Suspension Link Bushing Ferrule Serrations for Tighter Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Symmetrical suspension link designs can lead to ambiguity in assembly, particularly with washers and fasteners, which can result in incorrect orientation and reduced joint tightness.
Innovation Solution
The integration of serrations on the ferrules of the bushing, embedded to face away from the bushing, and the use of hardness-limited washers to ensure effective engagement and increased joint tightness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If symmetrical suspension link designs are used to reduce part count and complexity, then device complexity is reduced, but assembly ambiguity increases making it difficult to prevent incorrect orientation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by providing a suspension link with non-symmetrical features including a first end with a bushing having a first ferrule and a second end with a different configuration including a second ferrule with different dimensions or features. This asymmetry enables the installer to easily identify the correct orientation during assembly, preventing incorrect installation while maintaining reduced part count and complexity.
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional smooth ferrules are used, then manufacturing is simpler, but joint tightness is insufficient leading to potential slippage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing ferrules with serrated surfaces at specific locations where engagement with the knuckle occurs. The serrations are embedded in the ferrule material to create a textured engagement surface that increases friction and prevents slippage, while the rest of the ferrule maintains a smooth surface for easy manufacturing and proper fit within the bushing.
3Strength
If hard washers are used to maintain structural integrity, then strength is improved, but serration embedment is prevented reducing joint tightness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by specifying washers with controlled hardness parameters that allow serration embedment. The washers are made from material with sufficient strength to maintain structural integrity but with hardness controlled to permit the serrated ferrule surfaces to embed into the washer material, creating a tight joint that prevents slippage while maintaining overall strength.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle suspension link may include a bushing, a knuckle, a link arm operably coupled to the knuckle via the bushing at a ring formed at one end of the link arm, and a coupling assembly comprising a first bushing ferrule on a first axial end of the bushing and a second bushing ferrule on a second axial end of the bushing. Each of the first and second bushing ferrules may include a serrated face disposed to face away from the bushing, the serrated face comprising serrations for embedding into adjacent components.