Cam-Adjustable Control Arm Length Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle suspension systems require complex and time-consuming adjustments to alter control arm lengths, making it difficult for vehicle owners to change handling and ride characteristics without removing or exchanging control arms.
Innovation Solution
A cam-based adjustable control arm mechanism that allows for elongation or shortening of control arms without disassembly, using a cam structure with a cam bolt, arm plate, and slide plate to adjust the length by rotating the cam, which repositions the cam bolt within channels, allowing for secure fixation and adjustment of the control arm length.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If control arm length is adjusted by removing and exchanging control arms, then the handling and ride characteristics can be altered, but the process becomes time-consuming and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The control arm incorporates a cam mechanism with an off-center hole that allows the control arm length to be dynamically adjusted by rotating the cam while the control arm remains installed on the vehicle. This enables continuous length adjustment without removal, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and installation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical parameter of control arm length by rotating a cam structure with an off-center hole, allowing the control arm to elongate or shorten. This parameter change can be made in-situ without exchanging the entire control arm, thus reducing installation time while maintaining adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If control arm length is adjusted by removing and exchanging control arms, then the handling and ride characteristics can be altered, but the adjustment process becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The control arm is segmented into components including a cam structure with an off-center hole, allowing independent adjustment of length without affecting other parts. This segmentation simplifies the adjustment mechanism while maintaining the ability to alter handling characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism provides a simple dynamic adjustment system where rotating the cam changes the effective length of the control arm. This dynamic mechanism is simpler than static exchange of entire control arms, reducing device complexity while preserving adaptability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If control arm length is adjusted by removing and exchanging control arms, then the fit for different vehicles can be achieved, but the installation difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control arm length parameter can be changed by rotating the cam mechanism in-situ, allowing the same control arm to fit different vehicles with different required lengths. This eliminates the need to remove and exchange entire control arms, greatly improving installation ease while maintaining vehicle compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam-adjustable control arm serves multiple functions: it can be installed on different vehicles and adjusted to different lengths without removal. This multi-functionality achieves vehicle compatibility while simplifying installation, as the same component adapts to different requirements through in-situ adjustment.
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
Enables easy adjustment of control arm length to fit different vehicles and alter handling and ride characteristics without removing the control arm, simplifying the process and reducing installation difficulties.
Implementation Method 1
The cam surface defines a hole, a cam hole, through the cam. The cam hole is positioned off-center. The cam hole is designed to accept the cam bolt. The length of the control arm may be adjusted by rotating the cam, which may cause the cam bolt to be repositioned within the arm plate channel
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention includes a cam, an arm plate, and a slide plate, wherein the cam defines at least one opening, the arm plate defines at least one channel, and the slide plate defines at least one hole. The control arm length may be adjusted by rotation of the cam and fixedly securing the cam to the arm plate to the slide plate with a bolt and at least one bolt securing device.