Control arm bush

Abstract

A smart arm bush (100) comprises a centrally positioned bush arm (102), a stopper (104), and a dent-shaped element (108). The stopper (104) is positioned in contact with inner circumference of an outer body (106) having a shape characterized by a low contact surface, incorporating self-lubricating material in the Y direction, configured such that noise resulting due to rubber surface contact is eliminated during vehicle bump and rebound motions. The dent-shaped element (108) is positioned on the bush arm (102), where the dent-shaped element (108) mitigates noise due to relative movement between inner and outer side of the vehicle by reducing rubber bulging and minimization of contact area.

Description

[0001] CONTROL ARM BUSH

[0002] FIELD OF INVENTION

[0003] Embodiments of the present application relates to automotive suspension systems. Specifically, it pertains to a smart arm bush used in vehicle suspension to reduce noise and to improve performance during vehicle bump and rebound motions.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] Background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently disclosed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.

[0006] In the automotive industry, the quest for enhancing the overall driving experience has continually emphasized the reduction of noise and vibration. A significant contributor to undesirable noise is the contact between conventional bushing stoppers, particularly in the Y direction, resulting in vibrations transmitted to the vehicle chassis. This phenomenon has long posed challenges for manufacturers striving to deliver smoother, quieter rides. Traditional methods to address this problem typically rely on materials with limited effectiveness or intricate damping systems. However, such solutions often come with drawbacks, including increased vehicle weight and production costs.

[0007] As consumer preferences increasingly prioritize comfort and refinement in automotive design, there exists a pressing need for innovative approaches that effectively reduce noise and vibration without compromising other critical aspects of vehicle performance.

[0008] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] The following presents a simplified summary of the subject matter in order to provide a basic understanding of some of the aspects of subject matter embodiments. This summary is not an extensive overview of the subject matter. It is not intended to identify key / critical elements of the embodiments or to delineate the scope of the subject matter. Its sole purpose to present some concepts of the subject matter in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later. Disclosed here is a device, which is an innovative approach that effectively reduces noise and vibration without compromising other critical aspects of vehicle performance.

[0010] A smart arm bush (100) comprises a centrally positioned bush arm (102), a stopper (104), and a dent-shaped element (108). The stopper (104) is positioned in contact with inner circumference of an outer body (106) having a shape characterized by a low contact surface, incorporating self-lubricating material in the Y direction, configured such that noise resulting due to rubber surface contact is eliminated during vehicle bump and rebound motions. The dent-shaped element (108) is positioned on the bush arm (102), where the dent-shaped element (108) mitigates noise due to relative movement between inner and outer side of the vehicle by reducing rubber bulging and minimization of contact area.

[0011] In an embodiment, the noise is caused by, but not limited to, movement between the inner and the outer sides of the vehicle that occurs during braking, acceleration, crossing road bumps, and rebound events, which results in decreased rubber bulging and contact area. In an embodiment, the bush arm (102) is formed of a low dynamic rigidity rubber material and positioned in the X direction, which reduces vibration and noise when the vehicle is running. In an embodiment, the smart arm bush (100) further comprises metal inserts (110) positioned within a plurality of the stoppers (104) to increase saturation in the Y-direction of the vehicle, which improves vehicle steering response to result in precise driving. In an embodiment, the stopper (104) is formed of high -damping rubber; and the bush arm (102) is formed of low - damping rubber. The high -damping rubber stopper (104) and the low damping rubber bush arm (102) are configured to achieve optimal vehicle ride comfort. This way the high damping of the stopper (104) absorb kinetic energy and the low dynamic stiffness of the bush arm (102) enhances vehicle ride comfort and acoustics behaviour.

[0012] In an embodiment, the low dynamic rigidity rubber material is used for the bush arm (102) in the X direction and the metal inserts (110) are added to the stoppers (104). Integration of a low dynamic rigidity rubber material of the bush arm (102) in the X direction reduces vibration and noise during vehicle operation, while the addition of metal inserts (110) to the stoppers (104) increase saturation in the Y-direction, which improves vehicle steering response and ensures precision in driving. In an embodiment, the high -damping rubber for the stopper (104) and the low damping rubber for the bush arm (102) are injection molded at the same time, to reduce processing costs. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS

[0013] The following drawings are illustrative of particular examples for enabling systems and methods of the present disclosure, are descriptive of some of the methods and mechanism, and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The drawings are not to scale (unless so stated) and are intended for use in conjunction with the explanations in the following detailed description.

[0014] FIGURE 1A exemplarily illustrates an isometric view of the smart arm bush, as an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIGURE IB exemplarily illustrates a side sectional view of the smart arm bush, as an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIGURE 1C exemplarily illustrates a top sectional view of the smart arm bush, as an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIGURE ID exemplarily illustrates another side sectional view of the smart arm bush, as an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and may represent both hardware and software components of the system. Further, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figure may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Throughout the drawings, it should be noted that like reference numbers are used to depict the same or similar elements, features, and structures.

[0019] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] Exemplary embodiments now will be described. The disclosure may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey its scope to those skilled in the art. The terminology used in the detailed description of the particular exemplary embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings is not intended to be limiting. In the drawings, like numbers refer to like elements.

[0021] It is to be noted, however, that the reference numerals used herein illustrate only typical embodiments of the present subject matter, and are therefore, not to be considered for limiting of its scope, for the subject matter may admit to other equally effective embodiments.

[0022] The specification may refer to “an”, “one” or “some” embodiment(s) in several locations. This does not necessarily imply that each such reference is to the same embodiment(s), or that the feature only applies to a single embodiment. Single features of different embodiments may also be combined to provide other embodiments.

[0023] As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless expressly stated otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “includes”, “comprises”, “including” and / or “comprising” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being “connected” or “coupled” to another element, it can be directly connected or coupled to the other element or intervening elements may be present. Furthermore, “connected” or “coupled” as used herein may include operatively connected or coupled. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations and arrangements of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0024] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein. Referring to FIGS. 1A-1D, FIGURE 1A exemplarily illustrates an isometric view of the smart arm bush (100), FIGURE IB exemplarily illustrates a side sectional view of the smart arm bush (100), FIGURE 1C exemplarily illustrates a top sectional view of the smart arm bush (100), and FIGURE ID exemplarily illustrates another side sectional view of the smart arm bush (100), as an example embodiment of the present disclosure. The smart arm bush (100) comprises a centrally positioned bush arm (102), a stopper (104), and a dent-shaped element (108). The stopper (104) is positioned in contact with inner circumference of an outer body (106) having a shape characterized by a low contact surface, incorporating self- lubricating material in the Y direction, configured such that noise resulting due to rubber surface contact is eliminated during vehicle bump and rebound motions. The dent-shaped element (108) is positioned on the bush arm (102), where the dent-shaped element (108) mitigates noise due to relative movement between inner and outer side of the vehicle by reducing rubber bulging and minimization of contact area.

[0025] As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1C, during vehicle motion, particularly when encountering bumps or during rebound motions, the smart arm bush (100) operates to reduce noise and enhance vehicle comfort. Here’s how each component functions in this scenario:

[0026] • The centrally positioned bush arm (102) acts as the primary structural element connecting the inner and outer components of the smart arm bush (100). It provides stability and alignment within the assembly.

[0027] • The stopper (104), in contact with the inner circumference of the outer body (106), plays a crucial role in noise reduction. When the vehicle encounters a bump, the stopper (104) ensures that the outer body (106) does not make direct contact with the bush arm (102). Instead, it utilizes its low contact surface area and self-lubricating material to reduce friction and prevent noise.

[0028] • The outer body (106) encases the assembly and is designed to have a low contact surface area. The incorporation of self-lubricating material along the Y direction ensures that any movement does not produce squeaking or rubbing noises, which are common with rubber-to-metal contact. This design feature is particularly effective during the vertical motion of the vehicle's suspension system.

[0029] • The dent-shaped element (108) positioned on the bush arm (102) plays a critical role in mitigating noise caused by the relative movement between the inner and outer sides of the vehicle. As the vehicle goes over a bump, the rubber in the smart arm bush tends to bulge. The dent-shaped element (108) reduces this bulging by minimizing the contact area, which in turn reduces the noise generated by this movement.

[0030] The noise is caused by, but not limited to, movement between the inner and the outer sides of the vehicle that occurs during braking, acceleration, crossing road bumps, and rebound events, which results in decreased rubber bulging and contact area. In other words, the noise arises from the movement between the inner and outer sides of the vehicle that happens during braking, acceleration, crossing road bumps, and rebound events. This movement leads to reduced rubber bulging and a smaller contact area.

[0031] As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1C, the bush arm (102) is formed of a low dynamic rigidity rubber material and positioned in the X direction, which reduces vibration and noise when the vehicle is running. The bush arm (102) is crafted from a specialized low dynamic rigidity rubber material. This innovative choice of material, coupled with its strategic positioning along the X axis, serves to effectively minimize vibration and mitigate noise levels during the vehicle's operation. As a result, drivers and passengers alike will experience a smoother and quieter ride, enhancing overall comfort and driving experience. The smart arm bush (100) further comprises metal inserts (110) positioned within multiple stoppers (104) to increase saturation in the Y-direction of the vehicle, which improves vehicle steering response to result in precise driving. This inclusion of metal inserts (110) serves to enhance saturation specifically in the Y-direction of the vehicle. By supporting saturation in this axis, the vehicle's steering response is notably refined, leading to a heightened level of precision during driving manoeuvres.

[0032] As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1C, the stopper (104) is formed of high-damping rubber; and the bush arm (102) is formed of low-damping rubber. The high-damping rubber stopper (104) and the low damping rubber bush arm (102) are configured to achieve optimal vehicle ride comfort. This way the high damping of the stopper (104) absorb kinetic energy and the low dynamic stiffness of the bush arm (102) enhances vehicle ride comfort and acoustics behaviour. The utilization of high-damping rubber for the stopper and low-damping rubber for the bush arm synergistically works to provide vehicle driving comfort. The high dynamic stiffness of the stopper (104) effectively absorbs energy, while the low damping characteristics of the bush arm (102) further contribute to energy absorption and dispersion. As a result, not only is vehicle ride comfort significantly enhanced, but handling is also improved, culminating in a driving experience characterized by smoothness and precision.

[0033] As shown in FIGS. 1A to ID, the low dynamic rigidity rubber material is used for the bush arm (102) in the X direction and the metal inserts (110) are added to the stoppers (104). Integration of a low dynamic rigidity rubber material of the bush arm (102) in the X direction reduces vibration and noise during vehicle operation, while the addition of metal inserts (110) to the stoppers (104) increase saturation in the Y-direction, which improves vehicle steering response and ensures precision in driving. In an embodiment, the high-damping rubber for the stopper (104) and the low damping rubber for the bush arm (102) are injection molded at the same time, to reduce processing costs. By molding both components together in a single operation, manufacturing efficiency is maximized, leading to savings in both time and resources. Additionally, this integrated molding technique ensures precise alignment and compatibility between the high-damping stopper and the low-damping bush arm, guaranteeing optimal performance and functionality in the final product.

[0034] In an example scenario, when a vehicle equipped with the smart arm bush (100) drives over a speed bump:

[0035] 1. Compression Phase (Vehicle encounters bump):

[0036] • The suspension system compresses, causing the outer body (106) to move closer to the bush arm (102).

[0037] • The stopper (104) ensures that the movement is smooth, and the selflubricating material reduces friction, preventing any noise.

[0038] • The dent-shaped element (108) mitigates the bulging of rubber, ensuring minimal noise from the rubber surfaces.

[0039] 2. Rebound Phase (Vehicle descends from bump):

[0040] • The suspension system extends, and the outer body (106) moves away from the bush arm (102).

[0041] • Again, the stopper (104) and the self-lubricating material work together to ensure a quiet and smooth movement.

[0042] • The dent-shaped element (108) continues to reduce rubber bulging, maintaining minimal contact area and thereby reducing noise. Overall, the smart arm bush (100) effectively reduces noise during vehicle bump and rebound motions by utilizing the strategically placed stopper (104) and the dent-shaped element (108). This ensures a quieter and more comfortable ride for the vehicle occupants. Current invention has been discussed specifically with full disclosure. However, numerous changes can be made in the detail of structures, combinations, and part arrangement along with technical advancements that will be implemented in near future without changing the spirit and scope of the invention. Although the invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. It is therefore, contemplated that such modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined.

Claims

AMENDED CLAIMS received by the International Bureau on 03 April 2025 (03.04.2025).IN THE CLAIMS1. An arm bush (100) comprising: a centrally positioned bush arm (102); a stopper (104) positioned in contact with inner circumference of an outer body (106) having a shape characterized by a low contact surface, incorporating self-lubricating material in a Y direction, configured such that noise resulting due to rubber surface contact is eliminated during vehicle bump and rebound motions; a dent-shaped element (108) positioned on the bush arm (102), wherein the dentshaped element (108) mitigates noise due to relative movement between inner and outer side of the vehicle by reducing rubber bulging and minimization of contact area.

2. The arm bush (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the noise is caused by, but not limited to, movement between the inner and the outer sides of the vehicle that occurs during braking, acceleration, crossing road bumps, and rebound events, which results in decreased rubber bulging and contact area.

3. The arm bush (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the bush arm (102) is formed of a low dynamic rigidity rubber material and positioned in an X direction, which reduces vibration and noise when the vehicle is running.

4. The arm bush (100) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising metal inserts (110) positioned within a plurality of the stoppers (104) to increase saturation in the Y-direction of the vehicle, which improves vehicle steering response to result in precise driving.

5. The arm bush (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein: the stopper (104) is formed of high -damping rubber; and the bush arm (102) is formed of low -damping rubber, wherein said high -damping rubber stopper (104) and said low -damping rubber bush arm (102) are configured to achieve optimal vehicle ride comfort, wherein high damping ofthe stopper (104) absorb kinetic energy and the low dynamic stiffness of the bush arm (102) enhances vehicle ride comfort and acoustics behaviour.

6. The arm bush (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the low dynamic rigidity rubber material is used for the bush arm (102) in the X direction and the metal inserts (110) are added to the stoppers (104), wherein integration of a low dynamic rigidity rubber material of the bush arm (102) in the X direction reduces vibration and noise during vehicle operation, while the addition of metal inserts (110) to the stoppers (104) increase saturation in the Y- direction, which improves vehicle steering response and ensures precision in driving.

7. The arm bush (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the high -damping rubber for the stopper (104) and the low damping rubber for the bush arm (102) are injection molded at the same time, to reduce processing costs.

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