Leaf Spring Suspension Coupling Device Camber Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wheel suspension devices for motor vehicles are complex and require significant space, with limited adjustability and higher costs, while also failing to effectively manage camber changes due to dynamic wheel load distribution during cornering.

Innovation Solution

A wheel suspension device comprising a wheel guiding device connected to a leaf spring via a coupling device with a defined axis, allowing for independent movement of wheels and incorporating a Panhard rod or Watt linkage for structure guidance, which optimizes camber control and reduces space requirements through strategic placement of coupling points and spring devices.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a complex wheel suspension device with double transverse link is used to achieve individual configuration of spring movement, then the adjustability of spring movement is improved, but the device complexity and installation space increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustability of spring movementVSAvoidcomplexity of wheel suspension device
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the essential function of spring movement control from the complex double transverse link system and implements it through a simplified coupling device with defined coupling points. The coupling device connects the wheel guiding device and spring device at specific points (first coupling point on wheel guiding device, second coupling point on spring device), eliminating unnecessary components while preserving the ability to individually configure spring movement characteristics.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The coupling device serves multiple functions: it connects the wheel guiding device and spring device, defines the spring movement through its coupling points, and allows individual configuration of suspension characteristics. This multi-functional design replaces the specialized double transverse link mechanism, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a complex wheel suspension device with double transverse link is used to achieve individual configuration of spring movement, then the adjustability of spring movement is improved, but the installation space required increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustability of spring movementVSAvoidinstallation space of wheel suspension device
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent removes the space-consuming double transverse link components and retains only the essential coupling functionality through a simplified coupling device. The coupling device with its first and second coupling points provides the necessary spring movement control in a compact form factor, significantly reducing installation space while maintaining adjustability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Device complexity

If conventional wheel suspension devices are used, then the structure is simpler, but the camber control during dynamic wheel load distribution is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimplicity of wheel suspension deviceVSAvoidcamber control during cornering
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling device is designed with predetermined coupling points that pre-configure the spring movement characteristics. The first coupling point on the wheel guiding device and the second coupling point on the spring device are positioned to automatically optimize camber control during dynamic wheel load distribution, such as during cornering. This preliminary configuration ensures reliable camber control without requiring complex active control systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

4Adaptability or versatility

If more space is allocated for wheel suspension components, then the adjustability and camber control are improved, but the vehicle interior space and overall dimensions increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustability of spring movementVSAvoidoverall vehicle dimensions
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the core suspension functionality from space-intensive components and implements it through a compact coupling device. The simplified design with defined coupling points achieves the same adjustability and camber control in a reduced footprint, preserving vehicle interior space and overall dimensions while maintaining performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

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 solution provides improved adjustability, reduced space requirements, and enhanced camber control, leading to better handling and stability during dynamic maneuvers, with reduced component stress and increased lifespan.

Implementation Method 1

Such a length differential is offset through the use of a rubber bearing between the transverse leaf spring and the wheel carrier

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS8777247B2Wheel suspension device for a motor vehicle
Publication Date: 2014.07.15 GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
  • US8777247B2 patent drawing
  • US8777247B2 patent drawing
  • US8777247B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A wheel suspension device for a motor vehicle is provided. The wheel suspension device includes a wheel guiding device which is provided for connection to the motor vehicle and to a wheel. The wheel suspension device has a spring device, in one example, a leaf spring device, which at a first coupling point is connected to a coupling device in an articulated manner. The coupling device is connected to the wheel guiding device at a second coupling point in an articulated manner, and a coupling device axis is defined by a straight line through the first and through the second coupling point.