Suspension member, suspension member assembly, and vehicle rear structure
By casting the suspension components in one piece, using a specific shape for the side beams and cross beams, and combining them with the assembly components, the problem of insufficient rigidity of the suspension components was solved, and the overall rigidity and torsional rigidity were improved.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202511580107.2
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2024-11-14
- Filing Date
- 2025-10-31
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-15
AI Technical Summary
Existing hollow suspension components lack sufficient rigidity in the load input section, making it difficult to improve overall bending rigidity. In particular, they are prone to overall flexural deformation under loads such as those from helical springs.
By casting the suspension components in one piece, and adopting the specific shape design of the left and right side beams, the first crossbeam and the second crossbeam, including the open channel shape on the underside of the vehicle and the large lateral bending rigidity in the front and rear directions of the vehicle, the overall rigidity is improved by combining the assembly components.
It enhances the overall rigidity of the suspension components, suppresses overall deflection and lateral and longitudinal deformation, improves torsional rigidity, and simplifies the number of components.
Smart Images
Figure CN122035138A_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] Cross-references of related applications
[0002] This application claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-198720, filed on November 14, 2024, the entire contents of which, including the description, claims, drawings and abstract, are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field
[0003] This disclosure relates to a suspension component for a vehicle, a construction of a suspension component assembly, and a construction of a rear portion of a vehicle including the suspension component. Background Technology
[0004] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-153497 discloses a hollow suspension component manufactured by casting a core and connected in a four-sided frame shape. When the suspension component is constructed as a hollow structure, sometimes the rigidity of parts subjected to large loads, such as suspension arms connected to the wheel carrier, is insufficient. Therefore, in the suspension component described in Patent Document 1, a reinforcing member is provided internally. Summary of the Invention
[0005] However, in four-sided frame-shaped suspension components, deformation patterns such as overall deflection of the suspension component can sometimes occur due to loads from coil springs, etc. Therefore, it is necessary not only to improve the bending stiffness of the load input portion, but also to improve the overall bending stiffness of the suspension component.
[0006] However, in the hollow suspension component described in Patent Document 1, even with the addition of reinforcing components inside, it is difficult to improve the overall bending stiffness, and there is room for improvement in this respect.
[0007] Therefore, the purpose of this disclosure is to improve the rigidity of suspension components that are integrally formed by casting.
[0008] The suspension component disclosed herein is integrally formed by casting and installed at the rear of the vehicle body. The suspension component is characterized by comprising: left and right side beams disposed on both sides of the vehicle and extending along the vehicle's longitudinal direction; a first crossbeam connecting the respective body mounting portions of the left and right side beams in the vehicle width direction; and a second crossbeam connecting the left and right side beams in the vehicle width direction at the front side of the first crossbeam. The first crossbeam is configured as a channel shape open at the rear of the vehicle or a mountain-shaped shape including a horizontal plate extending rearward and a vertical plate extending downward, and the second crossbeam is configured as a channel shape open downward.
[0009] The second crossbeam has an open, channel-shaped design on the underside of the vehicle, increasing lateral bending rigidity in the longitudinal direction. This improves the overall rigidity of the suspension components, thereby suppressing deformation patterns such as overall suspension flexure.
[0010] In the suspension components disclosed herein, the left and right side beams may also include an upper portion and a lower portion, wherein the lower portion bends downward in a manner that leaves space between it and the upper portion.
[0011] As a result, the overall vertical height of the side beam increases, and the longitudinal bending stiffness of the side beam increases, which can improve the overall rigidity of the suspension components.
[0012] In the suspension components disclosed herein, the upper portion may also be configured as a groove shape that is open outward in the vehicle width direction.
[0013] This increases the longitudinal bending stiffness of the upper part.
[0014] In the suspension components disclosed herein, the lower portion may also be configured as a groove shape with an open lower side of the vehicle.
[0015] This increases the lateral bending stiffness of the lower part of the vehicle in the width direction.
[0016] In the suspension components disclosed herein, the second crossbeam may have a lower arm mounting portion, on which the suspension lower arm is mounted.
[0017] Therefore, the load from the coil springs, input via the lower suspension arm, can be borne by the second crossbeam. The second crossbeam has an open, channel-shaped shape on the underside of the vehicle, increasing lateral bending stiffness in the longitudinal direction. This helps to suppress deformation patterns such as overall deflection of the suspension components.
[0018] The suspension component assembly disclosed herein may also have the previously described suspension components and the assembly components that connect the first crossbeam to the second crossbeam.
[0019] By connecting the components, the first and second crossbeams can be integrated, which can improve the rigidity of the suspension component assembly.
[0020] In the suspension component assembly disclosed herein, the assembly component may connect the two ends of the first crossbeam on the vehicle front side and in the vehicle width direction to the two ends of the second crossbeam on the vehicle rear side and in the vehicle width direction.
[0021] Thus, by connecting the two ends of the first and second crossbeams through assembly components, the torsional stiffness of the suspension assembly can be improved.
[0022] In the suspension component assembly disclosed herein, the assembly component may be a plate-shaped component or a plurality of support components that cross-connect the two ends of the first crossbeam and the second crossbeam in the vehicle width direction.
[0023] This allows for the simple construction and improvement of the torsional rigidity of suspension component assemblies.
[0024] In the suspension component assembly disclosed herein, the assembled component may also be an on-board component.
[0025] The torsional rigidity of the suspension assembly can be improved by using onboard components, which can reduce the number of components.
[0026] In the suspension component assembly disclosed herein, the vehicle-mounted component may also be a dynamic rear steering device.
[0027] The torsional rigidity of the suspension assembly can be improved by using onboard components, which can reduce the number of components.
[0028] The suspension component assembly disclosed herein may also include an assembly component that connects the first crossbeam and the second crossbeam, wherein the second crossbeam extends from the lower surfaces of the left and right side beams in a downwardly convex U-shaped form, and the assembly component connects one and the other ends of the front side of the first crossbeam to the other and one ends of the rear side of the second crossbeam.
[0029] This allows the first and second crossbeams to become a single unit in the vertical direction, thereby improving the torsional rigidity of the suspension assembly.
[0030] The rear structure of the vehicle disclosed herein includes: the previously described suspension components; a rear unit including left and right rear longitudinal beams disposed at the rear of the vehicle and extending in a longitudinal direction; and left and right collision energy absorption boxes mounted at the rear ends of the left and right rear longitudinal beams and extending toward the rear of the vehicle. The rear structure of the vehicle is characterized in that the rear end of each of the left and right side beams is located on the rear side of the vehicle than the front end of the collision energy absorption box.
[0031] In a rear-end collision, the rear end of the side beam absorbs the impact force together with the impact energy absorption box, thus improving the impact load absorption performance.
[0032] In the rear structure of the vehicle disclosed herein, a stabilizer support may also be provided on the lower surface of each of the rear ends of the left and right side beams.
[0033] In this way, since the stabilizer support is shared with the rear end of the side beam, the number of parts can be reduced.
[0034] This disclosure can improve the rigidity of suspension components that are integrally formed by casting. Attached Figure Description
[0035] Figure 1 It is a bottom view of the rear of a vehicle with the suspension components of the embodiment installed.
[0036] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the suspension components of the implementation method from an oblique, rear view.
[0037] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the suspension components of the implementation method from a slightly lower rear view.
[0038] Figure 4 for Figure 2 The diagram shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the suspension components, and is... Figure 2 The AA section is shown.
[0039] Figure 5 for Figure 2 The diagram shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the suspension component assembly, and is... Figure 2 The BB section is shown.
[0040] Figure 6 This is a schematic elevation view of the suspension component assembly as seen from the rear of the vehicle.
[0041] Figure 7 This is an explanatory diagram showing the bending moment applied to the side beam and the second cross beam when a load in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle is input from the coil spring.
[0042] Figure 8 This is an explanatory diagram showing the mold used to form the lower part of the side beam by casting and the demolding direction.
[0043] Figure 9 This is an explanatory diagram showing the mold used to form the lower part of the side beam by casting and the demolding direction. The diagram at the top is... Figure 8 The CC section shown below is... Figure 8 The DD section is shown.
[0044] Figure 10 This is an explanatory diagram showing the mold used to form the front crossbeam by casting and the demolding direction.
[0045] Figure 11 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a suspension component assembly according to other embodiments. Detailed Implementation
[0046] The suspension component 30 of the embodiment will now be described. First, the vehicle 100 on which the suspension component 30 is installed will be described. In the figures, FR, UP, and RH represent the front, upper, and right sides of the vehicle 100 on which the suspension component 30 is installed, respectively. The opposite directions of FR, UP, and RH represent the rear, lower, and left sides, respectively. Hereinafter, only the front-to-back, left-to-right, and up-down directions will be used in the description, unless otherwise specified. Furthermore, the front-to-back, left-to-right, and up-down directions of the vehicle 100 are the same as the front-to-back, left-to-right, and up-down directions of the suspension component 30.
[0047] like Figure 1 As shown, the vehicle 100 includes a body 200 and a suspension component 30 mounted on the rear of the body 200.
[0048] like Figure 1 As shown, the vehicle body 200 includes a rear unit 10, a central unit 17, and a front unit (not shown). The rear unit 10 constitutes the rear of the vehicle body 200. The central unit 17 constitutes the central portion of the vehicle body 200. The front unit (not shown) constitutes the front of the vehicle body 200. The rear unit 10, central unit 17, and front unit are all die-cast products manufactured by integral casting. The front drive unit of the vehicle 100 is mounted on the front unit.
[0049] The rear unit 10 includes left and right rear longitudinal beams 11L and 11R, left and right rear wheel arches 12L and 12R, and a rear floor 13.
[0050] The left and right rear longitudinal beams 11L and 11R are skeletal components located on the left and right sides of the rear unit 10 and extending along the vehicle's longitudinal direction. The rear longitudinal beams 11L and 11R may, for example, be configured as slot-shaped sections open outwards in the vehicle width direction and equipped with multiple reinforcing ribs. Coil spring seats 15L and 15R, which hold the upper ends of the coil springs 22L and 22R, are provided on the left and right rear longitudinal beams 11L and 11R. Left and right collision energy-absorbing boxes 14L and 14R are installed at the rear ends of the left and right rear longitudinal beams 11L and 11R. Rear bumper reinforcements 16 are installed at the rear ends of the left and right collision energy-absorbing boxes 14L and 14R. The rear bumper reinforcements 16 are skeletal components that connect the rear ends of the left and right collision energy-absorbing boxes 14L and 14R in the vehicle width direction.
[0051] The left and right rear wheel arches 12L and 12R are plate-shaped portions on the arc of a semi-circular cross section, which are connected to the outer side of the left and right rear longitudinal beams 11L and 11R in the vehicle width direction. The left and right rear wheel arches 12L and 12R internally house the rear wheels.
[0052] The rear floor section 13 is a plate-shaped member that connects the left and right rear longitudinal beam sections 11L and 11R.
[0053] The central unit 17 is connected to the front of the rear unit 10 by bolts or welding. A driver's cab (not shown) is mounted above the central unit 17. A battery pack 18 is mounted on the central unit 17. Figure 1 As shown, the battery pack 18 extends rearward toward the suspension member 30 from the center in the vehicle width direction. This extended portion can also accommodate auxiliary components of the battery pack 18 such as the junction box and ECU.
[0054] The suspension component 30 is integrally formed by casting and is installed below the rear unit 10 of the vehicle body 200. The suspension component 30 is a square frame-shaped component including left and right side beams 31L and 31R, a rear first crossbeam 32, a second crossbeam 33, and a front crossbeam 34.
[0055] The left and right side beams 31L and 31R are located on the left and right sides of the vehicle 100 and extend along the vehicle's longitudinal direction. At the front end of the left and right side beams 31L and 31R are left and right front body mounting parts 35L and 35R, which are mounted to the lower side of the left and right rear longitudinal beams 11L and 11R via mounting members. Furthermore, at the rear of the left and right side beams 31L and 31R are rear body mounting parts 36L and 36R, which are mounted to the lower side of the rear unit 10 via mounting members. Additionally, the left and right rear vehicle ends 37L and 37R of the left and right side beams 31L and 31R extend from the rear body mounting parts 36L and 36R toward the rear of the vehicle. The left and right rear vehicle ends 37L and 37R are located on the rear side of the vehicle than the front vehicle ends of the left and right collision energy absorption boxes 14L and 14R. Left and right stabilizer support parts 38L and 38R of the stabilizer 26 are provided on the lower surface of the left and right rear ends 37L and 37R of the vehicle.
[0056] The front crossbeam 34 connects the left and right front body mounting portions 35L and 35R in the vehicle width direction. The rear first crossbeam 32 connects the left and right rear body mounting portions 36L and 36R in the vehicle width direction. The second crossbeam 33 connects the left and right side beams 31L and 31R in the vehicle width direction, located further forward than the first crossbeam 32. As described later, the second crossbeam 33 is a U-shaped portion extending downward from the lower surface of the left and right side beams 31L and 31R. Left and right lower arm mounting portions 39L and 39R are provided at the left and right ends of the second crossbeam 33 for mounting the suspension lower arms 21L and 21R.
[0057] A rear wheel drive unit 19 is mounted between the front crossbeam 34 and the second crossbeam 33 of the suspension component 30. A dynamic rear steering device 25 is installed between the second crossbeam 33 and the first crossbeam 32. The dynamic rear steering device 25 is a device that steers the rear wheels, for example, in the low and medium speed range, it steers the rear wheels in the opposite direction to the front wheels, and in the high speed range, it steers the rear wheels in the same direction as the front wheels.
[0058] Here, the suspension component 30 and the dynamic rear steering device 25 constitute the suspension component assembly 70. In addition, the suspension component 30, the rear unit 10 including the left and right rear longitudinal beams 11L and 11R, and the left and right collision energy absorption boxes 14L and 14R constitute the rear structure 80 of the vehicle.
[0059] Multiple arms of left and right suspension devices 20L and 20R, which suspend the left and right rear wheels, are connected to the suspension frame 30. The suspension devices 20L and 20R consist of multiple arms connecting the steering knuckles of the left and right rear wheels to the suspension frame 30, coil springs 22L and 22R, and left and right shock absorbers (not shown). The vehicle-side ends of the left and right lower suspension arms 21L and 21R are connected to the left and right lower arm mounting portions 39L and 39R of the second crossbeam 33. Furthermore, left and right coil springs 22L and 22R are mounted on the upper parts of the left and right lower suspension arms 21L and 21R. The upper ends of the left and right coil springs 22L and 22R are held by coil spring seats 15L and 15R of the left and right rear longitudinal beam portions 11L and 11R. The arms other than the left and right lower suspension arms 21L and 21R are omitted from the illustration and description.
[0060] Next, refer to Figures 2 to 5 This section describes the detailed structure of suspension component 30.
[0061] As previously referred to Figure 1 As described, the suspension component 30 is a square frame-shaped component including left and right side beams 31L and 31R, a rear first crossbeam 32 and a second crossbeam 33, and a front crossbeam 34.
[0062] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 As shown, the left-side side beam 31L includes an upper portion 41L and a lower portion 51L. The lower portion 51L is bent downwards in such a way that it leaves a space 50L between itself and the upper portion 41L.
[0063] The upper portion 41L includes a front portion 42L, a central portion 43L, a rear portion 44L, and a rear end portion 37L. The front portion 42L extends diagonally upwards and towards the rear of the vehicle from the left-side front body mounting portion 35L. The central portion 43L is connected to the rear end of the front portion 42L, curves upwards, and extends horizontally towards the rear of the vehicle. The rear portion 44L is connected to the rear end of the central portion 43L and extends horizontally towards the rear of the vehicle to the rear body mounting portion 36L. As previously explained, the left-side rear end portion 37L extends horizontally towards the rear of the vehicle from the left-side rear body mounting portion 36L.
[0064] like Figure 4 As shown, the central portion 43L is composed of a web 43A, an upper flange 43B, and a lower flange 43C, and has a groove-shaped design that opens outwards in the vehicle width direction (to the left of the vehicle). Similarly, the front portion 42L and the rear portion 44L also have groove-shaped designs that open outwards in the vehicle width direction (to the left of the vehicle). In addition, plate-shaped ribs 47 extending in the vehicle width direction (to the left of the vehicle) are provided in the front portion 42L and the rear portion 44L.
[0065] Arm connection portions 45L and 46L are provided on the upper part of the front portion 42L and the central portion 43L for connecting the arm of the left suspension device 20L. In addition, a mounting portion 58L for mounting the drive device 19 is provided at the rear of the central portion 43L.
[0066] The lower left portion 51L includes a front end portion 52L, a rear end portion 54L, and a curved portion 53L. The front end portion 52L is connected to the lower side of the front portion 42L of the upper portion 41L. The rear end portion 54L is connected to the lower side of the rear portion 44L of the upper portion 41L. The curved portion 53L is a portion that curves downwards between the front end portion 52L and the rear end portion 54L. A cylindrical space 50L is provided between the upper surface of the curved portion 53L and the lower surface of the central portion 43L of the upper portion 41L. Figure 4 As shown, space 50L is the space through which drive shaft 19A extends in the vehicle width direction.
[0067] like Figure 3 , Figure 4 As shown, the curved portion 53L of the lower part 51L is composed of a web 53A, an inner flange 53B, and an outer flange 53C, and has a groove-shaped opening on the lower side of the vehicle. Similarly, the front end 52L and the rear end 54L also have a groove-shaped opening on the lower side of the vehicle. Multiple plate-shaped ribs 55 extending in the vertical direction of the vehicle are provided at the front end 52L, the curved portion 53L, and the rear end 54L.
[0068] The right-side side beam 31R is symmetrical to the left-side side beam 31L, and includes an upper portion 41R and a lower portion 51R. The upper portion 41R includes a front portion 42R, a central portion 43R, a rear portion 44R, and a rear end portion 37R of the vehicle, and is provided with arm connecting portions 45R and 46R and a mounting portion 58R. In addition, the lower portion 51R includes a front end portion 52R, a rear end portion 54R, and a curved portion 53R.
[0069] like Figure 3 , Figure 5 As shown, the front crossbeam 34 has a T-shaped cross section with a flat plate 34A and a transverse rib 34B.
[0070] like Figure 3 , Figure 5 As shown, the first crossbeam 32 is composed of a web 32A, an upper flange 32B, and a lower flange 32C, and has a channel-shaped opening at the rear of the vehicle. Additionally, a rib 32D extending from the web 32A toward the rear of the vehicle is provided on the first crossbeam 32. Furthermore, a mounting bracket 32E for mounting the upper part of the dynamic rear steering device 25 is provided on the front side of the web 32A of the first crossbeam 32.
[0071] The second crossbeam 33 is a frame portion that extends downward from the lower surfaces of the rear ends 54L and 54R of the left and right lower portions 51L and 51R, connecting the left and right side beams 31L and 31R in the vehicle width direction. The second crossbeam 33 consists of a left end 33L, a right end 33R, and a horizontal portion 33H. The left end 33L and right end 33R extend downward from the lower surfaces of the rear ends 54L and 54R. The horizontal portion 33H connects the left end 33L and right end 33R in the vehicle width direction. The left end 33L, right end 33R, and horizontal portion 33H have a downwardly convex U-shaped shape.
[0072] The horizontal section 33H is composed of a web 33A, a front flange 33B, and a rear flange 33C, and has a groove-shaped opening on the lower side of the vehicle. Additionally, a rib 33D extending from the web 33A toward the lower side of the vehicle is provided in the horizontal section 33H. Furthermore, left and right lower arm mounting portions 39L and 39R are provided at the left and right ends of the horizontal section 33H. The left and right lower arm mounting portions 39L and 39R are through holes extending along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. Additionally, a device mounting seat 33E for mounting the lower part of the dynamic rear steering device 25 is provided on the rear surface of the left and right ends of the rear flange 33C of the second crossbeam 33.
[0073] like Figure 5 , Figure 6 As shown, the dynamic rear steering device 25 is an assembly component of the suspension assembly 70, installed on device mounting seats 32E and 33E to connect the first crossbeam 32 and the second crossbeam 33. Figure 5 , Figure 6 As shown, the dynamic rear steering device 25 includes left and right upper brackets 25A and left and right lower brackets 25B. The left and right upper brackets 25A are bolted to the left and right mounting seats 32E of the first crossbeam 32. The left and right lower brackets 25B are bolted to the mounting seat 33E of the second crossbeam 33. Thus, the dynamic rear steering device 25 connects the front side of the first crossbeam 32 to the rear side of the second crossbeam 33 in the vertical direction. Furthermore, the dynamic rear steering device 25 connects the left end of the first crossbeam 32 to the right end of the horizontal portion 33H of the second crossbeam 33, and connects the right end of the first crossbeam 32 to the left end of the horizontal portion 33H of the second crossbeam 33. Thus, the dynamic rear steering device 25 connects the two ends of the first crossbeam 32 in the vehicle front direction and the two ends of the second crossbeam 33 in the vehicle rear direction and the vehicle width direction.
[0074] Next, refer to Figure 7 The deformation of each part of the suspension frame 30 when the load from the left and right helical springs 22L and 22R is input to the suspension frame 30 will be explained.
[0075] like Figure 7 As indicated by arrow 91, the loads from the left and right coil springs 22L and 22R, directed towards the front of the vehicle, are transmitted to the second crossbeam 33 via the lower suspension arms 21L and 21R, and the left and right lower arm mounting portions 39L and 39R. Furthermore, the loads are transmitted from the left end 33L and right end 33R of the second crossbeam 33 to the left and right side beams 31L and 31R. Through this forward load, the portions of the left and right side beams 31L and 31R that are forward of the second crossbeam 33 are subjected to this load. Figure 9 The bending moment is as shown by arrows 92 and 93. This bending moment causes the portions of the left and right side beams 31L and 31R that are forward of the second crossbeam 33 to bend inwards in the vehicle width direction. Furthermore, if the left and right side beams 31L and 31R bend, it will exert a bending moment on the second crossbeam 33. Figure 9 The bending moment is as shown by arrow 94 in the diagram. This bending moment causes the second crossbeam 33 to bend so that its central portion protrudes rearward in the vehicle width direction.
[0076] Here, the bending moment applied to the left-side side beam 31L is Figure 4The torque M1 about the Z1 axis is shown. The bending portion 53L has a slot-shaped opening on the lower side, and its bending stiffness about the Z1 axis is greater than its bending stiffness about the X1 axis. Here, the Z1 axis is a coordinate axis in the vertical direction passing through the center of the cross section of the bending portion 53L, and the X1 axis is a coordinate axis in the vehicle width direction passing through the center of the cross section of the bending portion 53L. Therefore, the torque applied to the left side beams 31L and 31R by the coil spring 22L is borne by the bending stiffness of the bending portion 53L about the Z1 axis. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the bending deformation of the left side beam 31L caused by the load input from the coil spring 22L.
[0077] In addition, the bending moment applied to the second crossbeam 33 is Figure 5 The moment M2 about the Z2 axis is shown. Similar to the bending section 53L, the second crossbeam 33 has a slotted shape with an open lower side, and its bending stiffness about the Z2 axis is greater than its bending stiffness about the Y2 axis. Here, the Z2 axis is a coordinate axis in the vertical direction passing through the center of the cross section of the second crossbeam 33, and the Y2 axis is a coordinate axis in the vehicle's longitudinal direction passing through the center of the cross section of the second crossbeam 33. Therefore, the bending moment applied to the second crossbeam 33 by the coil spring 22L is borne by the bending stiffness of the second crossbeam 33 about the Z2 axis. Therefore, bending deformation of the second crossbeam 33 caused by the load input from the coil spring 22L can be suppressed.
[0078] On the other hand, vertical loads are input to the suspension components 30 from the left and right suspension devices 20L and 20R. The left and right side beams 31L and 31R are composed of upper portions 41L and 41R and lower portions 51L and 51R arranged with spaces 50L and 50R separated from the upper portions 41L and 41R. Therefore, the overall vertical height of the left and right side beams 31L and 31R increases, the longitudinal bending stiffness of the left and right side beams 31L and 31R increases, and the overall stiffness of the suspension components 30 increases. Furthermore, as... Figure 4 As shown, the upper portions 41L and 41R are groove-shaped sections open outwards in the vehicle width direction. Therefore, the bending stiffness of the upper portions 41L and 41R about the X-axis is greater than their bending stiffness about the Z-axis. Here, the X-axis is the coordinate axis in the vehicle width direction passing through the center of the cross-section of the upper portion 41L, and the Z-axis is the coordinate axis in the vertical direction passing through the center of the cross-section of the upper portion 41L. The bending moment applied to the side beams 31L and 31R by the vertical loads from the left and right suspension devices 20L and 20R is... Figure 4 The moment M3 about the X-axis is shown in the diagram. Therefore, the bending moment applied to the side beams 31L and 31R is borne by the bending stiffness of the upper portions 41L and 41R about the X-axis. In this way, the stiffness of the left and right side beams 31L and 31R relative to longitudinal bending increases.
[0079] In addition, such as Figure 5As shown, the first crossbeam 32 has a slot-like shape that opens at the rear of the vehicle. Therefore, the bending stiffness of the first crossbeam 32 about the Y-axis is greater than its bending stiffness about the Z3-axis, and the first crossbeam 32 has greater stiffness relative to longitudinal bending. Thus, the first crossbeam 32 can withstand a moment M4 about the Y-axis. Here, the Y-axis is the coordinate axis in the vehicle's longitudinal direction passing through the center of the cross section of the first crossbeam 32, and the Z3-axis is the coordinate axis in the vertical direction passing through the center of the cross section of the upper portion 41L.
[0080] As explained above, since the suspension component 30 has a second crossbeam 33 with a groove shape that is open to the underside of the vehicle and has high lateral bending rigidity in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, the overall rigidity of the suspension component 30 can be improved, thereby suppressing the deformation mode such as the overall deflection of the suspension component 30.
[0081] Furthermore, since the lower left and right portions 51L and 51R of the suspension component 30, which have high lateral bending rigidity in the vehicle width direction, and the second crossbeam 33, which has high lateral bending rigidity in the vehicle front-rear direction, are integrally formed, the overall lateral bending deformation of the suspension component 30 can be suppressed.
[0082] Furthermore, since the suspension component 30 integrally forms the left and right side beams 31L and 31R, which have left and right spaces 50L and 50R, high height in the vertical direction, and high longitudinal bending rigidity, with the first crossbeam 32, which is configured as a groove shape open at the rear of the vehicle and has high longitudinal bending rigidity, the overall longitudinal bending deformation of the suspension component 30 can be suppressed.
[0083] Furthermore, in the suspension component 30, the upper portions 41L and 41R of the left and right side beams 31L and 31R are configured as slot-shaped sections open to the outside in the vehicle width direction, and the first crossbeam 32 is configured as a slot-shaped section open to the rear of the vehicle. Additionally, the lower portions 51L and 51R of the left and right side beams 31L and 31R, and the second crossbeam 33, are configured as slot-shaped sections open to the lower side of the vehicle. Therefore, by setting the demolding direction to the outside, rear, and lower side in the vehicle width direction, the suspension component 30 can be integrally formed by casting.
[0084] The following is a detailed explanation of the mold and demolding direction when the suspension component 30 is integrally formed by casting. First, refer to... Figure 8 , Figure 9 The mold 60 used for casting the lower portion 51L of the left side beam 31L and the demolding direction are explained. For example... Figure 8 , Figure 9 As shown, mold 60 consists of a lower mold 61 and an upper mold 66. The lower mold 61 includes: a recess 62 for forming the web 53A of the lower portion 51L; elongated grooves 63B and 63C for forming the inner flange 53B and the outer flange 53C; and a group of grooves 65 for forming the ribs 55. Figure 9 As shown, the recess 62 and the elongated grooves 63B and 63C extend along the length direction of the lower portion 51L. In addition, the groove group 65 is composed of a plurality of transverse grooves 65A that extend along the width direction of the lower portion 51L in a manner connecting the elongated grooves 63B and 63C.
[0085] The upper mold 66 is assembled above the lower mold 61. When the upper mold 66 and the lower mold 61 are assembled, the recess 62, the long grooves 63B and 63C, and the transverse groove 65A allow molten metal to flow in, forming the cavity of the forming web 53A, the inner flange 53B, the outer flange 53C, and the rib 55.
[0086] like Figure 7 , Figure 8 As shown, after casting is completed, the lower mold 61 and upper mold 66 are opened, and the lower portion 51L, which is the cast product, is removed. The lower portion 51L is configured as a slot-shaped opening on the lower side of the vehicle, and the ribs 55 are arranged to extend downwards towards the vehicle. Therefore, as Figure 4 , Figure 8 , Figure 9 As shown by the hollow arrow P51, the lower mold 61 can be demolded downwards along the height direction of the inner flange 53B, the outer flange 53C, and the rib 55. Thus, the lower part 51L is integrally formed by casting.
[0087] Similarly, the upper portion 41L of the left-side side beam 31L has a channel-shaped opening on the outer side (left side of the vehicle) in the vehicle width direction, and the rib 47 is configured to extend along the vehicle width direction. Therefore, as Figure 4 As indicated by the hollow arrow P41, the mold (not shown) forming the upper part 41L can be demolded outward in the height direction of the upper flange 43B, the lower flange 43C, and the rib 57, i.e., the vehicle width direction (to the left of the vehicle). Thus, the upper part 41L is integrally formed by casting.
[0088] Similarly, the first crossbeam 32 is composed of a web 32A, an upper flange 32B, and a lower flange 32C, and has an open, channel-like shape at the rear of the vehicle. The ribs 32D are arranged to extend rearwards. Therefore, the mold (not shown) for forming the first crossbeam 32 is as follows: Figure 5 As indicated by the hollow arrow P32, it can be demolded towards the rear of the vehicle. Thus, the first crossbeam 32 is integrally formed by casting.
[0089] Furthermore, the second crossbeam 33, composed of a web 33A, a front flange 33B, and a rear flange 33C, has an open, channel-like shape on the lower side of the vehicle, and the rib 33D is configured to extend downwards towards the vehicle. Therefore, as Figure 5 As indicated by the hollow arrow P33, the mold (not shown) for forming the second crossbeam 33 can be demolded in a downward direction. Thus, the second crossbeam 33 is integrally formed by casting.
[0090] Furthermore, the front crossbeam 34 is cast using a mold 60A, which includes a lower mold 67 having, as shown in the image below. Figure 10 The diagram shows a recess 69A forming the transverse rib 34B, and an elongated groove 69B forming the lower part of the flat plate 34A; and an upper mold 68 having an elongated groove 69C forming the upper part of the flat plate 34A. In this case, the lower mold 67 can also be... Figure 5 , Figure 10 As shown by the hollow arrow P34, the demolding proceeds downwards along the height direction of the plate 34A. Thus, the front crossbeam 34 is integrally formed by casting.
[0091] As explained above, by setting the demolding direction of molds 60 and 60A to the outside, rear, and underside of the vehicle in the width direction, the left and right side beams 31L and 31R, the first crossbeam 32, the second crossbeam 33, and the front crossbeam 34 can be formed by integral casting.
[0092] Furthermore, the suspension assembly 70 described above integrates the first crossbeam 32 and the second crossbeam 33 via the dynamic rear steering device 25, thereby improving the overall rigidity of the suspension assembly 70. In addition, this increases the torsional rigidity of the suspension components 30, thus suppressing overall deformation of the suspension components 30.
[0093] Furthermore, while the assembly components of the suspension assembly 70 have been described above as the dynamic rear steering system 25, it is not limited to this. They may be composed of other vehicle-mounted components, not limited to the dynamic rear steering system 25. Additionally, the assembly components may be composed of plate-shaped components. This allows for an increase in the rigidity of the suspension assembly 70 while reducing the number of components.
[0094] Alternatively, the assembly component may also consist of multiple support members that cross-connect the two ends of the first crossbeam 32 and the second crossbeam 33 in the vehicle width direction. Specifically, the assembly component may also consist of a first support member that connects the left end of the first crossbeam 32 to the right end of the horizontal portion 33H of the second crossbeam 33, and a second support member that connects the right end of the first crossbeam 32 to the left end of the horizontal portion 33H of the second crossbeam 33.
[0095] Furthermore, in the rear structure 80 of the vehicle, the left and right rear ends 37L and 37R of the left and right side beams 31L and 31R are located closer to the rear side of the vehicle than the left and right collision energy absorption boxes 14L and 14R on the front side. Therefore, in a rear-end collision, the left and right rear ends 37L and 37R, together with the left and right collision energy absorption boxes 14L and 14R, absorb the impact force, thus improving the impact load absorption performance.
[0096] Furthermore, in the rear structure 80 of the vehicle, since left and right stabilizer support parts 38L and 38R are provided on the lower surfaces of the left and right rear ends 37L and 37R of the vehicle, there is no need to provide additional components to support the stabilizer 26, thereby reducing the number of components.
[0097] Next, refer to Figure 11 Another embodiment of the suspension component assembly 170 will be described. The suspension component assembly 170 includes suspension components 130 and a dynamic rear steering device 25. Furthermore, the suspension component assembly 170 is mounted on a vehicle 110. Additionally, in the following description, references to... Figures 1 to 9 The suspension component assembly 70 and suspension component 30, which are described, are the same parts marked with the same symbols and the description is omitted.
[0098] like Figure 11 As shown, in the suspension component 130, reference will be made to Figures 1 to 9 The first crossbeam 32 of the suspension component 30 described herein is configured with a mountain-shaped cross section comprising a cross plate 32F extending rearward toward the vehicle and a longitudinal plate 32G extending downward toward the vehicle. A triangular rib 32H extending from the longitudinal plate 32G toward the rearward of the vehicle is provided on the longitudinal plate 32G.
[0099] Thus, the first crossbeam 132 is configured in a mountain-shaped form, including a cross plate 32F and a longitudinal plate 32G, with the ribs 32H arranged to extend rearwards from the vehicle. Therefore, as Figure 11 As shown by the hollow arrow P132, the first crossbeam 132 is integrally formed by casting by demolding the mold (not shown) that forms the first crossbeam 132 towards the rear of the vehicle.
[0100] Therefore, like the suspension component 30, the suspension component 130 can be integrally formed by casting by setting the demolding direction to the outside of the vehicle width direction, the rear of the vehicle, and the underside of the vehicle.
[0101] Furthermore, since the suspension component 130 and the suspension component 30 are both open-channel shapes on the lower side of the vehicle and have a second crossbeam 33 with high lateral bending rigidity in the front-rear direction of the vehicle, the overall rigidity of the suspension component 130 can be improved, thereby suppressing the deformation mode such as the overall deflection of the suspension component 130.
[0102] [Postscript]
[0103] The suspension component 30 disclosed herein can also be configured as follows.
[0104] [1] A suspension component 30, integrally formed by casting, is installed at the rear of a vehicle body 200, characterized in that it comprises:
[0105] The left and right side beams 31L and 31R are located on both sides of the vehicle and extend along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle; and
[0106] Multiple crossbeams 32, 33, and 34 connect the left and right side beams 31L and 31R in the vehicle width direction.
[0107] The left and right side beams 31L and 31R include upper portions 41L and 41R and lower portions 51L and 51R.
[0108] The lower portions 51L and 51R are bent downwards in such a way that they leave a space 50L and 50R between themselves and the upper portions 41L and 41R.
[0109] [2] According to the suspension component 30 described in [1], the characteristic is that,
[0110] The upper portion is configured as a groove shape that opens outwards in the vehicle width direction.
[0111] [3] The suspension component 30 according to [2] is characterized in that,
[0112] The lower portions 51L and 51R are configured as an open groove shape on the lower side of the vehicle.
[0113] In addition, in the aforementioned suspension components 30, the multiple crossbeams 32, 33, and 34 can be configured as a channel shape, a mountain shape, or a T-shape.
[0114] Alternatively, the rear structure 80 of the vehicle disclosed herein can also be configured as follows.
[0115] [4] A vehicle rear structure 80, comprising:
[0116] The rear unit 10 includes left and right rear longitudinal beams 11L and 11R, which are disposed on both sides of the rear of the vehicle and extend in the front-rear direction.
[0117] The left and right collision energy absorption boxes 14L and 14R are installed at the rear ends of the left and right rear longitudinal beams 11L and 11R and extend towards the rear of the vehicle; and
[0118] The suspension component 30 is installed on the lower side of the rear unit 10.
[0119] The rear structure 80 of the vehicle is characterized in that...
[0120] The suspension component 30 includes:
[0121] The left and right side beams 31L and 31R are located on both sides of the vehicle and extend along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle; and
[0122] Multiple crossbeams 32, 33, and 34 connect the left and right side beams 31L and 31R in the vehicle width direction.
[0123] The left and right side beams 31L and 31R include upper portions 41L and 41R and lower portions 51L and 51R.
[0124] The lower portion curves downward in a manner that creates a space between it and the upper portion.
[0125] The upper portions 41L and 41R are configured as a groove shape that opens outward in the vehicle width direction.
[0126] The lower portions 51L and 51R are configured as an open, groove-shaped section on the lower side of the vehicle.
[0127] The rear ends 37L and 37R of the left and right side beams 31L and 31R are located on the rear side of the vehicle, which is closer to the front end of the collision energy absorption boxes 14L and 14R.
[0128] Furthermore, in the aforementioned rear structure 80 of the vehicle, the multiple crossbeams 32, 33, and 34 can be configured as a channel shape, a mountain shape, or a T-shape.
Claims
1. A suspension component, integrally formed by casting, and installed at the rear of a vehicle body, characterized in that, The suspension components include: The left and right side beams are located on both sides of the vehicle and extend along the front-to-back direction of the vehicle. The first crossbeam connects the various body mounting portions of the left and right side beams in the vehicle width direction; and The second crossbeam connects the left and right side beams in the vehicle width direction on the front side of the first crossbeam. The first crossbeam is configured as a channel shape open at the rear of the vehicle or a mountain shape including a horizontal plate extending to the rear of the vehicle and a vertical plate extending to the lower side of the vehicle. The second crossbeam is configured as an open channel shape on the lower side of the vehicle.
2. The suspension component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The left and right side beams include an upper part and a lower part. The lower portion curves downward in a manner that creates a space between it and the upper portion.
3. The suspension component according to claim 2, characterized in that, The upper portion is configured as a groove shape that opens outwards in the vehicle width direction.
4. The suspension component according to claim 2, characterized in that, The lower portion is configured as a slot-shaped structure with an open lower side of the vehicle.
5. The suspension component according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The second crossbeam has a lower arm mounting portion, on which the suspension lower arm is mounted.
6. A suspension component assembly, characterized in that, have: The suspension component according to any one of claims 1 to 4; and Assemble the components by connecting the first crossbeam to the second crossbeam.
7. The suspension component assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that, The assembly component connects the two ends of the first crossbeam on the front side of the vehicle and in the vehicle width direction to the two ends of the second crossbeam on the rear side of the vehicle and in the vehicle width direction.
8. The suspension component assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that, The assembly component is a plate-shaped component, or a plurality of support components that cross-connect the two ends of the first crossbeam and the second crossbeam in the vehicle width direction.
9. The suspension component assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that, The assembled component is a dynamic rear steering device.
10. A suspension component assembly, characterized in that, have: The suspension component according to any one of claims 1 to 4; Assemble the components by connecting the first crossbeam to the second crossbeam. The second crossbeam extends from the lower surfaces of the left and right side beams, forming a downwardly convex U-shaped shape. The assembly component connects one and the other ends of the front side of the first crossbeam to the other and one ends of the rear side of the second crossbeam.