Component for vehicle chassis
By combining the formation of vehicle components using rigid parts of different materials and manufacturing processes, the challenges of designing and manufacturing of vehicle components in tight spaces are solved, mechanical stability and compactness are achieved, and design and manufacturing flexibility is improved.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202510148923.X
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2024-02-15
- Filing Date
- 2025-02-11
- Publication Date
- 2025-08-15
AI Technical Summary
When existing vehicle components are designed and manufactured in tight spaces, it is difficult to achieve stable interconnection and not interfere with the operation of other parts simultaneously, resulting in design and manufacturing challenges and cost-intensive.
The vehicle components are formed by a first rigid part and a second rigid part made of different materials and manufacturing processes, pivotally supported on the vehicle structure through the first connecting part and the second connecting part, in combination with the wheel bearing interface, allowing flexible selection of materials and processes to meet design and functional needs.
The mechanical stability and compactness of vehicle components are achieved, design flexibility and manufacturing feasibility are improved, and the difficulty of forming connecting rod arms is reduced in a single material and process.
Smart Images
Figure CN120482147A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present disclosure relates to a component for a vehicle chassis.
[0002] The present disclosure also relates to a subassembly for a vehicle chassis comprising such a component.
[0003] The present disclosure also relates to a chassis for a vehicle, comprising such a component and / or such a subassembly.
[0004] The present disclosure also relates to a vehicle comprising such a component and / or such a subassembly and / or such a chassis.
[0005] The present disclosure also relates to a method for manufacturing such a component.
[0006] The present disclosure also relates to the use of a first rigid part and a second rigid part for forming such a component. Background Art
[0007] In current vehicles, numerous mechanical support, propulsion, and steering components are often operably interconnected and coupled to other vehicle parts, such as components of the vehicle chassis. Within a vehicle, these components are often located within very confined spaces, such as the chassis area. Therefore, these components must properly perform their intended functions, for example, by providing sufficiently stable interconnections. Furthermore, these components must be appropriately designed and arranged within the vehicle to ensure their operability within the tightly packed vehicle environment. In particular, these components should not undesirably interfere with other parts during vehicle operation. Consequently, the design and manufacture of such vehicle components is often challenging and cost-intensive. Summary of the Invention
[0008] It is therefore an object of the present disclosure to provide an improved vehicle component which allows for a better design of the component, simplified manufacturability and increased flexibility of arrangement in the vehicle.
[0009] This problem is at least partially solved or alleviated by the subject matter of the independent claims of the present disclosure, wherein further preferred examples are introduced in the dependent claims.
[0010] According to a first aspect, a component for a vehicle chassis is provided. The component includes a first connecting portion for pivotally supporting the component on a vehicle structure or another chassis component. The component also includes a second connecting portion for pivotally supporting the component on a vehicle structure or another chassis component, wherein the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion are arranged at opposite ends of the component. The component also includes a body portion that structurally interconnects the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion. In addition, a wheel bearing interface for connecting a wheel bearing part (or wheel bearing part) is provided on the body portion. In addition, the component is conjointly formed by a first rigid part and a second rigid part, the first rigid part comprising a first material and produced by a first manufacturing process, and the second rigid part comprising a second material and produced by a second manufacturing process. In addition, the first material is different from the second material and / or the first manufacturing process is different from the second manufacturing process.
[0011] Thus, a component can be provided that advantageously allows the individual characteristics of the first and second rigid parts of the component to be combined based on their different materials and / or different manufacturing processes. For example, this can allow the first rigid part to be made of a first material or manufactured using a first manufacturing process, while the second rigid part can be made of a different second material or manufactured using a different second manufacturing process, depending on the component's intended design and location within the vehicle and / or its intended functional characteristics. Thus, forming the component using two rigid parts provides increased flexibility in terms of material selection and / or manufacturing process, allowing the most appropriate material and manufacturing process to be used for each of the first and second parts. Furthermore, because the component is formed from a combination of a first rigid part and a second rigid part, where the first and second parts differ in material and / or manufacturing process, the component can have relatively high mechanical stability while also being compact. Forming the component from a combination of a first rigid part and a second rigid part is also advantageous from a manufacturing perspective. This is because, from a manufacturing perspective, producing the first part, producing the second part, and joining the first and second parts to form the component can be easier than integrally forming a link arm from a single material using a single manufacturing process.
[0012] In the sense of the present disclosure, a component may include at least one element of a vehicle that provides mechanical support for other vehicle components connected thereto. In one example, the component may be a knuckle configured to support a wheel, and may be, for example, a steering knuckle.
[0013] Pivotably supporting the component at the first and second connection portions may include enabling rotational or swivel movement of the component about one or more axes relative to the vehicle structure or another chassis component.
[0014] In one example, the first connection portion may include a first support opening extending along a first axis, wherein the first support opening may be configured to pivotally support the component. When the component is used in an operational condition in a vehicle, the first axis may be, for example, a substantially vertical axis. However, in some examples, different axis orientations may also be provided, such as a horizontal axis or an axis with a different orientation.
[0015] In one example, the second connection portion can include a second support opening extending along a second axis, wherein the second support opening can be configured to pivotally support the component. The second axis can, for example, be different from the first axis, for example when the component is used in an operating condition in a vehicle, the second axis being a substantially horizontal axis. However, in some examples, different orientations of the axes can also be provided, such as a vertical axis or an axis with different orientations. In one example, the first axis and the second axis can extend in substantially the same direction.
[0016] In one example, the first connection portion or the second connection portion may include an interface for mounting one or more components of a vehicle brake, which may include, for example, a brake caliper.
[0017] In one example, the first or second connecting portion may include a protrusion or arm that may form a pick-up for pivotally mounting one or more components for steering the vehicle, which may include, for example, a steering rod.
[0018] According to the present disclosure, being disposed at opposite ends cannot be interpreted merely as being disposed at opposite outermost extensions of a component, but means that some portions of the component are disposed at different positions along a specific direction.
[0019] The vehicle structure may include a body of the vehicle, which may include, for example, space for a motor, passengers and / or storage.The vehicle structure may include a support frame and may be arranged on a chassis of the vehicle.
[0020] The first and second connecting portions and the body portion may be separate parts structurally interconnected by suitable interconnection means (such as bolts, rivets, welding, etc.), or may be at least partially integrally formed with one another.
[0021] The wheel support interface can include any suitable shape to allow for connection with a corresponding wheel support component. For example, in one example, the wheel support interface can include a circular recess into which a corresponding circular wheel support component can be at least partially inserted. In an example, the wheel support component can include a pivot support for pivotally supporting a wheel rim, on which a wheel or tire of the vehicle can be supported.
[0022] In the sense of the present disclosure, a rigid part may include one or more generally stiff elements that provide mechanically stable support for components to which they are connected. Rigid parts may accordingly prevent undesirable flexibility or inherent movement, particularly during operation of the vehicle.
[0023] The joint formation of the component by the first rigid part and the second rigid part can be achieved by any suitable connection means, such as bolts, rivets, welding, etc. In some examples, joint formation does not exclude the provision of additional elements to form the component.
[0024] Depending on the respective materials and / or respective manufacturing processes, the first material and the second material may differ in one or more material properties, which may include but are not limited to mechanical properties such as strength, elasticity, plasticity, hardness, ductility, brittleness, roughness, fatigue, creep, etc.
[0025] In an example, a first rigid part may include a first material and / or may be manufactured using a first manufacturing process, which may be different from a second material and / or a second manufacturing process of a second rigid part, which may allow the first rigid part to be made stiffer than the second rigid part. Thus, the first rigid part may be formed to be at least partially thinner than a rigid part including the same material or manufacturing process as the second rigid part.
[0026] In some examples, the first rigid part and the second rigid part can be made of different materials and by different manufacturing processes. For example, the first rigid part can be made of stamped steel or deformed steel plate, while the second rigid part can be made of cast aluminum.
[0027] In some examples, the first rigid part and the second rigid part can be made of the same material but by different manufacturing processes. For example, the first rigid part can be made of stamped aluminum or deformed aluminum plate, while the second rigid part can be made of cast aluminum.
[0028] In some examples, the first rigid part and the second rigid part can be made by the same manufacturing process, but can be made of different materials. For example, the first rigid part can be made of cast steel, and the second rigid part can be made of cast aluminum.
[0029] In one example, the component may be a front or rear steering knuckle of a vehicle.
[0030] In an example, the first material is a metallic material or a plastic material or a fiber-reinforced plastic material or a metal-reinforced plastic material, and / or the second material is a metallic material or a plastic material or a fiber-reinforced plastic material or a metal-reinforced plastic material.
[0031] Thus, the appropriate material combination for the first and second rigid parts can be selected based on the requirements of the component regarding its intended use and possible spatial constraints. Metallic materials can include any suitable metal exhibiting the desired material properties. This can include, but is not limited to, iron, aluminum, steel, copper, and any alloys thereof. Similarly, plastic or polymer materials can include any suitable plastic exhibiting the desired material properties. This can include, but is not limited to, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyurethane epoxy resins, vinyl esters, polyester thermosets, phenolic resins, and any mixtures thereof. Fiber-reinforced plastic materials can include composite materials comprising a plastic or polymer matrix reinforced with fibers. Thus, the polymer matrix can include any suitable plastic similar to or different from the exemplary plastic materials described above. The fibers can be at least partially integrated into the polymer matrix and can include or be made of, for example, carbon, glass, aramid, basalt, and any combination thereof. Similarly, metal-reinforced plastic materials can also include composite materials comprising a plastic or polymer matrix reinforced with metal. Thus, the polymer matrix can include any suitable plastic similar to or different from the exemplary plastic materials described above. Thus, the metal may be at least partially integrated into the polymer matrix and may include or be made of any suitable metal, similar to or different from the exemplary metal materials described above.
[0032] In an example, the first manufacturing process comprises casting or forging or pressing or molding or extrusion, and / or the second manufacturing process comprises casting or forging or pressing or molding or extrusion.
[0033] Therefore, a suitable manufacturing process for each of the first rigid part and the second rigid part can be selected as needed. The molding process may include any suitable molding process used in the field of manufacturing vehicle parts, which may include but is not limited to injection molding or resin transfer molding. The casting process may include any suitable casting process used in the field of manufacturing vehicle parts, which may include but is not limited to low pressure die casting (LPDC) or high pressure die casting (HPDC). The pressing process may include any suitable pressing process used in the field of manufacturing vehicle parts, which may include but is not limited to sheet metal forming.
[0034] In an example, one of the first rigid part or the second rigid part may be fabricated from pressed sheet metal, and the other of the first rigid part or the second rigid part may be fabricated from cast aluminum.
[0035] In an example, the first rigid part or the second rigid part is S-shaped.
[0036] This can provide a particularly advantageous shape for the corresponding part, since other parts of the vehicle can be arranged at least partially in the arch of the S-shaped part. In other words, the arch of the S-shape can at least partially surround one or more other parts of adjacent vehicle elements. In a non-limiting example, one arch of the S-shape can at least partially surround a wheel or tire of the vehicle. The S-shape can include two curved sections, in which the curvatures have opposite orientations. The two curved sections can have substantially the same diameter or different diameters. In addition, the two curved sections can have angular extensions, wherein the angular extensions of the two curved sections can be substantially the same or different.
[0037] In an example, the first rigid part may include a first abutment surface, and the second rigid part may include a second abutment surface, wherein the first abutment surface and the second abutment surface may contact each other. Thus, a two-dimensional contact may be established between the first rigid part and the second rigid part, which may enhance the contact between the respective parts and thus may allow for improved transfer of a load applied to at least one of the rigid parts.
[0038] In an example, at least a portion of the first rigid part or the second rigid part has a U-shaped cross section or a circular cross section.
[0039] In this way, an improvement in the load-bearing capacity of loads applied to one or more of these rigid parts can be provided. In a cross-sectional view, the U-shaped part may include a base portion having two legs extending from it in the same direction. For example, each leg may extend from the base portion at an extension angle of approximately 90°. However, the legs may also extend from the base portion at any arbitrarily different angles, for example, the angle being in the range of 20° to 160°, 50° to 130°, or 70° to 110°. These legs may extend at the same angle or at different angles. These legs may extend from the base portion in a straight manner, but may also include further bends or curves. In addition, the base portion may be straight or curved, having a specific diameter. In addition, the extension and orientation of the above-mentioned elements may vary along an extension direction of the first rigid part or the second rigid part perpendicular to the cross-sectional U-shaped part, which extension direction may be the longitudinal extension direction of the first rigid part and / or the second rigid part.
[0040] In some examples, at least a portion of the first rigid part or the second rigid part may further include one or more small or nearly point-sized base portions, which may result in a generally V-shaped cross-section or a generally W-shaped cross-section. Thus, similar to the U-shape described above, one or more legs may extend from the corresponding one or more small or nearly point-sized base portions. In some examples, only one leg may be provided extending from the base portion, which may result in an L-shape. The aforementioned characteristics described with respect to the legs of the U-shape may also apply correspondingly to one or more legs of the corresponding V-shape, W-shape, or L-shape.
[0041] The circular cross-section may include a substantially elliptical cross-section or a substantially circular cross-section. The circular cross-section may be in the form of a completely closed circle, ellipse, or circle, thereby creating a hollow in the first rigid part or the second rigid part, or may be in the form of a partially open circle, ellipse, or circle. The extent of the circular cross-section, such as the hollow, may vary along the longitudinal extension of the first rigid part and the second rigid part.
[0042] In an example, one of the first rigid part and the second rigid part is elongated and extends from the respective other of the first rigid part and the second rigid part.
[0043] The elongated or slender extension of the first or second rigid component can be understood as an extension substantially in a first direction, which can also be referred to as the longitudinal direction. Thus, the elongated first and second rigid components can exhibit a smaller extension in one or more directions perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The slender configuration of the first and / or second rigid component allows the first and / or second rigid component to be connected to other components arranged at a distance in a space-saving manner.
[0044] In an example, the wheel support interface is formed jointly by a first rigid part and a second rigid part.
[0045] Thus, both the first rigid part and the second rigid part can be correspondingly formed and arranged to at least partially combine to form the wheel support interface. For example, one or more portions of the first rigid part and the second rigid part can form one or more regions of the wheel support interface that are suitable for connection to the wheel support part. As described above, the joint formation can be achieved by any suitable connection means (e.g., bolts, rivets, welding, etc.). In some examples, the joint formation does not exclude the provision of additional elements to form the wheel support interface. The joint formation of the wheel support interface by the first rigid part and the second rigid part allows for reliable load transfer between the wheel support interface and both the first rigid part and the second rigid part.
[0046] In an example, the wheel support interface comprises at least one connection feature for connecting the wheel support part to the component, and the first rigid part and the second rigid part are connectable via the connection feature.
[0047] Using the same connecting feature to connect the wheel support part to the component and to connect the first rigid part and the second rigid part is efficient in several respects. Firstly, it is a space-saving way of connecting the first part and the second part while simultaneously connecting the wheel support part to the component. Secondly, it makes the associated assembly process efficient because only one connecting feature needs to be manipulated to connect the first part and the second part while simultaneously connecting the wheel support part to the component. The connecting feature may include one or more holes, such as through holes, for receiving bolts or screws, which may extend at least partially through one or more of the first rigid part, the second rigid part and / or the wheel support part. Correspondingly, the connecting feature may include one or more threads for receiving corresponding threads provided on the bolts or screws to be received. The first rigid part, the second rigid part and / or the wheel support part may be formed and arranged so that, when connected, the receiving holes at least partially correspond to each other so that connecting bolts can be arranged therethrough to connect the wheel support part to the wheel support interface.
[0048] According to a second aspect, a subassembly for a vehicle chassis is provided, the subassembly comprising the component of the present disclosure and a wheel support part, wherein the wheel support part is connected to the wheel support interface such that one of the first rigid part and the second rigid part is at least partially arranged between the respective other of the first rigid part and the second rigid part and the wheel support part.
[0049] Thus, one of the first and second rigid parts can be at least partially disposed or sandwiched between the respective other of the first and second rigid parts and the wheel-supporting part. This provides an improved subassembly that can utilize the advantageous mechanical properties of the different materials used for the separate first and second parts of the component and / or the advantageous mechanical properties achieved by the separate first and second manufacturing processes employed to manufacture the respective first and second rigid parts. Consequently, the subassembly can be designed in a correspondingly more compact manner.
[0050] In some examples, the wheel support component can be connected to the wheel support interface such that the first rigid component is at least partially disposed between the second rigid component and the wheel support component. The first rigid component, the second rigid component, and the wheel support component can be connected by one or more bolts, which can extend through the one or more connection features of the wheel support interface in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal extension of the components. Thus, the first rigid component can be clamped or sandwiched between the second rigid component and the wheel support component. In some examples, the first rigid component, the second rigid component, and the wheel support component can be aligned along a common axis, which can extend perpendicular to the longitudinal extension axis of the first rigid component or the second rigid component.
[0051] In some examples, the first rigid part, the second rigid part, and the wheel-supporting part are in direct contact with each other in the connected state. In other examples, one or more additional elements are disposed between the respective first rigid part, the second rigid part, and the wheel-supporting part to prevent direct contact between the respective parts in the connected state.
[0052] According to a third aspect, there is provided a chassis for a vehicle, the chassis comprising at least one component of the present disclosure and / or a subassembly of the present disclosure.
[0053] Thus, an improved chassis can be provided that allows taking advantage of the advantageous mechanical properties of the different materials used for the separate first and second parts of the component and / or the advantageous mechanical properties achieved by the separate first and second manufacturing processes employed for manufacturing the corresponding first and second rigid parts. Consequently, the chassis can be designed in a correspondingly more compact manner.
[0054] In an example, in the operating state of the chassis, the components of the present disclosure extend in a substantially upright orientation.
[0055] Extension in a substantially upright direction can be understood as extension in a substantially vertical direction. However, the upright direction can also be inclined relative to the vertical direction, for example with an inclination angle of at most 45°, preferably at most 20°, more preferably at most 10°.
[0056] According to a fourth aspect, a vehicle is provided, comprising a component of the present disclosure and / or a subassembly of the present disclosure and / or a chassis of the present disclosure.
[0057] Thus, an improved vehicle can be provided that allows for the use of advantageous mechanical properties of different materials used for the separate first and second parts of the component and / or advantageous mechanical properties achieved by separate first and second manufacturing processes employed for manufacturing the respective first and second rigid parts. Consequently, the vehicle or parts thereof can be designed in a correspondingly more compact manner.
[0058] According to a fifth aspect, a method for manufacturing a component for a vehicle chassis is provided. The component includes a first connecting portion for pivotally supporting the component on a vehicle structure or another chassis component, a second connecting portion for pivotally supporting the component on the vehicle structure or another chassis component, and a body portion structurally interconnecting the first and second connecting portions. Furthermore, a wheel support interface for connecting a wheel support component is provided on the body portion. The method comprises:
[0059] - providing a first rigid part comprising a first material and produced by a first manufacturing process,
[0060] - providing a second rigid part comprising a second material and produced by a second manufacturing process, wherein the first material is different from the second material and / or wherein the first manufacturing process is different from the second manufacturing process, and
[0061] - structurally connecting said first rigid part and said second rigid part such that said first rigid part and said second rigid part jointly form said component.
[0062] Thus, an improved method for manufacturing a component for a vehicle chassis can be provided, which allows for utilizing the mechanical properties of different materials used for the individual first and second parts of the component and / or the advantageous mechanical properties achieved by the individual first and second manufacturing processes employed to manufacture the corresponding first and second rigid parts. Thus, the component can be manufactured, for example, in a more compact manner. Furthermore, the manufacturing, storage, and distribution of the individual first and second rigid parts, as well as the jointly formed component, can be flexible and adapted to the manufacturer's needs.
[0063] In an example, structurally connecting the first rigid part and the second rigid part includes attaching a wheel support part to a wheel support interface.
[0064] Thus, an improved subassembly as described above may be provided.
[0065] In a sixth aspect, a method is provided for forming a component for a vehicle chassis by using a first rigid part comprising a first material and produced by a first manufacturing process, and a second rigid part comprising a second material and produced by a second manufacturing process. The component includes a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion, wherein each of the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion is configured to pivotally support the component on a vehicle structure or another chassis component, and a wheel support interface for connecting to a wheel support part. Furthermore, the first material is different from the second material and / or the first manufacturing process is different from the second manufacturing process.
[0066] Thus, an improved use of the first and second rigid parts can be provided, which can allow for the use of advantageous mechanical properties of the different materials used for the individual first and second parts of the component and / or advantageous mechanical properties achieved by the individual first and second manufacturing processes employed to manufacture the respective first and second rigid parts. This improved use can also facilitate the manufacture, storage, and distribution of the single first and second rigid parts, as well as the jointly formed component.
[0067] It should be noted that the above examples can be combined with each other regardless of the aspects involved.
[0068] These and other aspects of the disclosure will be apparent from and elucidated with reference to the examples described hereinafter. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0069] Examples of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the following drawings:
[0070] Figure 1 schematically showing different views of an example of a component for a vehicle chassis according to the present disclosure;
[0071] Figure 2 schematically illustrates different views of another example of a component for a vehicle chassis according to the present disclosure;
[0072] Figure 3 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of an example of a subassembly according to the present disclosure;
[0073] Figure 4 An example of a vehicle according to the present disclosure is schematically shown;
[0074] Figure 5 A flow chart of an example of a method according to the present disclosure is schematically shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0075] The accompanying drawings are merely schematic representations and serve only to illustrate examples of the present disclosure. Identical or equivalent elements are, in principle, provided with the same reference numerals. Furthermore, as used herein, hyphenated reference numerals refer to specific embodiments of an element, and unhyphenated reference numerals refer to common elements. For example, device "23-1" refers to an instance of a class of devices that may be collectively referred to as device "23," and each may be collectively referred to as device "23."
[0076] Figure 1 Different views of an example of a component 100 for a vehicle chassis 300 (not shown) according to the present disclosure are shown.
[0077] In this example, Figure 1 A) shows the component 100 in a perspective front view, and Figure 1B) shows the component 100 in a perspective rear view. The component 100 comprises a first connection portion 1 arranged at an upper end of the component 100 and a second connection portion 3 arranged at an opposite lower end of the component 100.
[0078] The first connecting portion 1 and the second connecting portion 3 are each adapted to pivotably support the component 100 at their respective ends on a vehicle structure or on another chassis component.
[0079] Figure 1 The component 100 depicted in FIG is a steering knuckle of the vehicle 400. Accordingly, corresponding support interfaces 23 are provided at the first connection portion 1 and the second connection portion 3, at which the vehicle structure or another chassis component can be pivotally connected to the component 100. For example, in the depicted example, two support interfaces 23-1 are provided for supporting one or more brake calipers of the vehicle 400, two support interfaces 23-2 are provided at the bottom portion of the second connection portion 3 for supporting the lower link arms or brackets of the vehicle 400, a support interface 23-3 is provided for supporting the tie rod end of the steering system of the vehicle 400, and a support interface 23-4 is provided at the top portion of the first connection portion 1 for supporting the upper control arm of the vehicle 400. However, in different examples, other vehicle parts can be connected to the component 100 at one or more support interfaces 23 arranged at similar or different positions. The component 100 also includes a body portion 5 that structurally interconnects the first connection portion 1 and the second connection portion 3. In addition, a wheel support interface 7 (not shown, refer to FIG) for connecting the wheel support part 9 Figure 3 ) is provided on the body portion 5. The wheel support interface 7 comprises four connection features 15 in the form of through holes for connecting the wheel support part 9 to the component 100. However, the present disclosure is of course not limited thereto and may comprise any desired number of connection features, such as one, two, three or five and more connection features 15, which may also be provided at different positions. Figure 3 Explained in more detail, the first rigid part 11 and the second rigid part 13 may thus be connected via the connection feature 15 .
[0080] In this example, the first rigid part 11 extends mainly along the longitudinal extension direction 50 and comprises (a plurality of) lateral edges 31, each flanged perpendicular to the longitudinal extension direction 50. Thus, a U-shape is achieved in a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal extension direction 50 of the first rigid part 11 (see also Figure 3 Furthermore, the first rigid part 11 has an S-shape in the longitudinal extension direction 50 .
[0081] In this example, the component 100 is formed by combining a first rigid part 11 and a second rigid part 13, wherein the first rigid part 11 is made of pressed steel metal and the second rigid part 13 is made of cast aluminum. Pressed steel metal has a Young's modulus that is three times higher than that of aluminum. Therefore, the thickness of the first rigid part 11 can be reduced to one-third compared to a similar part that should exhibit similar rigidity but is made of cast aluminum, such as the second rigid part 13. The provision of pressed steel metal allows the first rigid part 11 to have a thinner cross-section, thereby enabling tighter packaging in the vehicle 400 and providing more design freedom for adjacent vehicle parts, such as providing larger diameter springs, larger wheels, etc. In addition, a narrower wheelbase of the vehicle 400 can be achieved.
[0082] Figure 2 Another example of components for a vehicle chassis 300 according to the present disclosure is shown.
[0083] In this example, the same Figure 1 Sub-figure A) shows the component 100 in a perspective elevation view, and sub-figure Figure 1 B) shows an excerpt of the lower part of the component 100 in a perspective rear view. Figure 1 In contrast to the example shown, Figure 2 The depicted component 100 also includes a base portion 33 and two transversely extending side walls 21 at opposite transverse edges 31 of the first rigid part 11, which project substantially perpendicularly from the base portion 33 in a cross-sectional view perpendicular to the longitudinal extension direction 50. This results in a U-shape for the first rigid part 11. Furthermore, an additional mounting element 19 is provided, which in the depicted example is formed by a bolt 25 and a nut 27. The second rigid part 13 includes an interface in the form of a protrusion 29 having a plurality of through-holes. The bolt 25 extends perpendicularly to the longitudinal extension direction 50 through the side walls 21 and the through-holes of the protrusion 29 and is thus secured therein via a nut 27. On the opposite side, a corresponding nut 27 is provided to secure the bolt 25. Thus, the first rigid part 11 and the second rigid part 13 are connected to each other via the mounting element 19. In further examples, more than one bolt 25 and one or more corresponding nuts 27 may be provided for securing additional bolts 25.
[0084] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of an example of a subassembly 200 according to the present disclosure is shown in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal extension direction 50 .
[0085] In this example, the wheel support part 9 is connected to the wheel support interface 7 such that the first rigid part 11 is arranged between the second rigid part 13 and the wheel support part 9. The transverse edges 31 of the first rigid part are flanged perpendicular to the longitudinal extension 50 of the first rigid part 11.
[0086] The first rigid part 11, the second rigid part 13 and the wheel support part 9 are connected by bolts 25, which extend through the connection features 15 of the wheel support interface 7. Figure 3 In FIG. 1 , only two bolts 25 are visible. The first rigid part 11 is accordingly clamped between the second rigid part 13 and the wheel support part 9 .
[0087] Figure 4 An example of a vehicle 400 according to the present disclosure is shown.
[0088] In this example, the vehicle 400 comprises a chassis 300, wherein the chassis 300 comprises a subassembly 200 comprising a component 100 and a wheel support part 9. In the depicted example, the component 100 forms a support element for the front and rear wheels 17 of the vehicle 400. In particular, the component 100 forms the front and rear steering knuckles, which allow the wheels or tires 17 to be articulatedly connected to the chassis 300 of the vehicle 400.
[0089] Figure 5 A flow chart illustrating an example of a method 500 for manufacturing a component 100 of a vehicle chassis 300 according to the present disclosure is shown. Figures 1 to 4 As described in the example of FIG5 , component 100 includes a first connecting portion 1 for pivotally supporting component 100 on a vehicle structure or another chassis component, a second connecting portion 3 for pivotally supporting component 100 on the vehicle structure or another chassis component, and a body portion 5 structurally interconnecting first connecting portion 1 and second connecting portion 3, wherein a wheel support interface 7 for connecting a wheel support part 9 is provided on body portion 5. As depicted, method 500 includes a first step S1 of providing a first rigid part 11 comprising a first material and produced by a first manufacturing process, and a second step S2 of providing a second rigid part 13 comprising a second material and produced by a second manufacturing process, wherein the first material is different from the second material and / or the first manufacturing process is different from the second manufacturing process. Method 500 also includes a third step S3 of structurally connecting first rigid part 11 and second rigid part 13 such that first rigid part 11 and second rigid part 13 jointly form component 100.
[0090] Note that in some examples, the order of the first step S1 and the second step S2 can also be interchanged, that is, the second step S2 is initially performed, and then the first step S1 is performed. In addition, in some examples, the first step S1 and the second step S2 can be performed simultaneously.
[0091] Other variations to the disclosed examples will be apparent to those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed disclosure, based on a study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the absence of a quantifier does not exclude a plurality. The fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not mean that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage. Any reference signs in a claim should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claim.
[0092] Reference Signs List
[0093] 1 First connection part
[0094] 3 Second connection part
[0095] 5 Main body
[0096] 7 Wheel support interface
[0097] 9 Wheel support parts
[0098] 11 First rigid part
[0099] 13 Second rigid part
[0100] 15 Connection Features
[0101] 17 wheels
[0102] 19 Installing components
[0103] 21 sidewall
[0104] 23 Support interface
[0105] 25 bolts
[0106] 27 Nut
[0107] 29 protrusion
[0108] 31 Horizontal edge
[0109] 33 base part
[0110] 50 longitudinal extension direction
[0111] 100 parts
[0112] 200 subcomponents
[0113] 300 chassis
[0114] 400 vehicles
[0115] 500 Method
Claims
1. A component (100) for a vehicle chassis (300), the component (100) comprising: a first connecting portion (1) for pivotably supporting the component (100) on a vehicle structure or on another chassis component, a second connecting portion (3) for pivotably supporting the component (100) on a vehicle structure or another chassis component, wherein the first connecting portion (1) and the second connecting portion (3) are arranged at opposite ends of the component (100), a body portion (5) which structurally interconnects the first connecting portion (1) and the second connecting portion (3), Wherein, a wheel support interface (7) for connecting a wheel support part (9) is provided on the body part (5). wherein the component (100) is formed by combining a first rigid part (11) and a second rigid part (13), wherein the first rigid part (11) comprises a first material and is produced by a first manufacturing process, and the second rigid part (13) comprises a second material and is produced by a second manufacturing process, and The first material is different from the second material and / or the first manufacturing process is different from the second manufacturing process.
2. The component (100) according to claim 1, wherein The first material is a metal material or a plastic material or a fiber-reinforced plastic material or a metal-reinforced plastic material, and / or the second material is a metal material or a plastic material or a fiber-reinforced plastic material or a metal-reinforced plastic material.
3. The component (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The first manufacturing process comprises casting or forging or pressing or molding or extrusion, and / or wherein the second manufacturing process comprises casting or forging or pressing or molding or extrusion.
4. The component (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The first rigid part (11) or the second rigid part (13) is S-shaped.
5. The component (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein At least a portion of the first rigid part (11) or at least a portion of the second rigid part (13) has a U-shaped cross section or a circular cross section.
6. The component (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein One of the first rigid part (11) and the second rigid part (13) is elongated and extends from the respective other of the first rigid part (11) and the second rigid part (13).
7. The component (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The wheel support interface (7) is formed by combining the first rigid part (11) and the second rigid part (13).
8. The component (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The wheel support interface (7) comprises at least one connection feature (15) for connecting the wheel support part (9) to the component (100), and wherein the first rigid part (11) and the second rigid part (13) are connectable via the connection feature (15).
9. A subassembly (200) for a vehicle chassis (300), comprising a component (100) according to any one of the preceding claims and a wheel support part (9), wherein the wheel support part (9) is connected to the wheel support interface (7) so that one of the first rigid part (11) and the second rigid part (13) is at least partially arranged between the respective other of the first rigid part (11) and the second rigid part (13) and the wheel support part (9).
10. A chassis (300) for a vehicle (400), the chassis (300) comprising at least one component (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8 and / or a subassembly (200) according to claim 9.
11. The chassis (300) according to claim 10, wherein: In an operating state of the chassis (300), the component (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8 extends in a substantially upright direction.
12. A vehicle (400) comprising a component (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8 and / or a subassembly (200) according to claim 9 and / or a chassis (300) according to claim 10 or 11.
13. A method (500) for manufacturing a component (100) for a vehicle chassis (300), wherein the component (100) comprises a first connecting portion (1) for pivotally supporting the component (100) on a vehicle structure or another chassis component, a second connecting portion (3) for pivotally supporting the component (100) on a vehicle structure or another chassis component, and a body portion (5) structurally interconnecting the first connecting portion (1) and the second connecting portion (3), wherein a wheel support interface (7) for connecting a wheel support part (9) is provided on the body portion (5), the method (500) comprising: - providing (S1) a first rigid part (11) comprising a first material and produced by a first manufacturing process, - providing (S2) a second rigid part (13) comprising a second material and produced by a second manufacturing process, wherein the first material is different from the second material and / or wherein the first manufacturing process is different from the second manufacturing process, and - structurally connecting (S3) the first rigid part (11) and the second rigid part (13) such that the first rigid part (11) and the second rigid part (13) jointly form the component (100).
14. The method according to claim 13, wherein: Structurally connecting the first rigid part (11) and the second rigid part (13) includes attaching a wheel support part (9) to the wheel support interface (7).
15. Use of a first rigid part (11) and a second rigid part (13) for forming a component (100) for a vehicle chassis (200), the first rigid part (11) comprising a first material and produced by a first manufacturing process, the second rigid part (13) comprising a second material and produced by a second manufacturing process, in, The component (100) comprises a first connecting portion (1) and a second connecting portion (3), wherein each of the first connecting portion (1) and the second connecting portion (3) is configured for pivotably supporting the component (100) on a vehicle structure or on another chassis component (100), and the component comprises a wheel support interface (7) for connecting a wheel support part (9), and The first material is different from the second material and / or the first manufacturing process is different from the second manufacturing process.