Adjustable Control Arm Assembly for Vehicle Camber Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing solutions for adjusting vehicle camber often require multiple specific control arm replacements, leading to supply and inventory challenges due to the need for customized parts for different vehicle conditions.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable control arm and ball joint assembly with coincident slots and fasteners allows for a greater range of adjustment and installation options, enabling the control arm to be securely fixed in a desired position, thereby accommodating various camber adjustments without the need for multiple replacement parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple specific control arm replacements are used to address different camber conditions, then the vehicle camber adjustment capability is improved, but the supply and inventory complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control arm is designed with adjustable features including elongated slots and multiple mounting positions that allow a single control arm design to accommodate various camber requirements. The ball joint assembly can be positioned at different locations along the control arm, and the steering knuckle can be mounted at different positions, enabling one universal control arm to replace multiple specialized parts while maintaining full adjustability for different vehicle conditions
2Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable control arms with multiple mounting positions are used, then the camber adjustment range is improved, but the control arm structure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control arm is divided into distinct adjustable components including the ball joint assembly and steering knuckle mounting points. The elongated slots are segmented into specific positioning locations that allow discrete adjustment stops. This segmentation enables a moderate increase in structure to achieve significant functional adjustability without creating excessive complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The control arm incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities through movable ball joint assemblies that can be repositioned along the control arm length. The elongated slots provide a range of motion that allows the system to adapt to different camber requirements while maintaining structural integrity. This dynamic design allows one control arm to perform the function of multiple fixed-position control arms
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure concerns a control arm and a ball assembly that are adjustable relative to each other through a series of slots. The control arm mounts to a vehicle in the usual manner and the position of the ball joint assembly is adjustable by moving the ball joint assembly relative to the control arm and fastened in a desired position.