Adjustable Toe Curve Knuckle via Slot Connector Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle suspension systems face challenges in quickly and easily adjusting toe curve settings due to variations in vertical wheel travel caused by vehicle maneuvering, acceleration, deceleration, braking, loading, and road conditions, which affect wheel toe angle and handling characteristics.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable knuckle/steer arm assembly is introduced, where the steer arm is pivotally connected to the knuckle with a slot and connector member, allowing angular adjustment along the slot to modify the toe curve setting without affecting other suspension design factors, enabling quick and precise adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional fixed knuckle/steer arm assembly is used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but toe curve adjustment capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The knuckle/steer arm assembly is transformed from a fixed structure to an adjustable one by introducing a slot and connector member mechanism. The connector member can be repositioned along the slot to change the steer arm angle relative to the knuckle, enabling dynamic adjustment of toe curve characteristics while maintaining structural integrity through standardized components.
2Manufacturing precision
If toe curve settings are adjusted through complex suspension redesign, then precise handling characteristics are achieved, but development time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The toe curve adjustment capability is segmented from the overall suspension design into an independent, modular knuckle/steer arm assembly. This allows the toe curve setting to be adjusted by simply repositioning the connector member along the slot without requiring redesign or reconfiguration of other suspension components, significantly reducing development time and cost while maintaining precise handling characteristics.
3Ease of operation
If connector member is fixed in slot, then structural stability is maintained, but angular adjustability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The slot acts as an intermediary element between the connector member and the rigid knuckle/steer arm structure. It provides a controlled degree of freedom for angular adjustment while maintaining structural stability through the constrained linear movement path. The slot geometry and connector member design ensure stable engagement at each adjustable position while enabling easy repositioning when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable knuckle/steer arm assembly and method for adjusting a toe curve setting of a vehicle wheel is provided. The adjustable knuckle/steer arm assembly includes a knuckle and a steer arm. The steer arm is pivotally connected to the knuckle at a pivot. One of the knuckle and the steer arm has a slot formed therein and the other has a connector member which engages the slot. The steer arm is angularly adjustable with respect to the knuckle via adjustable engagement of the connector member along the slot to enable the toe curve setting to be adjusted.