Connecting rod and vehicle

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of vehicle chassis, and provides a connecting rod and a vehicle. The connecting rod of the application is applied to a suspension of the vehicle, and comprises a connecting rod base, a first connecting rod connected to one end of the connecting rod base, a second connecting rod connected to the other end of the connecting rod base, a first ball head assembly connected to the first connecting rod, a second ball head assembly connected to the second connecting rod, and a locking mechanism arranged between the connecting rod base and the first connecting rod. When the locking mechanism is in different locking positions, the length of the connecting rod can be adjusted, and the included angle between the first ball head assembly and the second ball head assembly can be adjusted. The application can realize the adjustment of the length of the connecting rod and the adjustment of the included angle between the ball head assemblies at the two ends of the connecting rod, and is helpful to improving the applicability of the connecting rod in different suspension structures.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of vehicle chassis technology, and in particular to a connecting rod and a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] In vehicle design, the connecting rod in a typical front suspension module connects the front shock absorber or steering knuckle at the upper end and the front stabilizer bar at the lower end. In a rear suspension module, the connecting rod connects the rear stabilizer bar at the upper end and the rear lower control arm assembly at the lower end. However, in traditional designs, the length of the connecting rod and the included angle of the ball joint assemblies at both ends cannot be adjusted, resulting in poor applicability to different suspension structures. Utility Model Content

[0003] In view of this, this application aims to provide a connecting rod to improve the applicability of the connecting rod in different suspension structures.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution of this application is implemented as follows: A connecting rod, used in the suspension of a vehicle, includes a connecting rod seat, a first connecting rod connected to one end of the connecting rod seat, a second connecting rod connected to the other end of the connecting rod seat, a first ball joint assembly connected to the first connecting rod, and a second ball joint assembly connected to the second connecting rod; The first link and the link seat are inserted together, and a locking mechanism is provided between the link seat and the first link. The locking mechanism has a plurality of first locking positions in a first direction and a plurality of second locking positions in a second direction. When the locking mechanism is in different first locking positions, the length of the connecting rod can be adjusted; when the locking mechanism is in different second locking positions, the included angle between the first ball joint assembly and the second ball joint assembly can be adjusted. Wherein, the first direction is the length direction of the first link, and the second direction is the circumferential direction of the first link.

[0005] Furthermore, the first connecting rod is inserted into the insertion hole on the connecting rod seat, and the locking mechanism includes multiple sets of locking holes on the connecting rod seat, multiple mating holes on the first connecting rod, and a locking element; Multiple sets of locking holes are arranged at intervals along the length direction of the connecting rod seat, and each set of locking holes consists of multiple sets arranged at intervals along the circumference of the connecting rod seat; multiple mating holes are arranged at intervals along the length direction of the first connecting rod, and the locking member can be fastened in the aligned locking holes and mating holes to lock the first connecting rod and the connecting rod seat in the corresponding locking positions.

[0006] Furthermore, at least the portion of the first connecting rod that is inserted into the insertion hole, and the cross-section of the insertion hole are both square; each side wall of the insertion hole is provided with a locking hole, and the mating hole is located on the same side wall of the first connecting rod.

[0007] Furthermore, both the locking hole and the mating hole are threaded holes, and the locking component is a threaded connector.

[0008] Furthermore, the ball head seats in both the first ball head assembly and the second ball head assembly are injection molded; The first connecting rod has a concave rib at one end connected to the first ball joint assembly and is embedded in the ball joint seat of the first ball joint assembly; and / or, the outer wall of the second connecting rod has knurling at one end connected to the second ball joint assembly and is embedded in the ball joint seat of the second ball joint assembly.

[0009] Furthermore, the first connecting rod has an internal cavity that extends through the entire first connecting rod along its length, and an end cap is fixedly connected to one end of the first connecting rod that is embedded in the corresponding ball joint; the end cap is used to seal one end of the cavity, and the end cap has an outwardly protruding portion that extends beyond the outer wall of the first connecting rod.

[0010] Furthermore, the second connecting rod and the connecting rod seat are screwed together, and a locking mechanism is provided between the second connecting rod and the connecting rod seat; the locking mechanism is used to lock the screwed position between the second connecting rod and the connecting rod seat.

[0011] Furthermore, the second connecting rod is screwed into a threaded connection hole on the connecting rod seat, and the locking mechanism includes a locking nut screwed onto the second connecting rod; the locking nut can abut against the end of the connecting rod seat connected to the second connecting rod.

[0012] Furthermore, at least one of the connecting rod seat, the first connecting rod, and the second connecting rod is made of aluminum alloy.

[0013] Compared with related technologies, this application has the following advantages: (1) The connecting rod of this application is provided with a connecting rod seat, a first connecting rod and a second connecting rod, and a locking mechanism is provided between the connecting rod seat and the first connecting rod. When the locking mechanism is in different first locking positions, the length of the connecting rod can be adjusted. When the locking mechanism is in different second locking positions, the included angle between the ball joint assemblies at both ends of the connecting rod can be adjusted. In this way, by using the multiple first locking positions in the first direction and the multiple second locking positions in the second direction of the locking mechanism, the length of the connecting rod and the included angle between the ball joint assemblies at both ends can be adjusted in a multi-level stepped manner. This can meet the installation requirements of the connecting rod in different vehicle suspension structures and help improve the applicability of the connecting rod in different suspension structures.

[0014] (2) Insert the first connecting rod into the insertion hole on the connecting rod seat. Multiple sets of locking holes are arranged at intervals along the length direction of the connecting rod seat, and each set of locking holes is arranged at intervals along the circumference of the connecting rod seat. At the same time, multiple mating holes are arranged at intervals along the length direction of the first connecting rod. The locking member can be fastened in the aligned locking hole and mating hole to lock the first connecting rod and the connecting rod seat in the corresponding locking position. This can realize multi-level step adjustment of the length of the connecting rod. The insertion and mating of the first connecting rod and the insertion hole on the connecting rod seat is simple in structure and also helps to ensure a reliable connection between the first connecting rod and the connecting rod seat.

[0015] (3) The part of the first connecting rod that is connected to the insertion hole and the cross-section of the insertion hole are both square, which can realize the step adjustment of the included angle between the first ball joint assembly and the second ball joint assembly. It can also better avoid the relative rotation of the first connecting rod and the connecting rod seat after insertion. It can facilitate the alignment of the locking hole and the mating hole, and also help improve the stability of the overall structure of the connecting rod. Locking holes are provided on each side wall of the insertion hole, and the mating holes are all located on the same side wall of the first connecting rod. While allowing the first connecting rod and the connecting rod seat to be in different second locking positions, it can also avoid the adverse effects on the structure of the first connecting rod itself due to too many holes on the first connecting rod, and thus help to ensure the structural strength of the first connecting rod.

[0016] (4) Both the locking hole and the mating hole are threaded holes, and the locking part is a threaded connector. Its structure is simple and easy to assemble, and it can achieve a relatively reliable connection between the first connecting rod and the connecting rod seat, which is conducive to ensuring the stability and reliability of the connecting rod.

[0017] (5) Both the ball head seats in the first ball head assembly and the second ball head assembly are injection molded, which can ensure the structural strength of the ball head seats, facilitate their production, and enable the lightweight design of the connecting rod. A concave rib is provided at the end of the first connecting rod connected to the first ball head assembly, and knurling is provided on the outer wall of the end of the second connecting rod connected to the second ball head assembly. This can increase the firmness of the connection between each connecting rod and the corresponding ball head seat, which is conducive to improving the reliability of the connection between the first connecting rod and the first ball head assembly, and between the second connecting rod and the second ball head assembly, and is conducive to improving the overall reliability of the connecting rod.

[0018] (6) A cavity extending through the length of the first connecting rod is provided inside the first connecting rod. This helps to reduce the weight of the first connecting rod while maintaining its structural strength, which is beneficial for the lightweight design of the connecting rod. An end cap with an outwardly protruding portion extending beyond the outer wall of the first connecting rod is provided at one end of the first connecting rod embedded in the ball head seat. This can prevent plastic particles from entering the cavity during the injection molding process, while further improving the connection reliability between the first connecting rod and the ball head seat, which is beneficial for further improving the reliability of the connecting rod.

[0019] (7) The second link and the link seat are screwed together, enabling stepless adjustment of the link length and the angle between the first ball joint assembly and the second ball joint assembly, which is beneficial to improving the applicability of the link in different suspension structures. A locking mechanism is provided between the second link and the link seat to lock the screwed position between the second link and the link seat, ensuring the reliability of the threaded connection between the second link and the link seat, which is beneficial to further improving the structural stability of the link during use.

[0020] (8) The second connecting rod is screwed into the threaded connection hole on the connecting rod seat, and a locking nut is provided on the second connecting rod that can abut against the end of the connecting rod seat connected to the second connecting rod. Its structure is simple, easy to install and adjust, and has a low cost. It also helps to ensure the locking effect of the locking mechanism.

[0021] (9) The connecting rod seat, the first connecting rod and the second connecting rod are made of aluminum alloy, which can ensure the structural strength of each component, and also facilitate the lightweight design of the connecting rod seat, the first connecting rod and the second connecting rod, thus facilitating the overall lightweight design of the connecting rod.

[0022] Another object of this application is to provide a vehicle in which the suspension is provided with the connecting rods as described above.

[0023] The vehicle described in this application, by setting the aforementioned connecting rod, can simplify the number of vehicle parts, shorten the vehicle design cycle, and help improve the vehicle's market competitiveness. Attached Figure Description

[0024] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this application, are used to provide a further understanding of this application. The illustrative embodiments and descriptions of this application are used to explain this application and do not constitute an undue limitation of this application. In the drawings: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the connecting rod described in an embodiment of this application; Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the connecting rod described in the embodiment of this application; Figure 3 This is an exploded view of the second ball head assembly described in the embodiments of this application; Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the first ball joint assembly described in an embodiment of this application; Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of the connector described in the embodiment of this application; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first connecting rod described in an embodiment of this application; Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: 1. Connecting rod seat; 11. Insertion hole; 12. Locking hole; 13. Threaded connection hole; 2. First connecting rod; 21. Mating hole; 22. Cavity; 23. End cap; 231. Protruding part; 24. Recessed rib; 3. Second connecting rod; 31. Locking nut; 32. Knurling; 33. Thread; 4. Threaded connector; 4. Ball head seat; 41. Cavity; 42. First annular groove; 43. Groove; 44. Reinforcing rib; 5. First retaining ring; 6. Second retaining ring; 7. Ball pin; 71. Head; 72. Shaft section; 721. Second ring groove; 8. Sealing sleeve; 81. Sealing sleeve body; 82. First opening; 83. Second opening. Detailed Implementation

[0025] To make the technical solution and advantages of this application clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0026] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in this application can be combined with each other.

[0027] Furthermore, it should be noted that in the description of this application, if terms such as "upper," "lower," "inner," or "outer" appear, indicating orientation or positional relationship, these are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings and are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation on this application. In addition, if terms such as "first" or "second" appear, they are also used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0028] Furthermore, in the description of this application, unless otherwise expressly defined, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," and "connector" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application in light of the specific circumstances.

[0029] In this application, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example, which is included in at least one embodiment or example of this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Moreover, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0030] The present application will now be described in detail through exemplary embodiments. However, it should be understood that, without further description, elements, structures, and features in one embodiment may be advantageously incorporated into other embodiments.

[0031] An embodiment of the first aspect of this application provides a connecting rod that is applied in a vehicle suspension. Furthermore, through its innovative structural design, the connecting rod of this embodiment can adjust both the length of the connecting rod and the included angle between the ball joint assemblies at both ends of the connecting rod, thereby improving the applicability of the connecting rod in different suspension structures.

[0032] In related technologies, in vehicle design, the connecting rod in the front suspension module typically connects to the front shock absorber or steering knuckle at the upper end and to the front stabilizer bar at the lower end. In the rear suspension module, the connecting rod connects to the rear stabilizer bar at the upper end and to the rear lower control arm assembly at the lower end. During driving, the connecting rod mainly bears the tensile and compressive forces generated by the up-and-down movement of the tires causing the stabilizer bar to move, playing a crucial role in the vehicle's handling stability.

[0033] In traditional designs, the length of the connecting rod and the included angle of the ball joint assemblies at both ends cannot be adjusted. Therefore, the front suspension module, the rear suspension module, and each vehicle model require connecting rods of different lengths, which also results in poor applicability of the connecting rod in different suspension structures.

[0034] In view of this, in order to overcome the shortcomings of the related technology, the connecting rod in this embodiment combines... Figures 1 to 6 In terms of overall design, it includes a connecting rod seat 1, a first connecting rod 2 connected to one end of the connecting rod seat 1, a second connecting rod 3 connected to the other end of the connecting rod seat 1, a first ball joint assembly connected to the first connecting rod 2, and a second ball joint assembly connected to the second connecting rod 3.

[0035] The first connecting rod 2 and the connecting rod seat 1 are inserted together, and a locking mechanism is provided between the connecting rod seat 1 and the first connecting rod 2. The locking mechanism has multiple first locking positions in a first direction and multiple second locking positions in a second direction. When the locking mechanism is in different first locking positions, the length of the connecting rod can be adjusted. When the locking mechanism is in different second locking positions, the included angle between the first ball joint assembly and the second ball joint assembly can be adjusted. The first direction is the length direction of the first connecting rod 2, and the second direction is the circumferential direction of the first connecting rod 2.

[0036] Therefore, by setting up a connecting rod seat 1, a first connecting rod 2, and a second connecting rod 3, and setting a locking mechanism between the connecting rod seat 1 and the first connecting rod 2, the length of the connecting rod can be adjusted when the locking mechanism is in different first locking positions, and the included angle between the ball joint assemblies at both ends of the connecting rod can be adjusted when the locking mechanism is in different second locking positions. In this way, by using multiple first locking positions in the first direction and multiple second locking positions in the second direction, multi-level stepped adjustment of the length of the connecting rod and the included angle between the ball joint assemblies at both ends can be achieved, which can meet the installation requirements of the connecting rod in different vehicle suspension structures and help improve the applicability of the connecting rod in different suspension structures.

[0037] Based on the above overview, specifically, both the first and second ball joint assemblies described above can adopt the relevant structures found in existing ball joint assemblies on connecting rods. In one exemplary embodiment, reference can be made to... Figures 2 to 4 The first ball joint assembly and the second ball joint assembly mentioned above both include a first retaining ring 5, a second retaining ring 6, a sealing sleeve 8, a ball pin 7, and a ball joint seat 4.

[0038] The ball joint 4 primarily bears the tensile and compressive forces transmitted by tire bounce. It includes a main body and a cavity 41 located at the end of the main body away from the first connecting rod 2 or the second connecting rod 3, for accommodating the ball pin 7. The cavity 41 is conformally shaped to the ball pin 7. On the main body, at the opening of the cavity 41, a first annular groove 42 is also provided for engaging the sealing sleeve 8. Furthermore, a groove 43 is provided on the side wall of the main body, and reinforcing ribs 44 are provided between the two side walls of the groove 43. Multiple reinforcing ribs 44 are spaced apart along the length of the groove 43, which ensure the structural strength of the ball joint 4 and good injection molding.

[0039] The aforementioned ball pin 7 is generally made of alloy steel with high strength, high toughness, and wear resistance, and is machined from a cold-forged blank. It mainly comprises two areas: a head 71 and a shaft 72. The head 71 is burnished to obtain a better surface finish and wear resistance, ensuring its service life. The shaft 72, near the head 71, also has a second annular groove 721 for engaging the aforementioned sealing sleeve 8. Furthermore, for ease of assembly and disassembly, the end of the shaft 72 is also provided with an internal hexagonal hole.

[0040] The aforementioned sealing sleeve 8 is made of vulcanized rubber material and includes a bulging-shaped sealing sleeve body 81, a second opening 83 for engaging with the first annular groove 42, and a first opening 82 for engaging with the second annular groove 721. The first opening 82 is tightly engaged in the second annular groove 721, and the second opening 83 is interference-fitted with the first annular groove 42 of the ball head seat 4 to prevent foreign objects such as mud and sand from entering the ball head and affecting its service life.

[0041] The first retaining ring 5 and the second retaining ring 6 mentioned above are both stacked ring springs. The first retaining ring 5 is sleeved on the outside of the first opening 82, and the second retaining ring 6 is sleeved on the outside of the second opening 83, thereby clamping the sealing sleeve 8 with the ball head seat 4 and the ball pin 7 to prevent the sealing sleeve 8 from falling off, thereby achieving the sealing of the cavity 41.

[0042] It should be noted that any related structures not mentioned in the ball joint assembly of this embodiment can be referred to as the related structures of ball joint assemblies well known to those skilled in the art, and will not be described in detail here.

[0043] Combination Figure 1 as well as Figure 3As shown, in some exemplary embodiments, the first link 2 is inserted into the insertion hole 11 on the link seat 1. The locking mechanism includes multiple sets of locking holes 12 on the link seat 1, multiple mating holes 21 on the first link 2, and a locking member. The multiple sets of locking holes 12 are spaced apart along the length direction of the link seat 1, and each set of locking holes 12 consists of multiple holes spaced apart circumferentially along the link seat 1. The multiple mating holes 21 are spaced apart along the length direction of the first link 2, and the locking member can be fastened in the aligned locking holes 12 and mating holes 21 to lock the first link 2 and the link seat 1 in the corresponding locked positions.

[0044] This design allows for multi-stage, stepped adjustment of the connecting rod length. The insertion and engagement of the first connecting rod 2 with the insertion hole 11 on the connecting rod seat 1 is simple in structure and also helps ensure a reliable connection between the first connecting rod 2 and the connecting rod seat 11. In specific implementations, the number and arrangement of the locking holes 12 and mating holes 21 can be adjusted according to actual conditions, and will not be elaborated further.

[0045] Combination Figures 2 to 4 as well as Figure 5 As shown, in some exemplary embodiments, both the first connecting rod 2 and the insertion hole 11 have square cross-sections. This arrangement allows for a stepped adjustment of the angle between the first ball joint assembly and the second ball joint assembly, effectively preventing relative rotation after the first connecting rod is inserted into the connecting rod seat. It also facilitates alignment of the locking hole and the mating hole, and improves the overall stability of the connecting rod structure. Furthermore, it simplifies the fabrication of the first connecting rod 2 and the insertion hole 11. While it is possible for the first connecting rod 2 to have a square cross-section only for the part connected to the insertion hole 11, this would increase manufacturing costs.

[0046] Each side wall of the insertion hole 11 is provided with a locking hole 12, and the mating hole 21 is located on the same side wall of the first connecting rod 2. This allows the first connecting rod and the connecting rod seat to be in different second locking positions, while also avoiding the adverse effects on the structure of the first connecting rod due to too many holes, thus helping to ensure the structural strength of the first connecting rod. Of course, it is also possible to provide mating holes 21 on other side walls of the first connecting rod 2, but this would increase the manufacturing cost and reduce the structural strength of the connecting rod. In specific implementation, the cross-section of the connecting rod seat 1 can also be square, which is beneficial to the manufacturing of the connecting rod seat 1.

[0047] Continue to combine Figure 2 , Figure 5 as well as Figure 6As shown, in some exemplary embodiments, both the locking hole 12 and the mating hole 21 are threaded holes, and the locking element is a threaded connector 4. This configuration results in a simple structure that is easy to assemble and enables a relatively reliable connection between the first connecting rod 2 and the connecting rod seat 1, which helps to ensure the stability and reliability of the connecting rod.

[0048] In specific implementation, the aforementioned threaded connector 4 is preferably a screw known to those skilled in the art, and its quantity is preferably three, so as to ensure the reliability of the connection and help avoid shaking or collision between the first connecting rod 2 and the connecting rod seat 1 due to vibration.

[0049] Combination Figures 2 to 4 As shown, in some exemplary embodiments, the ball joint 4 in both the first and second ball joint assemblies is injection molded. This arrangement has the advantage of ensuring the structural strength of the ball joint 4 while also facilitating its production and enabling a lightweight design for the connecting rod.

[0050] The end of the first connecting rod 2 connected to the first ball joint assembly has a concave rib 24, which is embedded in the ball joint seat 4 of the first ball joint assembly. The outer wall of the end of the second connecting rod 3 connected to the second ball joint assembly has knurling 32, which is also embedded in the ball joint seat 4 of the second ball joint assembly. This arrangement increases the firmness of the connection between each connecting rod and the corresponding ball joint seat 4, thereby improving the reliability of the connection between the first connecting rod 2 and the first ball joint assembly, and between the second connecting rod 3 and the second ball joint assembly, and thus improving the overall reliability of the connecting rods.

[0051] In specific implementation, the ball joint 4 adopts an injection-molded structure, integrally injection-molded with the first connecting rod 2 and the second connecting rod 3. Alternatively, it can utilize other molding methods or materials familiar to those skilled in the art. The aforementioned recessed ribs 24 are multiple sets located on the first connecting rod 2, with each set positioned along a ridge line of the first connecting rod 2. Each set of recessed ribs 24 is spaced apart along the length of the first connecting rod 2, and the recessed ribs 24 on adjacent ridge lines are staggered along the length of the first connecting rod 2. This ensures the structural reliability of the first connecting rod 2 and allows the injection-molded plastic particles to enter the recessed ribs 24 during injection molding. This enables the inner wall of the mating hole between the ball joint 4 and the first connecting rod 2 to form an embedded structure with the outer surface of the second connecting rod, thereby improving the connection reliability between the first connecting rod 2 and the ball joint 4.

[0052] It is worth mentioning that the cross-section of the part where the first connecting rod 2 mates with the ball head seat 4 can also be circular, hexagonal or other shapes, and the concave rib 24 can also be knurled 32. Any structure that can improve the connection reliability between the first connecting rod 2 and the ball head seat 4 is acceptable, and will not be elaborated further here.

[0053] Similarly, the cross-section of the part where the second link 3 mates with the ball head seat 4 can also be square, hexagonal or other shapes, and the knurling 32 can also be a concave rib 24, as long as the structure can improve the reliability of the connection between the second link 3 and the ball head seat 4.

[0054] Combination Figure 6 As shown, in some exemplary embodiments, the first link 2 has a cavity 22 inside, which extends through the entire first link 2 along its length, and one end of the first link 2, which is embedded in the corresponding ball joint 4, is fixedly connected to an end cap 23. The end cap 23 is used to seal one end of the cavity 22, and the end cap 23 has an outwardly protruding portion 231 that extends beyond the outer wall of the first link 2.

[0055] This design helps to reduce the weight of the first connecting rod 2 while maintaining its structural strength, thus facilitating a lightweight design for the connecting rod. It also prevents plastic particles from entering the cavity 22 during injection molding, further improving the connection reliability between the first connecting rod 2 and the ball joint seat 4, thereby contributing to a further improvement in the reliability of the connecting rod.

[0056] In practice, the end cap 23 has a square cross-section and is typically fixed to the first connecting rod 2 by press-fitting to form an end sealing structure, preventing plastic particles from entering the cavity 22 during injection molding. Of course, the end cap 23 can also take other forms, such as circular or hexagonal, as long as it can prevent plastic particles from entering the cavity 22 during injection molding and improve the connection reliability between the first connecting rod 2 and the ball head seat 4. Further details will not be elaborated here.

[0057] Furthermore, it is worth mentioning that the end of the second link 3 that is embedded in the corresponding ball head seat 4 can also refer to the first link 2, by setting an outward protrusion that extends beyond the outer wall of the second link 3, thereby further improving the connection reliability between the second link 3 and the ball head seat 4.

[0058] Combination Figure 2 as well as Figure 5 As shown, in some exemplary embodiments, the second link 3 and the link seat 1 are screwed together, and a locking mechanism is provided between the second link 3 and the link seat 1 to lock the screwed position between the second link 3 and the link seat 1.

[0059] This design allows for stepless adjustment of the connecting rod length and the angle between the first and second ball joint assemblies, improving the adaptability of the connecting rod in different suspension structures. The locking mechanism between the second connecting rod 3 and the connecting rod seat 1, which locks the threaded connection between them, ensures the reliability of the threaded connection and further enhances the structural stability of the connecting rod during use. In practice, the outer surface of the end of the second connecting rod 3 connected to the connecting rod seat 1 is provided with a thread 33.

[0060] Continue to combine Figure 2 as well as Figure 5 As shown, in some exemplary embodiments, the second link 3 is screwed into the threaded connection hole 13 on the link seat 1, and the locking mechanism includes a locking nut 31 screwed onto the second link 3, which abuts against the end of the link seat 1 connected to the second link 3. This configuration simplifies the locking mechanism structure, facilitates installation and adjustment, and reduces costs, while also ensuring the locking effect of the locking mechanism.

[0061] In a specific implementation, the connecting rod seat 1 of this embodiment has a square cross-section. One end of the connecting rod seat 1 has a square cross-section insertion hole 11 for inserting into the first connecting rod 2, and the other end has a threaded connection hole 13 for threading into the second connecting rod 3.

[0062] In some exemplary embodiments, the connecting rod seat 1, the first connecting rod 2, and the second connecting rod 3 are all made of aluminum alloy. This arrangement ensures the structural strength of each component while also facilitating the lightweight design of the connecting rod seat, the first connecting rod, and the second connecting rod, thus contributing to the overall lightweight design of the connecting rod.

[0063] Of course, it is worth mentioning that the connecting rod seat 1, the first connecting rod 2 and the second connecting rod 3 in this embodiment can also be made of other materials well known to those skilled in the art, such as alloy steel, which is also possible, but it will increase the weight of the connecting rod of the whole vehicle.

[0064] In this embodiment, taking the cross-section of the part where the first connecting rod 2 and the connecting rod seat 1 are connected as square as an example, when it is necessary to adjust the included angle between the first ball head assembly and the second ball head assembly, simply pull the first connecting rod 2 out of the insertion hole 11 provided on the connecting rod seat 1 and rotate the first connecting rod 2 to achieve a quick switch between the included angle between the first ball head assembly and the second ball head assembly at three angles: 0°, 90°, and 180°. Simply reinsert the first connecting rod 2 into the insertion hole 11 and use the locking member to lock the aligned locking hole 12 and mating hole 21 to complete the adjustment.

[0065] When it is necessary to fine-tune the angle between the first ball joint assembly and the second ball joint assembly, simply loosen the locking nut 31 and rotate the second connecting rod 3 screwed to the connecting rod seat 1. This allows for fine-tuning of the angle between the first ball joint assembly and the second ball joint assembly. After fine-tuning, simply tighten the locking nut 31 again to lock the second connecting rod 3, thus completing the adjustment of the angle between the first ball joint assembly and the second ball joint assembly.

[0066] Meanwhile, it is understood that, based on the square cross-section of the portion where the first connecting rod 2 and the connecting rod seat 1 are inserted and connected, each sidewall of the connecting rod seat 1 with a locking hole 12 represents a second locking position. That is, the connecting rod of this embodiment with a square cross-section can have four second locking positions. Of course, when the cross-section of the portion where the first connecting rod 2 and the connecting rod seat 1 are inserted and connected is of other shapes, the number of second locking positions can also be other values, and there is no limitation on them, as long as they can achieve a stepped adjustment of the included angle between the ball joint assemblies at both ends of the connecting rod.

[0067] When the length of the connecting rod in this embodiment needs to be adjusted, the threaded connector 4 needs to be unscrewed from the locking hole 12 and the mating hole 21, adjusted until the mating hole 21 is aligned with the length locking hole 12, and then the threaded connector 4 is screwed into the locking hole 12 and the mating hole 21 to achieve locking. Subsequently, the locking nut 31 is loosened, and the second connecting rod 3 screwed to the connecting rod seat 1 can be rotated to achieve fine adjustment of the length of the connecting rod. After fine adjustment, simply tighten the locking nut 31 to lock the second connecting rod 3, thereby completing the adjustment of the length of the connecting rod.

[0068] Similarly, it can be understood that, taking the example that the cross-section of the first connecting rod 2 and the connecting rod seat 1 is square, each different alignment between the locking hole 12 on the connecting rod seat 1 (regardless of which side wall) and the mating hole 21 on the first connecting rod 2 represents a first locking position. That is, the number of first locking positions in this embodiment is related to the number of locking holes 12 on each side wall of the connecting rod seat 1 and the number of mating holes 21 on the first connecting rod 2. If there are more locking holes 12 on each side wall of the connecting rod seat 1 and more mating holes 21 on the first connecting rod 2, then there will be more first locking positions that can be formed, which will enable the connecting rod to achieve more levels of length adjustment.

[0069] It is worth noting that, regarding the connecting rod in this embodiment, based on the above exemplary implementations, in specific implementation, as a preferred embodiment, it is still made of... Figures 1 to 6As shown, it may include, for example, a connecting rod seat 1, a first connecting rod 2 connected to one end of the connecting rod seat 1, a second connecting rod 3 connected to the other end of the connecting rod seat 1, a first ball joint assembly connected to the first connecting rod 2, and a second ball joint assembly connected to the second connecting rod 3.

[0070] The first connecting rod 2 and the connecting rod seat 1 are inserted together, and a locking mechanism is provided between the connecting rod seat 1 and the first connecting rod 2. The locking mechanism has multiple first locking positions in a first direction and multiple second locking positions in a second direction. When the locking mechanism is in different first locking positions, the length of the connecting rod can be adjusted. When the locking mechanism is in different second locking positions, the included angle between the first ball joint assembly and the second ball joint assembly can be adjusted. The first direction is the length direction of the first connecting rod 2, and the second direction is the circumferential direction of the first connecting rod 2.

[0071] The first connecting rod 2 is inserted into the insertion hole 11 on the connecting rod seat 1. The locking mechanism includes multiple sets of locking holes 12 on the connecting rod seat 1, multiple mating holes 21 on the first connecting rod 2, and a locking element. The multiple sets of locking holes 12 are arranged at intervals along the length of the connecting rod seat 1, and each set of locking holes 12 consists of multiple holes arranged at intervals along the circumference of the connecting rod seat 1. The multiple mating holes 21 are arranged at intervals along the length of the first connecting rod 2, and the locking element can be fastened in the aligned locking holes 12 and mating holes 21 to lock the first connecting rod 2 and the connecting rod seat 1 in the corresponding locking positions. The cross-section of the first connecting rod 2 and the insertion hole 11 is square. Each side wall of the insertion hole 11 is provided with a locking hole 12, and the mating holes 21 are located on the same side wall of the first connecting rod 2.

[0072] Both the locking hole 12 and the mating hole 21 are threaded holes, and the locking component is a threaded connector 4. The ball head seat 4 in both the first ball head assembly and the second ball head assembly is injection molded. The end of the first connecting rod 2 connected to the first ball head assembly is provided with a concave rib 24, and the outer wall of the end of the second connecting rod 3 connected to the second ball head assembly is provided with knurling 32.

[0073] The first connecting rod 2 has a cavity 22 inside, and one end of the first connecting rod 2, which is embedded in the corresponding ball joint 4, is fixedly connected to an end cap 23 for sealing the cavity 22. The end cap 23 has an outwardly protruding portion 231 extending beyond the outer wall of the first connecting rod 2. The second connecting rod 3 is screwed to the connecting rod seat 1, and a locking mechanism is provided between the second connecting rod 3 and the connecting rod seat 1. The locking mechanism is used to lock the screwed position between the second connecting rod 3 and the connecting rod seat 1. At least one of the connecting rod seat 1, the first connecting rod 2, and the second connecting rod 3 is made of aluminum alloy.

[0074] In the preferred embodiment of the connecting rod described above, the specific configuration and arrangement of the connecting rod seat 1, the first connecting rod 2, and the second connecting rod 3 can still be referred to the descriptions in the above exemplary embodiments. Furthermore, in this preferred embodiment, the beneficial effects brought about by the design of the connecting rod seat 1, the first connecting rod 2, and the second connecting rod 3 can also be referred to the descriptions in the above exemplary embodiments.

[0075] The connecting rod in this embodiment can adjust the length of the connecting rod and also adjust the included angle between the ball joint assemblies at both ends of the connecting rod, which helps to improve the applicability of the connecting rod in different suspension structures.

[0076] An embodiment of the second aspect of this application provides a vehicle in which the connecting rod described in the first aspect embodiment is provided.

[0077] The vehicle in this embodiment, by setting the aforementioned connecting rod, can simplify the number of vehicle parts, shorten the vehicle design cycle, and help improve the vehicle's market competitiveness.

[0078] The above descriptions are merely some embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit this application. The technical features or structures in the foregoing different embodiments can be arbitrarily combined to form other specific technical solutions as needed. For those skilled in the art, this application can have various modifications and variations. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the scope of protection of the claims of this application.

Claims

1. A connecting rod used in a vehicle suspension, characterized in that: It includes a connecting rod seat (1), a first connecting rod (2) connected to one end of the connecting rod seat (1), a second connecting rod (3) connected to the other end of the connecting rod seat (1), a first ball joint assembly connected to the first connecting rod (2), and a second ball joint assembly connected to the second connecting rod (3); The first link (2) and the link seat (1) are inserted together, and a locking mechanism is provided between the link seat (1) and the first link (2), and the locking mechanism has a plurality of first locking positions in a first direction and a plurality of second locking positions in a second direction; When the locking mechanism is in different first locking positions, the length of the connecting rod can be adjusted; when the locking mechanism is in different second locking positions, the included angle between the first ball joint assembly and the second ball joint assembly can be adjusted. Wherein, the first direction is the length direction of the first link (2), and the second direction is the circumferential direction of the first link (2).

2. The connecting rod according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first connecting rod (2) is inserted into the insertion hole (11) on the connecting rod seat (1). The locking mechanism includes multiple sets of locking holes (12) on the connecting rod seat (1), multiple mating holes (21) on the first connecting rod (2), and a locking element. Multiple sets of locking holes (12) are arranged at intervals along the length direction of the connecting rod seat (1), and each set of locking holes (12) consists of multiple sets arranged at intervals along the circumference of the connecting rod seat (1). The plurality of mating holes (21) are arranged at intervals along the length of the first connecting rod (2), and the locking member can be fastened in the aligned locking hole (12) and the mating hole (21) to lock the first connecting rod (2) and the connecting rod seat (1) in the corresponding locking positions.

3. The connecting rod according to claim 2, characterized in that: At least the portion of the first connecting rod (2) that is inserted into the insertion hole (11), and the cross-section of the insertion hole (11) are both square; The locking hole (12) is provided on each side wall of the insertion hole (11), and the mating hole (21) is located on the same side wall of the first connecting rod (2).

4. The connecting rod according to claim 2, characterized in that: Both the locking hole (12) and the mating hole (21) are threaded holes, and the locking component is a threaded connector (4).

5. The connecting rod according to claim 1, characterized in that: The ball head seat (4) in both the first ball head assembly and the second ball head assembly is injection molded; The first connecting rod (2) has a concave rib (24) at one end connected to the first ball head assembly, and is embedded in the ball head seat (4) in the first ball head assembly. Or, the second connecting rod (3) has knurling (32) on the outer wall of one end connected to the second ball head assembly, and is embedded in the ball head seat (4) in the second ball head assembly.

6. The connecting rod according to claim 5, characterized in that: The first connecting rod (2) has a cavity (22) inside, the cavity (22) extends through the entire first connecting rod (2) along the length direction of the first connecting rod (2), and one end of the first connecting rod (2) embedded in the corresponding ball head seat (4) is fixedly connected to an end cap (23). The end cap (23) is used to seal one end of the cavity (22), and the end cap (23) has an outwardly protruding portion (231) that extends beyond the outer wall of the first connecting rod (2).

7. The connecting rod according to claim 1, characterized in that: The second connecting rod (3) and the connecting rod seat (1) are screwed together, and a locking mechanism is provided between the second connecting rod (3) and the connecting rod seat (1); The locking mechanism is used to lock the screwed position between the second link (3) and the link seat (1).

8. The connecting rod according to claim 7, characterized in that: The second connecting rod (3) is screwed into the threaded connection hole (13) on the connecting rod seat (1), and the locking mechanism includes a locking nut (31) screwed onto the second connecting rod (3). The locking nut (31) can abut against the end of the connecting rod seat (1) that is connected to the second connecting rod (3).

9. The connecting rod according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that: At least one of the connecting rod seat (1), the first connecting rod (2) and the second connecting rod (3) is made of aluminum alloy.

10. A vehicle, characterized in that: The vehicle's suspension is provided with a connecting rod as described in any one of claims 1 to 9.

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