Elastic Joint Axial Force Absorption for Vehicle Suspension Arms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Suspension arm joints with washers generate noise and require additional installation steps, increasing the risk of washer loss during assembly.
Innovation Solution
An elastic joint design featuring an outer casing with diameter reductions and a radial collar on the inner sleeve, utilizing an elastically deformable filtering element and cage to absorb axial forces and limit sleeve travel without an additional washer, thereby reducing noise and simplifying assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a washer is added to the inner sleeve to bear against the outer casing and limit travel, then the axial force transmission is improved, but noise is generated by the contact between the washer and the outer casing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the travel-limiting function and the noise-dampening function into a single intermediate ring element. This ring integrates the bearing surface for axial force transmission while being made of elastic material that dampens noise, eliminating the need for a separate washer component.
Solution Approach 2:
The intermediate ring is made of elastic material that combines structural support capabilities with noise-dampening properties. This composite material approach allows the single element to both transmit axial forces and reduce noise from contact.
2Force
If a washer is added to the inner sleeve to limit travel, then the axial force transmission is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional installation steps and risk of washer loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the washer function with the intermediate ring structure, reducing the total number of parts. The intermediate ring is designed to be a single integrated component that performs both travel limitation and force transmission, eliminating the need for separate washer installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The intermediate ring is designed to self-limit the travel of the inner sleeve through its integrated bearing surfaces, eliminating the need for additional components or complex installation procedures. The structure inherently provides the travel limitation function.
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 joint effectively absorbs axial forces and reduces noise transmission, eliminating the need for an additional washer and simplifying the assembly process by integrating force transmission within the joint.
Implementation Method 1
a filter element tube which is secured to the inner sleeve and which is made of elastically deformable material to allow the elastic return of the inner sleeve to its intermediate rest position
Implementation Method 2
The spacer ring is made at least in part of an elastic material of the elastomer type to dampen the forces and noise transmitted between the outer casing and the inner sleeve
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an elastic joint (16) for a suspension arm of a motor vehicle, which comprises at least an outer casing (20), an inner sleeve (22) which extends axially along a joint axis (A) and which is adapted to cooperate with a joint rod (26) integral with the suspension arm (10), the inner sleeve (22) being mounted axially movably within the outer casing (20), between a front position, a rear position, and an intermediate rest position, and an intercalated ring (24) which is interposed radially between the inner sleeve (22) and the outer casing (20), and which is adapted to elastically return the inner sleeve (22) to its intermediate rest position, characterized in that the outer casing (20) comprises a first diameter reduction (46) forming a first front stop (50) and a second diameter reduction (48) forming a second opposing rear stop (52),and in that the internal sleeve (22) comprises a radial collar (56) adapted to cooperate with said stops.