Engine mounting system

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. In another embodiment the engine block is mated with lugs to an engine mount integrated with the vehicle frame via angled shock absorbing pistons. The lugs move within a track permitting lateral engine movement and the angled pistons direct the engine underneath the passenger compartment. In an embodiment for a transverse mounted engine, the engine is hinge mounted to a support plate that is mated to tracks in a support wall that is slidably disposed on downwardly angled engine support bars. The system encourages a complex motion having downward, rearward and rotational components to direct the engine away from the passenger compartment.