Eccentric Alignment Cam for Simultaneous Toe and Camber Adjustment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle suspension systems require separate and independent mechanisms for adjusting toe and camber, which can be time-consuming and resource-intensive, and do not allow for simultaneous adjustment of both parameters.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable spindle assembly with an alignment cam and spindle sleeve system that allows for simultaneous adjustment of toe and camber by rotating the alignment cam to pivot the spindle assembly, enabling independent adjustment of each wheel position and compensating for minor damage and manufacturing variations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate and independent mechanisms are used for adjusting toe and camber, then each parameter can be adjusted independently, but the adjustment process becomes time-consuming and resource-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the toe adjustment mechanism and camber adjustment mechanism into a single integrated alignment cam assembly. The alignment cam has an eccentric cam hole that works with an adjustment bolt to simultaneously control both toe and camber parameters through one adjustment process, eliminating the need for separate mechanisms and reducing adjustment time
2Manufacturing precision
If separate mechanisms are used for toe and camber adjustment, then each parameter can be precisely controlled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment cam serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both the toe adjustment mechanism and the camber adjustment mechanism. The eccentric cam hole geometry allows a single component to control both wheel alignment parameters, reducing device complexity while maintaining precise control capability through the eccentricity design
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple mechanisms are used for adjustment, then comprehensive control is achieved, but the number of parts and resources required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple adjustment mechanisms into a single alignment cam component with an eccentric cam hole. This single component replaces what would traditionally require separate toe and camber adjustment mechanisms, reducing the quantity of parts while maintaining comprehensive adjustment capability through the versatile eccentric geometry
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
Facilitates quick and efficient adjustment of toe and camber simultaneously, reducing the need for multiple mechanisms and minimizing the time, skills, and resources required for alignment, while allowing for precise compensation for various operational conditions.
Implementation Method 1
An alignment cam, including an eccentric cam through hole, a cam bolt head, and a spindle cup, where the eccentric cam through hole is offset from an alignment cam constant center of the alignment cam
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for adjusting the toe and camber of a wheel including a spindle, a spindle sleeve, the spindle disposed inside the spindle sleeve, a spindle sleeve bolt, disposed through the spindle through hole and the spindle sleeve through hole, an alignment cam, including an eccentric cam through hole, a cam bolt head, a spindle cup, the eccentric cam through hole offset from an alignment cam constant center of the alignment cam, and a spindle bolt, securely connecting the alignment cam to the spindle. The alignment cam is connected to a first end of the spindle, with the alignment cam and the spindle disposed inside the spindle sleeve.