Subframe bushing and subframe assembly

Abstract

This invention discloses a subframe bushing, comprising a metal inner cylinder and a rubber layer, and a metal skeleton. The metal skeleton is disposed outside the metal inner cylinder, and its outer surface is vulcanized integrally with the rubber layer. The rubber layer is used to fit against the subframe, and the metal inner cylinder is used to connect with mounting bolts via nuts. This invention also discloses a subframe assembly. In this invention, the rubber layer only needs to be fitted against the subframe, making assembly and disassembly very convenient. When the subframe bushing is damaged, only the bushing needs to be replaced, without replacing the entire subframe assembly, thus reducing maintenance costs. Furthermore, during operation, the rubber layer and the metal skeleton are less prone to cracking, increasing the bushing's service life.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the technical field of automobiles, and more particularly to a subframe bushing and a subframe assembly. Background Technology

[0002] like Figure 1 As shown, the inner and outer cylinders of the existing subframe bushing 10' are vulcanized together. The outer cylinder 1' is interference-fitted with the subframe 20', and the mounting bolt 30' passes through the inner cylinder 2' and is tightened onto the vehicle body. The inner cylinder 2' is pressed against the mounting bolt 30' of the vehicle body. Because the bushing 10' is subjected to continuous tensile force during operation, cracking is likely to occur between the rubber 3' and the inner cylinder 2' and outer cylinder 1' under strength / durability conditions. Since the bushing 10' and the subframe 20' were previously press-fitted together via an interference fit, maintenance requires replacing the entire subframe 20', which is costly.

[0003] In addition, the existing bushing 10′ uses a limiting metal shim 40′ to restrict the displacement of the subframe 20′ under large input force, and uses a buffer rubber shim 50′ to avoid direct collision between the subframe 20′ and the limiting metal shim 40′, which increases the cost.

[0004] Therefore, it is necessary to design a subframe bushing and subframe assembly that is not prone to cracking, easy to repair and replace, and has a low cost. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide a subframe bushing and subframe assembly that are not prone to cracking, are easy to repair and replace, and have a low cost.

[0006] The present invention provides a subframe bushing, including a metal inner cylinder and a rubber layer, and a metal skeleton. The metal skeleton is disposed outside the metal inner cylinder, and the outer surface of the metal skeleton is vulcanized integrally with the rubber layer. The rubber layer is used to fit against the subframe, and the metal inner cylinder is used to connect with mounting bolts via nuts.

[0007] Furthermore, the outer surface of the metal skeleton is convex.

[0008] Furthermore, the outer surface of the metal skeleton is a hemispherical surface.

[0009] Furthermore, the metal frame includes a first frame and a second frame, with the first frame and the second frame arranged symmetrically vertically.

[0010] Furthermore, the metal inner cylinder includes a first inner cylinder and a second inner cylinder, the first inner cylinder being integrally formed with the first frame, the second inner cylinder being integrally formed with the second frame, and the first inner cylinder and the second inner cylinder being connected.

[0011] Furthermore, the first inner cylinder and the second inner cylinder are integrally formed.

[0012] Furthermore, the thickness of the rubber layer in the front-to-back direction is greater than its thickness in the left-to-right direction.

[0013] Furthermore, grooves are provided on the outer surface of the rubber layer in the front-rear direction.

[0014] Furthermore, fine stripes are provided on the outer surface of the rubber layer in the left-right direction.

[0015] The present invention also provides a subframe assembly, including a subframe and mounting bolts, and further including the subframe bushing as described in any of the above claims, wherein the subframe is provided with a mounting groove, and the mounting groove is in contact with the rubber layer.

[0016] The above technical solution has the following beneficial effects:

[0017] In this invention, the rubber layer only needs to be attached to the subframe, making assembly and disassembly very convenient. When the subframe bushing is damaged, only the bushing needs to be replaced, without replacing the entire subframe assembly, thus reducing maintenance costs. Furthermore, during operation, the rubber layer is less prone to cracking between itself and the metal frame, increasing the bushing's service life. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The disclosure of this invention will become more readily understood by referring to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that these drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this invention. In the drawings:

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the existing bushing connection to the subframe;

[0020] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the connection between the split subframe bushing and the subframe in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the connection between the subframe bushing and the subframe in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the upper half of a split subframe bushing in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the lower half of a split subframe bushing in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the connection between the integral subframe bushing and the subframe in another embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 7This is a top view of the connection between the subframe bushing and the subframe in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the subframe bushing bearing upward pressure in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the subframe bushing bearing downward pressure in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the subframe bushing bearing leftward pressure in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of a subframe bushing subjected to rightward pressure in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the subframe bushing bearing forward pressure in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the subframe bushing bearing rearward pressure in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Reference table for attached figures:

[0033] Bushing 10′, subframe 20′, mounting bolt 30′, limiting metal washer 40′, buffer rubber pad 50′, metal sleeve 60′, outer cylinder 1′, inner cylinder 2′, rubber 3′;

[0034] Subframe bushing 10:

[0035] Metal inner cylinder 1: First inner cylinder 11, second inner cylinder 12;

[0036] Rubber layer 2: grooves 21, fine stripes 22;

[0037] Metal skeleton 3: First skeleton 31, second skeleton 32;

[0038] Subframe 20, mounting bolts 30, mounting groove 201. Detailed Implementation

[0039] The specific embodiments of the present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0040] It is readily understood that, based on the technical solution of this invention, various structural and implementation methods can be interchanged by those skilled in the art without altering the essential spirit of the invention. Therefore, the following detailed embodiments and accompanying drawings are merely illustrative examples of the technical solution of this invention and should not be considered as the entirety of the invention or as limitations or restrictions on the technical solution of the invention.

[0041] The directional terms such as up, down, left, right, front, back, front, back, top, and bottom mentioned or possibly used in this specification are defined relative to the structures shown in the accompanying drawings. They are relative concepts and may therefore vary depending on their location and usage. Therefore, these or other directional terms should not be interpreted as restrictive.

[0042] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 2-3 As shown, the subframe bushing 10 includes a metal inner cylinder 1 and a rubber layer 2, and also includes a metal frame 3. The metal frame 3 is disposed outside the metal inner cylinder 1. The outer surface of the metal frame 3 is vulcanized with the rubber layer 2. The rubber layer 2 is used to fit against the subframe 20. The metal inner cylinder 1 is used to connect with the mounting bolt 30 through a nut (not shown).

[0043] Unlike existing bushings, the rubber layer 2 in this embodiment is not located inside the subframe bushing 10, but outside the metal frame 3, and is directly attached to the subframe 20. The inner metal cylinder 1 is a hollow cylindrical tube, and its hollow interior is used to insert the mounting bolts 30.

[0044] The metal skeleton 3 is located between the metal inner cylinder 1 and the rubber layer 2. The metal skeleton 3 extends outward from the outside of the metal inner cylinder 1 to form the outer surface of the outwardly protruding metal skeleton 3.

[0045] The rubber layer 2 is vulcanized on the outer surface of the metal frame 3, forming an outwardly convex elastic surface. A structure corresponding to the shape of the rubber layer 2 is formed on the subframe 2, so that the rubber layer 2 can fully fit into the subframe 2.

[0046] In this embodiment, since the rubber layer 2 is in close contact with the subframe 20, the subframe bushing 10 is easy to install and remove from the subframe 20. During installation, the subframe bushing 10 is simply placed onto the subframe 20. Unlike the existing press-fitting between bushings and subframes, the rubber layer 2 and the subframe 20 have a small interference fit, which is a compression fit. This reduces the installation accuracy requirements for the subframe and bushing, thus lowering processing costs. Then, the mounting bolts 30 are inserted into the metal inner cylinder 1, and finally, the nuts are tightened onto the mounting bolts 30, thus achieving the connection between the subframe bushing 10 and the subframe 20.

[0047] During disassembly, first loosen the nut, then remove the mounting bolt 30, and finally remove the subframe bushing 10 from the subframe 20.

[0048] In this embodiment, when the bushing is damaged, only the subframe bushing 10 needs to be replaced, instead of replacing the entire subframe assembly, thus reducing maintenance costs.

[0049] Because the rubber layer is subjected to pressure on both sides during operation, it is less prone to cracking, which extends the service life of the bushing and further reduces costs.

[0050] Preferably, the outer surface of the metal skeleton 3 is hemispherical, and the rubber layer 2 is also hemispherical.

[0051] Optionally, the outer surface of the metal frame 3 can also be a square protrusion or other shape, and the corresponding rubber layer 2 can also be a square convex surface or other corresponding shape.

[0052] The purpose of the metal frame 3 protruding outward is to ensure that there is sufficient contact surface between the rubber layer 2 and the subframe 20, so that the rubber layer 2 can better absorb the pressure during movement.

[0053] Furthermore, such as Figure 4-5 As shown, the subframe bushing 10 is a split type, consisting of upper and lower parts.

[0054] The metal frame 3 includes a first frame 31 and a second frame 32, which are arranged symmetrically in the upper and lower parts.

[0055] The metal inner cylinder 1 includes a first inner cylinder 11 and a second inner cylinder 12. The first inner cylinder 11 is integrally formed with the first frame 31, and the second inner cylinder 12 is integrally formed with the second frame 32. The first inner cylinder 11 and the second inner cylinder 12 are connected together.

[0056] like Figure 4 As shown, the upper part of the bushing consists of a first skeleton 31, a first inner cylinder 11 and a rubber layer 2. The first skeleton 31 and the rubber layer 2 bulge downwards and are hemispherical.

[0057] like Figure 5 As shown, the lower half of the bushing consists of a second fastener 32, a second inner cylinder 12, and a rubber layer 2. The second skeleton 32 and the rubber layer 2 bulge upwards and are also hemispherical.

[0058] like Figure 3 As shown, the upper and lower parts of the subframe bushing 10 are arranged symmetrically. The subframe 20 has two symmetrical mounting grooves 201. The upper part is inserted into the upper mounting groove 201 from top to bottom, and the lower part is inserted into the lower mounting groove 201 from bottom to top.

[0059] The first inner cylinder 11 is connected to the second inner cylinder 12. The mounting bolts 30 are inserted into the second inner cylinder 12 and the first inner cylinder 11 from bottom to top to fix the subframe bushing 10 to the subframe 20.

[0060] Optionally, the upper and lower halves can also be set asymmetrically, and the shape and size of the metal skeleton 3 and rubber layer 2 in the upper half can be different from those in the lower half.

[0061] In this embodiment, the upper and lower rubber layers 2 contact the subframe 20, which can better absorb pressure, including pressure in the vertical, front-back and left-right directions.

[0062] like Figure 8 As shown, when the subframe 20 moves upward, the upper rubber layer 2 is subjected to pressure.

[0063] like Figure 9 As shown, when the subframe 20 moves downward, the lower half of the rubber layer 2 is subjected to pressure.

[0064] like Figure 10 As shown, when the subframe 20 moves to the left, the left side of the upper rubber layer 2 and the lower rubber layer 2 bear pressure.

[0065] like Figure 11 As shown, when the subframe 20 moves to the right, the upper rubber layer 2 and the right side of the lower rubber layer 2 bear pressure.

[0066] like Figure 12 As shown, when the subframe 20 moves forward, the front side of the upper rubber layer 2 and the lower rubber layer 2 bear pressure.

[0067] like Figure 13 As shown, when the subframe 20 moves backward, the upper rubber layer 2 and the rear side of the lower rubber layer 2 are subjected to pressure.

[0068] The split subframe bushing 10 is independent of each other when vertical force is applied, which can realize segmented stiffness characteristics and improve the design freedom of handling performance.

[0069] and Figure 1 Compared to the subframe assembly, the subframe mounting point has been changed from the previous structure of welding the metal sleeve 60′ and the subframe 20′ to a structure that does not require welding the metal sleeve. This reduces welding / press-fitting processes and secondary components, saving on welding / press-fitting equipment costs, processing costs, and parts procurement costs, and eliminating the risk of press-fitting / welding defects. It also eliminates the existing limiting metal gasket 40′ and buffer rubber gasket 50′, integrating the limiting function into the lower half.

[0070] In another embodiment of the present invention, such as Figure 6 As shown, the first inner cylinder 11 and the second inner cylinder 12 are integrally formed, and the subframe bushing 10 is a single piece. The subframe bushing 10 can be installed into the mounting groove 201 through the side opening of the subframe 20.

[0071] Furthermore, such as Figure 7 As shown, the thickness of rubber layer 2 in the front-to-back direction is greater than its thickness in the left-to-right direction. Specifically, Figure 7The vertical direction is the "front-to-back direction" of the bushing, and the horizontal direction is the "left-to-right direction". This is because the front-to-back direction requires less stiffness, while the horizontal direction requires more stiffness.

[0072] Better, such as Figure 7 As shown, the metal frame 3 is an ellipse with its major axis along the left-right direction, and the outer edge of the rubber layer 2 is an ellipse with its major axis along the front-back direction. This allows for direct orientation determination during installation, saving the need for positioning clamps. The metal frame 3 adopts an ellipsoidal design, with its major axis coinciding with the minor axis of the outer surface of the rubber layer 2, corresponding to the left-right direction of the vehicle, achieving greater lateral stiffness. The minor axis of the metal frame 3 coincides with the major axis of the outer surface of the rubber layer 2, corresponding to the front-back direction of the vehicle, achieving less longitudinal stiffness.

[0073] Furthermore, such as Figure 4-5 As shown, grooves 21 are provided on the outer surface of the rubber layer 2 in the front-rear direction, which can further reduce the longitudinal stiffness and eliminate the risk of abnormal noise. Fine stripes 22 are provided on the outer surface of the rubber layer 2 in the left-right direction, which also eliminate the risk of abnormal noise.

[0074] In other embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 3 As shown, the subframe assembly includes a subframe 20 and mounting bolts 30, and also includes a subframe bushing 10 in any of the above embodiments. The subframe 20 is provided with a mounting groove 201, which is in contact with the rubber layer 2.

[0075] There are usually four subframe bushings 10. The subframe 20 is connected to the vehicle body through the subframe bushings 10. The subframe bushings 10 can play a role in buffering pressure.

[0076] In this invention, the rubber layer only needs to be attached to the subframe, making assembly and disassembly very convenient. When the subframe bushing is damaged, only the bushing needs to be replaced, without replacing the entire subframe assembly, thus reducing maintenance costs. Furthermore, during operation, the rubber layer is less prone to cracking between itself and the metal frame, increasing the bushing's service life.

[0077] The above description is merely the principle and preferred embodiment of the present invention. It should be noted that, for those skilled in the art, several other modifications can be made based on the principle of the present invention, and these modifications should also be considered within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A subframe bushing, comprising a metal inner cylinder and a rubber layer, characterized in that, It also includes a metal frame, which is disposed outside the metal inner cylinder. The outer surface of the metal frame is vulcanized with the rubber layer. The rubber layer is used to fit with the subframe, and the metal inner cylinder is used to connect with the mounting bolts via nuts. The metal skeleton protrudes outward, the outer surface of the metal skeleton is a hemisphere, the rubber layer is also a hemisphere, the metal skeleton is an ellipse with its major axis along the left-right direction, and the outer edge of the rubber layer is an ellipse with its major axis along the front-back direction. The metal frame includes a first frame, and the metal inner cylinder includes a first inner cylinder, which is integrally formed with the first frame.

2. The subframe bushing according to claim 1, characterized in that, The metal frame also includes a second frame, and the first frame and the second frame are arranged symmetrically vertically.

3. The subframe bushing according to claim 2, characterized in that, The metal inner cylinder also includes a second inner cylinder, which is integrally formed with the second frame, and the first inner cylinder is connected to the second inner cylinder.

4. The subframe bushing according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first inner cylinder and the second inner cylinder are integrally formed.

5. The subframe bushing according to claim 1, characterized in that, The thickness of the rubber layer in the front-to-back direction is greater than its thickness in the left-to-right direction.

6. The subframe bushing according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer surface of the rubber layer in the front and rear directions is provided with grooves.

7. The subframe bushing according to claim 1, characterized in that, Fine stripes are provided on the outer surface of the rubber layer in the left and right directions.

8. A subframe assembly, comprising a subframe and mounting bolts, characterized in that, It also includes the subframe bushing as described in any one of claims 1-7, wherein the subframe is provided with a mounting groove, and the mounting groove is in contact with the rubber layer.

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