Single-screw mounting of a shock absorber to a wheel support

Abstract

The invention relates to an assembly (26) for a motor vehicle suspension system. The assembly comprises: a shock absorber (24) with a lower base (50); a wheel carrier (22), such as a hub carrier, with a mounting arm (30) and a wheel connection area (54); a connecting piece (28) for the lower base of the shock absorber to the wheel carrier, said connecting piece (28) comprising a mounting recess (32) with an internal surface (56) housing the mounting arm. The assembly includes a single mounting pin (34) securing the mounting arm in the mounting recess. The mounting arm (30) includes rotational locking means (60) about the single mounting pin (34), said rotational locking means (60) cooperating with said internal surface (56) to maintain the orientation of the shock absorber (24) relative to the wheel carrier (22). Figure to be published with the abbreviation: Figure 5

Description

Title of the invention: Single-screw fixing of a shock absorber to a wheel support

[0001] The invention relates to the field of motor vehicle suspensions. The invention deals with the mounting of a motor vehicle shock absorber, and more particularly with the mounting between the shock absorber and the wheel support. The invention relates to an assembly for a motor vehicle suspension system. The invention also relates to a motor vehicle.

[0002] Currently, it is known that the majority of motor vehicles have a front axle with independent suspension, for example, of the MacPherson strut or similar type. Each half-axle may include a shock absorber, which connects to the wheel carrier, itself connected to the wheel on one side and to the steering system on the other. The shock absorber is attached to the wheel carrier by means of a connecting piece located at the base of the shock absorber and which is fixed to the wheel carrier by means of two bolts tightened by two nuts. As a result, the shock absorber is secured to the wheel carrier in all directions, while also allowing for easy removal and replacement.

[0003] Such an arrangement is shown, for example, in document FR3045501B1, which describes a wheel assembly comprising a suspension arm connected to the steering knuckle on one side and to deformable shims on the other. This attachment uses two screws and two nuts and requires two machined holes in the connecting piece. The cost of such an assembly becomes significant when used in large-scale production, such as in the manufacture of motor vehicles.

[0004] The invention aims to address at least one of the problems or drawbacks encountered in the prior art. In particular, the invention aims to reduce the cost of an assembly for a motor vehicle suspension system. The invention also aims to optimize the positioning accuracy, strength, safety, and assembly costs of an independent suspension assembly for a motor vehicle.

[0005] According to a first aspect, the invention provides an assembly for a motor vehicle suspension system, said assembly comprising: a shock absorber with a lower base; a wheel support with a mounting arm and a connection area for a wheel of said motor vehicle; a connecting piece for the lower base of the shock absorber to the wheel support, said connecting piece comprising a mounting recess with an internal surface housing the mounting arm; notable in that the assembly comprises a single mounting pin securing the arm of fixing in the fixing recess; and in that the fixing arm includes means for locking against rotation about the single fixing axis, said means for locking against rotation cooperating with said internal surface in order to maintain the orientation of the shock absorber relative to the wheel support.

[0006] The invention simplifies fastening thanks to a single fastening axis. This saves time and reduces the number of operations required for fastening. Furthermore, the interaction between the rotation-locking means and the internal surface of the fastening recess compensates for the presence of a single fastening axis in order to maintain the robustness of the assembly.

[0007] Preferably, the fixing arm comprises a lower section extending mainly vertically and a horizontal section extending from the lower section and forming the means for locking against rotation; preferably, the lower section extends vertically to the internal surface.

[0008] Preferably, the means for blocking rotation comprise an upper surface; the upper surface being against the internal surface of the fixing recess in order to ensure blocking rotation; preferably the upper surface is horizontal.

[0009] Preferably, the means for locking against rotation comprise a vertical surface transversely against the connecting piece in order to ensure locking against rotation; preferably the vertical surface forms a transverse end of the fixing arm.

[0010] Preferably, the means for blocking rotation include a lower surface; the lower surface being against the internal surface of the fixing recess in order to ensure blocking rotation; preferably the lower surface is horizontal.

[0011] Preferably, the single fixing axis passes longitudinally through the fixing arm; the means for locking against rotation are at a distance from the single fixing axis.

[0012] Preferably, the connecting piece comprises a block of material surrounding the internal surface; preferably, the block of material surrounds the attachment arm.

[0013] Preferably, the single fixing axis passes through the internal surface and the block of material.

[0014] Preferably, the means for blocking rotation are vertically at the level of the lower base and / or transversely at a distance from the lower base.

[0015] Preferably, vertically at the level of the horizontal section, the connecting piece includes clamping surfaces suitable for cooperating with the single fixing axis.

[0016] Preferably, the upper surface is at the top of the fixing arm, and / or at the top of the horizontal section.

[0017] Preferably, the lower section extends from the horizontal section to the connection zone.

[0018] Preferably, the vertical surface connects the lower surface to the upper surface.

[0019] Preferably, the single fixing axis is vertically at a distance from the lower surface and the upper surface and / or the vertical surface.

[0020] Preferably, the single axis of attachment is parallel to the upper surface and / or the lower surface; and / or the vertical surface.

[0021] Preferably, the single axis of attachment is centered with respect to the upper surface and / or the lower surface; and / or the vertical surface.

[0022] Preferably, the means for locking against rotation are at a distance from the single fixing axis.

[0023] Preferably, the fixing arm comprises longitudinally opposed lateral cheeks against the internal surface of the fixing recess, the single fixing axis passing through said lateral cheeks.

[0024] Preferably, the transverse end is formed by the horizontal section.

[0025] Preferably, the transverse end has a rectangular profile and the internal surface has a complementary shape.

[0026] Preferably, the fixing arm extends mainly vertically.

[0027] Preferably, the internal surface is mechanically adjusted to the attachment arm.

[0028] Preferably, the lower section extends transversely to the internal surface.

[0029] Preferably, the internal surface comprises five faces.

[0030] According to another aspect, the invention proposes a motor vehicle comprising a suspension system with an assembly, remarkable in that the assembly conforms to the invention.

[0031] Preferably, the suspension system includes a suspension arm pivotally connected to the wheel support.

[0032] Preferably, the motor vehicle includes a steering system coupled to the wheel support.

[0033] Each feature introduced by the expression "preferably" given in relation to one of the aspects of the invention applies to all other aspects of the invention.

[0034] The invention will be well understood and other aspects and advantages will become clear upon reading the following description, given with reference to the attached figures listed below.

[0035] Fig. 1 is a front view of a motor vehicle according to the invention.

[0036] Figure 2 is a side view of a vehicle suspension system assembly automobile according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0037] Fig. 3 shows an exploded view of the various elements of an assembly in the fixing region between the shock absorber and the wheel support, according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0038] Figure 4 shows a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the connecting piece containing the horizontal section of the fixing arm inside the fixing recess, of an assembly according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0039] Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view of the attachment between the shock absorber and the wheel support of an assembly according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0040] In the following description, the term "include" is synonymous with "include" and is not limiting in that it permits the presence of other elements in the motor vehicle to which it relates. It is understood that the term "include" includes the terms "consist of".

[0041] In this description, the terms "longitudinal," "longitudinally," "transverse," and "transversely" are used with respect to the vehicle's frame of reference in the mounting configuration. "Longitudinal" refers to the vehicle's principal direction of travel. "Transverse" refers to a direction perpendicular to the vehicle's principal direction of travel. "Front" refers to the vehicle's principal direction of travel. "Rear" refers to the opposite of the front of the vehicle.

[0042] The X-axis represents the longitudinal direction, the Y-axis represents the transverse direction, and the Z-axis represents the vertical direction of the motor vehicle. These three axes define a right-handed trihedron whose orientation is preserved throughout the figures.

[0043] In this description, the terms "vertical" and "horizontal" are not to be understood in their strict sense. Indeed, they allow an inclination of at most 20°, preferably at most 10°, more preferably at most 5°, and even more preferably at most 2°; with respect to the strict meaning of these terms.

[0044] In this description, the technical characteristics are defined in the assembly mounting configuration, unless otherwise explicitly stated.

[0045] Throughout the description, the different figures use the same reference signs to designate identical or similar entities.

[0046] Figure 1 represents a motor vehicle 10 according to the invention. The motor vehicle 10 comprises energy storage means and at least one motor (not shown) adapted to drive said motor vehicle 10.

[0047] The motor vehicle 10 comprises a structure 12. The structure 12 forms a The outer body, or main frame of the motor vehicle, is the structure 12. This structure delineates different compartments of the motor vehicle 10, including the passenger compartment, the cargo area, and the engine compartment (not shown). The structure 12 may be formed from an assembly of stamped and welded sheet metal parts.

[0048] The structure 12 connects various parts of the motor vehicle 10, including the openings. The structure 12 forms a mounting support for the powertrain, the suspension systems 14, the steering system 16, and the braking systems (not shown). The suspension systems 14 and the steering system 16 are generally associated with the front wheels, also called the steering wheels. Generally, the steering system can be associated with any wheel 18 of the motor vehicle. Each braking system commonly includes a disc housed in a wheel and a caliper that cooperates by friction with the disc.

[0049] Each suspension system 14 comprises at least one suspension arm 20, generally called a suspension triangle. The suspension arm 20 is pivotally mounted to the structure 12 and connected to the wheel carrier 22. The wheel carrier 22 is rotatably connected to the suspension arm, in particular with a ball joint, to allow movement of the steering system 16.

[0050] The suspension system 14 also includes a shock absorber 24, which is also connected to the wheel support 22. The shock absorber 24 is a device capable of dissipating the energy of the oscillations of the wheel support 22. The wheel support 22 may be a hub carrier. The shock absorber 24 is generally associated with a suspension spring 25. The suspension spring 25 may be a helical spring. The structure 12 rests on said suspension spring 25.

[0051] The suspension system 14 is an independent wheel suspension system in which the left wheel assembly is physically decoupled from the right wheel assembly, and the shock absorber 24 is mounted on the wheel carrier 22. The suspension system 14 may, for example, be of the type known as a "MacPherson strut" or a derivative such as a "pseudo-MacPherson" suspension. The wheel carrier 22 may be a steering knuckle or a steering knuckle. It has a circular opening in its center for the axle of a wheel 18 or a wheel hub. Several arms surround this circular opening and are connected respectively to the steering system 16, the suspension arm 20, and the shock absorber 24.

[0052] The motor vehicle can, for example, be a private motor vehicle or a commercial motor vehicle.

[0053] Figure 2 illustrates an assembly 26 for a motor vehicle suspension system according to an embodiment of the invention. The motor vehicle may correspond to the one shown in relation to Figure 1.

[0054] The assembly 26 comprises a shock absorber 24 carrying a connecting piece 28 which is connected to the wheel support 22 via a mounting arm 30. The connecting piece 28 is arranged at the lower base 50 of the shock absorber 24, i.e., at its lower part. The connecting piece 28 includes a mounting recess 32 with an internal surface housing the mounting arm 30. The assembly includes a single mounting pin 34 passing through the mounting arm 30 in the mounting recess 32.

[0055] The mounting arm 30 includes means for rotationally locking 60 around the single mounting axis 34. The rotationally locking means 60 cooperate with said internal surface of the mounting recess 32 in order to maintain the orientation of the connecting piece 28 relative to the mounting arm 30; and thus between the shock absorber 24 and the wheel support 22. The mounting arm 30 includes an external surface, said external surface forming the rotationally locking means 60.

[0056] The connecting piece 28 is integral with the shock absorber 24. It can be attached to an external tube forming the lower base 50 of the shock absorber 24, or be fitted into the lower base 50 of the latter. It includes, for example, a horizontal flange for attaching equipment such as sensors.

[0057] The mounting arm 30 is elongated. It forms a connecting arm. It allows for vertical and / or transverse offset of the shock absorber 24 relative to a wheel mounting area 54 (not shown). The mounting area 54 includes, for example, a bore for mounting bearings. It may include a mounting surface for a spindle. It receives an axle.

[0058] The single fixing axis 34 passes longitudinally through the fixing arm 30. According to one embodiment of the invention, the single fixing axis 34 is horizontal. This single fixing axis 34 is closed by reversible fixing means 48.

[0059] The shock absorber 24 comprises a sleeve forming its lower base 50, and a rod above it. The lower base 50 forms its lower end. The rod is capable of retracting into the sleeve. It is an upper rod. Its upper end is intended to be fixed to the structure of the motor vehicle. The shock absorber 24 may be a gas shock absorber. It opposes a force against the movements of the telescopic rod, said force being proportional to the speed of movement of the telescopic rod. The shock absorber 24 further comprises a cup 52 for receiving the suspension spring (not shown). The cup is horizontal and integral with the lower base 50. The cup 52 surrounds the shock absorber, in particular the sleeve.

[0060] Figure 3 shows an exploded view of the various components of assembly 26 for a motor vehicle, according to one embodiment of the invention. The motor vehicle may correspond to the one shown in relation to one of Figures 1 to 2.

[0061] The attachment arm 30 extends mainly vertically. It comprises a lower section 36 extending mainly vertically, and a horizontal section 38 extends from the lower section 36. It prolongs it. They each comprise a streamlined shape along their principal direction. The horizontal section 38 is inclined relative to the lower section 36, preferably by at least 30°, more preferably by at least 45°.

[0062] The horizontal section 38 forms the rotation-locking means 60. The lower section 36 extends vertically to the internal surface 56 formed by the mounting recess 32. The lower section 36 extends transversely to said internal surface 56. The horizontal section 38 extends into the mounting recess 32. The latter encloses it. The horizontal section 38 is delimited longitudinally by lateral cheeks 46 which are connected by a mounting hole 58.

[0063] The wheel support 22 is a single piece. The mounting arm 30 is formed from the same material as the lower and front arms of the wheel support 22. Preferably, the wheel support 22 is made of metal, for example steel or aluminum. It can be cast or forged.

[0064] The rotation-locking means 60 comprise an upper surface 40, preferably at the top of the mounting arm 30. The upper surface 40 is formed by the horizontal section 38. The upper surface 40 is horizontal and flat. The upper surface 40 is intended to be against the inner surface 56 of the mounting recess 32 in order to ensure rotational locking around the single mounting axis 34. The inner surface 56 has five faces. The upper surface 40 is intended to fit one of the faces of the inner surface 56. These faces are preferably orthogonal. The mounting recess 32 has one open face.

[0065] The rotation-locking means 60 comprise a vertical surface 42 transversely against the connecting piece 28 to ensure rotational locking. The vertical surface 42 forms a transverse end of the fixing arm 30. It is materialized by the horizontal section 38. It extends above and below the single fixing axis 34 to ensure locking in both directions of rotation.

[0066] The rotation-locking means 60 comprise a lower surface 44. The lower surface 44 is pressed against the internal surface 56 of the mounting recess 32 to ensure rotational locking. According to one embodiment of the invention, the lower surface 44 is horizontal. It forms the lower side of the end of the mounting arm 30, materialized by the horizontal section 38. The single axis of rotation is centered with respect to the upper surface 40 and the lower surface 44.

[0067] The rotation-locking means 60 are vertically positioned at the level of the lower base 50 and / or transversely at a distance from the lower base 50 of the shock absorber 24. This optimizes compactness and ease of assembly. The arrangement at the same level reduces the mechanical torque around the single mounting axis 34 between the shock absorber 24 and the mounting arm 30.

[0068] Fixing holes 58 pass through the fixing arm 30, at the level of its horizontal section 38, as well as in the connecting piece 28. In the mounting configuration, they are aligned to allow the passage of the single fixing axis 34. According to one embodiment of the invention, these fixing holes 58 are machined.

[0069] The mounting holes 58, which receive the single mounting pin 34, are used to insert the reversible mounting means 48. The reversible mounting means 48 lock the assembly between the wheel support 22 and the shock absorber 24 in its translational movement along the Y-axis in the direction opposite to that of the mounting. Generally, the single mounting pin 34 secures the transverse position of the mounting arm 30 in the mounting recess 32 by eliminating one degree of freedom.

[0070] According to one embodiment of the invention, the reversible fastening means 48 comprise a screw and a nut, or a bolt and a nut, or a stud and a nut, or another reversible fastening assembly based on a rod that will pass through the fastening holes 58.

[0071] According to one embodiment of the invention, the external faces of the connecting piece 28 around the fixing holes 58 housing the single fixing pin 34 can be flat so as to facilitate the tightening of the reversible fixing means 48.

[0072] According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, the single fixing axis is vertical. The fixing holes are vertical.

[0073] According to an alternative of the invention, the upper surface includes a longitudinal notch receiving the single fixing axis in order to transversely block the fixing arm.

[0074] Figure 4 shows a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the connecting piece 28 containing the horizontal section 38 of the mounting arm 30 inside the mounting recess 32 for a motor vehicle assembly 26, according to one embodiment of the invention. The motor vehicle may correspond to that shown in relation to one of Figures 1 to 3. The cross-section is along the mounting holes 58.

[0075] The connecting piece 28 comprises a block of material 62. The block of material 62 is made of material. The block of material 62 comprises a solid area with a thickness of at least 5 mm, preferably at least 10 mm, more preferably at least 20 mm. It delimits the fixing recess 32. It surrounds the internal surface 56. The block of material 62 surrounds the fixing arm at its horizontal section 38. The block of material 62 is against the shock absorber.

[0076] The single fixing axis (not shown) passes through the internal surface 56 and the block of material 62. The fixing holes 58 pass through the block of material 62, preferably longitudinally. They define a through passage.

[0077] The fixing arm includes, at its horizontal section 38, cheeks lateral 46 longitudinally opposed and against the internal surface of the fixing recess 32, the single fixing axis passing through said lateral cheeks 46. The lateral cheeks 46 are opposed along the single fixing axis.

[0078] Vertically at the horizontal section 38, the connecting piece 28 has clamping surfaces 64. The clamping surfaces 64 are flat and parallel. They are designed to surround the single fixing axis (not shown). The reversible fixing means bear against the clamping surfaces 64. They are extended to lighten the connecting piece 28 while optimizing rigidity.

[0079] According to an alternative of the invention, the means for blocking rotation include asperities formed on lateral cheeks.

[0080] According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, the rotation-locking means comprise transverse ribs on the lateral cheeks. The internal surface comprises complementary ribs. These ribs are aligned with the direction of insertion of the fastening arm.

[0081] Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view of the interface between the shock absorber 24 and the wheel support 22 of a motor vehicle assembly 26, according to an embodiment of the invention. The motor vehicle may correspond to the one shown in relation to one of Figures 1 to 4. The section is perpendicular to the single fixing axis 34.

[0082] The rotation-locking means 60 are enclosed within the mounting recess 32. They conform to the internal surface 56. The vertical surface 42 vertically connects the lower surface 44 to the upper surface 40 at the horizontal section 38. These surfaces conform to the internal surface 56 of the mounting recess 32. The surfaces are joined to provide bearings and thus rotational locking. The mounting recess 32 conceals the horizontal section 38.

[0083] The connecting piece 28, via the mounting recess 32, forms a female part receiving the mounting arm 30, which is therefore the male part. The invention provides a rotational locking mechanism by material engagement. The mounting arm 30 is thus fitted into the connecting piece 28. The connecting piece 28 includes flanges 66 clamping the lower base 50. The flanges 66 surround the shock absorber sleeve 24. They extend from the block of material 62.

[0084] The single fixing axis 34 is vertically spaced from the lower surface 44 and the upper surface 40. It is transversely spaced from the vertical surface 42. The lower surface 44 and the upper surface 40 are parallel in order to facilitate the insertion of the fixing arm 30 into the fixing recess 32.

[0085] The mounting arm 30 connects the connecting area 54 to the shock absorber 24. The horizontal section 38 forms a bend on the lower section 36. The connecting area 54 is connected to the horizontal section 38 via the lower section 36. It is traversed by the axle The rotation area 72 of the associated wheel. The connecting area 54 is a bore passing through the wheel support 22. The connecting area 54 is intended to be traversed by a transmission shaft. It includes mounting grooves 68.

[0086] The mounting arm 30 comprises a transverse end 70 formed by its horizontal section 38 and fixed in the mounting recess 32 by the single mounting axis 34. The transverse end 70 is a portion of the horizontal section 38 that is delimited by the vertical surface 42. Preferably, the transverse end 70, and therefore the horizontal section 38, has a rectangular profile. The internal surface 56 of the mounting recess 32 has a complementary shape, in particular a complementary profile.

[0087] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, said internal surface 56 comprises five faces (three visible). It is mechanically fitted to the mounting arm 30 at the horizontal section 38. Mechanical fitting means a set of the two dimensions of the assembly of the wheel support 22 and the mounting arm 30; such that these parts have the same nominal dimension but different tolerances in order to provide clamping.

[0088] Thus, the wheel support 22 is attached to the shock absorber 24 by simply fitting the horizontal section 38 of the mounting arm 30 into the mounting recess 32. The wheel support 22 is then locked against rotation in all directions and against translation along the three axes except for the transverse axis, in the direction opposite to that of the assembly. The insertion of the single mounting pin 34 eliminates this latter movement and completely secures the assembly, while still allowing for easy disassembly in order to replace a component, for example, the shock absorber 24.

[0089] The rotation-locking means 60 are located at a distance from the single fixing axis 34. The single fixing axis 34 is parallel to at least one of the surfaces selected from among the upper surface 40, the vertical surface 42, and the lower surface 44; preferably parallel to each of these surfaces. The arrangement optimizes rotational locking and ease of assembly.

[0090] The invention comprises the combination of all the embodiments illustrated by all the figures.

[0091] Figures 2 to 5 are isometric views. Each one respects a specific scale, real angles and real proportions.

Claims

Demands

1. Assembly (26) for a suspension system (14) of a motor vehicle (10), said assembly (26) comprising: a shock absorber (24) with a lower base (50); a wheel carrier (22) with a fixing arm (30) and a connecting area (54) for a wheel (18) of said motor vehicle (10); a connecting piece (28) for the lower base (50) of the shock absorber (24) to the wheel carrier (22), said connecting piece (28) comprising a fixing recess (32) with an internal surface (56) housing the fixing arm (30); characterized in that the assembly (26) comprises a single fixing pin (34) fixing the fixing arm (30) in the fixing recess (32);and in that the fixing arm (30) includes means for locking against rotation (60) around the single fixing axis (34), said means for locking against rotation (60) cooperating with said internal surface (56) in order to maintain the orientation of the shock absorber (24) relative to the wheel support (22).

2. Assembly (26) according to claim 1, characterized in that the fixing arm (30) comprises a lower section (36) extending mainly vertically and a horizontal section (38) extending from the lower section (36) and forming the rotation-locking means (60); preferably, the lower section (36) extends vertically to the internal surface (56).

3. Assembly (26) according to any one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that the rotation-locking means (60) comprise an upper surface (40); the upper surface (40) being against the internal surface (56) of the fixing recess (32) in order to ensure rotation-locking; preferably the upper surface (40) is horizontal.

4. Assembly (26) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the rotation-locking means (60) comprise a vertical surface (42) transversely against the connecting piece (28) in order to ensure rotation-locking; preferably the vertical surface (42) forms a transverse end (70) of the fixing arm (30).

5. Assembly (26) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the rotation-locking means (60) comprise a lower surface (44); the lower surface (44) being against the internal surface (56) of the fixing recess (32) in order to ensure rotation-locking; preferably the lower surface (44) is horizontal.

6. Assembly (26) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the single fixing axis (34) passes longitudinally through the fixing arm (30); the rotation locking means (60) are at a distance from the single fixing axis (34).

7. Assembly (26) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the connecting piece (28) comprises a block of material (62) surrounding the internal surface (56); preferably, the block of material (62) surrounds the fixing arm (30).

8. Assembly (26) according to claim 7, characterized in that the single fixing axis (34) passes through the internal surface (56) and the block of material (62).

9. Assembly (26) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the rotation blocking means (60) are vertically at the level of the lower base (50) and / or transversely at a distance from the lower base (50).

10. Motor vehicle (10) comprising a suspension system (14) with an assembly (26), characterized in that the assembly (26) conforms to any one of claims 1 to 9; preferably, the suspension system (14) comprises a suspension arm (20) pivotally connected to the wheel support (22).

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