Leaning Vehicle Linkage Layout for Compact, Non-Interfering Placement
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing number of vehicle parts on lean vehicles necessitates a compact arrangement without enlarging the vehicle size, as space is limited by the unique tilting configuration.
Innovation Solution
A lean vehicle design incorporating a link mechanism with an upper arm, lower arm, and tie rod that rotate about specific axes, allowing vehicle parts to be positioned without interfering with these components, utilizing dead space for compact installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If vehicle parts are added to meet increasing functional requirements, then the vehicle's functionality is improved, but the vehicle size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the third dimension (vertical space) for arranging vehicle parts. Specifically, parts are positioned in the up-down direction within the dead space formed by the link mechanism, transforming a 2D layout problem into a 3D spatial utilization solution. This allows multiple parts to be stacked vertically without increasing the vehicle's horizontal footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent places vehicle parts within the dead space enclosed by the link mechanism components (upper arm, lower arm, tie rod). This nesting approach embeds parts within the existing structural envelope, utilizing the space between moving components rather than adding external mounting locations.
2Area of stationary object
If vehicle parts are arranged in the front part of the vehicle, then space utilization is improved, but interference with the link mechanism occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent identifies specific localized regions within the dead space where parts can be positioned without interfering with link mechanism operation. Different parts are placed in different vertical zones and horizontal positions within the dead space, optimizing each part's location to avoid interference while maximizing space utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent accounts for the dynamic movement of the link mechanism components during vehicle tilting and steering operations. Parts are positioned in areas that maintain clearance from the moving components throughout their full range of motion, ensuring no interference occurs during dynamic operation.
Data Source
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AI summary
An ECU 50A is arranged: rearward relative to the front end of a tie rod 67 in the vehicle body front-rear direction; forward relative to the rear end of an upper arm 41 in the vehicle body front-rear direction; rightward relative to the left end of a lower arm 42 in the vehicle body left-right direction when the lower arm 42 is in the second left-tilted position; leftward relative to the right end of the lower arm 42 in the vehicle body left-right direction when the lower arm 42 is in the second right-tilted position; upward in the vehicle body up-down direction relative to the third axis C3; downward in the vehicle body up-down direction relative to a position that is at the first distance A1 upward from the first axis C1 in the vehicle body up-down direction; and in an area that does not contact the upper arm 41, the lower arm 42, and the tie rod 67 when the upper arm 41, the lower arm 42, and the tie rod 67 rotate.