Engine mounting system
AssigneeGoor Associates, Inc.
InventorDan Goor
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
An exemplary engine mounting system provides two sets of rails along which the engine can travel in the event of an impact. A first set of rails is longitudinally mounted within the vehicle with the inwardmost portions thereof curving towards the ground to prevent intrusion by the engine into the passenger compartment. A second set of rails, orthogonal to the first set, permits side-to-side movement of the engine and first set of rails. The second set of rails may be curved downward to lengthen the path of engine travel. Springs are used for biasing against both longitudinal and transverse movement, as well as for dampening of engine vibration. The two sets of rails may be used in conjunction with bumpers attached directly to the engine.
Claims15
A mounting system for an engine in a motorized vehicle, comprising:
- a set of longitudinal rails having a forward first end and a rearward second end, said set of longitudinal rails having a downward curvature with respect to a road surface so that said rearward second end is lower than said forward first end;
- at least one bearing disposed on each side of said engine and movably attached to said set of longitudinal rails to permit movement of said engine along said set of longitudinal rails;
- means for longitudinally biasing said engine;
- connecting means rigidly attached to said set of longitudinal rails on a first connecting end and movably attached to a set of transverse rails on a second connecting end to permit side-to-side movement of said engine;
- said set of transverse rails orthogonally disposed with respect to said set of longitudinal rails, said set of transverse rails rigidly secured to at least one vehicle frame member;
- and
- means for laterally biasing said engine.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.