Suspension beam arrangement

Abstract

Suspension beam arrangement, comprising: a forged body; a stamped plate; and a pair of bushing bolts, wherein the forged body comprises a U-shaped part which is arranged to be welded to an axle housing, wherein the stamped plate comprises a plurality of extensions which are arranged to be fastened to the forged body by means of a first set of first fasteners; and wherein the pair of bushing bolts is arranged to be positioned between the stamped plate and the forged body, the bushing bolts being fastened by means of a second set of second fasteners.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] The present description relates to a support consisting of a forged and a stamped component, which carries a bushing of the web pin type. The support is connected to an axle housing of an underfloor axle and supports a lower control arm. BACKGROUND AND DETOUR

[0002] Suspension arms in vehicles can affect packaging, weight, strength, etc., and can utilize forged or stamped brackets, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. For example, a forged arm may be heavier than a stamped one. However, the stamped arm may lack the necessary compressive, tensile, or shear strength to support the loads absorbed by the lower control arm.

[0003] The problems mentioned above can be solved by a suspension support arrangement comprising: a forged body; a stamped plate; and a pair of bushing bolts; wherein the forged body comprises a U-shaped portion arranged to be welded to an axle housing, wherein the stamped plate comprises a plurality of extensions arranged to be fastened to the forged body by means of a first set of first fasteners; and the pair of bushing bolts arranged to be positioned between the stamped plate and the forged body, wherein the bushing bolts are fastened by means of a second set of second fasteners.

[0004] The suspension beam assembly can be lighter compared to a beam or beam assembly consisting solely of forged structural bodies. Furthermore, the clamping and fastening provided by the stamped plate allows the forged body to be shaped in a way that further reduces mass compared to other forged beams and forged beam assemblies. The forged body imparts increased stiffness to the beam assembly, increasing its resistance to mechanical forces such as compressive, tensile, and shear forces, compared to a beam or beam assembly composed of stamped components. The stamped plate also allows for elastic deformation, yielding under mechanical stress within the beam assembly.

[0005] It should be noted that the above summary serves to present a selection of concepts in simplified form, which are further explained in the detailed description. It does not serve to identify essential features of the claimed subject matter, the scope of which is clearly defined by the claims following the detailed description. Furthermore, the claimed subject matter is not limited to implementations that overcome all the disadvantages mentioned above or in any part of this disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic example of a vehicle comprising an axle arrangement of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 2 shows a side view of the axle arrangement with a support arrangement and an arm for steering; Fig. Figure 3 shows a side view of the support arrangement attached to a support arrangement; Fig. Figure 4 shows a side view of the support arrangement attached to the axle housing; Fig. 5 shows a side view of the support arrangement separated from the axle housing; Fig. Figure 6 shows a side view of a forged body of the support arrangement; Fig. Figure 7 shows a side view of a stamped plate of the support arrangement. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0006] The following description refers to a support structure of an axle assembly that can support a steering arm for a wheel and a wheel hub assembly. The support structure is a beam and can be physically connected to an axle housing of the axle assembly. The beam comprises a first component, which can be referred to as a forged body. The forged body is a structure formed by a forging technique. The beam comprises a second component, which can be referred to as a stamped plate. The stamped plate is formed by stamping. The stamped plate can be a strip. The stamped plate can be attached to the forged body by several fasteners. One or more bushings of a variety of types can be physically connected to the beam by being clamped between the forged body and the stamped plate.When mounted, the stamped plate can press against one or more bushings. Additionally, the one or more bushings can be secured to the forged body and the stamped plates by a further set of fasteners. For example, the bushings can include bushing bolts with a stud configuration.

[0007] The forged body includes a U-shaped section that can be connected to the axle housing. For example, the U-shaped section can be bent around and abut a portion of the axle housing. The U-shaped section can be welded to the axle housing. The U-shaped section includes a window through which it can be welded to the axle housing.

[0008] The forged body and stamped plate have parts extending outward from the axle housing. The forged component includes a first extension and a second extension, each capable of engaging and pressing against features of the bushing bolts, thereby clamping the bushing bolts to the assembly. A set of fasteners can extend through the first and second extensions, past the bushing features, and into the component. The bushing bolts can be secured to the support assembly by means of the set of fasteners. When tightened, the fasteners can increase the clamping force between the first and second extensions and the bushing bolts.

[0009] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic example of a vehicle comprising an axle arrangement of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 2 shows a side view of the axle arrangement with a support arrangement and a steering arm. Fig. Figure 3 shows a side view of the support arrangement attached to an axle housing. Fig. Figure 4 shows another side view of the support assembly attached to the axle housing. The other side view of Fig. 4 is the side view of Fig. 3 opposite. Fig. Figures 3-4 show the support arrangement and the axle housing separately from the arm. Fig. 2. Fig. Figure 5 shows a side view of the support arrangement separated from the axle housing. Fig. Figure 6 shows a side view of a forged body of the support assembly. The forged body is in Fig. 6 shown separately from other components of the support arrangement. Fig. Figure 7 shows a side view of a stamped plate of the support assembly. The stamped plate is in Fig. 7 shown separately from other components of the support assembly. The forged body made of Fig. Part number 6 is a forged component manufactured using forging techniques. The stamped plate is made of... Fig. 7 is a forged component, manufactured using forging techniques.

[0010] It is understood that the specific assemblies and systems depicted in the figures and described below are exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined herein. For the purpose of explanation, the drawings are described together. Therefore, identical elements can be designated with the same reference numerals and do not need to be introduced again.

[0011] Fig. Figures 1-2 show schematic example configurations with the relative arrangement of the different components. Fig. Figures 3-7 show example configurations with approximate positioning. Fig. Figures 3-7 are shown approximately to scale, but other relative dimensions may also be used. Unless otherwise stated, the term "approximately" means plus or minus five percent of the range.

[0012] Furthermore, they Fig. Figures 1-7 show example configurations with the relative arrangement of the various components. If these elements are in direct contact with each other or directly coupled, they can be described as being in direct contact or directly coupled, respectively, in at least one example. Similarly, elements shown side by side or adjacent to each other can be described as being adjacent to each other or adjacent to each other, respectively, in at least one example. For instance, components that are in planar contact with each other can be described as being in planar contact. As another example, elements that are separated from each other, with only a gap between them and that have no other components, can be described as such in at least one case.In yet another example, elements that are displayed above / below each other, on opposite sides, or to the left / right of each other can be described as such, relative to one another. Furthermore, in at least one example, as shown in the figures, a topmost element or the highest point of an element can be referred to as the "top" of the component, and a bottommost element or the lowest point of the element can be referred to as the "bottom" of the component. The terms top / bottom, upper / lower, and above / below used here can refer to a vertical axis of the figures and be used to describe the positioning of elements within the figures relative to each other. Thus, in one example, elements displayed above other elements are arranged vertically above the other elements.As a further example, the shapes of the elements depicted in the figures can be described as such (e.g., circular, straight, planar, curved, rounded, beveled, angled, etc.). Furthermore, the depicted elements that intersect each other can be described as intersecting elements or mutually intersecting elements in at least one example. In addition, an element depicted inside or outside another element can be described as such. Finally, the components can be described in relation to the reference axes included in the drawings.

[0013] Features described as axial can be approximately parallel to a datum axis unless otherwise specified. Unless otherwise specified, features described as counter-rotating can be approximately perpendicular to the datum axis. Unless otherwise specified, features described as radial can circumferentially surround or extend outward from an axis, such as the datum axis, or a component or feature previously described as radial to a datum axis. Unless otherwise specified, features described as tangential can extend linearly from a point on a circumference radial to an axis, component, or feature previously described as radial to a datum axis.

[0014] Features described as longitudinal can run approximately parallel to a longitudinal axis. A lateral axis can be perpendicular to both a longitudinal axis and a vertical axis. Features described as lateral can run approximately parallel to the lateral axis. A vertical axis can be perpendicular to both a lateral axis and a longitudinal axis. Features described as vertical can be approximately parallel to a vertical axis.

[0015] Components described as drivingly coupled are connected in such a way that they drive each other. Or, put another way: A first component that is drivingly coupled to a second component can drive the second component, and vice versa. In other words, torque can be transferred from a first component to a second component if the first component drives the second component. A component described as a driving component can drive another component. A component described as a driven component can be driven.

[0016] In Fig. Figure 1 shows a vehicle 100 comprising a drivetrain 101 and a drivetrain 103. The vehicle 100 may have a front end 102 and a rear end 104 located on opposite sides of the vehicle 100. Objects, components, and features of the vehicle 100 described as being near the front may be closest to the front end 102 compared to the rear end 104. Objects, components, and features of the vehicle 100 described as being near the rear may be closest to the rear end 104 compared to the front end 102. The vehicle 100 may have a longitudinal axis 130. The drivetrain 101 and the drivetrain 103 may each have a length parallel to the longitudinal axis 130. The drive train 100 comprises an axle assembly 112. More precisely, the drive train 103 comprises the axle assembly 112. The rotational force generated by the vehicle 100 can drive the axle assembly 112.

[0017] The axle assembly 112 can be configured to drive a set of wheels 114. For example, the axle assembly 112 is located near the rear of the vehicle 100 and thus comprises a rear axle. However, it should be understood that the location of the axle assembly 112 is not limited. Another example is that the axle assembly 112 can be located in the front region of the vehicle 100 and thus comprises a front axle. Yet another example is that the axle assembly 112 can be located near another part of the vehicle 100. The drive train 103 can deliver an output torque to the axle assembly 112. Furthermore, the drive train 103 can include one or more tandem axle assemblies. Thus, the drive train 103 can also have other configurations without deviating from the scope of this disclosure and those described in Fig. The configuration shown is for illustrative purposes only and does not represent a limitation. The vehicle can also include 100 additional wheels that are not connected to the drivetrain 103.

[0018] Vehicle 100 can be a commercial vehicle, a light, medium, or heavy commercial vehicle, a passenger vehicle, an off-road vehicle, a utility vehicle, an agricultural vehicle, and / or a sport utility vehicle. In one embodiment, Vehicle 100 can be a wheeled vehicle, such as an automobile. Additionally or alternatively, Vehicle 100 can be an aircraft, a boat, or another vehicle system that uses the axle arrangement 112. Additionally or alternatively, Vehicle 100 and / or one or more of its components, such as components of the powertrain 101 and / or the powertrain 103, can be used in industrial, locomotive, military, agricultural, and / or aerospace applications.

[0019] The drive train 101 comprises a drive machine 106 and a transmission 108 (e.g., a gear train). The drive machine 106 can be, for example, an internal combustion engine (ICE). Another example: The drive machine 106 can be an electric machine, e.g., an electric motor or an electric motor / generator. The drive machine 106 is operated to supply the transmission 108 with torque. The transmission 108 can be any type of transmission, such as a manual transmission, an automatic transmission, or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The transmission 108 receives the torque generated by the drive machine 106 as input and delivers the torque to the drive train 103 according to a selected gear or setting.

[0020] The vehicle 100 can be configured to operate fully electrically, such as a pure electric vehicle or a plug-in hybrid vehicle. In a fully electric vehicle, the drive machine 106 can be an electric machine. The drive machine 106 can be, for example, an electric motor / generator. The vehicle 100 can be a fully electric vehicle with one or a plurality of electric machines configured to supply power to the axle assembly 112. The vehicle 100 can be a hybrid vehicle with multiple torque inputs to the transmission 108. There can be other drives that propel the vehicle 100 and can be housed within it, which are coupled to the transmission 108 and have torque inputs to it, in addition to the main drive 106. The vehicle 100 can comprise a plurality of electric machines, for example, in a plug-in hybrid vehicle.One or more of the electric machines can be coupled for drive purposes and have torque inputs to the gearbox 108.

[0021] The vehicle 100 can be a hybrid vehicle comprising both a motor and one or a plurality of electric machines, each configured to supply torque to the axle assembly 112. The drive machine 106 can be supplied with energy from an energy storage device 105, for example, if the drive machine 106 is an electric machine. In one example, the energy storage device 105 is a battery, such as a traction battery, designed to store electrical energy. One or a plurality of inverters 107 can be arranged between the energy storage device 105 and the drive machine 106 and configured to convert direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC). The inverters 107 can include a variety of components and circuits with thermal requirements that affect the efficiency of the inverter.The electrical components can be electrically coupled via a variety of electrical connections.

[0022] For example, in a first operating mode in which no electric machine is operated to provide power (e.g., pure motor operation), the axle assembly 112 can be driven by the power supplied by a motor. In a second operating mode in which the motor is not operated to generate power (e.g., pure electric mode), the axle assembly 112 can be driven by the power supplied by the electric machine. In a third operating mode (e.g., electric assist mode), the axle assembly 112 can be driven by both the motor and the electric machine. Another example: The axle assembly 112 can be an electric axle assembly configured for drive by an integrated electric machine.

[0023] The drivetrain 103 can include a drive shaft 122 configured to receive the torque supplied by the transmission 108. The drive shaft 122 can be driven by the transmission 108 and transmit torque from it to the axle assembly 112. The drive shaft 122 can be arranged to extend parallel to the longitudinal axis 130. In one example of a vehicle 100 configuration, the drive shaft 122 can be centered about the longitudinal axis 130. The transmission 108 can be driven by the axle assembly 112 via the drive shaft 122. In other words, the transmission 108 can drive the drive shaft 122, and the drive shaft 122 can drive the axle assembly 112. The drive shaft 122 can be a rear drive shaft, capable of supplying torque to drive the vehicle 100 from the rear, for example, for rear-wheel drive.However, it should be noted that in alternative configurations of the drivetrain 103, the drive shaft 122 may be a front drive shaft that transmits rotational force to drive the vehicle 100 from the front, for example, in a front-wheel drive configuration. Another example is that the drive shaft 122 may be a front drive shaft, for example, if the axle assembly 112 is located at the front of the vehicle 100. In some configurations, such as in . Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the drive train 103 comprises a transfer case 110, which is configured to receive the rotational power supplied by the gearbox 108. The drive shaft 122 can be driven by the transfer case 110 and can be driven by the gearbox 108 via the transfer case 110.

[0024] The axle assembly 112 can comprise a differential 116, an axle housing 120, and a first set of axle shafts. The differential 116 can drive the set of axle shafts to transmit torque to and drive the first set of axle shafts. The set of axle shafts can comprise a first shaft 118a and a second shaft 118b. The first shaft 118a and the second shaft 118b can be axle half-shafts. The axle housing 120 can accommodate the first shaft 118a and the second shaft 118b. The differential 116 can distribute unequal torque to the wheels that are drive-coupled at opposite ends of the axle assembly 112. For example, the differential 116 can distribute unequal torque to the first shaft 118a and the second shaft 118b. The first shaft 118a and the second shaft 118b can each drive one or more wheels of the wheelset 114.

[0025] The shafts 118a, 118b can be drivenly coupled to the wheelset 114 via a set of wheel end assemblies. For example, the set of wheel end assemblies can comprise a first wheel end assembly 132 and a second wheel end assembly 134. The first wheel end assembly 132 can be drivenly coupled to one or more wheels of the wheelset 114. Likewise, the second wheel end assembly 134 can be drivenly coupled to one or more wheels of the wheelset 114. The wheels driven by the first wheel end assembly 132 can be arranged relative to the axle assembly 112 from the wheels driven by the second wheel end assembly 134. The first shaft 118a can be drivenly coupled to the first wheel end assembly 132. The second shaft 118b can be drivenly coupled to the second wheel end assembly 134.The torque transmitted from the differential 116 to the first shaft 118a can drive the first wheel end assembly 132 and one or more of the wheels 114 connected to the first wheel end assembly 132. The torque delivered from the differential 116 to the second shaft 118b can drive the second wheel end assembly 134 and one or more of the wheels 114 connected to the second wheel end assembly 134.

[0026] The first wheel end assembly 132 comprises a first hub assembly 142, a first steering knuckle 146, and a first steering arm assembly 152. The second wheel end assembly 134 comprises a second hub assembly 144, a second steering knuckle 148, and a second steering arm assembly 154. The first and second hub assemblies 142 and 144 are wheel hub assemblies that can be rigidly connected to the wheels 114.

[0027] For example, the first hub assembly 142 can be rigidly connected to one or more wheels of the wheelset 114. The first hub assembly 142 can be rigidly connected to the first axle 118a. Likewise, the first steering knuckle 146 can be rigidly connected to the first hub assembly 142. Alternatively, the first hub assembly 142 can include the first steering knuckle 146. The first steering arm assembly 152 can be coupled to the first steering knuckle 146 to, for example, absorb torsional forces and other mechanical loads acting on the first hub assembly 142 and the first steering knuckle 146.

[0028] The second hub assembly 144 can be rigidly connected to one or more wheels of the wheelset 114. The second hub assembly 144 can be rigidly connected to one or more wheels opposite the axle assembly 112 of the first hub assembly 142, and the one or more wheels are rigidly connected to the second hub assembly 144. The second hub assembly 144 can be rigidly connected to the second axle 118b. Likewise, the second steering knuckle 148 can be rigidly connected to the second hub assembly 144. Alternatively, the second hub assembly 144 can include the second steering knuckle 148. The second steering arm assembly 154 can be coupled to the second steering knuckle 148 to, for example, absorb torsional loads and other mechanical loads from forces exerted on the second hub assembly 144 and the second steering knuckle 148.

[0029] A suspension system of the axle assembly 112 can comprise the first control arm assembly 152 and the second control arm assembly 154. The first control arm assembly 152 can comprise a first control arm 156 and a first support 162. The second control arm assembly 154 can comprise a second control arm 158 and a second support 164. The first and second control arms 156, 158 can be lower control arms, and the first and second control arms 156, 158 can be positioned below the axle assembly 112 with respect to the direction of gravity. The first and second supports 162, 164 are suspension supports that can be physically connected to the axle assembly 112.

[0030] For example, the first support 162 and the second support 164 can be rigidly connected to the axle housing 120. The first joint 166 can couple the first control arm 156 to the first steering knuckle 146. A second joint 168 can pivotally connect the second control arm 158 to the second steering knuckle 148. The first control arm 156 can be supported on the first support 162, for example, by being pivotally connected to the first support 162. Similarly, the second control arm 158 can be supported on the second support 164, for example, by being pivotally connected to the second support 164. As described here, "pivotally coupled" can refer to the coupling of a component so that it can pivot or rotate about a feature of another component. For example, the first control arm 156 can be articulated so that it can rotate around a bushing or a bushing arrangement of the first support 162.Likewise, the second control arm 158 can be articulated so that it can rotate around a bushing or a bushing arrangement of the second support 164.

[0031] The transmission 108 can be physically coupled to an axle of the vehicle, for example, via a bracket. The transmission 108 can be a manual transmission or contain a manual transmission. Alternatively, the transmission 108 can also be an axle transmission or a transaxle transmission. The transmission 108 can be physically coupled to an axle of the vehicle, for example, via a bracket. In some embodiments, the transmission 108 can additionally or alternatively be a first transmission, and the vehicle 100 can have a second transmission. A second transmission or additional transmissions can be arranged to physically couple an axle of the vehicle 100, for example, the axle of the axle assembly 112. Additionally, the second transmission can be driven by the axle assembly 112 and deliver torque to it.Additionally or alternatively, a second gearbox or another gearbox may be provided to transmit and output torque to an axle other than the axle of the axle arrangement 112.

[0032] It should be noted that in another example for vehicle 100, there may be one or more gearboxes that do not necessarily output to a drive shaft, such as drive shaft 122. For example, one or more of the gearboxes may output directly to an axle shaft and / or a wheel, such as an axle shaft of axle assembly 112 and / or a wheel of wheels 114. Gearboxes in this example may be referred to here as wheel-side gearboxes. A drive can deliver torque to the wheel-side gearbox, where the rotational force flows from the drive to the gearbox.

[0033] The adjustment of the powertrain 103 between the different operating modes, as well as the control of operation within each operating mode, can be based on a vehicle control system 174, including a controller 176. The controller 176 can be a microcomputer, including components such as a microprocessor unit, input / output connectors, an electronic storage medium for executable programs and calibration values ​​(e.g., a read-only memory chip), working memory, diagnostic memory, and a data bus. The storage medium can be programmed with computer-readable data representing instructions that can be executed by a processor to perform the procedures described below, as well as other variations that are expected but not explicitly listed. In one example, the controller 176 can be a powertrain control module (PCM).

[0034] The controller 176 can receive various signals from sensors 178, which are connected to different areas of the vehicle 100. These sensors 178 may include, for example, sensors on the drive motor 106 or another drive motor for measuring the speed and temperature of the drive motor, a pedal position sensor for detecting the actuation of a pedal operated by the driver, such as an accelerator or brake pedal, a lever position sensor for detecting the adjustment of a lever, such as a brake lever, speed sensors on the wheelset 114, etc. After receiving the signals from the various sensors 178... Fig. 1. The controller 176 processes the received signals and uses various actuators 180 of the vehicle 100 to adjust the operation of the transmission based on the received signals and the instructions stored in the controller 176's memory. For example, the controller 176 can receive a signal indicating the depressurization of the brake pedal, signaling a desire for a lower vehicle speed. The vehicle braking can be directly proportional to the position of the accelerator pedal, e.g., the degree of depressurization. Another example is that the controller 176 receives a signal indicating the depressurization of the accelerator pedal, signaling a desire for a higher vehicle speed. The vehicle acceleration can be directly proportional to the accelerator pedal position, e.g., the degree of depressurization.Another example: The control unit 176 can receive a signal indicating a rotation or change in position of a steering device, signaling a desire to turn the vehicle. In this example, the steering input device can be a steering wheel, or alternatively, a lever. The vehicle's turning angle can be directly proportional to the position of the steering input device, for example, the rotation angle or the tilt angle. In response, the control unit 176 can command operations such as shifting the gears of the transmission 108. Alternatively, the gears of the transmission 108 can also be shifted manually, for example, if the transmission 108 is a manual transmission.

[0035] A set of reference axes 201 is used for comparison between the views in Fig. 2-7 provided. The reference axes 201 specify a y-axis, an x-axis, and a z-axis. In an example, the z-axis can be parallel to a direction of gravity, and the xy-plane can be parallel to a horizontal plane on which an axis arrangement 212 of Fig. 2 can rest. In another example, the z-axis can run parallel to a direction of gravity and the xy-plane parallel to a horizontal plane on which a support arrangement 214 of Fig. 5 can rest. In another example, the z-axis can be parallel to a direction of gravity and the xy-plane parallel to a horizontal plane on which a forged body 232 of Fig. 6 can rest. In another example, the z-axis can run parallel to a direction of gravity and the xy-plane parallel to a horizontal plane on which a stamped plate 234 of Fig. 7 can rest. A circle can represent an axis of the reference axes 201 that runs perpendicular to a view. A circle can represent an axis of the reference axes 201 that runs perpendicular to a view. A filled circle can represent an arrow and an axis that point towards a view or are positive to it. An unfilled circle can represent an arrow and an axis that point away from a view or are negative to it.

[0036] In Fig. Figure 2 shows a first view 200 of the support assembly 214, which is physically connected to the axle assembly 212. More precisely, the support assembly 214 is rigidly connected to the axle housing 218. The support assembly 214 is a suspension support assembly and can be an example configuration of the first support 162 and the second support 164. Fig. 1. The first view 200 is a perspective side view. The axis arrangement 212 is an underfloor axis arrangement that includes an underfloor axis. The axis arrangement 212 can be an example configuration of the axis arrangement 112 from Fig. Be 1.

[0037] The support arrangement 214 can support an arm 216. As a first example, the arm 216 can be a lower control arm. The arm 216 can be an example configuration of the first control arm 156 and / or the second control arm 158. Fig. The beam arrangement 214 is a suspension beam arrangement and can be an example configuration of the first beam 162 and the second beam 164. Fig. 1. Another example: The arm 216 can be another arm that is slidably or pivotably connected to a lower control arm, whereby the arm 216 can move or pivot the control arm.

[0038] The arm 220 can have a body 222 with a first hole 224. The first hole 224 can accommodate a bushing assembly 226. The first hole 224 can extend through the body 222. The bushing assembly 226 can be housed within the first hole 224. The first hole 224 is centered such that the axis 230 is concentric with the first hole 224. In other words, the first hole 224 is positioned radially around the axis 230. The axis 230 can be a pivot axis for the arm 220, allowing the arm to pivot about the axis 230. The bushing assembly 226 can be centered around the axis 230, so that the axis 230 can be concentric with the bushing assembly 226. In other words, the bushing assembly 226 can be positioned radially around the axis 230. The bushing arrangement 226 can include one or more bushings around which the arm 220 can rotate.The body 222 can be supported on the support assembly 214 via one or more bushings of the bushing assembly 226 and pivotally connected to it. The bushing assembly 226 is configured as a pin-and-groove assembly. The bushing assembly 226 can be mounted in the support assembly 214 and fastened to it via a pin-and-groove bushing method and at least two fasteners. Alternatively, a bearing assembly can support the arm 220 and be located in the first hole 224 instead of the bushing assembly 226. The bearing assembly can comprise one or more bearings. The bearing assembly can be centered on the axis 230 such that the axis 230 is concentric with the bearing assembly.

[0039] The support assembly 214 comprises at least one first component and one second component. The support assembly 214 also comprises one or more of a plurality of bushing bolts 240. The first component is a forged body 232, wherein the forged body 232 is a forged structure used for assembly. More precisely, the forged body 232 is a forged bracket comprising a U-shaped part 236. The second component is a stamped structure. More precisely, the second component is a stamped plate 234.

[0040] The forged body 232 can be physically connected to the axle housing 218. The forged body 232 and the stamped plate 234 can support and be connected to the bushing assembly 226. More precisely, the stamped plate 234 can provide a clamping force on one or more of the bushing bolts 240 against the forged body 232, thereby rigidly connecting one or more of the bushing bolts 240 to the support assembly 214.

[0041] For example, the bushing bolts 240 can be held between the forged body 232 and the stamped plate 234. In some examples, there can be a pair of bushing bolts 240. The bushing bolts 240 can extend through a fit of the bushing assembly 226. The bushing bolts 240 can be concentric with the bushing assembly 226. The bushing bolts 240 can support the bushing assembly 226, and the bushing bolts 240 can fasten the bushing assembly to the support assembly 214. A variety of first fastening systems 242 and a variety of second fastening systems 244 can fasten the forged body 232 to the stamped plate 234. Additionally, the second fastening systems 244 can fasten and hold the bushing bolts 240 between the forged body 232 and the stamped plate 234. The second fastening systems 244 can also fasten the stamped plate 234 to the forged body 232.Tightening the first and second fastening systems 242, 244 can strengthen the clamping of the stamped plate 234 on the bushing bolts 240 against the forged body 232. Alternatively, a single bushing bolt can be used instead of the bushing bolts 240 to support the bushing assembly 226.

[0042] Another example: The bearing arrangement used instead of the bushing arrangement 226 can include the bushing bolts 240. The bushing bolts 240 can support the bearing arrangement used instead of the bushing arrangement 226 in the same way that the bushing bolts 240 support the bushing arrangement 226. Likewise, the bushing bolts 240 can be attached to and clamped by the support arrangement 214 if they support the bearing arrangement in the same way as when the bushing arrangement 226 is supported.

[0043] The forged body 232 can be stiffer than the stamped plate 234. Likewise, the stamped plate 234 can elastically deform its shape to a greater extent than the forged body 232. For example, the stamped plate 234 can be subjected to elastic compression, elastic expansion, and / or elastic bending by forces acting on the support assembly 214. The stamped plate 234 thus exhibits a degree of stiffness that allows elastic deformation of the stamped component above a first load threshold and below a second load threshold. The stamped plate 234 can thereby impart flexibility to the support assembly 214, enabling the support assembly 214 to expand in response to mechanical forces.

[0044] The forged body 232 includes a U-shaped part 236. The U-shaped part 236 can curve around and contact the axle housing 218. The U-shaped part 236 can physically couple the axle housing 218. In other words, the U-shaped part 236 can firmly connect the forged body 232 to the axle housing 218. More precisely, the U-shaped part 236 can curve around, contact, and be physically connected to a surface 228 of the axle housing 218. The surface 228 is an outer surface that curves with the axle housing 218. The surface 228 can have a radial curvature and be partially cylindrical. For example, the U-shaped part 236 can be configured to be welded to the axle housing 218. A weld bead can form between the U-shaped part 236 and the surface 228.

[0045] The U-shaped part 236 may have a second hole 238. The second hole 238 is an opening and may be a window to facilitate welding. For example, the U-shaped part 236 may be welded to the support assembly 214 via the second hole 238. The second hole 238 may extend from an outer surface 239 through the material of the U-shaped part 236. The outer surface 239 is an external surface that curves with the U-shaped part and is connected to other features of the forged body 232. The outer surface 239 may face outwards from the forged body 232.

[0046] The first fastening system 242 can include a plurality of first fasteners 246 and a plurality of first thrust washers 248. The first fasteners 246 can be screws. Each of the first fasteners 246 can extend through a first opening in the stamped plate 234 and a second opening in the forged body 232. The first and second openings of the stamped plate 234 and the forged body 232 can be centered on a common axis. The openings in the forged body 232 and the stamped plate 234 into which the first fasteners 246 fit and through which they can project can be holes, with the openings in the stamped plate 234 being through holes. The openings in the forged body 232 and the stamped plate 234 for the first fasteners 246 can be centered when aligned about a common axis.When the openings of the forged body 232 and the stamped plate 234 are aligned, the first fasteners can be passed through the openings. A thrust washer of the first thrust washers 248 can be positioned between the stamped plate 234 and a head of each of the first fasteners 246. The first fasteners 246 can extend through openings, for example holes, in the first thrust washers 248.

[0047] The secondary fastening systems 244 can include a variety of secondary fasteners 252, a variety of secondary thrust washers 254, and a variety of nuts 256. The secondary fasteners 252 can be bolts. Each of the secondary fasteners 252 can extend through an opening in the stamped plate 234, an opening in a body 258 of the bushing bolts 240, and an opening in the forged body 232. The openings in the forged body 232, the stamped plate 234, and the body 258, into which the secondary fasteners 246 fit and through which they can extend, can be holes, with the openings in the stamped plate 234 and the body 258 being through holes. The openings in the forged body 232, the stamped plate 234, and the body 258 for the secondary fasteners 252 can be centered when aligned about a common axis.When the openings of the forged body 232, the stamped plate 234, and the body 258 are aligned, the second fasteners 252 can be passed through the openings. A thrust washer of the second thrust washer 254 can be positioned between the stamped plate 234 and a head of each of the second fasteners 252. The second fasteners 252 can extend through openings, such as holes, in the second thrust washer 254. The body 258 can be positioned between the first component and the second component and held by the second fastening system 244. Each bushing bolt of the bushing bolts 240 can have a body, such as the body 258, which can be clamped and held between the forged body 232 and the stamped plate 234.The bodies of the bushing bolts 240, including the body 258, can be fastened to and held between the forged body 232 and the stamped plate 234 via the second fastening systems 244. Tightening one or more of the nuts 256 can increase the clamping of the stamped plate 234 to the body 258 and other bodies of the bushing bolts 240 against the forged body 232.

[0048] Another example: If the single bushing bolt is used instead of the bushing bolts 240, the bushing bolt can rigidly connect to or encompass the body 258. Likewise, the bushing bolt can be rigidly connected to or encompass a second body, the second body being located at the opposite end of the bushing bolt from the body 258. The body 258 and the second body can be clamped and held between the forged body 232 and the stamped plate 234. The second fastening systems 244 can fasten and hold the body 258 and the second body to the forged body 232 and the stamped plate 234. The bushing bolt can be rigidly connected to the support assembly 214 therein.

[0049] The first pressure disk 248 and the second pressure disks 254 can be thin plates with a rounded shape. For example, the first pressure disks 248 and the second pressure disks 254 can have a circular circumference and be disc-shaped.

[0050] In other embodiments, the first fastening systems 242 and / or the second fastening systems 244 may not include the first pressure washers 248 or the second pressure washers 254, respectively. In these examples, the heads of the first fastening elements 246 and the second fastening elements 252 may bear against and press against the surfaces of the stamped plate 234.

[0051] The stamped plate 234 comprises a series of extensions on opposite sides of a support beam 260. The group of extensions can include at least one pair of extensions. A gap 262 is located below the support beam 260 and between the extensions. The gap 262 can be located between opposite sides of the stamped plate 234 and below the support beam 260. The extensions include an extension 264. The extension 264 can be a strip. The extension 264 has a surface 266. The surface 266 can be substantially flat. The support beam 260 can be connected to the extension 264 and extend from the extension 264 at a first angle 268. More precisely, the support beam 260 can be connected to the surface 266 and extend from the surface 266 at a first angle 268. Extension 264 can contain an end 270.The end 270 can be part of the extension 264 that is connected to the surface 266. The end 270 can extend from the surface 266 at a second angle 272.

[0052] The support beam 260 and the extension 264 can be positioned around the arm 216. Likewise, the gap 262 can surround the arm 216. The gap 262 can be a slot in which the arm 216 can rotate around the bushing assembly 226. The support beam 260 can be positioned above the arm 216. The extension 264 can curve from the support beam 260 towards the outer edge of the arm 216. "Outside" and "inside" can be relative to the arm 216, with an "inside" direction pointing inwards towards the arm 216 and an "outside" direction pointing outwards away from the arm 216. Additionally or alternatively, "outside" and "inside" can be relative to the stamped plate 234, with the "inside" direction pointing inwards towards the gap 262 and the "outside" direction pointing outwards from the outer edges of the stamped plate 234. For example, the arm 216 can be positioned within the stamped plate 234.The outboard and inboard directions can be represented by a multitude of first arrows 282 and a multitude of second arrows 284, respectively.

[0053] The extension 264 can rest against the body 258. More precisely, the extension 264 can clamp against the body 258. The extension 264 can be fastened to the body 258 by a fastening system of the second fastening systems 244. Tightening one or more of the nuts 256 and / or one or more of the second fastening devices 252 can increase the clamping of the first extension 264 against the body 258.

[0054] In Fig. Figure 3 shows a second view 300 of the axle assembly 212. This second view 300 is a side view. It shows the support assembly 214, which is physically connected to the axle assembly 212. The second view 300 also shows the arm 220, which has been removed from the support assembly 214 and is no longer articulated to it. Likewise, the second view 300 shows the bushing bolts 240 and the second fastening systems 244, which have been removed from the support assembly 214.

[0055] The second view 300 shows that the axle housing 218 can be centered about an axis 310. The axle housing 218 is centered such that the axis 310 is concentric with the axle housing 218. In other words, the axle housing 218 can be positioned radially about the axis 310. The axis 310 can be oriented laterally with respect to a longitudinal axis of a vehicle in which the axle assembly 212 is housed, for example, with respect to the longitudinal axis 130 of the axle assembly 212. Fig. 1 of the vehicle 100 shown. The axle 310 can be a horizontal axle and a lateral axle for the axle arrangement 212 and the support arrangement 214. Likewise, the axle 310 can be a pivot and central axle for the axle shafts received by the axle housing 218.

[0056] The second view 300 shows that the axle arrangement 212 is a pair of the first fastening systems 242 made of Fig. 2 may comprise a first fastening system 242a and a second fastening system 242b. The first fastening system 242a may extend through the extension 264 to be attached to the forged body 232. The second fastening system 242b may extend through a second extension 324 to be attached to the forged body 232. The extension 264 may here be referred to as the first extension 264. The stamped plate 234 includes the second extension 324. The second extension 324 is positioned opposite the gap 262 of the first extension 264. The second extension 324 may have a second surface 326 and a second end 360. The support beam 260 may be connected to the second extension 324. Likewise, the support beam 260 can extend from the second extension 324 at the first angle 268.More precisely, the support beam 260 can be connected to the second surface 326 and extend from the second surface 326 at a first angle 268. Likewise, the second end 360 can be connected to the second surface 326 and extend from the second surface 326 at a second angle 272. The second end 360 can be an element of the second extension 324 that is connected to the second surface 326. The second end 360 can extend from the second surface 326 at a second angle 272. The second extension 324 can be symmetrical and a mirror image of the first extension 264. The second end 360 can be symmetrical with respect to the end 270.

[0057] The second hole 238 has a multitude of rounded edges connected to the outer surface 239. The second hole 238 can have an edge 328. The edge 328 can be lateral and linear in length and can be rounded. The edge 328 can be connected to the outer surface 239. The second hole 238 can have edges that are connected to the edge 328, extend continuously to it, and curve towards it in a parabolic shape. The edges that are connected to and continuous with the edge 328 can be rounded.

[0058] The second component has a variety of curved and linear edges that can define the shape of the first extension 264, the second extension 324, and the support beam 260. Likewise, the stamped plate 234 has a variety of curved and linear edges that can define the shape of the gap 262. In an example configuration, the stamped plate 234 includes a first curved edge 336, a second curved edge 338, a third curved edge 340, and a fourth curved edge 342, and is shaped accordingly. Similarly, the stamped plate 234 includes a first straight edge 344, a second straight edge 346, a third straight edge 348, a fourth straight edge 350, a fifth straight edge 352, and a sixth straight edge 354, and is shaped accordingly. Beam 260 can include the first curved edge 336, the second curved edge 338, the third curved edge 340 and the fourth curved edge 342.Additionally, beam 260 can encompass the first straight edge 344 and the second straight edge 346. The first extension 264 can encompass the third straight edge 348 and the fifth straight edge 352. The second extension 324 can encompass the fourth straight edge 350 and the sixth straight edge 354.

[0059] The first curved edge 336 and the third curved edge 340 connect the first extension 264 and the beam 260. Likewise, the second curved edge 338 and the fourth curved edge 342 connect the second extension 324 and the beam 260. The first curved edge 336 and the second curved edge 338 are external edges, pointing outwards from the punched plate 234. The third curved edge 340 and the fourth curved edge 342 are internal edges, pointing inwards from the punched plate 234. The third curved edge 340 and the fourth curved edge 342 are opposite each other and define the shape of the gap 262.

[0060] The first and second straight edges 344, 346 are parallel and can have lengths that run laterally to the axis 310. The third straight edge 348, the fourth straight edge 350, the fifth straight edge 352, and the sixth straight edge 354 are parallel and have vertical lengths. The third and fourth straight edges 348, 350 point outwards from the punched plate 234. The fifth and sixth straight edges 352, 354 point inwards from the punched plate 234. The first curved edge 336 can be curved between and connected to the first straight edge 344 and the third straight edge 348. The first curved edge 336 can be continuous with the first straight edge 344 and the third straight edge 348. The second curved edge 338 can be curved between the first straight edge 344 and the fourth straight edge 350 and be connected to them.The second curved edge 338 can be continuous with the first straight edge 344 and the fourth straight edge 350. The third curved edge 340 can be curved between the second straight edge 346 and the fifth straight edge 352, connecting them. The fourth curved edge 342 can be curved between the second straight edge 346 and the sixth straight edge 354, connecting them. The fourth curved edge 342 can be connected with the second straight edge 346 and the sixth straight edge 354.

[0061] The punched plate 234 can have a plurality of third openings. The third openings are openings, such as through holes, that extend through the material of the punched plate 234. Each of the third openings can accommodate a fastener of the second fasteners 252. The first extension 264 and the second extension 324 can each have openings of the third openings. For example, the first extension 264 includes a first third opening 362a and the second extension 324 includes a second third opening 362b.

[0062] The second extension 324 can be attached to a second body of the bushing bolts 240. Fig. 2 collide, with the second body on the opposite side of the bushing bolts 240 from the body 258 Fig. 2. More precisely, the second extension 324 can clamp against the second body. The second extension 324 can be attached and clamped to the second body by a fastening system of the second fastening systems 244. Tightening one or more of the nuts 256 from Fig. 2 and / or one or more of the second fasteners 252 made of Fig. 2 can increase the clamping of the second process 324 on the second body.

[0063] Fig. Figure 4 shows a third view 400 of an axis arrangement 212. The third view 400 is a side view. The third view 400 is on a view plane opposite the second view 300. Fig. 3 recorded.

[0064] The third view 400 shows that the second hole 238 can directly adjoin a second gap 430 and be connected to it via edges and surfaces. The second gap 430 can extend downwards from the second hole 238. The second gap 430 can be located outside the axle housing 218 and the axle 310. The second gap 430 is located between a first leg 432 and a second leg 434 of the forged body 232. In other words, the first leg 432 and the second leg 434 are located on opposite sides of the second gap 430. The first leg 432 and the second leg 434 can extend downwards from the U-shaped part 236. Likewise, the first leg 432 and the second leg 434 can extend outwards from the axle housing 218 and the axle 310. The first leg 432 can include a first surface 436, and the second leg can include the second surface 438.The first surface 436 and the second surface 438 can be flat with rounded edges and corners. The arm 216 is made of... Fig. 2 can be surrounded by the second gap 430. Likewise, the first leg 432 and the second leg 434 can lie outside the arm 216.

[0065] A multitude of rounded edges, including a first rounded edge 442, a second rounded edge 444, and a third rounded edge 446 of the U-shaped part 236, are arranged around and form the second hole 238. The rounded edges 442, 444, and 446 are smooth and blend seamlessly into the outer surface 239 of the Fig. 2-3 and a second outer surface 440. The outer surface 239 can be referred to here as the first outer surface 239. The first rounded edge 442 and the third rounded edge 446 can curve upwards towards the second rounded edge 444 and be connected to it. The second rounded edge can have a length parallel to the axis 310 and be lateral and horizontal therein. The first rounded edge 442 and the third rounded edge 446 can each curve upwards from the first leg 432 and from the second leg 434, respectively. The first and third rounded edges 442, 446 can initially extend linearly upwards and increasingly assume a parabolic shape as they curve towards and meet the second rounded edge 444. The first rounded edge 442 and the third rounded edge 446 can be symmetrical and be repeated in mirror image on opposite sides of the second hole 238.

[0066] The second outer surface 440 is an outer surface of the U-shaped part 236. The second outer surface 440 can face outwards from the forged body 232. The second outer surface 440 can be curved and follow the curvature of the U-shaped part 236. The second outer surface 440 can be continuously connected to the edges of the second hole 238. The first outer surface 239 and the second outer surface 440 can be symmetrical and mirror images of each other across the second hole 238 and the axis 310. Portions of the first outer surface 239 and the second outer surface 440 can be connected to each other. Additionally, the connected portions of the first outer surface 239 and the second outer surface 440 can be continuous.

[0067] The forged body 232 can have a plurality of fourth openings, including a first fourth opening 452a and a second fourth opening 452b. The fourth openings are openings, such as through holes, that extend through the material of the forged body 232. The first leg 432 and the second leg 434 can each have fourth openings. For example, the first leg 432 includes the first fourth opening 452a and the second leg 434 includes the second fourth opening 452b. The fourth openings, including fourth openings 452a and 452b, can each accommodate a fastening element of the second fastening elements 252. In other words, the second fastening elements 252 can extend through and be fastened to the fourth openings, including fourth openings 452a and 452b.

[0068] The third openings of Fig. The third and fourth openings can be coaxial, so that pairs of third and fourth openings are centered on a common axis. For example, the support arrangement 214 can be aligned with an axis 462 and an axis 464. More precisely, the first third opening 362a in Fig. 3 and the first fourth opening 452a have coaxial centerlines when the support arrangement 214 is aligned with the axis 462. Likewise, the second third opening 362b can be in Fig. 3 and the second fourth opening 452b have coaxial centerlines when the support arrangement 214 is aligned with the axis 464. In other words, the first third opening 362a and the first fourth opening 452a can be centered about the axis 462, with the axis 462 being concentric to the first third opening 362a and the first fourth opening 452a. Likewise, the second third opening 362b and the second fourth opening 452b can be centered about the axis 464, with the axis 464 being concentric to the second third opening 362b and the second fourth opening 452b.

[0069] Fig. Figure 5 shows a fourth view 500 of the support arrangement 214. The fourth view 500 is a side view. The fourth view 500 shows the support arrangement 214 separately from the axle arrangement 212. Fig. 2.

[0070] The support arrangement 214 can be aligned with an axis 510, where the axis 510 can be a line of symmetry for the U-shaped part 236. In other words, a plane parallel to a plane formed by the x- and z-axes of the reference axes 201 can divide the U-shaped part 236 into two approximately symmetrical halves. The axis 510 can define the axis 310 of Fig. 3 be.

[0071] The support assembly 214 can be aligned with an axis 522 and an axis 524. More precisely, the first fastening system 242a can be centered about the axis 522, and the second fastening system 242b can be radially centered about the axis 524. Each component of the first fastening system 242a, including a fastener 246, can be centered about the axis 522. Likewise, each component of the second fastening system 242b, including a fastener 246, can be radially centered about the axis 524. The axis 522 and the axis 524 can be parallel. The axis 522 can be parallel to the axis 462. The axis 524 and the axis 464 can be parallel.The axis 462, the axis 464, the axis 522 and the axis 524 can run longitudinally to a longitudinal axis of a vehicle in which the support arrangement 214 is housed, for example to the longitudinal axis 130 of the in . Fig. 1 of the vehicle shown: 100.

[0072] The U-shaped part 236 comprises a first curved wall 532 and a second curved wall 534. The first curved wall 532 is located opposite the axis 510 of the second curved wall 534. The first curved wall 532 can encompass the first outer surface 239. The first outer surface 239 can curve with and shape the curvature of the first curved wall 532. Likewise, the second curved wall 534 can encompass the second outer surface 440. Fig. 4. The second outer surface 440 lies opposite the axis 510 to the first outer surface 239. The second outer surface 440 can curve with the curvature of the second curved wall 534 and shape it.

[0073] The U-shaped part 236 comprises a first valley 536 and a second valley 538. The first valley 536 and the second valley 538 are located on opposite sides of the second hole 238 and are separated from each other by it. The first valley 536 and the second valley 538 are both connected to the first curved wall 532 and the second curved wall 534, respectively. Likewise, the first valley 536 and the second valley 538 may have surfaces that are connected to the interior surfaces of the first curved wall 532 and the second curved wall 534. For example, an interior surface 548 of the second curved wall 534 may encompass or be connected to the surfaces of the first valley 536 and the second valley 538. The interior surface 548 may curve with and shape the curvature of the second curved wall 534.

[0074] The inner surface 548 can be a first inner surface for the U-shaped part 236, and the first curved wall 532 can have a second inner surface oriented inwards from the forged body 232 and towards the axis 510. The second inner surface can curve with and shape the curvature of the first curved wall 532. The second inner surface can be opposite the axis 510 from the inner surface 548. The second inner surface of the first curved wall 532 can include or be connected with the surface of the first valley 536 and the second valley 538.

[0075] The first curved wall 532 and the second curved wall 534 can be symmetrical, with the first curved wall 532 reflecting the second curved wall 534 across axis 510. Likewise, the first valley 536 and the second valley 538 can be symmetrical, with the first valley 536 reflecting the second valley 538 across the second hole 238.

[0076] The inner surface 548, the second inner surface and the surfaces of the first valley 536 and the second valley 538 can be connected to an axle housing, for example the axle housing 218 made of Fig. 2, be welded. The second hole 238 can allow welding on the inner surface 548, the second inner surface and the surfaces of the first valley 536 and the second valley 538.

[0077] A first block 542 and a second block 544 are connected to the U-shaped part 236. The first block 542 and the second block 544 can be located beneath the U-shaped part 236. The body of the first block 542 can be located beneath the first valley 536, and the first valley 536 can penetrate the first block 542. Likewise, the body of the second block 544 can be located beneath the second valley 538, and the second valley 538 can penetrate the second block 544. The first leg 432 can be connected to and extend from the first block 542. The first leg 432 can extend downwards from the first block 542. Likewise, the second leg 434 can be connected to and extend from the second block 544. The second leg 434 can extend downwards from the second block 544.The first fastening system 242a and the second fastening system 242b can each fasten the punched plate 234 to the first block 542 and the second block 544, respectively. More precisely, the first fastening system 242a can fasten the first extension 264 to the first block 542 via a fastening element of the first fastening elements 246. Likewise, the second fastening system 242b can fasten the second extension 324 to the second block 544 via a fastening element of the first fastening elements 246.

[0078] The first block 542 and the second block 544 can be support blocks that provide stiffness to the U-shaped part 236. More precisely, the first block 542 and the second block 544 can bear loads applied to the first valley 536 and the second valley 538, thus providing them with stiffness. Mechanical loads from an axis arrangement to which the U-shaped part 236 is physically connected can be transferred from the first curved wall 532, the second curved wall 534, the first valley 536, and the second valley 538 into the first block 542 and the second block 544. Mechanical loads from the first block 542 can be transferred into the first leg 432. Mechanical loads from the second block 544 can be transferred into the second leg 434.

[0079] In Fig. 6 is a fifth view 600 of the forged body 232 of the support arrangement 214 from Fig. 2-5 shown. As previously described, the forged body 232 can be attached to the stamped plate 234 from the Fig. 2-5 be fastened, and the stamped plate 234 can hold the bushing bolts 240 from Fig. 2 clamp onto the forged body 232. More precisely, the fifth view 600 shows the forged body 232, which is separated from the stamped plate 234 and other components / features of the support arrangement 214. Fig. 2 is separate and decoupled. The fifth view, 600, is a side view.

[0080] The forged body 232 can include a variety of fifth openings, including a first fifth opening 632a and a second fifth opening 632b. The fifth openings are openings that extend into the material of the forged body 232. The first block 542 and the second block 544 can each have fourth openings. For example, the first block 542 includes the first fifth opening 632a and the second block 544 includes the second fifth opening 632b. The first fifth opening 632a can be centered about the axis 522. The second fifth opening 632b can be centered about the axis 524.

[0081] The first fastening systems 242 of the Fig. 2-5 can be attached to the first fifth opening 632a and the second fifth opening 632b. The first fastening system 242a from the Fig. 3-5 can be attached to the first fifth opening 632a. The second first fastening system 242b from the Fig. 3-5 can be attached to the second fifth opening 632b. The fifth openings, including fifth openings 632a, 632b, can each accommodate one fastening element of the second fastening elements 252 from the Fig. 2-5 receive and attach to them. In other words, the second fasteners 252 can extend through and be attached to the fifth openings, including the fifth openings 632a, 632b. The fifth openings 632a, 632b can each have fasteners that can engage with other fasteners of the first fasteners 246, thereby attaching the first fasteners 246 to the fifth openings 632a, 632b. For example, the fifth openings 632a, 632b can have an internal thread that can engage with the external thread of the first fasteners 246.

[0082] The first block 542 can have a first surface 642. The second block 544 can have a second surface 644. The stamped plate 234 can be attached to and abut the forged body 232 at a first surface 642 and a second surface 644.

[0083] The first leg 432 can have a third surface 652. The second leg 434 can have a fourth surface 654. The bodies of the bushing bolts 240 are made of Fig. 2 can bear against the third surface 652 and the fourth surface 654. At least one body of the bushing bolts 240 can be held between the third surface 652 and the stamped plate 234. Likewise, at least one further body of the bushing bolts 240 can be held between the fourth surface 654 and the stamped plate 234. For example, the body 258 made of Fig. 2. A first body of a first bushing bolt and another body can be a second body of a second bushing bolt, wherein the first and second bushing bolts are bushing bolts of the bushing bolts 240. The body 258 can bear against and be held on the third surface 652 via the first fastening systems 242 and the stamped plate 234. More precisely, the first extension 264 can be made of Fig. 2 clamp the first body against the third surface 652. Likewise, the other body of the bushing bolt 240 can rest against and be held in place by the first fastening systems 242 and the stamped plate 234 on the fourth surface 654. More precisely, the first extension 324 can be made of Fig. 3 clamp the first body against the third surface 654.

[0084] Fig. Figure 7 shows a sixth view 700 of the stamped plate 234 of the support arrangement 214, which is attached to the forged body 232 made of Fig. 2-5 can be attached. As previously described, the stamped plate 234 can be attached to the forged body 232 made from the Fig. 2-5 be fastened, and the stamped plate 234 can hold the bushing bolts 240 from Fig. 2 clamp to the forged body 232. More precisely, the sixth view 700 shows the stamped plate 234, which is attached to the forged body 232 and other components / features of the support assembly 214 from the Fig. Views 2-5 are separate and decoupled. The sixth view, 700, is a side view.

[0085] The stamped plate 234 can include a plurality of sixth openings, including a first sixth opening 732a and a second sixth opening 732b. The sixth openings are through holes extending through the material of the stamped plate 234. The first extension 264 and the second extension 324 can each have one or more of the sixth openings. For example, the first extension 264 includes the first sixth opening 732a and the second extension 324 includes the second sixth opening 732b. The first sixth opening 732a can be centered about the axis 522. The second sixth opening 732b can be centered about the axis 524. The first fifth opening 632a in Fig. The 6 and the first sixth aperture 732a can be coaxial and share the axis 522 as a common axis around which they are centered. Likewise, the second fifth aperture 632b of Fig. The forged body 232 and the stamped plate 234 can be oriented such that the first fifth opening 632a and the first sixth opening 732a are centered about the axis 522, and the second fifth opening 632b and the second sixth opening 732b are centered about the axis 524.

[0086] The sixth openings, including the sixth openings 732a, 732b, can each accommodate one fastening element of the first fastening elements 246 from the Fig. 2-5. In other words: The first fastening elements 246 can extend through the sixth openings 732a, 732b. The first fastening system 242a of the Fig. 2-5 The stamped plate 234 can be attached to the forged body 232 via the first sixth opening 732a. More precisely, a fastening element of the first fastening elements 246 can extend through the first sixth opening 732a and the first extension 264 can be attached to the first surface 642 of Fig. 6. Attach the second first fastening system 242b from the Fig. 2-5 can attach the stamped plate 234 to the forged body 232 via the second sixth opening 732b. More precisely, a fastening element of the first fastening elements 246 can be attached to it. Fig. 2 extend through the second sixth opening 732b and the first extension 264 on the second surface 644 of Fig. 6. Attach.

[0087] In this way, the exposed system provides a support assembly that can be connected to a shaft housing and supports an arm, such that the arm is articulated to the support via several bushing bolts. More precisely, the support assembly can be welded to a shaft housing and support a lower control arm, with the lower control arm articulated to the support via the bushing bolts. The support assembly comprises a forged support and a stamped plate. The forged support includes a U-shaped section designed to be welded to the shaft housing. The U-shaped section includes a hole, which is a window that facilitates welding the U-shaped section. The stamped plate includes a first extension and a second extension, which can be connected to each other via a beam.The first extension and the second extension can be strips, and the first extension and the second extension can be attached to the forged beam by at least one first set of first fasteners. The first extension and the second extension can each abut a body of a bushing bolt, so that the bushing bolts can be held between the forged beam and the stamped plate. A first leg and a second leg of the forged body can each abut a body of a bushing bolt. A second set of second fasteners can fasten the bushing bolts to the first extension and the second extension by their respective bodies. The second fasteners can also fasten the bodies of the bushing bolts to the first leg and the second leg.Similarly, the second fastening elements can attach the first extension to the first leg and the second extension to the second leg.

[0088] Although various embodiments have been described above, it should be clear that these serve only as examples and do not constitute limitations. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosed subject matter can be implemented in other specific forms without departing from the spirit of the subject matter. The embodiments described above are therefore to be regarded in every respect as illustrative and not as limiting. Thus, the configurations and routines disclosed here are exemplary in nature, and the specific examples are not to be considered limiting, as numerous variations are possible. The technology described above can, for example, be applied to powertrains that include various types of power sources, including different types of propulsion motors, internal combustion engines, and / or transmissions.The subject matter of the present disclosure includes all novel and non-obvious combinations and sub-combinations of the various systems and configurations, as well as other features, functions and / or properties disclosed herein.

[0089] It should be noted that the example control and estimation routines contained herein can be used with various engine and / or vehicle system configurations. The control procedures and routines disclosed herein can be stored as executable instructions in non-volatile memory and executed by the control system, including the controller, in combination with the various sensors, drive elements, and other engine hardware. The specific routines described herein can represent one or more arbitrary processing strategies, such as event-driven, interrupt-driven, multitasking, multithreading, and the like. Thus, the various actions, operations, and / or functions presented can be performed in the sequence shown, in parallel, or, in some cases, independently.Accordingly, the processing sequence is not strictly necessary to achieve the features and advantages of the exemplary embodiments described here, but serves only for better illustration and description. One or more of the actions, operations, and / or functions shown can be performed repeatedly, depending on the strategy used. Furthermore, the described actions, operations, and / or functions can graphically represent code that is to be programmed into the non-volatile memory of the computer-readable storage medium in the engine control system, whereby the described actions are executed by carrying out the commands in a system that includes the various hardware components of the engine in combination with the electronic control unit.

[0090] It should be understood that the configurations and routines disclosed herein are exemplary and that these specific embodiments are not to be considered limiting, as numerous variations are possible. Unless expressly stated otherwise, the terms "first," "second," "third," etc., do not denote any order, position, quantity, or significance, but serve only to distinguish the individual elements. The subject matter of this disclosure includes all novel and non-obvious combinations and sub-combinations of the various systems and configurations, as well as other features, functions, and / or properties disclosed herein.

[0091] The following claims highlight in particular certain combinations and subcombinations that are to be considered novel and not obvious. These claims may refer to "one" element or "a first" element, or the equivalent thereof. Such claims are to be understood as including one or more such elements, with two or more such elements neither required nor excluded. Other combinations and subcombinations of the disclosed features, functions, elements, and / or properties may be claimed by amending the present claims or by filing new claims in this or a related application. Such claims, whether they have a broader, narrower, the same, or different scope than the original claims, are also to be considered as included in the subject matter of the present disclosure.

Claims

[1] Suspension beam arrangement comprising: a forged body; a stamped plate; and a pair of bushing bolts, wherein the forged body comprises a U-shaped part which is arranged to be welded to an axle housing, wherein the stamped plate comprises a plurality of extensions which are arranged to be fastened to the forged body by means of a first set of first fasteners; and wherein the pair of bushing bolts is arranged to be positioned between the stamped plate and the forged body, the bushing bolts being fastened by means of a second set of second fasteners. [2] Suspension support arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the U-shaped part includes a hole, the hole being configured to facilitate welding the U-shaped part to the axle housing. [3] Suspension support arrangement according to claim 2, wherein a gap extends downwards from the U-shaped part and the gap connects directly to the hole. [4] The suspension support arrangement according to claim 3, wherein a first block and a second block extend downwards from the U-shaped part, the first block and the second block are opposite the gap, the first block and the second block each have first holes and the first fastening elements extend through the first holes. [5] Suspension bracket arrangement according to claim 4, wherein the first block comprises a first surface and the second block comprises a second surface and wherein a first extension and a second extension of the extensions are arranged to touch and press against the first surface and the second surface respectively. [6] Suspension support arrangement according to claim 4 or 5, wherein a first leg extends downwards from the first block and a second leg extends downwards from the second block, wherein the first leg and the second leg each have second holes and wherein the second fastening elements extend through the second holes. [7] Suspension bracket arrangement according to claim 6, wherein the first leg has a first surface and the second leg has a second surface and a first bushing bolt of the bushing bolts rests on the first surface and a second bushing bolt of the bushing bolts rests on the second surface. [8] Suspension beam arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the stamped plate has a degree of stiffness that allows elastic deformation of the stamped plate above a first load threshold and below a second load threshold. [9] Suspension support arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the bushing bolts is arranged between a projection of the projections and the second fastening elements extend through the projections. [10] Suspension support arrangement according to claim 9, wherein the extensions are strips which are arranged to be attached and clamped to the bushing bolts. [11] Suspension support arrangement according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the bushing bolts are received by a control arm and extend through it, the control arm being pivotally connected to the bushing bolts. [12] Suspension bracket arrangement according to claim 11, wherein a gap between the extensions surrounds the control arm. [13] Suspension support arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the bushing bolts have a web pin configuration.

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