Axle Assembly Locking Jaw Mounts Speed Sensor for Precision
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Solution Overview
Problem
The first generation wheel bearing assembly faces challenges in positioning the magnetic encoder and speed sensor closely enough for accurate wheel speed measurement, which is essential for precise signal detection and efficient integration with Indirect Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems.
Innovation Solution
The axle assembly design includes a knuckle with a locking jaw and a mounting space that allows the speed sensor to be positioned close to the magnetic encoder on the bearing, ensuring accurate measurement without increasing the bearing size, and features a drive shaft and hub configuration for precise wheel speed measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the magnetic encoder and speed sensor are positioned close to each other for accurate measurement, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for integrated mounting structures
Solution Approach 1:
The locking jaw serves a dual function: it secures the bearing in place and simultaneously provides the mounting structure for the speed sensor. This merging of functions eliminates the need for separate mounting brackets or additional structural elements, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining the close positioning required for accurate measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking jaw is designed as a multi-functional component that performs both mechanical support (holding the bearing) and sensor mounting. This universal design allows the same structure to serve multiple purposes, simplifying the overall device architecture while enabling precise sensor placement near the magnetic encoder.
2Measurement precision
If the bearing size is increased to accommodate both the magnetic encoder and speed sensor, then measurement precision is improved, but the weight of the moving object increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing assembly is segmented into functional zones: the bearing itself for support, the locking jaw for mounting, and the mounting space for the sensor. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, avoiding the need to enlarge the entire bearing assembly while still providing adequate space for precise sensor placement.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of increasing bearing size in radial dimensions, the design utilizes the axial dimension by extending the locking jaw outward from the bearing. This dimensional transition allows the speed sensor to be mounted in a different spatial plane, maintaining compact overall dimensions while achieving the required close positioning for accurate measurement without adding significant weight.
3Ease of operation
If the locking jaw height is increased to provide mounting space for the speed sensor, then ease of operation is improved, but the volume of the stationary object increases
Solution Approach 1:
Rather than uniformly increasing the knuckle volume, the locking jaw height is selectively increased only at the specific location where sensor mounting is required. This localized modification provides the necessary mounting space and operational ease while minimizing the overall volume increase of the stationary knuckle structure.
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
This configuration enables accurate and precise wheel speed measurement, reduces contamination risks, and allows for cost-effective integration of magnetic encoders in compact cars without enlarging the bearing, enhancing the sensitivity and reliability of the measurement system.
Implementation Method 1
using the magnetic encoder for measuring the wheel rotation speed instead of the tone wheel
Implementation Method 2
the speed sensor and the magnetic encoder are closely positioned with each other
Data Source
AI summary
An axle assembly for measuring wheel speed is provided. The axle assembly includes a knuckle having a locking jaw for a bearing formed at a position on a vehicle, the knuckle including an inner circumferential surface configured to allow the bearing to be inserted from the outside of the vehicle to the inside, a speed sensor affixed to the locking jaw, and a magnetic encoder affixed to the bearing.