Adjustment assembly for compensating for length changes of a spring element and suspension assembly of a vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to an adjustment assembly (16) for compensating for length changes of a spring element of a vehicle. The adjustment assembly comprises a first adjustment element (24) having a primary abutment face (32a, 32b, 32c) and a primary support face (28). The adjustment assembly (16) further comprises a second adjustment element (26) having a secondary abutment face (38a, 38b, 38c) and a secondary support face (36). The first adjustment element and the second adjustment element are arranged adjacent to each other along an axis (A) such that the primary abutment face and the secondary abutment face are in contact with each other. The primary abutment face and the secondary abutment face each extend circumferentially around the axis (A) and are inclined such that a distance (D) between the primary support face and the secondary support face can be changed by rotating the first adjustment element and the second adjustment element relative to each other. In addition, a wheel suspension assembly for a vehicle comprising a spring element and such an adjustment assembly (16) is provided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an adjustment assembly for compensating for changes in the length of spring elements in a vehicle.

[0002] This disclosure also relates to a wheel suspension assembly for a vehicle. Background Technology

[0003] As is well known, for example, due to manufacturing tolerances, the lengths of spring elements in a vehicle may vary. This means that spring elements with the same nominal length actually have different lengths.

[0004] When installed in a vehicle, this length variation is undesirable because the vehicle may tilt to one side due to the installation of springs with different effective lengths.

[0005] The potential problem leads to a conflict of objectives. On the one hand, spring elements can be produced with narrow tolerances, and therefore, the variation relative to their effective length is minimal. However, such spring elements are cost-intensive.

[0006] On the other hand, an adjustment assembly installed in the vehicle along with the spring element can be used to compensate for the length variation. However, such an adjustment assembly includes additional components. Furthermore, in addition to the spring element, the adjustment assembly also needs to be manufactured. This also incurs workload and cost. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Therefore, one object of this disclosure is to provide a method for eliminating or mitigating the negative effects caused by different lengths of spring elements. This method should simultaneously be cost-effective, reliable, and accurate.

[0008] The subject matter disclosed herein addresses or mitigates this problem at least partially.

[0009] According to a first aspect, an adjusting assembly for compensating for length variations in a vehicle spring element is provided. The adjusting assembly includes a first adjusting element having a main abutment surface and a main support surface. The main abutment surface and the main support surface are arranged opposite to each other. Furthermore, the adjusting assembly includes a second adjusting element having a secondary abutment surface and a secondary support surface. The secondary abutment surface and the secondary support surface are arranged opposite to each other. The first adjusting element and the second adjusting element are arranged adjacent to each other along an axis such that the main abutment surface and the secondary abutment surface contact each other. Furthermore, the main abutment surface and the secondary abutment surface extend circumferentially about the axis and are inclined, such that the normal on each abutment surface has a component extending along the axis and a component extending in the corresponding circumferential direction. Moreover, the inclined nature of the main abutment surface and the secondary abutment surface allows the distance between the main support surface and the secondary support surface to be adjusted by rotating the first adjusting element and the second adjusting element about the axis. Such an adjusting assembly is structurally very simple. Simultaneously, by rotating the first and second adjusting elements relative to each other, the distance between the primary and secondary support surfaces can be easily and precisely adjusted. Note that in this document, the term "primary" is used to refer to the element of the first adjusting element. Similarly, the term "secondary" is used to refer to the element of the second adjusting element. However, neither the terms "primary" nor "secondary" implies the number of elements. The support surfaces are configured to support spring elements or structural components or spring element adapters of the vehicle. The fact that the primary and secondary abutment surfaces are in contact with each other means that at least a portion of the primary abutment surface contacts at least a portion of the secondary abutment surface. The term "inclination" describes the fact that the respective abutment surfaces are inclination. This means that the abutment surfaces are neither parallel to nor perpendicular to the axis. This inclination has no component extending radially. Furthermore, the circumferential extension of the primary and secondary abutment surfaces covers at most one turn. This further improves the simplicity of the structure. Therefore, the primary and secondary abutment surfaces do not form threads or part of threads at all. In summary, the adjusting assembly is simple, reliable, and precise. Therefore, the adjustment assembly according to this disclosure can be used to simply, reliably, and accurately compensate for manufacturing tolerances of the spring elements of a vehicle. In this case, a typical adjustment range is 0 mm to 8 mm.

[0010] As an example, the primary and secondary contact surfaces can be annular, with their axes being the central axis of the ring. In this document, the term "annular" includes both circumferentially closed geometry (i.e., closed annular geometry) and circumferentially incomplete annular geometry (i.e., annular geometry with circumferential openings).

[0011] According to one example, multiple protrusions are arranged on at least one of the primary and secondary abutment surfaces. These protrusions may form teeth or steps. According to a variation, the protrusions are arranged on both the primary and secondary abutment surfaces. Therefore, when the first and second adjusting elements are rotated relative to each other about an axis, the adjustment of the distance between the primary and secondary support surfaces can be non-continuous, but incremental, with each increment associated with a tooth or a step. It must be noted that the fact that both the primary and secondary abutment surfaces are inclined defines their overall characteristics; that is, not every part of the primary and secondary abutment surfaces must be inclined. However, adjacent protrusions, such as steps or teeth, are always offset relative to each other along the axis. The direction of offset is always the same when following the primary and secondary abutment surfaces along their respective circumferential directions. Using these protrusions, such as teeth or steps, specific relative rotational positions of the first and second adjusting elements can be locked in place. Therefore, it is relatively easy to find the desired relative rotational positions of these components in order to accurately compensate for changes in the length of the relevant spring elements. Even if the adjustment can be incremental, sufficiently small increments can be selected to ensure high-precision adjustment.

[0012] In one example, 5 to 30 protrusions are provided on at least one of the primary and secondary contact surfaces. Similarly, the protrusions may be formed as teeth or steps. Therefore, the number of protrusions can be varied, thereby providing a target dimension for adjustment increments. The target increment can be, for example, 0.5 mm or 1 mm. This further facilitates compensation for changes in the length of the spring element.

[0013] In one example, the protrusion forms a positive locking mechanism effective in the circumferential direction. Effective in the circumferential direction means that the locking direction of the positive locking extends parallel to the circumferential direction. As mentioned above, the protrusion can form teeth or steps. Alternative terms for positive locking are form fit or positive fit. Therefore, at several relative rotational positions of the first and second adjusting elements, the primary and secondary abutment surfaces are locked in place relative to the circumferential direction. This means that the first and second adjusting elements can only leave this relative rotational position by overcoming a certain resistance. In this document, positive locking can be effective in both circumferential directions. Alternatively, positive locking can be effective only in the relevant circumferential direction that brings the primary and secondary abutment surfaces closer together. In both cases, each relative rotational position of the first and second adjusting elements can be reliably maintained. Therefore, the length compensation provided by the adjusting assembly is also reliably maintained.

[0014] In one example, one of the first and second adjusting elements includes a locating collar extending circumferentially around an axis. The corresponding other of the first and second adjusting elements includes an abutment wall extending circumferentially around an axis. The locating collar contacts the abutment wall, thereby preventing relative movement of the first and second adjusting elements in a direction perpendicular to the axis and allowing relative rotation. In other words, the locating collar and the abutment wall form a rotational guide that allows the first and second adjusting elements to rotate relative to each other in a defined manner. The combination of the locating collar and the abutment wall can also be specified as a swivel guide. This further improves the simplicity of operation and the accuracy of length compensation that can be provided by the adjusting components.

[0015] In one example, the adjustment assembly includes a fixing device for securing the first and second adjustment elements to each other in a direction parallel to the axis. Therefore, the first and second adjustment elements can either remain in the direction parallel to the axis, or they can be separated by overcoming a certain resistance. Both options improve the reliability of the adjustment assembly.

[0016] When the first and second adjusting elements are annular, the fixing device can be located at the inner circumference or the outer circumference of the annulus.

[0017] In one example, at least a portion of the fixing device can be arranged on the positioning collar. Therefore, the positioning collar has a dual function: positioning and fixing the first and second adjusting elements relative to each other. This allows for a compact design of the adjusting components.

[0018] In one example, the fixing device forms an effective forced lock between the first and second adjusting elements along a direction parallel to the axis. Similarly, alternative terms for forced lock are form fit or forced fit. Thus, the first and second adjusting elements are fixed one to the other along a direction parallel to the axis. In other words, the first and second adjusting elements are reliably held together.

[0019] In one example, the fixing device may include a protruding hook and a rim, wherein the protruding hook is disposed on one of the first and second adjusting elements, and the rim is disposed on the corresponding other of the first and second adjusting elements. The protruding hook may also be specified as a clip. This is a very simple and reliable form of fixing device.

[0020] In one example, the protruding hook is formed as part of the positioning collar.

[0021] In one example, an opening is provided at the center of at least one of the first and second adjusting elements. This opening forms a receiving space for the wheel suspension component. Therefore, the adjusting assembly can be installed in the wheel suspension component in a space-saving manner.

[0022] The opening can be arranged coaxially with the axis.

[0023] In one example, the first adjusting element may include at least two primary abutment surfaces. These at least two primary abutment surfaces may be distributed along a common circumference around the axis. Alternatively or additionally, the second adjusting element may include at least two secondary abutment surfaces, wherein these at least two secondary abutment surfaces are distributed along a common circumference around the axis. Each of the two primary abutment surfaces and / or each of the two secondary abutment surfaces is inclined, as explained above regarding abutment surfaces. The slope of each of the at least two primary abutment surfaces and / or the at least two secondary abutment surfaces is the same. The fact that at least two primary abutment surfaces and / or at least two secondary abutment surfaces is provided has the effect that the first and second adjusting elements abut against each other in a very stable manner. Force can be supported by the at least two primary abutment surfaces and / or at least two secondary abutment surfaces. The at least two primary abutment surfaces and / or at least two secondary abutment surfaces also provide a relatively large total abutment surface between the first and second abutment elements. Therefore, the abutment assembly can be configured to support large forces and large loads.

[0024] In one example, the at least two primary abutment surfaces and / or the at least two secondary abutment surfaces are evenly distributed around the circumference of the axis. With two abutment surfaces, they can be arranged radially opposite each other. Alternatively or additionally, the two abutment surfaces can be arranged circumferentially adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction. This means that each abutment surface covers half a circle or 180°. This applies, of course, to both primary and secondary abutment surfaces. In another alternative, a circumferential gap can be provided between circumferentially adjacent abutment surfaces. Therefore, with two abutment surfaces, each abutment surface covers less than half a circle, i.e., less than 180°. As mentioned above, this applies to both primary and secondary abutment surfaces. In all the examples and variations described above, the first and second adjusting elements support each other in a very stable manner.

[0025] In one example, the first adjusting element may include at least two primary abutment surfaces, which extend circumferentially around the axis with different radii. Alternatively or additionally, the second adjusting element may include at least two secondary abutment surfaces, which extend circumferentially around the axis with different radii. Similarly, each of the two primary abutment surfaces and / or each of the two secondary abutment surfaces is inclined, as explained above regarding abutment surfaces. The slope of each of the at least two primary abutment surfaces and / or at least two secondary abutment surfaces is the same. The fact that at least two primary abutment surfaces and / or at least two secondary abutment surfaces are now provided has the effect that the first and second adjusting elements abut against each other in a very stable manner. Force can be supported by the at least two primary abutment surfaces and / or at least two secondary abutment surfaces. The at least two primary abutment surfaces and / or at least two secondary abutment surfaces also provide a relatively large total abutment surface between the first and second abutment elements. Therefore, the abutment assembly can be configured to support large forces and large loads.

[0026] In one example, the first adjusting element may include two, three, four, or five main abutment surfaces. These two, three, four, or five main abutment surfaces may be distributed along a common circumference around the axis. Alternatively or additionally, the second adjusting element may include two, three, four, or five secondary abutment surfaces, wherein these two, three, four, or five secondary abutment surfaces are distributed along a common circumference around the axis.

[0027] In another example, the first adjusting element may include two, three, four, or five primary abutment surfaces, wherein the two, three, four, or five primary abutment surfaces extend circumferentially around the axis with different radii. Alternatively or additionally, the second adjusting element may include two, three, four, or five secondary abutment surfaces, wherein the two, three, four, or five secondary abutment surfaces extend circumferentially around the axis with different radii.

[0028] Of course, it should be noted that the above-described example of the at least two main abutment surfaces and / or the at least two secondary abutment surfaces distributed along a common circumference around the axis and the above-described example of the at least two main abutment surfaces and / or the at least two secondary abutment surfaces extending circumferentially around the axis with different radii can be combined. Therefore, each of the first and second adjusting elements may include at least two abutment surfaces distributed along a common circumference and at least two abutment surfaces extending circumferentially around the axis with different radii. This can result in particularly stable support for one of the first and second adjusting elements on the other.

[0029] In one example, the corresponding circumferential ends of the primary abutment surface and / or the corresponding circumferential ends of the secondary abutment surface are regularly distributed on the circumference around the axis. This means that the angular distance between adjacent corresponding circumferential ends of the primary abutment surface and / or the angular distance between adjacent corresponding circumferential ends of the secondary abutment surface is constant. In this document, the circumferential ends of the primary abutment surface and the circumferential ends of the secondary abutment surface are defined as the corresponding start and end points of the ramp formed by each abutment surface. The regular distribution of these ends results in a mechanically stable support for the first and second adjusting elements to overlap each other.

[0030] In one example, at least one of the first and second adjusting elements can be a single piece. In other words, at least one of the first and second adjusting elements is formed as a single unit. Therefore, the first and / or second adjusting elements can be manufactured in a simple and cost-effective manner.

[0031] In one example, at least one of the first and second adjusting elements can be made of a plastic material. This also has the effect that the first and / or second adjusting elements can be manufactured in a simple and cost-effective manner. It is worth noting that the use of a plastic material is made possible by ensuring that the primary and secondary contact surfaces are of sufficient size. Otherwise, the mechanical tension that must be supported by the first and / or second adjusting elements might be too high.

[0032] In one example, at least one of the first and second adjusting elements, made of plastic material, is manufactured by injection molding. This manufacturing technique is particularly suitable for the mass production of adjusting components.

[0033] As an example, the plastic material can be a fiber-reinforced plastic material. Therefore, the first and / or second adjusting elements are reinforced with fibers to enhance their respective mechanical properties. Thus, the adjusting assembly can be designed in a compact manner while still being able to support the necessary forces.

[0034] In one example, the reinforcing fiber is glass fiber.

[0035] According to a second aspect, a wheel suspension assembly for a vehicle is provided. The wheel suspension assembly may include a spring element and an adjustment assembly according to this disclosure, wherein the adjustment assembly is disposed at an end of the spring element. Therefore, if the effective length of the spring element deviates undesirably from its nominal length, the adjustment assembly can be used to compensate for this length deviation.

[0036] In one example, the spring element may be a helical spring. In another example, the spring element may be an air spring or a leaf spring. For all these examples, compensation for length variations is possible.

[0037] It should be noted that the above examples can be combined with each other, regardless of the aspects involved.

[0038] These and other aspects of this disclosure will become apparent from the examples described below, and will be illustrated with reference to the examples described below. Attached Figure Description

[0039] Examples of this disclosure will now be described with reference to the following figures.

[0040] Figure 1 A vehicle is shown that tilts due to the use of spring elements of varying effective lengths. Figure 2 A wheel suspension assembly according to the present disclosure is shown, which has an adjustment assembly according to the present disclosure. Figure 3 Shown in more detail from a first-person perspective Figure 2 The adjustment components, Figure 4 A more detailed view is shown from a second perspective. Figure 2 The adjustment components, Figure 5 Shown in side view Figures 2 to 4 The adjustment component, wherein the adjustment component is in the first, low configuration, Figure 6 Shown in side view Figures 2 to 5 The adjustment component, which is in the second, high configuration, Figure 7 A sectional view along VII-VII is shown. Figure 4 Details of the adjustment components, Figure 8 Shown in exploded view Figures 2 to 6 The adjustment components, Figure 9 The first perspective view is shown Figures 2 to 6 The first adjusting element of the adjusting assembly, Figure 10 Shown in second perspective view Figure 9 The first regulating element, Figure 11 The first perspective view is shown Figures 2 to 6 The second adjusting element of the adjusting assembly, Figure 12 Shown in second perspective view Figure 11 The second adjusting element, Figure 13 Another example of an adjustment component according to this disclosure is illustrated in a partially exploded view, and Figure 14 Another example of an adjustment component according to this disclosure is shown in an exploded view. Detailed Implementation

[0041] These figures are merely illustrative and are intended to illustrate examples of this disclosure only. Identical or equivalent elements generally have the same reference numerals.

[0042] Figure 1 The vehicle 10 is shown tilted to the right relative to the forward direction of travel. This is because the vehicle uses a wheel suspension assembly that includes spring elements of varying effective lengths.

[0043] Figure 2 A wheel suspension assembly 12 for a vehicle is shown, which is capable of solving the tilting problem of vehicle 10.

[0044] The wheel suspension assembly 12 includes a spring element 14.

[0045] In this example, spring element 14 is a helical spring. In other examples, spring element 14 may also be an air spring or a leaf spring (also known as a steel leaf spring).

[0046] In this example, spring element 14 is subject to manufacturing tolerances. Therefore, the effective length L of spring element 14 differs from its nominal length.

[0047] To compensate for this length difference, the wheel suspension assembly 12 includes an adjustment assembly 16 configured to compensate for changes in the length of the spring element 14.

[0048] In this example, the adjustment assembly 16 is arranged at the lower end of the spring element 14. This means that the adjustment assembly 16 is positioned between the lower end of the spring element 14 and the first structural part 18 of the vehicle 10.

[0049] The upper end of the spring element 14 is supported on the second structural part 20 of the vehicle 10 via a non-adjustable abutment element 22.

[0050] Combining Figures 3 to 12 The adjustment component 16 will be described in more detail.

[0051] The adjustment assembly 16 includes a first adjustment element 24, which in this example is an upper adjustment element.

[0052] Furthermore, the adjustment assembly 16 includes a second adjustment element 26, which in this example is a lower adjustment element (see [link]). Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 ).

[0053] The first adjusting element 24 and the second adjusting element 26 are both annular. Furthermore, the first adjusting element 24 and the second adjusting element 26 are arranged such that each annular element shares a common axis A.

[0054] An opening 24a, 26a is provided at the center of each of the first adjusting element 24 and the second adjusting element 26. The openings 24a and 26a respectively form receiving spaces for the wheel suspension components (see also...). Figure 2 ).

[0055] The first adjusting element 24 includes a main support surface 28 arranged on the first axial side of the first adjusting element 24 (see...). Figure 9 and Figure 10 ).

[0056] The main support surface 28 is configured to support one end of the spring element 14.

[0057] In this example, the support pad 30 is arranged on the main support surface 28.

[0058] Furthermore, the first adjusting element 24 includes a total of four main abutment surfaces 32a, 32b, 32c, and 32d (see in particular). Figure 10 ).

[0059] All the main contact surfaces 32a, 32b, 32c, and 32d are arranged on the axial side of the first adjusting element 24 opposite to the main support surface 28.

[0060] In this example, all the main contact surfaces 32a, 32b, 32c, and 32d extend circumferentially around axis A, and the ends of the main contact surfaces 32a, 32b, 32c, and 32d are regularly distributed on the circumference around axis A.

[0061] In this example, each of the main abutment surfaces 32a, 32b, 32c, 32d extends on a circumference of 180°, with one of the main abutment surfaces 32a, 32b, 32c, 32d starting at each 90° of the circumference.

[0062] The main contact surfaces 32a and 32b are distributed along a common circumference around axis A.

[0063] This also applies to the main abutment surfaces 32c and 32d, which are also distributed along a common circumference around axis A.

[0064] However, the corresponding radii are different.

[0065] The main abutment surfaces 32a and 32b extend along the larger outer radius, while the main abutment surfaces 32c and 32d extend along the smaller inner radius.

[0066] In other words, the main abutment surfaces 32a and 32b form the outer ring of the abutment surface, and the main abutment surfaces 32c and 32d form the inner ring of the abutment surface.

[0067] All the main abutment surfaces 32a, 32b, 32c, and 32d are inclined, and the slope of all the main abutment surfaces 32a, 32b, 32c, and 32d is the same.

[0068] In addition, multiple protrusions are provided on each of the main abutment surfaces 32a, 32b, 32c, and 32d. In this example, the protrusions are formed as teeth 34.

[0069] In the example shown in the attached figures, each main abutment surface 32a, 32b, 32c, 32d includes 16 teeth 34. For better visibility, only some of the teeth 34 are provided with reference numerals.

[0070] Since tooth 34 is relatively flat and one tooth surface is significantly larger than the corresponding other tooth surface, the tooth can also be designated as a step.

[0071] The second adjusting element 26 includes a secondary support surface 36 arranged on the first axial side of the second adjusting element 26 (see...). Figure 11 and Figure 12 ).

[0072] The secondary support surface 36 is configured to support the adjustment component 16 on the first structural part 18.

[0073] Furthermore, the second adjustment element 26 includes a total of four secondary contact surfaces 38a, 38b, 38c, and 38d (see in particular). Figure 11 ).

[0074] All secondary contact surfaces 38a, 38b, 38c, and 38d are arranged on the axial side of the second adjusting element 26 opposite to the secondary support surface 36.

[0075] In this example, all secondary contact surfaces 38a, 38b, 38c, and 38d extend circumferentially around axis A, and the ends of the secondary contact surfaces 38a, 38b, 38c, and 38d are regularly distributed on the circumference around axis A.

[0076] In this example, each of the secondary contact surfaces 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d extends on a circumference of 180°, with one of the secondary contact surfaces 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d starting at 90° of the circumference.

[0077] The secondary contact surfaces 38a and 38b are distributed along a common circumference around axis A.

[0078] This also applies to the secondary contact surfaces 38c and 38d, which are also distributed along a common circumference around axis A.

[0079] However, the corresponding radii are different.

[0080] Secondary contact surfaces 38a and 38b extend along the larger outer radius, while secondary contact surfaces 38c and 38d extend along the smaller inner radius.

[0081] In other words, the secondary contact surfaces 38a and 38b form the outer ring of the contact surface, and the secondary contact surfaces 38c and 38d form the inner ring of the contact surface.

[0082] All secondary contact surfaces 38a, 38b, 38c, and 38d are inclined, and the slopes of all secondary contact surfaces 38a, 38b, 38c, and 38d are the same.

[0083] Furthermore, the slopes of the secondary contact surfaces 38a, 38b, 38c, and 38d are the same as the slopes of the primary contact surfaces 32a, 32b, 32c, and 32d.

[0084] Furthermore, multiple protrusions are provided on each of the secondary contact surfaces 38a, 38b, 38c, and 38d. In this example, the protrusions are formed as teeth 40.

[0085] In the example shown in the attached figures, each of the secondary contact surfaces 38a, 38b, 38c, and 38d includes 16 teeth 40. For better visibility, only some of the teeth 40 are provided with reference numerals.

[0086] Since tooth 40 is relatively flat and one tooth surface is significantly larger than the corresponding other tooth surface, the tooth can also be designated as a step.

[0087] The first adjusting element 24 and the second adjusting element 26 are arranged adjacent to each other along axis A, such that the main contact surfaces 32a, 32b, 32c, 32d and the secondary contact surfaces 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d are in contact with each other in pairs.

[0088] More specifically, the main abutment surface 32a contacts the secondary abutment surface 38a, the main abutment surface 32b contacts the secondary abutment surface 38b, the main abutment surface 32c contacts the secondary abutment surface 38c, and the main abutment surface 32d contacts the secondary abutment surface 38d.

[0089] The slopes of the primary contact surfaces 32a, 32b, 32c, 32d and the secondary contact surfaces 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d are formed such that the normals on each contact surface 32a, 32b, 32c, 32d and 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d have a component extending along axis A and a component extending along the corresponding circumferential direction.

[0090] Therefore, the distance D between the main support surface 28 and the secondary support surface 36 can be changed by rotating the first adjustment element 24 and the second adjustment element 26 about axis A relative to each other.

[0091] By comparison Figure 5 and Figure 6 This is best seen.

[0092] Figure 5 The adjustment component 16 in the first configuration is shown. In this configuration, each primary contact surface 32a, 32b, 32c, 32d contacts the corresponding secondary contact surfaces 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d over its full range.

[0093] This means that the main contact surface 32a and the secondary contact surface 38a are in contact with each other at 180°, the main contact surface 32b and the secondary contact surface 38b are in contact with each other at 180°, the main contact surface 32c and the secondary contact surface 38c are in contact with each other at 180°, and the main contact surface 32d and the secondary contact surface 38d are in contact with each other at 180°.

[0094] Therefore, the distance D between the primary support surface 28 and the secondary support surface 36 should be as small as possible. Figure 5 The configuration can also be referred to as the low configuration of adjustment component 16.

[0095] Figure 6 The adjustment component 16 in the second configuration is shown. In this configuration, each pair of primary contact surfaces 32a, 32b, 32c, 32d and secondary contact surfaces 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d contacts only over a range smaller than the corresponding full range.

[0096] In the example shown in the attached figure, the main abutment surface 32a and the secondary abutment surface 38a are in contact with each other at 90°, the main abutment surface 32b and the secondary abutment surface 38b are in contact with each other at 90°, the main abutment surface 32c and the secondary abutment surface 38c are in contact with each other at 90°, and the main abutment surface 32d and the secondary abutment surface 38d are in contact with each other at 90°.

[0097] Therefore, given that all the primary contact surfaces 32a, 32b, 32c, 32d and all the secondary contact surfaces 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d are inclined, the distance D between the primary support surface 28 and the secondary support surface 36 is greater than... Figure 5 The first configuration. Therefore, Figure 6 The configuration can also be referred to as the high configuration of adjustment component 16.

[0098] By rotating the first adjusting element 24 relative to the second adjusting element 26 about axis A, the adjusting assembly 16 can be adjusted from a first configuration (see...). Figure 5 Convert to the second configuration (see) Figure 6For adjusting component 16 from the second configuration (see...) Figure 6 ) converted to the first configuration (see Figure 5 The same applies to ( ).

[0099] Of course, it is also possible to have an intermediate relative rotational position between the first adjusting element 24 and the second adjusting element 26, such that the distance D between the main support surface 28 and the secondary support surface 36 is located at... Figure 5 and Figure 6 The distance D shown is between.

[0100] In each relative rotational position of the first adjusting element 24 and the second adjusting element 26, the teeth 34 and 40 form a positive locking mechanism that is effective in the circumferential direction. More specifically, the positive locking mechanism is effective in both circumferential directions.

[0101] If we consider again Figure 5 and Figure 6 Only when the first adjusting element 24 and the second adjusting element are allowed to have relative movement along axis A can the first adjusting element 24 rotate relative to the second adjusting element 26.

[0102] Therefore, if the adjustment assembly 16 is installed in the vehicle 10, wherein the first adjustment element 24 and the second adjustment element 26 are in a specific rotational relative position and the vehicle 10 and / or the spring element 14 apply a certain pressure on the adjustment assembly 16 along axis A, then the first adjustment element 24 and the second adjustment element 26 cannot rotate relative to each other because the teeth 34 and 40 mesh with each other.

[0103] To facilitate the relative rotation of the first adjusting element 24 with respect to the second adjusting element 26, a positioning collar 42 is provided on the inner circumference of the first adjusting element 24 (see [reference]). Figure 4 , Figure 7 and Figure 10 ).

[0104] The positioning collar 42 extends circumferentially around axis A and protrudes from the first adjusting element 24 toward the second adjusting element 26.

[0105] On the second adjusting element 26, a corresponding abutment wall 44 is provided at its inner circumference. The abutment wall 44 also extends circumferentially around axis A.

[0106] The locating collar 42 at least partially contacts the abutment wall 44, thereby preventing relative movement between the first adjusting element 24 and the second adjusting element 26 in a direction perpendicular to axis A, while allowing relative rotation. In other words, the locating collar 42 and the abutment wall 44 form a rotation guide.

[0107] Adjustment assembly 16 also includes a fixing device 46 for fixing the first adjustment element 24 and the second adjustment element 26 to each other in a direction parallel to axis A (see [link]). Figure 4 , Figure 7 and Figure 10 ).

[0108] In this example, the fixing device 46 includes two fixing hooks 48, which are formed as part of the positioning collar 42.

[0109] The fixing hook 48 is positioned relative to the positioning collar 42.

[0110] In addition, the fixing device 46 includes a fixing flange 50.

[0111] In this example, the fixed flange 50 is arranged at the inner periphery of the opening 26a and protrudes toward the interior of the opening 26a.

[0112] When the adjusting assembly 16 is installed, the two retaining hooks 48 engage with the retaining flange 50, thereby creating a forced lock between the first adjusting element 24 and the second adjusting element 26. This forced lock is effective in a direction parallel to axis A, meaning that the first adjusting element 24 and the second adjusting element 26 can only be separated by relative movement along axis A by overcoming the resistance provided by the retaining device 46.

[0113] In this example, the first adjusting element 24 and the second adjusting element 26 are each made as a single piece. Both the first adjusting element 24 and the second adjusting element 26 are made of glass fiber reinforced plastic material.

[0114] Figure 13 Another example of adjustment component 16 is shown.

[0115] In the following text, only the following will be explained Figure 13 Examples and Figures 3 to 12 The differences between the adjusting components are explained above. For the rest, please refer to the explanation above. The same reference numerals are used for the same or corresponding parts.

[0116] It should be understood that Figure 13 The adjustment component 16 can be used as Figure 2 In the wheel suspension assembly 12 Figures 3 to 12 Replacement of adjustment component 16.

[0117] The first difference relates to the fixing device 46.

[0118] exist Figure 13 In the example, the retaining hook 48 is arranged on the outer periphery of the first adjusting element 24. Therefore, the retaining flange 50 is also provided on the outer periphery of the second adjusting element 26.

[0119] The second difference relates to the design of the first adjusting element 24, and more specifically, to the main support surface 28. Figure 13 In the example, the main support surface 28 is disposed on a separate adapter member 52, which is mounted on the first adjustment element using two mounting hooks 54.

[0120] Therefore, the adjustment assembly 16 consists of a total of three parts: the adapter component 52, the first adjustment element 24, and the second adjustment element 26.

[0121] exist Figure 14 Another example of the adjustment component 16 is shown in the figure.

[0122] Similarly, only explanations will be provided. Figure 14 Examples and Figures 3 to 12 The differences between the adjusting components are explained above. For the rest, please refer to the explanation above. The same reference numerals are used for the same or corresponding parts.

[0123] It should be understood that Figure 14 The adjustment component 16 can be used as Figure 2 In the wheel suspension assembly 12 Figures 3 to 12 Replacement of adjustment component 16.

[0124] according to Figure 14 The first adjustment element 24 and the second adjustment element 26 of the adjustment assembly 16 each include two main contact surfaces 32a and 32b and two secondary contact surfaces 38a and 38b.

[0125] and Figures 3 to 12 Compared to the adjustment component 16, the main contact surface and the secondary contact surface on the inner periphery are omitted.

[0126] In addition, Figure 14 In the example, the positioning collar 42 is located on the second adjusting element 26, rather than on the first adjusting element 24.

[0127] Furthermore, the fixing device 46 is also different.

[0128] exist Figure 14 In the example, the fixing device 46 includes a set of protrusions 56 arranged in a regular pattern on the outer periphery of the positioning collar 42. On adjacent portions of the abutment wall 44, corresponding recesses 58 are provided according to a corresponding regular pattern. The protrusions 56 are configured to extend into the recesses 58, thereby creating an effective forced locking along axis A between the first adjusting element 24 and the second adjusting element 26.

[0129] It should be understood that the fixing device 46 can also be reversed, so that the protrusion 56 is disposed on the abutment wall 44 and the recess 58 is disposed on the positioning collar 42.

[0130] Those skilled in the art, when implementing the claimed disclosure, can understand and implement other variations of the disclosed examples by studying the accompanying drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite words "a," "an," or "one" do not exclude multiple. The fact that certain measures are stated in mutually distinct independent claims does not in itself indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be advantageous. Any reference numerals in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims.

[0131] List of reference numerals 10 vehicles 12-wheel suspension assembly 14 Spring Elements 16 adjustment components 18 First Structural Section 20 Second Structural Section 22 Non-adjustable contact element 24 First Adjustment Element 24a opening 26 Second Adjustment Element 26a opening 28 main support surfaces 30 support pads 32a Main Abutment Surface 32b Main Abutment Surface 32c main contact surface 32d main contact surface 34 teeth 36 support surfaces 38a secondary contact surface 38b secondary contact surface 38c secondary contact surface 38d secondary contact surface 40 teeth 42 positioning collar 44 Abutment Wall 46 Fixing devices 48 fixed hooks 50 fixed flange 52 adapter components 54 Installation Hook 56 protrusions 58 concavity Axis A Distance between the primary support surface and the secondary support surface D The effective length of the L spring element

Claims

1. An adjustment assembly (16) for compensating for length changes in a spring element (14) of a vehicle (10), comprising: A first adjusting element (24) has a main abutment surface (32a, 32b, 32c, 32d) and a main support surface (28), wherein the main abutment surfaces (32a, 32b, 32c, 32d) and the main support surface (28) are arranged opposite to each other, and The second adjusting element (26) has a secondary abutment surface (38a, 38b, 38c, 38d) and a secondary support surface (36), wherein the secondary abutment surfaces (38a, 38b, 38c, 38d) and the secondary support surface (36) are arranged opposite to each other. The first adjusting element (24) and the second adjusting element (26) are arranged adjacent to each other along axis (A) such that the main contact surfaces (32a, 32b, 32c, 32d) and the secondary contact surfaces (38a, 38b, 38c, 38d) are in contact with each other. The main abutment surfaces (32a, 32b, 32c, 32d) and the secondary abutment surfaces (38a, 38b, 38c, 38d) extend circumferentially around the axis (A) and are inclined, such that the normal on each abutment surface (32a, 32b, 32c, 32d, 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d) has a component extending along the axis (A) and a component extending in the corresponding circumferential direction, and such that the distance (D) between the main support surface (28) and the secondary support surface (36) can be adjusted by rotating the first adjusting element (24) and the second adjusting element (26) relative to each other around the axis (A), and One of the first adjusting element (24) and the second adjusting element (26) includes a positioning collar (42) extending circumferentially around the axis (A), and the other of the first adjusting element (24) and the second adjusting element (26) includes an abutment wall (44) extending circumferentially around the axis (A), wherein the positioning collar (42) contacts the abutment wall (44) to prevent relative movement between the first adjusting element (24) and the second adjusting element (26) in a direction perpendicular to the axis (A), but allows relative rotation.

2. The adjustment component (16) according to claim 1, wherein, A plurality of protrusions are arranged on at least one of the main abutment surfaces (32a, 32b, 32c, 32d) and the secondary abutment surfaces (38a, 38b, 38c, 38d).

3. The adjustment component (16) according to claim 2, wherein, Five to 30 protrusions are provided on at least one of the main abutment surfaces (32a, 32b, 32c, 32d) and the secondary abutment surfaces (38a, 38b, 38c, 38d).

4. The adjusting component (16) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The protrusion forms an effective forced lock along the circumferential direction.

5. The adjustment assembly (16) according to any one of claims 1-3 further includes a fixing device (46) for fixing the first adjustment element (24) and the second adjustment element (26) to each other in a direction parallel to the axis (A).

6. The adjusting assembly (16) according to claim 5, wherein at least a portion of the fixing device (46) is arranged on the positioning collar (42).

7. The adjustment assembly (16) according to claim 5, wherein the fixing device (46) forms an effective forced lock between the first adjustment element (24) and the second adjustment element (26) in a direction parallel to the axis (A).

8. The adjustment assembly (16) according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein an opening (24a, 26a) is provided at the center of at least one of the first adjustment element (24) and the second adjustment element (26), the opening (24a, 26a) forming a receiving space for the wheel suspension component.

9. The adjustment assembly (16) according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein the first adjustment element (24) comprises at least two main contact surfaces (32a, 32b, 32c, 32d), wherein the at least two main contact surfaces (32a, 32b, 32c, 32d) are distributed along a common circumference around the axis (A), and / or the second adjustment element (26) comprises at least two secondary contact surfaces (38a, 38b, 38c, 38d), wherein the at least two secondary contact surfaces (38a, 38b, 38c, 38d) are distributed along a common circumference around the axis (A).

10. The adjusting assembly (16) according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein the first adjusting element (24) comprises at least two main abutment surfaces (32a, 32b, 32c, 32d), wherein the at least two main abutment surfaces (32a, 32b, 32c, 32d) extend circumferentially around the axis (A) with different radii, and / or The second adjustment element (26) includes at least two secondary contact surfaces (38a, 38b, 38c, 38d), wherein the at least two secondary contact surfaces (38a, 38b, 38c, 38d) extend circumferentially around the axis (A) with different radii.

11. The adjustment assembly (16) according to claim 9, wherein, The corresponding circumferential ends of the main contact surfaces (32a, 32b, 32c, 32d) and / or the corresponding circumferential ends of the secondary contact surfaces (38a, 38b, 38c, 38d) are regularly distributed on the circumference surrounding the axis (A).

12. The adjustment assembly (16) according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein at least one of the first adjustment element (24) and the second adjustment element (26) is an integral piece.

13. The adjustment assembly (16) according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein at least one of the first adjustment element (24) and the second adjustment element (26) is made of plastic material.

14. A wheel suspension assembly (12) for a vehicle (10) comprising a spring element (14) and an adjustment assembly (16) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the adjustment assembly (16) is disposed at an end of the spring element (14).

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