Configurable Bushing With Shifted Pivot Point
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional bushings in vehicle suspension systems have a fixed axis of rotation, limiting their application and flexibility, as they cannot transform rotational motion into translational motion or vice versa, and their fixed pivot point can interfere with cabin space, compromising both performance and design options.
Innovation Solution
The development of a dynamically configurable elasto-hydraulic bushing system that can transform rotational motion into translational motion and vice versa, with a pivot point that can be shifted or offset, allowing for adjustable effective modulus of elasticity, enabling improved suspension kinematics and flexibility in design and positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional bushing with a fixed axis of rotation is used, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the adaptability and design flexibility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The bushing structure is transformed from a fixed, static configuration to a dynamic, configurable one. The elastomeric member can be selectively reinforced in different radial regions through fluid injection, allowing the bushing to adapt its effective modulus of elasticity based on operational requirements. This dynamic configurability enables the same bushing to serve multiple design purposes without requiring multiple fixed-configuration components.
Solution Approach 2:
The effective modulus of elasticity of the elastomeric member is changed by injecting fluid into specific radial regions. This parameter change allows the bushing to adjust its stiffness characteristics dynamically, transforming it from a component with fixed properties to one with configurable properties that can be optimized for different suspension scenarios and design requirements.
2Area of stationary object
If a fixed pivot point is used in the bushing, then the manufacturing and installation are straightforward, but the cabin space is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The pivot point is transformed from a fixed geometric constraint to a dynamic, configurable feature. By selectively reinforcing different radial regions of the elastomeric member, the effective pivot point can be shifted or offset from the central axis depending on the reinforcement pattern. This allows the pivot point location to be optimized for cabin space while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through a single configurable component.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a configurable elastomeric member with selective radial reinforcement is used, then the adaptability and performance are improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
Fluid injection technology is used to selectively reinforce radial regions of the elastomeric member during or after manufacturing. This hydraulic/pneumatic process allows precise control over which regions receive reinforcement by directing fluid to specific zones, enabling complex reinforcement patterns without requiring complex manufacturing tooling or multiple assembly steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The manufacturing process is changed from creating a fixed-configuration bushing to a configurable one through fluid injection. This parameter change in the manufacturing approach allows the same basic elastomeric component to be transformed into different reinforcement patterns, reducing the need for multiple specialized manufacturing lines while maintaining manufacturing simplicity.
4Reliability
If the effective modulus of elasticity is made configurable, then the suspension kinematics and vibration control are improved, but the energy consumption and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The elastomeric member is designed to be self-reinforcing through fluid injection, where the fluid itself serves as the reinforcement mechanism rather than requiring external structural supports or additional active components. Once the fluid is injected and the elastomeric member is reinforced, the configuration is maintained passively without requiring continuous energy input, reducing ongoing energy consumption while maintaining improved suspension performance.
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
This solution enhances vehicle suspension performance by allowing for a smoother ride, reduced shock and vibration, and increased design flexibility, enabling a larger vehicle cabin without sacrificing performance, while providing complementary performance on opposite ends and sides.
Implementation Method 1
an elastomeric member disposed between the first rigid portion and the second rigid portion, the elastomeric member defining a first chamber and a second chamber
Implementation Method 2
configured such that a rotation of the second rigid portion causes a fluid to flow from the first chamber to the second chamber thereby causing a translation of the second rigid portion
Implementation Method 3
an elastomeric member disposed between the first rigid portion and the second rigid portion
Implementation Method 4
reduced shock and vibration
Data Source
AI summary
A configurable bushing and/or bushing system that can enable adjustment of an effective modulus of elasticity of different regions radially disposed about a point or inner sleeve. The bushing and/or bushing system can enable adjustment of the kinematic pivot point and/or allow for dynamic configuration and control.