Modified K-Member Suspension for Wheelchair Accessibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mass-produced passenger vehicles are not designed to accommodate physically limited passengers, requiring significant modifications such as lowered floors and additional space, which can reduce available floor space and hinder accessibility for wheelchair users.
Innovation Solution
A modified K-member and low-profile trailing arms are integrated into the vehicle suspension system, positioned below the lowered floor, to minimize obstructions and maximize floor space in the rear passenger compartment, allowing easier access and maneuverability for wheelchair passengers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the floor is lowered to accommodate wheelchair entry, then accessibility for physically limited passengers is improved, but the available floor space in the rear passenger compartment is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension components (K-member and trailing arms) are repositioned from occupying horizontal floor space to occupying vertical space below the lowered floor. This dimensional transition allows the wheelchair accessibility requirement to be met while preserving the horizontal floor area needed for passenger movement.
2Ease of operation
If significant modifications are made to the OEM vehicle construction, then wheelchair accessibility is achieved, but the complexity of vehicle modification increases
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension system is segmented into modular components (K-member, trailing arms, coupling members) that can be independently modified and positioned. This segmentation allows for targeted modifications below the floor level without requiring comprehensive changes to the entire vehicle structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution moves the complex suspension components to a different spatial dimension (below the floor), which reduces their visual and spatial impact on the passenger compartment while maintaining their functional complexity where it is needed for accessibility support.
3Strength
If suspension components are positioned above the lowered floor, then structural support is maintained, but floor space and maneuverability for wheelchair passengers are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension components are relocated to the vertical dimension below the lowered floor, allowing them to maintain structural support functions while clearing the horizontal floor plane. This enables uninterrupted wheelchair maneuverability across the entire rear passenger compartment.
Data Source
AI summary
A K-member for a passenger vehicle includes a body, a first cross member coupled to the body, and a second cross member coupled to the body at a location rearward of the first cross member. The first and second cross members are coupled transversely with respect to the body. A reinforcement member is coupled to the body and extends transversely between opposite sides of the body. The K-member further includes a first and second coupling member. Each coupling member is coupled to the body and includes an elongated portion, a curved portion, a toe link joint, and a first mounting location. The toe link joint is angularly disposed relative to the elongated portion. When assembled to the passenger vehicle having a rear passenger compartment, the entire K-member is positioned below a horizontal plane defined by a floor in the compartment.