Component for a steering suspension of a vehicle

CN114954648BActive Publication Date: 2026-10-09AB SKF SKF PATENT DEPARTMENT +1
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202210167373.2
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2021-02-23
Filing Date
2022-02-23
Publication Date
2026-10-09
Estimated Expiration
2042-02-23

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

[0006]这些类型的连接导致在轮毂单元的外环与悬架立柱之间的连接界面部处产生高应力,该高应力在使用中导致随着时间的推移的可能的滑动、锁定、松动和噪音产生(咔哒声),增加腐蚀敏感性等

Benefits of technology

[0010] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a component of a vehicle steering suspension comprising an outer ring of a hub unit (hub bearing unit), which overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art, particularly by reducing the stress at the interface between the outer ring and the suspension column, while simplifying the design of the suspension column. Another object of the present invention is to provide a component that can be used equally on steering suspensions intended for use on the right or left side of a vehicle.

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Abstract

A steering suspension (2) of a vehicle comprising a suspension upright (3) and a mechanical component comprising a wheel hub unit or a radially outer ring (1) of a rolling bearing forming part of a wheel hub unit; wherein the outer ring (1) is provided integrally with a flange (14) and a steering arm (10) as a single piece, the steering arm (10) extending radially cantilevered from the outer ring (8) and the flange (14), the steering arm (10) also being provided integrally with the flange (14) as a single piece; on the side opposite the steering arm (10), the flange is provided integrally with a pair of axially drilled radial lugs (16) as a single piece, the radial lugs being configured to support, in use, a brake caliper (19).
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Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This patent application claims priority to Italian Patent Application No. 102021000004070, filed on February 23, 2021, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates to an innovative component for a steering suspension system used in a vehicle, the component comprising an outer ring of a hub unit. Background Technology

[0004] The interface in high-stress mechanical components is always a critical issue during the design process and in use. This is particularly true in steering suspensions (i.e., those with steering arms), where the interface between the wheel hub and the suspension column is a significant example.

[0005] In practice, the connection between the suspension pillar and the wheel hub unit (usually via the latter's outer ring) is typically achieved through a press fit (usually in the case of suspension pillars made of cast or forged cast iron, aluminum, or light alloys), or by means of a flange connector (in the case of second- or third-generation wheel hub units, typically in the case of suspension pillars made of stamped sheet metal, in the case of steel or aluminum / light alloys). The latter type of wheel hub unit is known, for example, from US2009010581A1.

[0006] These types of connections result in high stress at the interface between the outer ring of the hub unit and the suspension pillar. This high stress can lead to slippage, locking, loosening, and noise (clicking) over time, as well as increased susceptibility to corrosion, during use.

[0007] Furthermore, since the interface consists of two surfaces by definition, the use of structural materials is not optimized because the material of each surface forming the connection must withstand essentially the same stress. As a result, the amount of structural material required at the interface is almost doubled, leading to greater weight and energy consumption.

[0008] On the other hand, especially in the case of steering suspension (i.e., those typically used for the front wheels of a vehicle and therefore equipped with steering arms), the complete integration of the outer ring of the rolling bearing that makes up / constitutes the hub unit with the suspension pillar can lead to excessively high service costs and manufacturing problems.

[0009] Finally, almost all existing solutions cannot be used equally on the left and right sides of the vehicle (i.e., the driver's side and the passenger side) without modification, and therefore require the use of different components specific to each side of the vehicle, resulting in higher costs and production complexity. Summary of the Invention

[0010] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a component of a vehicle steering suspension comprising an outer ring of a hub unit (hub bearing unit), which overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art, particularly by reducing the stress at the interface between the outer ring and the suspension column, while simplifying the design of the suspension column. Another object of the present invention is to provide a component that can be used equally on steering suspensions intended for use on the right or left side of a vehicle.

[0011] According to the present invention, components of a vehicle steering suspension as defined in the appended claims and associated outer rings of the vehicle steering suspension and hub units are provided. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Further features and advantages of the invention will become clear from the following description of non-limiting examples of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0013] - Figure 1 The schematically shown is a three-quarters front and top axonometric view of a mechanical component of a vehicle steering suspension according to the invention, which includes a bearing outer ring forming part of a hub unit, which is otherwise known and not shown for simplicity.

[0014] - Figure 2 A schematic diagram showing, at an enlarged scale, the radial section based on trace plane II-II. Figure 1 Mechanical components;

[0015] - Figure 3 The illustrations schematically depict different embodiments of the mechanical components according to the present invention. Figure 1 The same isometric drawing;

[0016] - Figure 4 A schematic diagram showing, at magnified scale, a radial section based on the trace plane IV-IV. Figure 3 Mechanical components;

[0017] - Figure 5 and Figure 6 The illustration schematically shows two other different embodiments of the mechanical component according to the invention. Figure 1 The same isometric drawing;

[0018] - Figure 7 A front view of a fifth possible embodiment of the mechanical component according to the invention is shown schematically at an enlarged scale;

[0019] - Figure 8 A plan view of the mechanical component according to the invention, viewed from above, is shown schematically at a further enlarged scale; and

[0020] - Figure 9 Schematic illustration of equipment Figure 1 Axonometric drawing of the vehicle's steering and suspension mechanical components, where parts are removed or shown only in dashed lines for simplicity. Detailed Implementation

[0021] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 9 The annular mechanical component of the vehicle's steering suspension 2 (shown schematically and only partially for simplicity) is generally represented by 1. However, the suspension 2 includes the constructed suspension pillar 3 and wheel hub unit 4 ( Figure 4 ).

[0022] According to one aspect of the invention, the mechanical component 1 includes a radial outer ring of a hub unit 4 or a rolling bearing (which is known and not shown for simplicity) forming part of the hub unit 4.

[0023] In specific reference Figure 4 In the non-limiting example shown, the hub unit 4 is shown only schematically and in part, and some of its components are shown only in dashed lines.

[0024] In addition to the annular mechanical component including the outer ring 1, the hub unit 4, in the non-limiting example shown, also includes an annular mechanical component 5, which is rotatable and located radially inside the ring 1. This component includes a flanged inner bearing ring or a main shaft supporting the inner bearing ring, configured to receive a vehicle wheel (which is known but not shown) in a known manner during use. (In any case, this radially inner annular component 5...) Figure 4 The middle part is only shown schematically in one of its outer contours (not to scale and without detail), and is rotatably connected to the outer ring 1 by a plurality of rolling elements 6 in the crown inserted between the annular parts 1 and 5.

[0025] Radial outer ring 1 ( Figure 1 A radially inner surface 7 and a corresponding radially outer surface 8 are defined between the radially outer surface 7 and the radially inner surface 7, which are substantially coaxial. Both side surfaces 7 and 8 are annular surfaces of revolution (e.g., cylindrical) and share a common axis of symmetry A. Figure 2 ).

[0026] The radial inner annular surface 7 is provided with at least one annular raceway 9 for the corresponding rolling element 6 of the hub unit 4 (in the example shown, a pair of raceways 9 arranged side by side in the axial direction, one in front of the other).

[0027] According to a first important aspect of the invention, starting from the radially outer surface 8, a steering arm 10 (of any known shape and type) extends radially cantileveredly from the outer ring 1. This steering arm 10 is provided with at least one interface portion for a steering tie rod 12, i.e., a corresponding (known) engagement point or element 11. The steering tie rod 12 is known, and for simplicity, in Figure 1 It is only shown schematically with a shaded line.

[0028] Furthermore, in conjunction with the foregoing, a flange 14 extends radially cantileveredly from the outer ring 1, starting from the first axial end 13 of the radially outer surface 8. This flange 14 is configured to be integrated with the suspension column 3 during use.

[0029] According to another important aspect of the invention, the flange 14 is provided with at least a pair of lugs or studs 16 radially cantilevered on its first side 15, the pair of lugs or studs 16 being integrally machined with the flange 14 as a single piece (i.e., as a single piece, without any type of connector or weld point), and each lug or stud 16 is provided with a first through hole 18, the first through hole 18 being axial because it is oriented parallel to the axis of symmetry A, which, in addition to the arm 10 and the lugs 16, is also the axis of symmetry of the outer ring 1.

[0030] A lug or stud 16 with a hole 18 is configured to support a brake caliper 19, which is known in use, in a manner that will be visible and integral with the outer ring 1. Figure 9 It is only shown schematically by shaded lines.

[0031] According to the invention, the steering arm 10 and the flange 14 with lugs or studs 16 are integrally machined as a single piece, together with the outer ring 1. For example, the entire component including the outer ring 1 (with the arm 10 and the flange 14 with lugs 16) is cast or forged as a single piece and then machined for the desired part.

[0032] Thus, compared to the prior art, the connector (including lugs or studs 16) for the brake caliper 19 and the steering arm 10 are “separated” from the suspension pillar 3 and “transported” to an annular component such as the outer ring 1, which is directly provided with the raceway 9 for the rolling element 6 of the hub unit 4.

[0033] Therefore, the stress at the connection interface between the annular component 1 and the suspension column 3 can be greatly reduced, and the distribution of structural materials required to form these two components 1 and 3 can be optimized.

[0034] According to another aspect of the invention, the steering arm 10 is integrally formed as a single piece with a first surface 21 of the flange 14 on at least its first portion 20 facing the radially outer surface 8, the first surface 21 facing the axial second end 22 of the radially outer surface 8 opposite to the first end 13.

[0035] The first portion 20 of the steering arm 10 thus forms (i.e., is configured as) a first radial rib of the flange 14 arranged on the first surface 21.

[0036] Furthermore, the steering arm 10 extends radially cantileveredly from the flange 14 on the second side 23 opposite to the first side 15, such that the steering arm 10 and the lug 16 extend cantileveredly from the outer ring 1 on opposite sides of the outer ring 1.

[0037] The outer ring 1 has an annular centering collar (clamp) 24 at the first axial end 13 of the radially outer surface 8. The centering collar (clamp) 24 is used to align the component 1 with the suspension column 3 during connection and / or as required during processing.

[0038] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the flange 14 of component 1 is annular and is provided with a plurality of (i.e., two or more, such as three, four or five) second holes 26 passing through near its radial outer edge 25, which are parallel to the first hole 18 and are configured to securely connect the flange 14 to the suspension post 3 in use.

[0039] In particular, the second surface 27 of the flange 14, which is opposite to and parallel to the first surface 21, is configured to be in contact with the suspension column 3 during use, which is also due to the presence of the clamp 24.

[0040] The second hole 26 is configured to receive a corresponding removable connecting element 28 internally on the second surface 27 side of the flange 14, such as, preferably, a screw, bolt, or pin that is at least partially threaded. Figure 9 Thus, they can also be inserted through the suspension pillar 3, which has corresponding through holes (which are known and not shown for simplicity), to achieve overall fixation of the flange 14 (and thus the entire component 1 and hub unit 4) on the suspension pillar 3.

[0041] Depending on possible variations not shown, this fixation can also be achieved by non-removable (unless damaged) connecting elements 28, such as nails, which are always inserted through holes 26.

[0042] according to Figure 1 and Figure 2 (and Figure 9 In one embodiment, a pair of second holes 26b coincide with the first hole 18, i.e., are machined correspondingly to the first hole 18, and are configured to receive a corresponding pin or screw 28b through, the pin or screw 28b being configured to cantilever axially project from the lug or stud 16 and support the brake caliper 19 connected to the lug 16 on the first surface 21 side of the flange 14. Figure 9 ).

[0043] Plate 29 extends radially cantileveredly from the radially outer surface 8 of outer ring 1. Plate 29 preferably also extends radially cantileveredly relative to flange 14. Plate 29 is integrally formed as a single piece with flange 14 and steering arm 10, and the flange 14 itself is connected to the portion 30 of steering arm 10 that radially protrudes from and is adjacent to flange 14 in the circumferential portion of flange 14.

[0044] Plate 20 is preferably provided with at least one radial seat 31 for the corresponding sensor (which is known and not shown for simplicity, e.g. for ABS / wheel speed and / or temperature), seat 31 being radially accessible from the outside.

[0045] According to one aspect of the invention, at least some of the flanges 14 are provided with corresponding radial ribs 32, which are integrally formed as a single piece on the first surface 21 and axially project toward the axial second end 22 of the radially outer surface 8; the second holes 26 are at least partially formed within the radial ribs 32 (if present), excluding the holes 26b.

[0046] For simplicity, the same reference numerals are used to denote details that are similar to or identical to those already described. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The possible alternative embodiments of component 1 described so far are indicated by reference numeral 1b in the accompanying drawings.

[0047] According to embodiment 1b, the hole 26 may be omitted. The connection of the flange 14 is ensured only by the pin 28b and other connecting elements (e.g., a weld (not shown) formed along the peripheral edge 25 or adhesive spread on the surface 27), the pin 28b passing through the hole 18 through the lug 16 and thus also through the flange 14. The peripheral shape of the flange 14 may also differ from the peripheral shape of the outer ring member 1, and may be specifically designed for such a variation.

[0048] Furthermore, according to this variant 1b, plate 29 and rib 32 may be omitted, and steering arm 10 is replaced by a steering arm 10b of a different shape, but it is always made as a single piece with outer ring 1b and thus as a single piece with side surface 8, face 21 and flange 14, as previously described. As for the rest, outer ring component 1b is the same as outer ring component 1 described so far.

[0049] exist Figure 5 In this invention, the annular component is disclosed as comprising a bearing outer ring 1c, which, except for some details, is substantially the same as the outer ring 1 described above. Therefore, for simplicity, details similar to or identical to those already described are indicated by the same reference numerals.

[0050] Specifically, hole 26 (excluding hole 26b) is formed as a blind hole on the side of radial rib 32 and has internal threads. Furthermore, plate 29 is not provided with seat 31, but is prepared to receive it.

[0051] Alternatively, in the outer ring component 1, the hole 26 (still excluding the hole 26b) is a through hole, as in embodiments 1 and 1c described so far, where the through hole axially passes through the radial rib 32 when the radial rib 32 is present.

[0052] exist Figure 6 The figure shows a variation 1d of the previously described outer ring component 1. For simplicity, details similar to or identical to those already described are indicated by the same reference numerals. This variation 1d is identical to the outer ring component 1, except that it lacks the rib 32 and the radial plate 29.

[0053] exist Figure 7 The figure shows a variant 1e of the previously described outer ring component 1. For simplicity, details similar to or the same as those already described are indicated by the same reference numerals. This variant 1e is substantially the same as variant 1d, except that in this case, holes 26 and 18 are different and only four holes 26 are configured to connect the flange 14 to the suspension pillar 3, while holes 18 are only used to receive pins similar to pins 28b used to support and connect the brake caliper 19 (not shown for simplicity). Furthermore, according to this variant, the steering arm 10 is replaced by a steering arm 10c, which is also integrally machined as a single piece with the side surface 8, face 21, and flange 14. However, unlike the steering arm 10 already described, it is not entirely located in the radial plane passing through axis A, but is circumferentially curved outside that plane, so the engagement point or element 11 is in an angular position slightly different from the angular position occupied by the first part 20 of the same arm 10c.

[0054] at last, Figure 8 Shown at a scale that can be considered enlarged Figure 7 A plan view of the outer ring component 1e viewed from above, or another variation 1f of the outer ring component of the present invention, which is the same as the outer ring component 1e except that the steering arm 10c is / will be replaced by the steering arm 10 in this case, as in embodiments 1, 1b, 1c and 1d, where the steering arm 10 is entirely located in a single radial plane perpendicular to axis A. Furthermore, according to this possible variation 1f, there exists... Figure 7 The variant 1e in the middle does not have plate 29.

[0055] It is evident from the description already provided that, according to another important aspect of the invention, the steering arm 10 (or 10b), the flange 14 having a corresponding pair of radial lugs 16 and a first hole 18, is configured to obtain a mirror-symmetrical arrangement of the flange 14, the steering arm 10 or 10b, the radial lugs 16 and the first hole 18 relative to the radially outer surfaces 8 of the outer rings 1, 1b, 1c, 1d, 1f, which is achieved by rotating the outer rings 1, 1b, 1c, 1d, 1f about their axis of symmetry A by 180°, which coincides with the axis of symmetry A of the radially inner surface 7, which is substantially cylindrical.

[0056] Finally, it is clear that the present invention also applies to a vehicle steering suspension 2, which includes a suspension column 3 and a hub unit 4, the hub unit 4 further including mechanical components, the mechanical components including a radial outer ring 1 (or 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f) of a rolling bearing forming part of the hub unit 4; wherein such an outer ring is fixed integrally with the suspension column 3 by a flange 14, the flange 14 being integrally formed as a single piece with the outer ring and having the following main features: the outer ring 1 (or 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f) and its radial outer surface 8 and the flange 14 of the steering arm 10 (or 10b, 10c) extending radially cantileveredly from the outer ring and the flange 14 are integrally formed as a single piece, the flange 14 having a pair of radially drilled radial lugs 16 on the side opposite to the steering arm, the radial lugs 16 being integrally formed as a single piece with the flange 14 and configured to support the brake caliper 19 in use.

[0057] Compared to a standard steering suspension column assembled with the same standard hub unit (HBU), the steering outer ring according to the invention improves the material distribution.

[0058] Functionality is concentrated in a single component (the radial outer bearing ring of the hub unit):

[0059] a) This leads to better use of materials and reduces the design specificity of the suspension pillars (the shape is simpler and the materials may be cheaper);

[0060] b) Compared to existing designs (column assembly with steering arm and HBU), the weight is reduced; and

[0061] c) Since the interface (i.e., the contact surface) between the suspension pillar and the outer ring of the hub unit (HBU) is removed, the number of connection tolerances can be reduced. It is important that this interface is along two different force paths leading to the raceway 9 for the rolling elements via the steering tie rod connector and the brake caliper connector.

[0062] The concentrated material distribution around the outer ring of the bearing / hub unit reduces the weight of the steering suspension column (allowing for the use of less complex and less specific column designs). The required structural performance is also guaranteed by dedicated rib 32 and any other ribs that can be machined along the fixed lug 16 of the brake caliper 19.

[0063] Furthermore, the interaction of individual components—the steering arm (in its various possible variations), the ABS / wheel speed sensor (even older ones), the mounting lug 16 of the brake caliper 19, and the raceway 9 of the bearing / wheel hub unit—not only ensures a better distribution of mechanical operating stresses but also an optimal distribution of structural materials for the hub unit / suspension pillar assembly. The possibility of equipping various versions of the outer ring with flanges featuring a certain number of mounting holes allows for the use of a single design for different schemes, resulting in significant structural savings, especially considering that some holes (e.g., 26b) may also have the dual function of connecting the steering outer ring according to the invention to the rest of the suspension and to the brake caliper support.

[0064] Finally, by separating the steering joint from the surrounding components and especially the partial functions of the upper and lower connecting parts, it is generally possible to achieve a single left / right design (different L / R machining) or even a completely symmetrical design (forging and machining) for the unique "outer ring" component obtained by forging, thereby greatly saving production costs.

[0065] Therefore, all the objectives of this invention have been achieved.

Claims

1. A mechanical component of a vehicle steering suspension (2), wherein the suspension comprises a suspension column (3) and a hub unit, the mechanical component comprising a radial outer ring (1; 1b; 1c; 1d; 1e; 1f) of the hub unit or a rolling bearing forming part of the hub unit (4); the radial outer ring is defined between a radially inner surface (7) and a corresponding radially outer surface (8), the radially outer surface (8) being substantially coaxial with the radially inner surface (7), the radially inner surface (7) being provided with at least one annular raceway (9) for a corresponding rolling element (6) of the hub unit; characterized in that, Combinations include: (i) - A steering arm (10; 10b; 10c) extends radially cantileveredly from the outer ring (1) starting from the radially outer surface (8), the steering arm (10; 10b; 10c) being provided with at least one corresponding attachment point for the steering tie rod (12); (ii) - A flange (14) extends radially cantileveredly from the outer ring starting from the first axial end (13) of the radially outer surface (8), the flange (14) being configured to be integrally attached to the suspension column (3) in use; (iii) - The flange (14) is provided with at least one pair of lugs (16) radially cantilevered on its first side (15), the at least one pair of lugs (16) being integrally obtained as a single piece with the flange (14), and each lug (16) being provided with a first through hole (18) oriented parallel to the axis of symmetry (A) of the outer ring, and being configured to integrally support the brake caliper (19) with the outer ring in use. iv) - The steering arm (10; 110b; 10c) and the flange (14) are integrally machined as a single piece with the outer ring (1; 1b; 1c; 1d; 1e; 1f); and v) - A plate (29) extends radially cantilevered from the radially outer surface (8) of the outer ring, the plate (29) also being radially cantilevered relative to the flange (14), and the plate (29) being integrally formed as a single piece with the flange (14) and the steering arm (10) so that the flange (14) itself is connected to the portion (30) of the steering arm that protrudes radially from the flange (14) and is adjacent to the flange in the circumferential portion of the flange.

2. The mechanical component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steering arm (10; 10b; 10c) is integrally formed as a single piece with the first face (21) of the flange (14) on at least its first portion (20) facing the radially outer surface (8), the first face (21) facing the axial second end (22) of the radially outer surface opposite the first end (13); the first portion (20) of the steering arm forms the first radial rib of the flange on the first face (21); furthermore, the steering arm extends radially cantilevered from the flange on the second side (23) of the flange opposite the first side (15), such that the steering arm (10; 10b; 10c) and the lug (16) extend cantilevered from the outer ring (1; 1b; 1c; 1d; 1e; 1f) on opposite sides of the outer ring.

3. The mechanical component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer ring (1; 1b; 1c; 1d; 1e; 1f) is provided with an annular centering collar / clamp (24) at the first axial end (13) of its radially outer surface (8).

4. The mechanical component according to claim 2, characterized in that, The flange (14) is annular and has a plurality of second holes (26) passing through near its radial outer edge (25), the second holes (26) being parallel to the first through hole (18) and configured to securely connect the flange (14) to the suspension post (3) in use; the second surface (27) of the flange, which is opposite to and parallel to the first surface (21), is configured to contact the suspension post in use; the second holes (26) are configured to receive corresponding removable connecting elements internally on the second surface side of the flange.

5. The mechanical component according to claim 4, characterized in that, The second hole (26) of the first pair (26b) coincides with the first through hole (18) and is configured to receive a corresponding removable connecting element (28b) through, the removable connecting element (28b) being configured to cantilever axially project from the lug (16) and support the brake caliper (19) connected to the lug (16) on the side of the first face (21) of the flange (14).

6. The mechanical component according to claim 4, characterized in that, At least some of the flanges (14) and the second holes (26) are provided with corresponding second radial ribs (32), the second radial ribs (32) being integrally obtained as a single piece on the first surface (21) and axially protruding toward the axial second end (22) of the radial outer surface (8); when the second radial ribs (32) are present, the second holes (26) are at least partially obtained within the second radial ribs (32).

7. The mechanical component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The plate (29) is provided with at least one radial seat (31) for the corresponding sensor, the radial seat (31) being radially accessible from the outside.

8. The mechanical component according to claim 4, characterized in that, If a second radial rib (32) is present, the second radial rib (32) is integrally obtained as a single piece on the first surface (21) and protrudes axially toward the axial second end (22) of the radial outer surface (8). The second hole (26) is formed as a blind hole with internal thread on the side of the second radial rib (32), or as a threaded or unthreaded through hole, the through hole axially passing through the second radial rib (32).

9. The mechanical component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steering arm (10; 10b), the flange (14) having the corresponding pair of lugs (16) and the first through hole (18) are configured to obtain a mirror-symmetrical arrangement of the flange, steering arm, lug and first through hole relative to the radially outer surface (8) of the outer ring by rotating the outer ring 180° about its axis of symmetry (A), which coincides with the axis of symmetry of the radially inner surface (7), which is substantially cylindrical.

10. A steering suspension (2) for a vehicle, comprising a suspension column (3) and a hub unit (4), the hub unit (4) further comprising mechanical components, the mechanical components including a radial outer ring (1; 1b; 1c; 1d; 1e; 1f) of a rolling bearing forming part of the hub unit (4); wherein the outer ring is integrally fixed to the suspension column (3) by a flange (14), the flange (14) and the outer ring being integrally formed as a single piece; characterized in that, The outer ring is provided with a steering arm (10; 10b; 10c) and has a pair of radial lugs (16) with axially drilled holes on opposite sides of the steering arm. The steering arm is integrally formed as a single piece with the radially outer surface (8) of the outer ring and the flange (14). The steering arm extends radially outward from the outer ring and the flange. The lugs (16) are integrally formed as a single piece with the flange (14) and are configured to support the brake caliper (19) in use. Incorporating a plate (29) that extends radially cantileveredly from the radially outer surface (8), the plate (29) being integrally formed as a single piece with the flange (14) and the steering arm (10), and connecting the flange (14) itself to the portion (30) of the steering arm that protrudes radially from the flange (14) and is adjacent to the flange in the circumferential portion of the flange.

11. A radial outer ring (1; 1b; 1c; 1d; 1e; 1f) for a hub unit or for forming part of a rolling bearing (4); said radial outer ring is defined between a radially inner surface (7) and a corresponding radially outer surface (8), said radially outer surface (8) being substantially coaxial with said radially inner surface (7), said radially inner surface (7) being provided with at least one annular raceway (9) configured to receive a corresponding rolling element (6) of said hub unit in use; characterized in that, Combinations include: (i) - A steering arm (10; 10b; 10c) extends radially cantileveredly from the outer ring starting from the radial outer surface (8), the steering arm (10; 10b; 10c) being provided with at least one corresponding engagement interface (11) configured to receive a steering tie rod (12) in use. (ii) - A flange (14) extends radially cantileveredly from the outer ring starting from the first axial end (13) of the radially outer surface (8), the flange (14) being configured to be integrally connected with the suspension column (3) in use; (iii) - The flange (14) is provided with at least one pair of lugs (16) radially cantilevered on its first side (15), the at least one pair of lugs (16) being integrally obtained as a single piece with the flange (14), and each lug (16) being provided with a first through hole (18) oriented parallel to the axis of symmetry (A) of the outer ring, and being configured to integrally support the brake caliper (19) with the outer ring in use. iv) - The steering arm (10; 110b; 10c) and the flange (14) are integrally machined as a single piece with the outer ring (1; 1b; 1c; 1d; 1e; 1f); v) - A plate (29) extends radially cantilevered from the radially outer surface (8) of the outer ring, the plate (29) also being radially cantilevered relative to the flange (14), and the plate (29) being integrally formed as a single piece with the flange (14) and the steering arm (10) so that the flange (14) itself is connected to the portion (30) of the steering arm that protrudes radially from the flange (14) and is adjacent to the flange in the circumferential portion of the flange.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Hub Unit Bearing

    US20090010581A1

  • Stamped steering knuckle for mounting suspension components

    US5120150A