Axle Beam Suspension With Elastic Watt's Linkage Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The conventional axle beam type suspension using Watt's linkage mechanisms experiences interference between multiple thrust rods when actuated, affecting vehicle behavior stability.
Innovation Solution
A configuration that includes a pair of trailing arms, an axle beam, and Watt's linkage mechanisms with a connection member fixed to the trailing arms via an elastic member, preventing interference by allowing the connection member to swing and absorb link length differences during in-phase or reverse-phase movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple Watt's linkage mechanisms are actuated to control vehicle behavior, then vehicle stability is improved, but interference between thrust rods occurs affecting stability
Solution Approach 1:
A connection member is introduced as an intermediary element between the Watt's linkage mechanisms and trailing arms. This connection member transmits forces while preventing direct interference between the thrust rods of multiple Watt's linkage mechanisms, thereby maintaining vehicle stability without the harmful interference effects
Solution Approach 2:
The connection member is divided into a left connection member and a right connection member, each connecting to separate trailing arms. This segmentation allows independent control and movement of each side's Watt's linkage mechanism without mutual interference, while still achieving coordinated vehicle behavior control
2Strength
If rigid connection is used between Watt's linkage mechanisms and trailing arms, then structural strength is improved, but interference and constraint occur during actuation
Solution Approach 1:
The connection member is designed with variable effective length capability through rotational joints. This allows the connection member to adjust its length dynamically during actuation, maintaining structural strength while preventing interference by accommodating changes in the geometric parameters of the Watt's linkage mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The connection member incorporates rotational joints that allow it to change its configuration dynamically during actuation. This dynamic adaptability enables the rigid connection to maintain strength while avoiding interference by adjusting its orientation and effective length in real-time
3Reliability
If connection member is made larger to prevent interference, then stability is improved, but device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connection member uses rotational joints to provide dynamic adjustment capability rather than requiring a large static structure. This allows a compact design that prevents interference through active geometric adaptation rather than passive size increase, reducing overall device complexity
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
Prevents interference between Watt's linkage mechanisms, enhancing vehicle stability and smooth ride comfort by absorbing link length differences, while also allowing for downsized and lighter trailing arms with improved design flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
a connection member connecting a vehicle-width-direction outer end portion of one of the pair of Watt's linkage mechanisms and a vehicle-width-direction outer end portion of the other Watt's linkage mechanism, in which the connection member is fixed to the trailing arms via an elastic member surrounding the connection member
Data Source
AI summary
The axle beam type suspension includes: the pair of trailing arms extending in the front-rear direction with the respective front end sections supported on the vehicle body and the respective rear end sections coupled to the wheels; the axle beam extending in the vehicle width direction and coupling the pair of trailing arms to each other; the pair of Watt's linkage mechanisms extending in the vehicle width direction, coupling the pair of trailing arms to each other at a position rearward of the axle beam, and fixed at a middle part to the vehicle body; and the inner shafts as connection members connecting the vehicle-width-direction outer end portions of one of the pair of Watt's linkage mechanisms and the other Watt's linkage mechanism. The inner shafts are characterized in that they are fixed to the trailing arms via the elastic members surrounding the inner shafts.