Centered Articulation Joint for Vehicle Maneuverability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing articulated vehicles face challenges in maneuverability and complexity due to offset vertical articulation points and cumbersome hydraulic systems, which affect performance in rough terrain and increase manufacturing and maintenance costs.
Innovation Solution
A simpler and less expensive articulated vehicle design featuring a universal movement joint with a hydraulically operated strut and trunnion-mounted cylinder, utilizing an oscillating ball bearing for enhanced movement and a reduced part count, with a centered vertical articulation point for improved maneuverability and symmetrical movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If offset vertical articulation points are used in articulated vehicles, then the vehicle can achieve vertical articulation capability, but the maneuverability is reduced and the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by positioning the vertical articulation point at the center of the vehicle rather than offsetting it, creating a symmetrical configuration that improves maneuverability while maintaining vertical articulation capability. This central positioning allows the vehicle to pivot more evenly and reduces the complexity of the steering mechanism.
2Adaptability or versatility
If offset vertical articulation points are used, then vertical articulation is achieved, but manufacturing and maintenance costs increase due to complexity
Solution Approach 1:
By repositioning the articulation point from an offset location to the center of the vehicle, the patent creates a more symmetrical and simpler structure that reduces manufacturing complexity and costs while preserving the essential vertical articulation function.
Solution Approach 2:
The centrally positioned articulation point serves multiple functions simultaneously: it enables vertical articulation, improves steering maneuverability, and simplifies the overall joint structure, reducing the number of separate components needed for these functions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If offset vertical articulation points are used, then vertical articulation is achieved, but the vehicle structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetry by moving the articulation point to the center, creating a balanced symmetrical structure that reduces complexity. This central positioning allows for more efficient force distribution and simpler connection geometry compared to offset configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the vertical articulation function with the steering mechanism by positioning the articulation point at the center, allowing a single joint to handle both vertical movement and steering operations, thereby reducing the number of separate mechanical components needed.
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
The design enhances maneuverability, reduces manufacturing and maintenance costs, and provides greater oscillation capability while maintaining horizontal orientation, making it more efficient and cost-effective than prior art.
Implementation Method 1
a mechanism between cars or payload transport that allows pivoting and rotation with hydraulic piston-cylinder units
Implementation Method 2
An oscillating ball bearing allows greater movement than previous designs
Data Source
AI summary
An articulated vehicle including two wheeled sections hinged together in the middle of the vehicle by a universal movement joint enabling relative pivoting about three axes extending at right angles to each other through the center of the vehicle. A hydraulically operated strut and a hydraulically operated cylinder/jack extend between the two vehicle sections. The strut is universally pivoted at its ends to the two vehicle sections to control the relative pivoting of the two vehicle sections while, the cylinder is trunnion mounted to one end and bolted to the other to permit vertical articulation of the vehicle.