 2 by fixing 14, wherein the fixing 14 is represented by a threaded bolt in figure 5. The fixing 14 connects a fixing point on the bracket 20 to a fixing point of the vehicle component, which are represented as hole and a threaded hole in figure 5. The bracket is also attached to a vehicle structure 18 by fixing 16. Whereby the fixing 16 is represented by a threaded bolt in figure 5. The fixing 16 attaches the bracket to the vehicle structure using a fixing point 22 on the bracket, represented as a threaded hole 22 in figure 5. The assembly shown in figure 5 may be comprised as part of a vehicle (in particular an automobile) and may be comprised as a part-assembled vehicle.
Referring to figure 7 a method 100 is shown. The method 100 comprising the steps of attaching a bracket 2 to a vehicle structural component 18 as shown in 101 ; the bracket may be any bracket as described herein. Providing a vehicle component 10 having an engagement element is shown in step 102. Bringing the engagement element 12 into contact with the planar surface 4 is shown in step 103. Moving the engagement element 12 along the planar surface 4 towards the abutment 8, whereby movement of the engagement element 12 is controlled by the abutment 8 to direct the engagement element 12 to engage with the recess 6 is shown in step 104.
In embodiments, engaging with the recess 6 may comprise lowering the engagement element 12 into the recess 6.
In embodiments, the method 100 may comprise the step of, applying at least one fixing 14 to retain the vehicle component 10 to the bracket 2 after the engagement element 12 has engaged with the recess 6 (not shown).
In embodiments, the method 100 may comprise the step of, applying at least one fixing 14 to retain the vehicle component 10 to the vehicle structural component.
In embodiments, the method 100 may comprise the step of, applying at least one fixing 16 to retain the bracket 2 to a vehicle structural component 12 after the engagement element 12 has engaged with the recess 6 (not shown).
In embodiments, the method may comprise the step of removing the planar surface 4 after the engagement element 12 has engaged with the recess 6 (not shown).
In embodiments, the vehicle component 10 (and thus the engagement element 12) are moved using machine assisted lifting. However, the vehicle component 10 may be moved solely by hand (i.e. by operator alone) or by machine (i.e. without operator input).
Referring to figure 8, a vehicle 50 is shown according to another aspect of the present invention. The vehicle 50 shown in figure 8 comprises an assembly 40 of the vehicle component mounting bracket 2 attached to a vehicle structural component 18 and a vehicle component 10 attached to the bracket 2. In embodiments, a vehicle 50 may comprise at least one such assembly 40.
All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive.
Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.
The invention is not restricted to the details of any foregoing embodiments. The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed. The claims should not be construed to cover merely the
foregoing embodiments, but also any embodiments which fall within the scope of the claims.
Claims
A vehicle component mounting bracket for use in a vehicle assembly line, the bracket comprising:
at least one planar surface comprising a recess to receive an engagement element of a vehicle component,
at least one abutment which protrudes from the planar surface, the abutment arranged to direct motion of the engagement element in a direction parallel to the planar surface to engage the engagement element with the recess.
A vehicle component mounting bracket according to claim 1 , wherein the at least one abutment protrudes in a direction perpendicular from the planar surface.
A vehicle component mounting bracket according to any preceding claim, wherein a portion of the at least one abutment is positioned to be coincident with an edge of recess.
A vehicle component mounting bracket according to any preceding claim, comprising at least one fixing point for receiving at least one fixing to attach the vehicle component to the bracket and at least one fixing point for receiving at least one fixing to attach the bracket to a vehicle structural component.
A vehicle component mounting bracket according to any preceding claim, wherein the planar surface is comprised as part of a projection that extends outwardly from a body portion of the vehicle component mounting bracket.
A vehicle component mounting bracket according to any preceding claim, wherein the planar surface is comprised as part of a detachable portion, detachable from a body portion of the bracket.
A vehicle component mounting bracket according to any preceding claim, wherein the planar surface comprises a surface area of at least 1000 mm2.
A vehicle component mounting bracket according to any preceding claim, wherein the planar surface is configured so that when in use with a vehicle structural component, it is orientated substantially horizontally and facing
upwards, when the vehicle structural component is orientated in its intended orientation and the vehicle is on horizontal ground.
9. A vehicle component mounting bracket according to any preceding claim,
comprising two or more planar surfaces and two or more abutments.
10. A vehicle comprising an assembly of:
the vehicle component mounting bracket according to any preceding claim attached to a vehicle structural component and;
a vehicle component attached to the vehicle component mounting bracket.
1 1 . A vehicle according to claim 10 wherein the vehicle structural component is an automobile chassis or body and the vehicle component is an automobile seat.
12. The vehicle according to any of claims 10 or 1 1 , wherein the engagement
element comprises a proximal portion that conforms to the shape of the abutment and at least part of the planar surface, and a distal portion that engages with the recess.
13. A method of attaching a vehicle component to a vehicle structural component on a vehicle assembly line, comprising:
attaching a bracket to a vehicle structural component, the bracket comprising:
at least one planar surface comprising a recess, at least one abutment protruding from the planar surface;
providing a vehicle component comprising at least one engagement element configured to engage with the recess;
bringing the engagement element into contact with the planar surface; moving the engagement element along the planar surface towards the abutment, whereby movement of the engagement element is controlled by the abutment to direct the engagement element to engage with the recess. 14. The method according to claim 13 comprising, applying at least one fixing to
retain the vehicle component to the bracket after the engagement element has engaged with the recess.
15. The method according to claim 13 or claim 14, comprising removing the planar surface after the engagement element has engaged with the recess. 16. The method according to any of claims 13 to 15, wherein the vehicle component comprises a vehicle seat.
17. The method according to any of claims 13 to 16, wherein the vehicle structural component comprises an automobile chassis or body.
18. The method according to any of claims 13 to 17, wherein vehicle component comprising the engagement element are moved using machine assisted lifting.
19. A vehicle component mounting bracket, or method substantially as described herein and/or with reference to the accompanying drawings.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
GB1616260.4 | 2016-09-26 | ||
GB1616260.4A GB2554395B (en) | 2016-09-26 | 2016-09-26 | Apparatus and method for attaching a vehicle component to a vehicle structural component |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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WO2018055158A1 true WO2018055158A1 (en) | 2018-03-29 |
Family
ID=57539690
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
PCT/EP2017/074219 WO2018055158A1 (en) | 2016-09-26 | 2017-09-25 | Apparatus and method for attaching a vehicle component to a vehicle structural component |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
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GB (1) | GB2554395B (en) |
WO (1) | WO2018055158A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CN110027646A (en) * | 2019-04-22 | 2019-07-19 | 爱驰汽车有限公司 | Guide support component, hinge pillar outside plate and automobile using it |
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JPS6368477A (en) * | 1986-09-09 | 1988-03-28 | Honda Motor Co Ltd | Front seat attaching structure for vehicle |
JP2002154460A (en) * | 2000-11-20 | 2002-05-28 | Kanto Auto Works Ltd | Locating structure for mounting vehicular seat |
US20160075411A1 (en) * | 2014-09-17 | 2016-03-17 | Richard J. Garelick | Mount For Removable Support Pedestal |
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JP3350342B2 (en) * | 1996-04-03 | 2002-11-25 | 本田技研工業株式会社 | Work positioning jig device |
CN102794734B (en) * | 2011-05-24 | 2015-04-22 | 上海福耀客车玻璃有限公司 | Automobile glass adhering gasket fixture device |
KR101326835B1 (en) * | 2011-12-06 | 2013-11-07 | 현대자동차주식회사 | Side positioning device of system for assembling body panel |
CN202949114U (en) * | 2012-10-23 | 2013-05-22 | 安徽誉丰汽车技术有限责任公司 | Fixing support of sensor connector for automobiles |
JP6183834B2 (en) * | 2013-06-28 | 2017-08-23 | ダイハツ工業株式会社 | Automobile door fixing jig |
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2016
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US4638546A (en) * | 1984-05-14 | 1987-01-27 | Benshoof Steven C | Method and means for mounting a vehicle seat |
JPS6368477A (en) * | 1986-09-09 | 1988-03-28 | Honda Motor Co Ltd | Front seat attaching structure for vehicle |
JP2002154460A (en) * | 2000-11-20 | 2002-05-28 | Kanto Auto Works Ltd | Locating structure for mounting vehicular seat |
US20160075411A1 (en) * | 2014-09-17 | 2016-03-17 | Richard J. Garelick | Mount For Removable Support Pedestal |
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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CN110027646A (en) * | 2019-04-22 | 2019-07-19 | 爱驰汽车有限公司 | Guide support component, hinge pillar outside plate and automobile using it |
CN110027646B (en) * | 2019-04-22 | 2020-03-06 | 爱驰汽车有限公司 | Guide supporting component, hinge column outer plate applying same and automobile |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
GB201616260D0 (en) | 2016-11-09 |
GB2554395B (en) | 2019-11-06 |
GB2554395A (en) | 2018-04-04 |
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