Vehicle Position Sensor Link and Ball Socket Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing link and ball socket assemblies for vehicle chassis position sensors are costly and lack efficient mechanisms for securely locking the ball in place, which affects the reliability and durability of the sensor's operation.
Innovation Solution
A low-cost link and ball socket assembly comprising a rigid thermoplastic link with an integral socket and a rotatable elastomeric socket, featuring a locking pin with a collar and flexible clips to securely engage and retain the ball, ensuring stable connection and movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional link and ball socket assembly is used, then the connection is secure, but the cost is high
Solution Approach 1:
The link and socket are merged into a single molded member, eliminating the need for separate metal components and complex assembly processes. This integration maintains connection security while significantly reducing manufacturing cost through single-step molding of the plastic assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive metal link and socket components with a cost-effective plastic molded member. The design accepts that the plastic component may have a shorter service life than metal but achieves adequate durability for the application at a fraction of the cost.
2Ease of manufacture
If a simple socket design is used, then manufacturing is easier, but the ball locking mechanism is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The locking pin and clips are integrated directly into the molded socket structure, combining multiple functions (ball retention, locking, and positioning) into a single manufacturing process. This eliminates the need for separate locking components while ensuring reliable ball retention through the molded-in features.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid link structure is used, then structural stability is good, but adaptability to movement is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The socket is designed to rotate relative to the link, transforming the rigid structure into a dynamic assembly that can adapt to chassis movements. This rotational capability allows the link to maintain structural stability while accommodating the range of motion required for accurate position sensing.
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 a cost-effective and reliable locking mechanism that enhances the durability and operational stability of vehicle chassis position sensors by securely retaining the ball, allowing for precise sensing of chassis movements.
Implementation Method 1
the second molded member is made of an elastomeric material
Data Source
AI summary
A link and ball socket assembly for a vehicle position sensor comprising a first molded member including a link and a first socket and a second molded member including a second socket coupled to the first molded member. The first socket is molded to and integral with a first end of the link and the second socket is coupled to and rotatable relative to a second opposed end of the link. The first socket defines an interior ball receiving pocket. The interior pocket defines a first back pocket portion which opens into a second front ball shaped pocket portion. The ball is received in the first back pocket portion and slid and snapped into the second front pocket portion. A locking pin is inserted into the interior pocket into a relationship abutting against the ball for retaining the ball in the socket.