Adjustable Two-Piece Strut Spacer Using Threaded Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing strut spacers are not adjustable by users, requiring replacement with different sets to change lift height, which is costly and complex, and lacks ease of assembly and simplicity.

Innovation Solution

A two-piece adjustable strut spacer system with a male and female component featuring externally and internally threaded surfaces, allowing rotation to adjust height before installation, and a locking mechanism to secure the position.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a solid block strut spacer is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the height cannot be adjusted by the user

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustability of lift heightVSAvoidcomplexity of spacer structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The strut spacer is divided into two separate components: a first component with an externally threaded surface and a second component with an internally threaded surface. This segmentation allows the components to rotate relative to each other, enabling height adjustment while maintaining structural simplicity and ease of manufacture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple sets of solid block spacers are used to adjust lift height, then the desired lift can be achieved, but the cost and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustability of lift heightVSAvoidcost and complexity of having multiple sets
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The strut spacer transitions from a static solid block to a dynamic adjustable structure where the first and second components can rotate relative to each other. This dynamic capability allows a single pair of spacers to provide multiple height adjustments, eliminating the need to manufacture and inventory multiple sets of different-height spacers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If a two-piece threaded strut spacer is used, then the height can be adjusted by rotation, but the assembly process becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of adjusting heightVSAvoidcomplexity of assembly process
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The first and second components are threaded together before installation onto the vehicle. This preliminary adjustment allows the user to set the desired height in advance, and once installed, the height remains fixed. This approach simplifies the overall process by separating the adjustment step (done beforehand) from the installation step (done on the vehicle).

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables users to adjust the lift height of vehicles easily and cost-effectively by rotating the components before installation, simplifying the process and reducing the need for multiple sets of spacers.

Implementation Method 1

The first component can have an externally threaded surface. The internally threaded surface of the second component can engage the externally threaded surface of the first component. Rotation of the first component or the second component adjusts the height of the strut spacer prior to installation within the motor vehicle.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThreaded engagement: Screw

Data Source

PatentUS9844993B2Two-piece adjustable strut spacer
Publication Date: 2017.12.19 WHEEL PROS LLC
  • US9844993B2 patent drawing
  • US9844993B2 patent drawing
  • US9844993B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Strut spacers are described that include at least a male component comprising an externally threaded surface and a female component comprising an internally threaded surface. Rotation of the male component or the female component adjusts the height of the strut spacer prior to installation within the motor vehicle. The strut spacer can optionally include a locking ring to lock the height of the strut spacer before installation.