Camber Caster Adjustment Plates for MacPherson Strut
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automobiles with fixed camber and caster settings, such as the 2005+ Ford Mustangs, lack adjustability which is desirable for competitive driving conditions, leading to suboptimal tire grip, handling, and increased wear, as enthusiasts seek precise control for events like road racing and drag racing.
Innovation Solution
A camber and caster adjustment apparatus comprising stacked plates with threaded fastening members and a thrust bearing assembly, allowing independent adjustment of camber and caster angles by manipulating the lower and upper plates relative to the strut tower, with the fastener plate securing the coil spring-strut assembly and the thrust bearing assembly facilitating movement along specific axes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed camber and caster settings are used, then maintenance is reduced and factory performance is maintained, but adjustability for competitive driving conditions is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting assembly is divided into multiple plates (upper plate, lower plate, fastener plate) that can be independently adjusted and positioned. Each plate serves a specific function: the fastener plate secures the assembly to the strut tower, the lower plate adjusts camber angle, and the upper plate adjusts caster angle. This segmentation allows precise adjustment of suspension geometry without requiring complete redesign of the mounting system.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transforms the static, fixed mounting assembly into a dynamic, adjustable system. The plates incorporate multiple holes and slots that allow the positions to be changed and resecured at different locations, enabling the suspension geometry to be dynamically adjusted for different driving conditions while maintaining structural integrity when secured.
2Productivity
If negative camber is used, then tire grip during cornering is improved, but tire wear increases and straight-line performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The lower plate with its multiple holes and adjustment mechanisms enables dynamic adjustment of camber angle. For cornering performance, the plate can be positioned to create negative camber, improving tire grip. For straight-line performance, the plate can be repositioned to reduce or eliminate camber, optimizing tire wear and acceleration. This dynamic adjustability allows the same vehicle to excel in both cornering and straight-line scenarios.
3Ease of operation
If caster angle is not adjusted, then steering simplicity is maintained, but steering responsiveness and straight-line stability are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting assembly is segmented into an upper plate and lower plate, with the upper plate specifically designed for caster adjustment. The upper plate includes holes and slots positioned to adjust the angle between the strut assembly and the vehicle body, thereby controlling caster angle independently from camber adjustment. This segmentation simplifies the adjustment process by dedicating specific components to specific functions.
4Productivity
If factory pre-set settings are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but performance optimization for specific applications is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The plates are pre-manufactured with specific patterns of holes and slots at predetermined positions that correspond to different adjustment settings. During assembly, the user simply needs to select and secure the plates at the appropriate positions rather than machining or fabricating custom components. This preliminary preparation of adjustment positions simplifies both manufacturing and field adjustment while enabling performance optimization for various applications.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus allows for the independent adjustment of caster and camber for vehicles utilizing MacPherson strut front suspensions. The apparatus has, in stacked arrangement, a fastener plate, a lower plate, and an upper plate. Camber adjustments are generally made by manipulation of the lower plate and caster adjustments are generally made by manipulation of the upper plate. The upper plate may be mounted in two different positions to allow for different camber adjustments, such as for competitive situations and non-competitive situations. The device utilizes a thrust bearing having a race in the upper face of the spring perch and an opposing race which mounts around the base of the bearing cup.