Axle Suspension Four-Point Link Space Optimization

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional axle suspensions for commercial vehicles are space-intensive and costly, with limited installation space for steered rigid axles, and often compromise on roll stability due to the complexity of the surface structure in four-point links.

Innovation Solution

A four-point link axle suspension design where the four-point link is arranged below the vehicle body, eliminating the need for a Panhard rod and optimizing space usage, with a central part that can be twisted or offset to adapt to available space, and featuring a multi-part design for cost-effectiveness and stability, allowing for better absorption of lateral forces and integration of a steering system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a conventional axle suspension with stabilizer bar is used, then vehicle stabilization is achieved, but installation space is excessively required

Engineering Contradiction:

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the stabilizer bar function with the trailing arm structure by integrating the stabilizer bar into the trailing arm assembly. The stabilizer bar is anchored to the trailing arm instead of requiring separate mounting points, thereby merging two functional elements into one integrated component that achieves both longitudinal guidance and lateral stabilization.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The trailing arm is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides longitudinal vehicle guidance through articulated connection, vehicle stabilization through integrated stabilizer bar, and lateral force absorption through its structural design. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate dedicated components for each function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a four-point link with surface structure is used, then torsion characteristics are defined, but strength is difficult to master and roll stability is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The four-point link employs different structural characteristics at different locations: the central part features a surface structure optimized for torsional flexibility to achieve defined torsion characteristics, while the link arms are designed with solid cross-sections and appropriate geometries to provide the necessary strength for roll stability. This local differentiation of structural properties allows simultaneous optimization of both torsion characteristics and strength.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

3Device complexity

If four-point link is arranged above vehicle axle, then no separate stabilizer bar space is needed, but installation space becomes difficult to arrange due to limited space

Engineering Contradiction:

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of positioning the four-point link above the vehicle axle as in conventional designs, the patent inverts the arrangement by positioning the four-point link below the vehicle axle. This inverted positioning resolves the space conflict by utilizing the available under-axle space that is not occupied by engine components or other vehicle parts, thereby accommodating the four-point link without interfering with other components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

4Reliability

If conventional axle suspension design is used, then vehicle guidance is achieved, but cost is excessive

Engineering Contradiction:

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the functions of multiple separate components (trailing arm, stabilizer bar, and their mounting mechanisms) into an integrated assembly. By combining these elements into a unified structure with shared mounting points and integrated geometry, the number of separate parts is reduced, simplifying manufacturing processes and lowering production costs while maintaining effective vehicle guidance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentEP2982528B1Axle suspension for steered rigid axles in vehicles, especially commercial vehicles

Publication Date: 2017.11.01

Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C
Figure 2A~2B

AI summary

The invention relates to an axle suspension (10) for steered rigid axles (6) in vehicles, particularly commercial vehicles. The axle suspension (10) comprises two longitudinal control arms (5) arranged at essentially the same height on either side of the longitudinal axis of the vehicle and extending longitudinally along the vehicle, connecting the steered rigid axle (6) to the vehicle body (3) in a vertically movable manner, and a four-point link (30) which is pivotally connected to the steered rigid axle (6) on one side and to the vehicle body on the other. The four-point link (30) and the longitudinal control arms (5) are arranged below the vehicle body, and the four-point link is arranged below the longitudinal control arms (5).