Dual-Load Vehicle Suspension With Segmented Leaf Spring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Leaf spring suspension systems face challenges in balancing roadholding and handling with the isolation of road noise, bumps, and vibrations, as they become overly stiff and rough when constantly loaded, compromising occupant comfort.
Innovation Solution
A dual-load bearing suspension system with a primary coil spring and a secondary leaf spring assembly that engages only under increased loads, using a fulcrum bracket to control engagement and reduce friction, allowing for tunable kinematics and isolation of vibrations and noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a leaf spring suspension system is used to support increased loads, then load carrying capacity is improved, but friction increases causing stiffness and roughness that reduces occupant comfort
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension system is divided into two separate load bearing systems: a primary load bearing system that operates continuously and a secondary load bearing system (leaf spring) that operates only when needed. This segmentation allows each system to be optimized for its specific function, with the secondary system engaging only when additional load capacity is required, thereby reducing overall friction during normal operation while maintaining high load capacity when needed.
2Reliability
If a leaf spring suspension system is continuously loaded to provide good roadholding and handling, then handling performance is improved, but isolation of road noise, bumps, and vibrations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The secondary load bearing system is designed to dynamically engage and disengage based on loading conditions. During normal operation with standard vehicle weight, the secondary system remains disengaged, allowing the primary system to provide smooth vibration isolation. When additional load is applied, the secondary system automatically engages to provide the necessary structural support and load bearing capability, thus adapting the system's characteristics to match the actual operating conditions.
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 system maintains good roadhandling while effectively isolating vibrations and noise from occupants by engaging the secondary leaf spring assembly only when needed, reducing overall friction and enhancing ride comfort across varying loads.
Implementation Method 1
a primary load bearing system disposed between a frame and an axle of the vehicle and continually loaded, and a secondary load bearing system disposed between the frame and the axle of the vehicle
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a suspension system for a vehicle that includes a primary load bearing system and a secondary load bearing system. The primary load bearing system is disposed between a frame and an axle of the vehicle, and is continually loaded. The secondary load bearing system is also disposed between the frame and the axle of the vehicle, but the secondary load bearing system is operable between a loaded condition and an unloaded condition. During the loaded condition, the secondary load bearing system is contacted by an engaging member attached to the frame such that a load carried by the vehicle is supported by the primary load bearing system and the secondary load bearing system. During the unloaded condition, the secondary load bearing system is isolated from the frame and the axle.