Canted Ring Link Assembly for Reduced Mechanical Interference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ring link assemblies often experience mechanical interference with connected components, such as suspension systems and stabilizer bars, due to their linear design, which can lead to improper connections and reduced stability during vehicle cornering.
Innovation Solution
A ring link assembly with canted or angled connecting beams and arcuate transition joints is designed to reduce mechanical interference, featuring preventative protuberances and securing protuberances to ensure secure and proper connections between components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a linear connecting beam is used in the ring link assembly, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but mechanical interference occurs with connected components such as suspension systems and stabilizer bars
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting beam is transitioned from a linear configuration to a canted/angled configuration relative to the common plane containing the centers of both bushings. This dimensional change in orientation allows the beam to clear connected components such as suspension systems and stabilizer bars, eliminating mechanical interference while maintaining structural integrity and load transmission capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
Arcuate transition joints are incorporated where the connecting beam meets the housings, replacing sharp angular transitions with curved surfaces. This curvature eliminates stress concentration points and prevents mechanical interference with connected components, while the arcuate geometry maintains structural strength and facilitates proper load distribution through the joint.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the connecting beam is canted or angled, then mechanical interference is reduced, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The canted connecting beam and arcuate transition joints are integrated into a single molded housing structure, combining multiple components that would otherwise require separate manufacturing and assembly. This merging approach eliminates the need for additional fasteners, seals, or alignment features, reducing overall assembly complexity despite the angled geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides structural support, defines bushing passages, incorporates the canted connecting beam, and includes arcuate transition joints. This universal design consolidates multiple functions into a single part, reducing the total number of components and simplifying the overall assembly process.
3Ease of manufacture
If standard linear ring link design is used, then manufacturing is simple, but improper connections may occur between components
Solution Approach 1:
The canted connecting beam creates an asymmetric geometry that is specific to the intended application. This asymmetric design provides built-in alignment features and prevents improper installation orientations, ensuring that the ring link assembly can only be connected in the correct configuration, thereby enhancing connection reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A ring link assembly is configured to securely link a first component to a second component. The assembly may include a first housing defining a first passage having a first center, and a second housing defining a second passage having a second center. The first and second centers may reside in a common plane. A connecting beam connects the first housing to the second housing. The connecting beam may be canted with respect to the common plane. One or both of the first and second housings may connect to the connecting beam through an arcuate transition joint. A cant of the connecting beam and/or a curvature of the arcuate transition joint may be configured to reduce mechanical interference between the assembly and one or both of the first and second components.