Protected CV Joint Washer Layout for Wheel Hub Noise Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional wheel assemblies for vehicles face issues with noise generation, vibration, and component wear due to improper clearance and movement within constant velocity joints, and they lack effective protection and retention for washers, which can lead to contamination of wheel speed sensors.
Innovation Solution
A wheel assembly design featuring a recess with specific sidewalls to securely position a noise-canceling washer between the wheel hub and the constant velocity joint, along with a ring magnet for wheel speed sensing, which prevents debris from reaching the sensor and maintains proper clearance, reducing noise and vibration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-generated harmful factors
If a washer is used in the CV joint assembly, then noise and vibration are reduced, but the washer can move and contaminate the wheel speed sensor
Solution Approach 1:
A retainer ring is introduced as an intermediary component between the washer and the CV joint assembly. This retainer ring captures and holds the washer, preventing it from moving outward and contaminating the wheel speed sensor while still allowing the washer to perform its noise-dampening function
Solution Approach 2:
The assembly is segmented into distinct functional zones: the washer handles noise vibration, the retainer ring handles washer containment, and the sensor remains protected in its own zone. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function without interfering with others
2Reliability
If the washer is retained within the CV joint assembly, then sensor contamination is prevented, but the washer may not be properly positioned for noise cancellation
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer ring acts as a mediator that simultaneously achieves two opposing goals: it prevents sensor contamination by containing the washer, while also ensuring proper washer positioning for effective noise cancellation through its specific geometric design
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer ring has different local features: an inner surface that positions the washer for noise cancellation, and an outer surface that prevents washer escape toward the sensor. This local differentiation allows simultaneous achievement of noise reduction and sensor protection
3Ease of manufacture
If the wheel assembly components are loosely fitted, then assembly is easier, but excessive movement causes noise and component wear
Solution Approach 1:
The washer serves a dual function: it dampens noise from component movement while also being served by the retainer ring that positions it correctly. The assembly structure itself provides the retention mechanism, eliminating the need for additional fasteners or complex retention systems
Data Source
AI summary
Vehicles, wheel assemblies for vehicles, and methods for suppressing noise from vehicles are provided. A wheel assembly for a vehicle includes a knuckle; a wheel hub configured to rotate within the knuckle, the wheel hub extending from a proximal end to a distal end, wherein the distal end is configured for engaging a wheel; a constant velocity (CV) joint configured for transferring torque from power plant to the wheel hub, wherein the CV joint has an outer surface including a shoulder; a recess formed between the proximal end of the wheel hub and the shoulder of the CV joint; and a noise-canceling washer positioned in the recess, wherein the noise-canceling washer abuts the proximal end of the wheel hub and the shoulder of the CV joint.