Link Unit Positive Locking Engagement for Utility Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing link units for utility vehicles face challenges in achieving high variability, ease of production, and preventing overdimensioning in terms of weight and structural space, particularly due to complex and weight-intensive connection methods between longitudinal link parts.
Innovation Solution
A link unit comprising an arm element with a holding section and a load-bearing element featuring a positively locking engagement system, allowing secure positioning and connection in multiple directions, facilitated by a welding joint and optimized geometry for simplified assembly and production, which includes a projection and recess design for precise positioning and gravitational support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional connection methods are used between longitudinal link parts, then high flexural strength can be achieved, but weight increases considerably
Solution Approach 1:
The longitudinal link is divided into two separate parts that are connected through a standardized interface consisting of a holding section and an engagement section. This segmentation allows for modular assembly while maintaining structural integrity, reducing the need for overly robust single-piece constructions that would increase weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection interface utilizes specific geometric parameters including a holding plane with defined holding directions (two collinear opposite directions and one transverse direction), projection heights, and recess dimensions. These optimized parameters enable sufficient flexural strength with reduced material usage compared to traditional monolithic connections.
2Strength
If traditional connection methods are used between longitudinal link parts, then high flexural strength can be achieved, but production time and expenditure increase
Solution Approach 1:
The holding section and engagement section are pre-formed as integral parts of the longitudinal link components during manufacturing. This preliminary action eliminates the need for complex field assembly operations and reduces production time, as the connection interface is already prepared and requires only simple positioning and joining.
Solution Approach 2:
The standardized holding section and engagement section design serves multiple functions: it provides structural connection, enables precise positioning through the holding plane geometry, and facilitates simplified assembly. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate manufacturing steps and tools required, thereby improving productivity.
3Ease of operation
If the longitudinal link is formed in two parts, then handlability and configurability improve, but connection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The holding section features an asymmetric geometry with a holding plane that has two collinear holding directions and one transverse holding direction. This asymmetric design provides stable positioning and prevents unwanted movement while maintaining simplicity in the connection mechanism, reducing perceived complexity during assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement section is designed to automatically align with and engage the holding section through its geometric features. The holding plane and holding directions create self-aligning characteristics that guide the connection process, eliminating the need for complex alignment procedures or specialized assembly tools.
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 enables a lightweight, versatile link unit with optimized force transmission and simplified production, reducing weight and structural space requirements while ensuring reliable fixation and durability through positive locking engagement and efficient welding processes.
Implementation Method 1
the holding section and the engagement section can be placed in positively locking engagement such that the load-bearing element is secured against displacement relative to the arm element in at least three holding directions
Implementation Method 2
between the holding section and the engagement section, there is formed a welding joint for producing a welded connection between the arm element and the load-bearing element
Implementation Method 3
one of the two sections, holding section or engagement section, to be formed as a projection, whereas the respective other section, engagement section or holding section, is in the form of a recess
Implementation Method 4
the respective geometry of the sections are adapted to one another, such that the positive locking between the engagement section and the holding section permits the most precise possible positioning
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a link unit, in particular for use in utility vehicles, comprising an arm element and a load-bearing element, wherein the arm element has a holding section and the load-bearing element has an engagement section, wherein the holding section and the engagement section can be placed in positively locking engagement such that the load-bearing element is secured against displacement relative to the arm element in at least three holding directions which lie in a holding plane. The invention also relates to a method for producing a link unit.