Skid Steer Loader Four-Bar Suspension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional skid-steer loaders have rigid axles that are fixed to the frame, unable to absorb shock from uneven terrain or changes in velocity, limiting their performance on diverse surfaces.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of independent suspension systems using a four-bar linkage with upper and lower control arms and a wheel carrier link, where the pivots between the control arms and the wheel carrier link are contained within the wheel rim's outer diameter, allowing for a compact structure and improved shock absorption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If rigid axles are used to simplify the structure, then device complexity is reduced, but shock absorption capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid axle is segmented into multiple independent components: upper control arm, lower control arm, and wheel carrier link, connected through pivots. This segmentation allows each component to move independently to absorb shocks while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The static rigid axle is transformed into a dynamic four-bar linkage system where the control arms and wheel carrier link can pivot and adjust their positions dynamically in response to terrain variations, enabling shock absorption while preserving structural strength.
2Reliability
If independent suspension system is implemented to improve shock absorption, then shock absorption capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension system merges the frame, control arms, and wheel carrier into an integrated four-bar linkage mechanism. This unified structure achieves shock absorption functionality without requiring separate suspension components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The four-bar linkage structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides shock absorption, maintains wheel alignment, and supports the wheel assembly. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated components, controlling overall system complexity.
3Volume of moving object
If pivots are contained within wheel rim diameter to compact the structure, then volume of moving object is reduced, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The pivot points are nested within the cylindrical volume defined by the wheel rim's outer diameter. This nesting arrangement compactly positions all suspension components within a confined space, reducing the overall volume of the moving suspension structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivot positions are arranged in a three-dimensional configuration within the cylindrical volume, utilizing spatial distribution along multiple dimensions rather than spreading components linearly. This dimensional arrangement achieves compactness while accommodating the necessary manufacturing tolerances.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure includes independent suspension systems or members, as well as wheeled skid steer loaders or other power machines including the same, that couple each wheel to a machine frame using a four-bar linkage, with the four bars including the frame of the machine, an upper control arm, a lower control arm, and a wheel carrier link. Each control arm is pivotally attached to both the machine frame and one end of the wheel carrier link. The four pivots between the control arms and the wheel carrier link are configured to all be contained within cylinder defined by the outer diameter of the wheel rim, allowing for a compact structure with the wheel carrier link and at least part of the control arms being positioned within this volume when the loader is in a resting position.