Bushing for a vehicle and method of assembling the same

Abstract

A bushing for a vehicle and an assembly method thereof can include an elastomer that is tightly coupled to an outer surface of an inner structure, a bearing configured such that the elastomer is coupled to an inner surface of the bearing, a housing coupled to an outer surface of the bearing to be in sliding contact with the bearing and mounted on a target object on which the housing is to be mounted, and a seal mounted between both end portions of the bearing and both end portions of the housing to seal a sliding contact surface between the bearing and the housing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a bushing for vehicles and a method for assembling the same. More specifically, this invention relates to a bushing for vehicles and a method for assembling the same, the bushing being used to mount various internal structures onto a vehicle body to control vehicle body performance and absorb vibrations. Background Technology

[0002] Typically, various internal structures such as stabilizer bars, front crossbeams, steering shafts, and suspension shafts are mounted on the vehicle body via bushings.

[0003] In these internal structures, bushings, including ball bearings or roller bearings, are used as standard bushings for mounting stabilizer bars on the vehicle body.

[0004] For example, a conventional bushing includes an elastomer formed by injection molding and disposed on the outer diameter portion of a stabilizer bar, a housing mounted on the vehicle body, a bearing mounted between the elastomer and the housing, and a seal integrally formed with the elastomer to seal both sides of the bearing.

[0005] However, traditional bushings have the following problems.

[0006] First, due to the tapered nature of the stabilizer bar, the seals of the housing and the elastomer tend to move away from each other, making it easy for foreign objects to enter the bearing, thereby degrading the function of the seals and the bearing.

[0007] Second, since the seal is integrally formed with the elastomer, the position of the seal used to seal the bearing cannot be freely adjusted, and the seal cannot ensure its ability to completely seal the bearing.

[0008] The information disclosed in the background section of this invention is only intended to enhance the understanding of the general background of this invention and should not be construed as an endorsement of prior art known to those skilled in the art or any form of advice. Summary of the Invention

[0009] Various aspects of the present invention relate to providing a bushing for a vehicle with a novel structure and a method for assembling the same, which provides degrees of freedom for determining the installation position of a seal, enables the seal to fully seal a bearing, and stably secures the operation of internal structures for controlling vehicle body behavior and for absorbing vibrations.

[0010] Various aspects of the present invention relate to providing a bushing for a vehicle, the bushing comprising: an elastomer tightly connected to an outer surface of an internal structure; a bearing configured such that the elastomer is coupled to an inner surface of the bearing; a housing coupled to the outer surface of the bearing for sliding contact with the bearing and mounted on a target object on which the housing is to be mounted; and a seal mounted on at least one of a first end and a second end of the bearing and a first end and a second end of the housing to seal the sliding contact surface between the bearing and the housing.

[0011] In various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a first constraint terminal may be formed at the longitudinal center of the bearing or at each of the two ends, and a second constraint terminal, which may be configured to be tightly connected to the first constraint terminal, may be formed at the longitudinal center of the housing or at each of the two ends to restrict longitudinal relative movement between the bearing and the housing.

[0012] In another exemplary embodiment of the invention, the first constraint terminal and the second constraint terminal may have the same cross-sectional shape, which is formed to be concave in its inward direction, convex in its outward direction, or have one or more uneven or tapered surfaces.

[0013] In another exemplary embodiment of the invention, the elastomer can be integrally formed with the inner surface of the bearing by injection molding, or the elastomer can be assembled with the inner surface of the bearing by interference fit, or temporarily assembled with the inner surface of the bearing by interference fit and then attached to the bearing using an adhesive.

[0014] In another exemplary embodiment of the invention, when the elastomer is manufactured by molding, an insert configured to enhance the stiffness of the elastomer can be placed in the elastomer.

[0015] In yet another exemplary embodiment of the invention, one or more ribs may protrude from the inner surface of the bearing along the circumferential, longitudinal, and diagonal directions to enhance the rigidity of the bearing, thereby guiding the interference fit into the elastomer in the bearing and adjusting the position of the elastomer.

[0016] In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a lubricant storage hole or a lubricant storage groove may be formed at a predetermined position of the bearing.

[0017] In another exemplary embodiment of the invention, a first seal mounting terminal may extend from both ends of the bearing, and a second seal mounting terminal may extend from both ends of the housing to mount the seal therein.

[0018] In another exemplary embodiment of the invention, the seal may include: a body portion configured such that a first seal mounting terminal of the bearing is pressed into an inner surface of the body portion; a first rib including an outer rib and an inner rib extending from an inner end of an outer diameter of the body portion and extending therebetween at a specified angle to tightly connect to a second seal mounting terminal; and a second rib extending horizontally from an inner end of an inner diameter of the body portion to tightly connect to an outer surface of the elastomer.

[0019] In yet another exemplary embodiment of the invention, the seal may include a body portion configured such that a second seal mounting terminal of the housing is pressed into an inner surface of the body portion; and a single rib including an auxiliary rib extending from an inner end of the inner diameter of the body portion to be tightly connected to a first seal mounting terminal of the bearing.

[0020] In yet another exemplary embodiment of the invention, the seal may include: a body portion configured such that a first seal mounting terminal of the bearing is pressed into an inner surface of the body portion; and a single rib including an auxiliary rib extending from an inner end of the outer diameter of the body portion to be tightly connected to a second seal mounting terminal of the housing.

[0021] In another exemplary embodiment of the invention, the seal may include: a first body portion having a C-shaped cross-section and including a contact rib to be pressed into the space between a first seal mounting terminal of the bearing and a second seal mounting terminal of the housing; and a second body portion having an L-shaped cross-section and including a connecting rib formed on its inner surface such that the first body portion is pressed into the connecting rib.

[0022] In another exemplary embodiment of the invention, the bearing may include a first bearing portion and a second bearing portion, the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion being configured to be tightly joined together to form a spherical cross-section together with the elastomer, and the housing may include an upper housing portion and a lower housing portion, the upper housing portion and the lower housing portion being configured to be connected to each other to surround the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion.

[0023] In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a position adjustment pin and a position adjustment recess may be formed on and in the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion to assemble the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion together.

[0024] In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the parting line between the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion may be separated from the parting line between the upper housing portion and the lower housing portion by a predetermined angle.

[0025] In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, lubricant injection holes may be formed in the outer surfaces of the upper housing portion and the lower housing portion, or lubricant storage grooves may be formed in the inner surfaces of the upper housing portion and the lower housing portion, the upper housing portion and the lower housing portion being in contact with the bearing, and mounting terminals configured to be mounted on the target object to be mounted are formed in the upper housing portion and the lower housing portion.

[0026] In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the elastomer may include a first elastomer portion and a second elastomer portion, wherein the first elastomer portion and the second elastomer portion are configured to be integrally formed with the inner surfaces of the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion respectively by injection molding, or to be connected to or pressed into the inner surfaces of the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion respectively, or to be manufactured as an integral structure having a parting line and connected to or pressed into the inner surfaces of the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion.

[0027] Various aspects of the present invention relate to providing a method for assembling bushings for a vehicle, the method comprising: manufacturing a first bearing portion and a second bearing portion, the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion being configured to be assembled with each other to form a bearing; manufacturing an upper housing portion and a lower housing portion, respectively configured to be assembled with each other to form a housing; integrally forming a first elastomer portion and a second elastomer portion with the inner surfaces of the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion by injection molding, or attaching the first elastomer portion and the second elastomer portion to the inner surfaces of the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion using an adhesive; inserting a pair of seals into the internal structure, spaced apart from each other; and fastening the first elastomer portion and the second elastomer portion together. The upper and lower housing portions are tightly connected to the outer surfaces of the internal structure; the upper and lower housing portions are tightly connected to the outer surfaces of the first and second bearing portions; the upper and lower housing portions are assembled and connected to the outer surfaces of the first and second bearing portions via the vehicle body; a seal is installed between the two ends of the bearing and the two ends of the housing to seal the sliding contact surface between the bearing and the housing; the seal is independently installed in the first seal mounting terminal of the bearing or the second seal mounting terminal of the housing; or the seal is independently pressed into the space between the first seal mounting terminal and the second seal mounting terminal to seal the sliding contact surface between the bearing and the housing.

[0028] Various aspects of the present invention relate to providing a method for assembling bushings for a vehicle, the method comprising: manufacturing a first bearing portion and a second bearing portion, the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion being configured to be assembled with each other to form a bearing; manufacturing an upper housing portion and a lower housing portion, respectively configured to be assembled with each other to form a housing; integrally forming a first elastomer portion and a second elastomer portion with the inner surfaces of the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion by injection molding, or attaching the first elastomer portion and the second elastomer portion to the inner surfaces of the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion using an adhesive; inserting a pair of seals into an internal structure spaced apart from each other; tightly connecting the first elastomer portion and the second elastomer portion to the outer circumferential surface of the internal structure; pressing the outer surfaces of the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion by a retaining clamp; installing the seals, the seals being configured to seal the sliding contact surface between the bearing and the housing in a first sealing mounting terminal of the bearing; removing the retaining clamp; tightly connecting the upper housing portion and the lower housing portion to the outer surfaces of the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion; and then assembling the upper housing portion and the lower housing portion, the upper housing portion and the lower housing portion being tightly connected to the outer surfaces of the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion via a vehicle body.

[0029] When the upper housing portion and the lower housing portion are tightly connected to the outer surfaces of the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion, the parting line between the upper housing portion and the lower housing portion can be separated from the parting line between the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion by a predetermined angle.

[0030] When using an adhesive to connect the first elastomer portion and the second elastomer portion to the inner surfaces of the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion, a process of curing the adhesive can be further performed.

[0031] Other aspects and exemplary embodiments of the invention are discussed below.

[0032] The above and other features of the present invention are discussed below.

[0033] The methods and apparatus of the present invention have other features and advantages, which will be apparent from or set forth in more detail in the accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein by reference and the following detailed description, and together serve to explain certain principles of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0034] Figure 1 This is a perspective view exemplarily illustrating the appearance of a bushing for a vehicle according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

[0035] Figures 2A, 2B, 3A, 3B, 4A, 4B, 5A, and 5B are exemplary cross-sectional views illustrating the assembled state of bushings for vehicles according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0036] Figures 6A, 6B, 6C, and 6D are views illustrating, by way of example, various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a method for assembling bushings for a vehicle;

[0037] Figures 7A, 7B, 7C, and 7D are views exemplarily illustrating methods for assembling bushings for vehicles according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 8 This is an exemplary longitudinal sectional view illustrating the assembled state of a bushing for a vehicle according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 9 This is a perspective view exemplarily illustrating the structure of a bearing for a bushing in a vehicle according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 10 This is an exemplary perspective view illustrating the state of a temporary assembly of an elastomer with a bearing for a bushing in a vehicle, according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 11 This is a perspective view illustrating, exemplarily, an example of using an adhesive to attach an elastomer to a bearing for a vehicle bushing according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 12 This is an exemplary cross-sectional view illustrating the formation of a lubricant storage hole in a bearing for a vehicle bushing according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 13 This is an exemplary illustration of a cross-sectional view of an intermediate iron pipe being inserted into an elastomer for a bushing of a vehicle, according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 14 Hehe Figure 15 This is a perspective view illustrating an example of a housing for a bushing for a vehicle according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 16 This is a perspective view illustrating an example of an elastomer manufactured as a one-piece structure in a bushing for a vehicle according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 17 The illustration is exemplarily shown in which Figure 16 A longitudinal sectional view showing the state in which the elastomer is connected to the bearing.

[0047] Figures 18A, 18B, 18C, and 18D are exemplary cross-sectional views illustrating an example of a structure for preventing the separation of a seal for a bushing used in a vehicle, according to various exemplary embodiments of the invention; and

[0048] Figures 19A and 19B are exemplary cross-sectional views illustrating another example of a structure for preventing the seal of a bushing for a vehicle from detaching, according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0049] It is understood that the accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale and present slightly simplified representations of various exemplary features illustrating the basic principles of the invention. Specific design features of the invention included herein, including, for example, specific dimensions, orientations, positions, and shapes, will be determined in part by the specific intended application and usage environment.

[0050] In the accompanying drawings, and throughout several drawings, reference numerals refer to the same or equivalent parts of the invention. Detailed Implementation

[0051] Reference will be made in detail below to various embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described below. Although the invention will be described in conjunction with exemplary embodiments thereof, it should be understood that this specification is not intended to limit the invention to the exemplary embodiments. On the other hand, the invention is intended to cover not only the exemplary embodiments thereof, but also various alternatives, modifications, equivalents and other embodiments that may be within the spirit and scope defined by the appended claims.

[0052] Figure 1 Figures 2A and 2B illustrate the state in which bushings for vehicles are assembled with internal structures according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 1 The internal structure 10 shown in Figures 2A and 2B refers to one of various tubular components, such as a stabilizer bar, front crossbeam, steering shaft, and suspension shaft, which drive vibrations and load inputs therein, and the stabilizer bar used as the internal structure 10 will be described exemplarily below to aid in understanding the invention.

[0054] Referring to Figures 2A and 2B, the elastomer 20 is tightly connected to the outer peripheral surface of the inner structure 10. The elastomer 20 is displaced during the rotational and conical movements of the inner structure 10 and is configured to absorb vibrations.

[0055] The bearing 30 is engaged with the outer surface of the elastomer 20.

[0056] In other words, the elastomer 20 is engaged with the inner surface of the bearing 30.

[0057] For example, the elastomer 20 can be integrally formed with the inner surface of the bearing 30 by injection molding.

[0058] Alternatively, the separately manufactured elastomer 20 can be temporarily assembled with the inner surface of the bearing 30 by interference fit, transported and then attached to the inner surface of the bearing 30 using an adhesive.

[0059] For the current purpose, such as Figure 9 As shown, one or more ribs 35 may protrude from the inner surface of the bearing 30 along the circumferential, longitudinal and diagonal directions of the bearing to enhance the rigidity of the bearing 30, guide the elastomer 20 that is interference-fitted into the bearing 30, and adjust the position of the elastomer 20.

[0060] Therefore, as Figure 10 As shown, when the elastomer 20 is temporarily assembled with the inner surface of the bearing 30 by interference fit, the rib 35 formed along the circumferential direction of the bearing 30 controls the movement of the elastomer 20 in its longitudinal direction, and the rib 35 formed along the longitudinal direction of the bearing 30 controls the movement of the elastomer 20 in its circumferential direction.

[0061] Subsequently, during the assembly of the bushings according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the elastomer 20 can be integrally bonded to the inner surface of the bearing 30 by applying adhesive 60 to the inner surface of the bearing 30, such as... Figure 11 As shown.

[0062] Here, adhesive 60 can be selectively applied to the inner surface of elastomer 20 to bond to the internal structure 10.

[0063] The housing 40, which is mounted on the vehicle body, is mounted on the outer surface of the bearing 30 to make sliding contact with the bearing 30.

[0064] The housing 40 can be manufactured in one of various shapes according to the bushing specifications and the structure of the vehicle body, and the housing 40 may include an upper housing portion 41 and a lower housing portion 42 to facilitate the assembly of the housing 40 with the bearing 30.

[0065] A lubricant injection hole 45 may be formed in the outer surface of the upper housing portion 41 or the lower housing portion 42. This lubricant injection hole is configured to inject lubricant into the interior of the housing 40, where the bearing 30 is located. Figure 14 As shown, or in the inner surfaces of the upper housing portion 41 and the lower housing portion 42 that contact the bearing 30, a lubricant storage groove 46 configured to store lubricant is formed, and body mounting terminals 47 for assembly with the vehicle body can be formed at both ends of the upper housing portion 41 and the lower housing portion 42, as shown. Figure 15 As shown.

[0066] In the connection structure between the bearing 30 and the housing 40, in order to restrict the longitudinal relative movement between the bearing 30 and the housing 40, a first constraint terminal 34 is formed at the longitudinal center of the bearing 30, and a second constraint terminal 44 that slides in contact with the first constraint terminal 34 is formed at the longitudinal center of the housing 40, as shown in Figures 2A and 2B.

[0067] The first constraint terminal 34 and the second constraint terminal 44 may have the same cross-sectional shape so that they can slide in contact with each other.

[0068] For example, the first constraint terminal 34 and the second constraint terminal 44 are formed to be recessed in their inward direction, to be convex in their outward direction, or to have a V-shaped conical surface.

[0069] Therefore, when the bearing 30 and the housing 40 slide into contact with each other and move relative to each other, the first constraint terminal 34 and the second constraint terminal 44 can prevent the housing 40 from detaching in its longitudinal direction.

[0070] A seal 50, which forms the sliding contact surface between the bearing 30 and the housing 40, is installed between the two ends of the bearing 30 and the two ends of the housing 40.

[0071] For the present purpose, as shown in Figures 2A, 2B, 3A, 3B, 4A, 4B, 5A, and 5B, a first sealing element mounting terminal 33, arranged parallel to the internal structure 10, extends from each of the two ends of the bearing 30, and a second sealing element mounting terminal 43, arranged parallel to the internal structure 10, extends from each of the two ends of the housing 40.

[0072] As shown in Figures 2A and 2B, the seal 50 may include: a body portion 52 configured such that a first seal mounting terminal 33 of the bearing 30 is pressed into the inner surface of the connecting groove 51; a first rib 53 including an outer rib 53-1 and an inner rib 53-2 extending from the inner end of the outer diameter of the body portion 52 and extending at a specified angle therebetween to tightly connect to the second seal mounting terminal 43; and a second rib 54 extending horizontally from the inner end of the inner diameter of the body portion 52 to tightly connect to the outer surface of the elastomer 20.

[0073] Alternatively, as shown in Figures 3A and 3B, the seal 50 may include: a body portion 52 configured such that the second seal mounting terminal 43 of the housing 40 is pressed into the inner surface of the connecting groove 51; and a single rib 55, the single rib including an auxiliary rib 55-1 extending from the inner end of the inner diameter of the body portion 52 to be tightly connected to the first seal mounting terminal 33 of the bearing 30.

[0074] Alternatively, as shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the seal 50 may include: a body portion 52 configured such that the first seal mounting terminal 33 of the bearing 30 is pressed into the inner surface of the connecting groove 51; and a single rib 55 including an auxiliary rib 55-1 extending from the inner end of the outer diameter of the body portion 52 to be tightly connected to the second seal mounting terminal 43 of the housing 40.

[0075] Alternatively, as shown in Figures 5A and 5B, the seal 50 may include: a first body portion 56 configured to have a C-shaped cross-section and including a contact rib 57 pressed into the space between a first seal mounting terminal 33 of the bearing 30 and a second seal mounting terminal 43 of the housing 40; and a second body portion 59 having an L-shaped cross-section and including a connecting rib 58 formed on its inner surface such that the first body portion 56 is pressed into the connecting rib 58.

[0076] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, auxiliary ribs 71 and 72 are formed on the lower part of the connecting rib 58, such that the bottom of the first main body portion 56 is sealed by the auxiliary ribs 71 and 72.

[0077] In the current manner, the installation position of the seal 50 for sealing the sliding contact portion of the bearing 30 can be determined with freedom, and the ability of the seal 50 to completely seal the sliding contact portion of the bearing 30 can be guaranteed.

[0078] In other words, since the seal 50 is independently installed at the first seal mounting terminal 33 of the bearing 30, the second seal mounting terminal 43 of the housing 40, or between the first seal mounting terminal 33 and the second seal mounting terminal 43, and no sliding contact occurs between the bearing 30 and the housing 40, the installation state of the seal 50 can be reliably maintained even when relative sliding contact occurs between the bearing 30 and the housing 40.

[0079] More specifically, the seal 50 is independently mounted at the first seal mounting terminal 33 of the bearing 30 or the second seal mounting terminal 43 of the housing 40, or independently pressed into the space between the first seal mounting terminal 33 and the second seal mounting terminal 43. Therefore, when relative sliding contact occurs between the bearing 30 and the housing 40, the seal 50 rotates together with the bearing 30 or the housing 40, configured to prevent the seal 50 from separating while maintaining the sealing function of the seal 50 and ensuring the durability of the seal 50.

[0080] Furthermore, in conventional bushings, the seal, tightly connected to the housing, is integrally formed with the elastomer. When the elastomer shifts, the seal also shifts and separates from the housing, thus the seal loses its sealing function relative to the sliding contact portion of the bearing. In contrast, in the bushings according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the seal 50 is installed independently and therefore its sealing function can be continuously maintained.

[0081] Furthermore, according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, structures for preventing seal separation can be applied to bushings used in vehicles.

[0082] In one example, as shown in Figures 18A and 18B, the first seal mounting terminal 33 of the bearing 30 extends further outward, with a groove 61 formed in each extension, and a retaining ring 62 configured to restrict the outer surface of the seal 50 to prevent separation of the seal 50 is mounted in the groove 61, and is configured to facilitate the prevention of separation of the seal 50.

[0083] In another example, as shown in Figures 18C and 18D, the second seal mounting terminal 43 of the housing 40 extends further outward, with a groove 61 formed in each extension, and a retaining ring 62 configured to restrict the outer surface of the seal 50 to prevent separation of the seal 50 is mounted in the groove 61, and is configured to facilitate the prevention of separation of the seal 50.

[0084] In another example, as shown in Figures 19A and 19B, the position adjustment stop 63 protrudes from a predetermined position of the seal 50, and the position adjustment recess 64 into which the position adjustment stop 63 is inserted is formed in the first seal mounting terminal 33 of the bearing 30 or the second seal mounting terminal 43 of the housing 40. When the seal 50 is installed, the position adjustment stop 63 is inserted and locked in the position adjustment recess 64, thereby being configured to easily prevent the seal 50 from separating.

[0085] In the following, a method for assembling a bushing having the above-described structure according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described.

[0086] Figures 6A, 6B, 6C, and 6D are views illustrating, by way of example, a method for assembling bushings for a vehicle according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0087] As shown in Figures 6A, 6B, 6C and 6D, in order to easily assemble the bushings according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention with the internal structure 10, a first bearing portion 31 and a second bearing portion 32 having a semi-circular cross section configured to form a bearing 30 are respectively manufactured, and an upper housing portion 41 and a lower housing portion 42 configured to form a housing 40 are respectively manufactured.

[0088] Here, a bearing 30 with an integral structure can be manufactured, or two or more bearing portions configured to form the bearing 30 can be manufactured separately, and two or more housing portions configured to form the housing 40 can be manufactured separately.

[0089] That is, the bearing 30 includes a first bearing portion 31 and a second bearing portion 32, which are closely connected to each other to form a spherical cross section together with the elastomer 20, and the housing 40 includes an upper housing portion 41 and a lower housing portion 42, which are connected to each other to surround the first bearing portion 31 and the second bearing portion 32.

[0090] Here, as Figure 9 As shown, the position adjustment pin 36 and the position adjustment recess 37 are formed on the surfaces and in the surfaces of the first bearing portion 31 and the second bearing portion 32, which are closely connected to each other. Before the housing 40 is assembled with it, the main connection between the first bearing portion 31 and the second bearing portion 32 can be achieved by the connection between the position adjustment pin 36 and the position adjustment recess 37.

[0091] In addition, the elastomer 20 may include a first elastomer portion 21 and a second elastomer portion 22, which are integrally formed with the inner surfaces of the first bearing portion 31 and the second bearing portion 32 by injection molding, respectively. Alternatively, the first elastomer portion 21 and the second elastomer portion 22 may be manufactured separately, temporarily assembled with the inner surfaces of the first bearing portion 31 and the second bearing portion 32 by interference fit, and then connected to them using an adhesive.

[0092] Subsequently, a pair of seals 50 are inserted into the internal structure 10, i.e., the stabilizer bar, to separate them from each other.

[0093] Next, the first elastomer portion 21 and the second elastomer portion 22 are closely connected to the outer peripheral surface of the internal structure 10, and thus, the first bearing portion 31 and the second bearing portion 32 together with the first elastomer portion 21 and the second elastomer portion 22 form a spherical cross section.

[0094] Subsequently, the upper housing portion 41 and the lower housing portion 42, which are configured to form the housing 40, are tightly connected to the outer surfaces of the first bearing portion 31 and the second bearing portion 32, so that the upper housing portion 41 and the lower housing portion 42 are mounted on the vehicle body.

[0095] Next, lubricant is applied to the inner surfaces of the upper housing portion 41 and the lower housing portion 42 of the housing 40. The lower housing portion 42 with the applied lubricant is tightly connected to the lower part of the bearing 30, and the upper housing portion 41 with the applied lubricant is tightly connected to the upper part of the bearing 30. The body mounting terminals 47 of the upper housing portion 41 and the lower housing portion 42 are installed at a predetermined position on the body by bolt connection.

[0096] Subsequently, as described above with reference to Figures 2A, 2B, 3A, 3B, 4A, 4B, 5A, and 5B, the seal 50 is individually installed in the first seal mounting terminal 33 of the bearing 30 or the second seal mounting terminal 43 of the housing 40, or is individually pressed into the space between the first seal mounting terminal 33 and the second seal mounting terminal 43, thus configured to seal the sliding contact surface between the bearing 30 and the housing 40 to prevent the entry of foreign matter. Therefore, the assembly of the bushing according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention is completed.

[0097] Figures 7A, 7B, 7C, and 7D are views illustrating, by way of example, various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a method for assembling bushings for a vehicle.

[0098] As shown in Figures 7A, 7B, 7C and 7D, in order to easily assemble the bushings according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention with the internal structure 10, a first bearing portion 31 and a second bearing portion 32 having a semi-circular cross section configured to form a bearing 30 are respectively manufactured, and an upper housing portion 41 and a lower housing portion 42 configured to form a housing 40 are respectively manufactured.

[0099] That is, the bearing 30 includes a first bearing portion 31 and a second bearing portion 32, which are closely connected to each other to form a spherical cross section together with the elastomer 20, and the housing 40 includes an upper housing portion 41 and a lower housing portion 42, which are connected to each other to surround the first bearing portion 31 and the second bearing portion 32.

[0100] Here, as Figure 9 As shown, the position adjustment pin 36 and the position adjustment recess 37 are formed on the surfaces and in the surfaces of the first bearing portion 31 and the second bearing portion 32, which are closely connected to each other. Before the housing 40 is assembled with it, the main connection between the first bearing portion 31 and the second bearing portion 32 can be achieved by the connection between the position adjustment pin 36 and the position adjustment recess 37.

[0101] In addition, the elastomer 20 may include a first elastomer portion 21 and a second elastomer portion 22, which are integrally formed with the inner surfaces of the first bearing portion 31 and the second bearing portion 32 by injection molding, respectively. Alternatively, the first elastomer portion 21 and the second elastomer portion 22 may be manufactured separately, temporarily assembled with the inner surfaces of the first bearing portion 31 and the second bearing portion 32 by interference fit, and then connected to each other using an adhesive.

[0102] Subsequently, a pair of seals 50 are inserted into the internal structure 10, i.e., the stabilizer bar, to separate them from each other.

[0103] Next, the first elastomer portion 21 and the second elastomer portion 22 are closely connected to the outer peripheral surface of the internal structure 10, and thus, the first bearing portion 31 and the second bearing portion 32 together with the first elastomer portion 21 and the second elastomer portion 22 form a spherical cross section.

[0104] Subsequently, after pressing the outer surfaces of the first bearing portion 31 and the second bearing portion 32 by holding the clamp 70, before assembling the housing 40 with the bearing 30, a seal 50 configured to seal the sliding contact surface between the bearing 30 and the housing 40 is installed in the first seal mounting terminal 33 of the bearing 30, as shown in Figures 2A and 2B.

[0105] Subsequently, after removing the retaining clamp 70, the upper housing portion 41 and the lower housing portion 42 are tightly connected to the outer surfaces of the first bearing portion 31 and the second bearing portion 32, and the upper housing portion 41 and the lower housing portion 42, which are tightly connected to the outer surfaces of the first bearing portion 31 and the second bearing portion 32, are assembled in a predetermined position on the vehicle body via the vehicle body mounting terminal 47. Thus, the assembly of the bushing according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention is completed.

[0106] Here, after the upper housing and lower housing 42 are assembled to the vehicle body, the first rib 53 of the seal 50, including the outer rib 53-1 and the inner rib 53-2, is tightly connected to the second seal mounting terminal 43 of the housing 40, and the second rib 54 of the seal 50 is tightly connected to the outer surface of the elastomer 20, as shown in Figures 2A and 2B. Therefore, the sliding contact surface between the bearing 30 and the housing 40 is sealed to prevent foreign objects from entering.

[0107] In the above-described method for assembling bushings according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention and another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, when the first elastomer portion 21 and the second elastomer portion 22 are connected to the inner surfaces of the first bearing portion 31 and the second bearing portion 32 using an adhesive, a process of curing the adhesive can be further performed to ensure the bonding strength.

[0108] After completing the above-described method for assembling the bushing according to an exemplary embodiment and another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, if the parting line between the upper housing portion 41 and the lower housing portion 42 overlaps with the parting line between the first bearing portion 31 and the second bearing portion 32, the contact between the parting lines may cause jamming and damage when the bearing 30 and the housing 40 slide into contact with each other.

[0109] To solve the current problem, by providing an upper housing portion 41 and a lower housing portion 42, when the upper housing portion 41 and the lower housing portion 42 are tightly connected to the first bearing portion 31 and the second bearing portion 32, the parting line between the upper housing portion 41 and the lower housing portion 42 is spaced apart from the parting line between the second bearing portion 31 and the second bearing portion 32 by a specified angle θ in the circumferential direction. When the bearing 30 and the housing 40 slide into contact with each other, contact between the corresponding parting lines can be avoided.

[0110] In the above-described method for assembling bushings according to exemplary embodiments and another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, an elastomer 20 manufactured in a one-piece structure instead of the two-piece structure described above can be used, in which the elastomer 20 is divided into a first elastomer portion 21 and a second elastomer portion 22.

[0111] Now for reference Figure 16 The elastomer 20 can be manufactured as a one-piece structure having an annular cross-section connected to the inner surfaces of the first bearing portion 31 and the second bearing portion 32 and having a parting line 23.

[0112] When the elastomer 20 is manufactured as a one-piece structure with a parting line 23, a connecting groove 24 for position adjustment and connection with the bearing 30 including the first bearing portion 31 and the second bearing portion 32 can be formed in the outer surface of the elastomer 20.

[0113] Furthermore, a connecting protrusion 38 that is inserted into the connecting groove 24 of the elastomer 24 can be formed on the inner surfaces of the first bearing portion 31 and the second bearing portion 32 of the bearing 30.

[0114] Therefore, as Figure 17 As shown, the temporary assembly of the elastomer 20 and the bearing 30, as well as the adjustment of the position of the elastomer 20, can be achieved by inserting the connecting protrusion 38 into the connecting groove 24.

[0115] Furthermore, by manufacturing the elastomer 20 as a one-piece structure, the adhesive can be applied at once when the elastomer 20 is attached to the bearing 30, thereby reducing the amount of assembly work and improving the adhesion of the elastomer 20 to the bearing 30.

[0116] Furthermore, in the construction of the bushing according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention manufactured with the above-described structure, a lubricant storage hole 39 or a lubricant storage groove may be additionally formed at a predetermined position of the bearing 30, such as... Figure 12 As shown, it is thus configured to continuously ensure smooth sliding contact between the bearing 30 and the housing 40.

[0117] Furthermore, in the construction of the bushing according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, manufactured with the above-described structure, when manufacturing the elastomer 20, the intermediate iron tube 25 can be inserted into the elastomer 20, such as... Figure 13 As shown, it is thus configured to enhance the stiffness of the elastomer 20.

[0118] Thus, if the bushing according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention is installed on the stabilizer bar in the vehicle's internal structure, the elastomer 20 absorbs the displacement caused by the rotation and conical motion of the stabilizer bar, while simultaneously performing sliding contact between the bearing 30 and the housing 40. This benefits the internal structure, i.e., the stabilizer bar, by reliably performing the operation of the internal structure for controlling the vehicle body's performance and absorbing vibrations. That is, the vehicle's ride comfort is improved by reducing the hysteresis of the stabilizer bar's performance and reducing the delay of the wheel's performance during collisions and rebounds.

[0119] It is evident from the above description that the bushings for vehicles and the assembly methods thereof according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention provide the following effects.

[0120] First, the elastomer absorbs the displacement caused by the rotation and conical motion of the stabilizer bar. At the same time, it performs sliding contact between the bearing and the housing, which benefits the internal structure, such as the stabilizer bar, and allows it to reliably perform the operation of the internal structure for controlling the vehicle body performance and absorbing vibrations. That is, the vehicle's ride comfort is improved by reducing the hysteresis of the stabilizer bar performance during collisions and rebounds and reducing the delay of wheel performance.

[0121] Secondly, it provides the freedom to determine the installation position of the bushing seal, and at the same time, it can ensure the ability of the seal to completely seal the sliding contact of the bearing.

[0122] Third, since the seal is installed between the extensions at both ends of the bearing and the housing, where there is no sliding contact between them, the seal can be reliably maintained even when relative sliding contact occurs between the bearing and the housing.

[0123] Fourth, when relative sliding contact occurs between the bearing and the housing, the seal extends relative to the bearing or housing between the extensions at both ends of the bearing and the extensions at both ends of the housing, thereby preventing the seal from separating while maintaining its sealing function and ensuring its durability.

[0124] Fifth, bushings according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention can be cheaper and lighter than conventional bushings that are expensive and contain complex ball bearings.

[0125] For ease of interpretation and accurate definition of the appended claims, the terms “upper,” “lower,” “inner,” “outer,” “up,” “lower,” “upward,” “downward,” “front,” “tail,” “back,” “inner side,” “outer side,” “inward,” “outer,” “inner,” “outer,” “inner surface,” “outer,” “forward,” and “backward” are used to describe features of exemplary embodiments by referring to the positions of features shown in the accompanying drawings. It will be further understood that the term “connection” or its derivatives refer to both direct and indirect connections.

[0126] For illustrative and descriptive purposes, the foregoing description of specific exemplary embodiments of the invention has been given. These descriptions are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed, and it will be apparent that many modifications and variations are possible in light of the foregoing teachings. Exemplary embodiments were chosen and described to explain certain principles of the invention and its practical application, enabling others skilled in the art to make and utilize various exemplary embodiments of the invention and their various alternatives and modifications. The scope of the invention is intended to be defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A bushing, comprising: An elastomer is configured to connect to the outer surface of the internal structure; A bearing, wherein the elastomer is coupled to the inner surface of the bearing; A housing is attached to the outer surface of the bearing to make sliding contact with the bearing, and is mounted on the target object on which the housing is to be installed; as well as A seal, mounted on at least one of: a first end and a second end of the bearing; and a first end and a second end of the housing, to seal the sliding contact surface between the bearing and the housing. One or more ribs are formed to protrude from the inner surface of the bearing along the circumferential, longitudinal, and diagonal directions of the bearing to enhance the rigidity of the bearing, guide the interference fit to the elastomer in the bearing, and adjust the position of the elastomer.

2. The bushing according to claim 1, wherein a first constraint terminal is formed at the longitudinal center of the bearing, and a second constraint terminal connected to the first constraint terminal is formed at the longitudinal center of the housing to restrict longitudinal relative movement between the bearing and the housing.

3. The bushing according to claim 2, wherein the first constraint terminal and the second constraint terminal have the same cross-sectional shape, the cross-sectional shape being formed to be concave in its inward direction, convex in its outward direction, or having one or more uneven or tapered surfaces.

4. The bushing according to claim 1, wherein the elastomer is integrally formed with the inner surface of the bearing by injection molding, or assembled with the inner surface of the bearing by interference fit, or assembled with the inner surface of the bearing by interference fit within a predetermined time and then attached to the inner surface of the bearing by adhesive.

5. The bushing of claim 1, wherein when the elastomer is manufactured by molding, an insert that enhances the stiffness of the elastomer is placed in the elastomer.

6. The bushing according to claim 1, wherein a lubricant storage hole or lubricant storage groove is formed at a predetermined position of the bearing.

7. The bushing of claim 1, wherein a first seal mounting terminal is formed to extend from a first end and a second end of the bearing, and a second seal mounting terminal is formed to extend from a first end and a second end of the housing to mount the seal therein.

8. The bushing according to claim 7, wherein the seal comprises: The main body, wherein the first seal mounting terminal of the bearing is pressed into the inner surface of the main body; The first rib includes an outer rib and an inner rib, the outer rib and the inner rib extending from the inner end of the outer diameter of the body portion and expanding at a specified angle therebetween to connect to the second seal mounting terminal; as well as The second rib extends horizontally from the inner end of the inner diameter of the main body to connect to the outer surface of the elastomer.

9. The bushing according to claim 7, wherein the seal comprises: The main body, wherein the second sealing member mounting terminal of the housing is pressed into the inner surface of the main body; as well as A single rib, including an auxiliary rib, which extends from the inner end of the inner diameter of the main body to connect to the first seal mounting terminal of the bearing.

10. The bushing of claim 7, wherein the seal comprises: The main body, wherein the first seal mounting terminal of the bearing is pressed into the inner surface of the main body; as well as A single rib, including an auxiliary rib, extends from the inner end of the outer diameter of the main body to connect to the second sealing mounting terminal of the housing.

11. The bushing of claim 7, wherein the seal comprises: The first main body has a C-shaped cross section and includes a contact rib, which is pressed into the space between the first seal mounting terminal of the bearing and the second seal mounting terminal of the housing; as well as The second main body has an L-shaped cross-section and includes a connecting rib formed on the inner surface of the second main body, such that the first main body is pressed into the connecting rib.

12. The bushing of claim 7, wherein a groove is formed in the first seal mounting terminal of the bearing or the second seal mounting terminal of the housing, and a retaining ring configured to restrict the outer surface of the seal is mounted in the groove to prevent the seal from separating.

13. The bushing of claim 7, wherein the position adjustment stop protrudes from a predetermined position of the seal, and a position adjustment recess is formed in the first seal mounting terminal of the bearing or the second seal mounting terminal of the housing, the position adjustment stop being inserted into the position adjustment recess.

14. The bushing according to claim 1, The bearing includes a first bearing portion and a second bearing portion, which are configured to be connected to each other to form a spherical cross-section with the elastomer. The housing includes an upper housing portion and a lower housing portion, the upper housing portion and the lower housing portion being configured to be connected to each other to surround the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion, and in, Position adjustment pins and position adjustment recesses are formed on and between the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion to assemble the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion to each other.

15. The bushing according to claim 14, wherein the parting line between the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion is spaced apart from the parting line between the upper housing portion and the lower housing portion by a predetermined angle.

16. The bushing according to claim 14, wherein a lubricant injection hole is formed in the outer surface of the upper housing portion and the lower housing portion, or a lubricant storage groove is formed in the inner surface of the upper housing portion and the lower housing portion, the upper housing portion and the lower housing portion contacting the bearing, and mounting terminals configured to be mounted on the target object on which the housing is to be mounted are formed in the upper housing portion and the lower housing portion.

17. The bushing of claim 15, wherein the elastomer comprises a first elastomer portion and a second elastomer portion, the first elastomer portion and the second elastomer portion being integrally formed with the inner surfaces of the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion by injection molding, or being respectively connected to or pressed into the inner surfaces of the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion, or being manufactured as an integral structure having a parting line and connected to or pressed into the inner surfaces of the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion.

18. A method for assembling bushings, the method comprising: The first bearing portion and the second bearing portion are manufactured separately and then assembled together to form a bearing. The upper and lower shell parts are manufactured separately and then assembled together to form a shell. The first elastomer portion and the second elastomer portion are integrally formed with the inner surfaces of the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion by injection molding, or the first elastomer portion and the second elastomer portion are attached to the inner surfaces of the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion by using an adhesive. A pair of seals are inserted into the internal structure, spaced apart from each other; The first elastomer portion and the second elastomer portion are connected to the outer surface of the internal structure; The upper housing portion and the lower housing portion are connected to the outer surfaces of the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion, and the upper housing portion and the lower housing portion are assembled, thereby connecting the upper housing portion and the lower housing portion to the outer surfaces of the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion and connecting them to the vehicle body; The seal is installed between the first and second ends of the bearing and the first and second ends of the housing to seal the sliding contact surface between the bearing and the housing; as well as The seal is individually installed in the first seal mounting terminal of the bearing or the second seal mounting terminal of the housing, or the seal is individually pressed into the space between the first seal mounting terminal and the second seal mounting terminal to seal the sliding contact surface between the bearing and the housing. When the upper housing portion and the lower housing portion are connected to the outer surfaces of the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion, the parting line between the upper housing portion and the lower housing portion is spaced apart from the parting line between the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion by a predetermined angle.

19. A method for assembling bushings, the method comprising: The first bearing portion and the second bearing portion are manufactured separately and then assembled together to form a bearing. The upper and lower shell parts are manufactured separately and then assembled together to form a shell. The first elastomer portion and the second elastomer portion are integrally formed with the inner surfaces of the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion by injection molding, or the first elastomer portion and the second elastomer portion are attached to the inner surfaces of the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion by using an adhesive. A pair of seals are inserted into the internal structure, spaced apart from each other; The first elastomer portion and the second elastomer portion are connected to the outer peripheral surface of the internal structure; By holding the clamp pressing against the outer surfaces of the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion, and installing the seal in the first seal mounting terminal of the bearing, the sliding contact surface between the bearing and the housing is sealed; as well as Remove the retaining clamp, connect the upper housing portion and the lower housing portion to the outer surfaces of the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion, and then assemble the upper housing portion and the lower housing portion, thereby connecting the upper housing portion and the lower housing portion to the outer surfaces of the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion and connecting them to the vehicle body. When the upper housing portion and the lower housing portion are connected to the outer surfaces of the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion, the parting line between the upper housing portion and the lower housing portion is spaced apart from the parting line between the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion by a predetermined angle.

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