Adjustable Axle Suspension Mounting for Varying Truck Frames
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lift axle suspension mounting systems are not conveniently adaptable to varying truck frame dimensions and thicknesses, making them difficult to assemble and secure, and they lack the necessary safety and ease of use for quick installation.
Innovation Solution
The axle suspension mounting system includes frame brackets with vertically and horizontally disposed slots and hanger brackets with adjustable mounting straps, allowing for secure attachment to vehicle frame members with bolts that guide and stabilize the assembly, accommodating frame width and thickness variations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed mounting system is used, then the structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate varying frame dimensions and thicknesses
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system incorporates adjustable mounting positions and movable components that allow the brackets to adapt to different frame dimensions and thicknesses. The system transitions from a fixed configuration to a dynamic, adjustable configuration that can accommodate various truck frame specifications while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is designed with universal features that enable it to fit multiple frame types and sizes. By incorporating adjustable elements and multiple mounting options, the same bracket design can be used across different vehicle models and frame configurations, reducing the need for custom-designed brackets for each application.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a complex adjustable mounting system is used, then frame variations can be accommodated, but assembly becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into modular components including separate brackets, mounting plates, and adjustment mechanisms. This segmentation allows each component to be independently positioned and adjusted, simplifying the assembly process while maintaining adaptability to different frame configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates dynamic adjustment features that allow for easy modification during assembly. Adjustable elements can be moved and repositioned without requiring complex tools or procedures, enabling installers to quickly adapt the mounting system to various frame dimensions while maintaining ease of assembly.
3Reliability
If traditional mounting methods are used, then the structure is simple, but safety and stabilization during assembly are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system incorporates pre-designed stabilization features and safety mechanisms that are built into the bracket structure. These features provide inherent stability and safety during the assembly process, preventing misalignment or improper installation before the final mounting is completed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses intermediary components such as mounting plates, alignment features, and stabilization elements that facilitate safe and accurate assembly. These intermediary elements act as mediators between the bracket and the frame, ensuring proper positioning and stability during the mounting process while adding minimal complexity to the overall system.
Data Source
AI summary
An auxiliary axle or lift axle is pivotally mounted to the frame of a vehicle for selectively providing additional flotation for the vehicle. A pair of frame brackets are secured to the frame members of the vehicle and have horizontally disposed mounting plates adjacent to the lower ends thereof. A bracket member extends downwardly from one end of the mounting plate and has a pair of spaced-apart slots formed therein. A bracket member also extends downwardly from the other end of the frame bracket and has a pair of spaced-apart first and second slots formed therein. The hanger brackets are adjustably secured to the bracket members to permit the axle assembly to be mounted on frame members having varying distances therebetween and having varying frame thicknesses. The novel method of securing the hanger brackets to the frame brackets is also disclosed.