Modular Vehicle Suspension Testing Track with Adjustable Undulations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for testing vehicle suspensions lack modularity and versatility, limiting their ability to simulate real-world driving conditions effectively.
Innovation Solution
A modular apparatus comprising multiple undulations of varying shape, height, and width, positioned to induce pitch or roll in a vehicle's chassis, which can be coupled and adjusted to replicate different driving scenarios, including sinusoidal profiles and surface textures, and can be securely mounted to a road surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional fixed suspension testing methods are used, then the testing process is simple, but the versatility and ability to simulate real-world driving conditions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The testing apparatus is divided into multiple independent undulation sections that can be individually configured and arranged in different sequences. Each section represents a discrete driving condition (bump, rut, undulation, etc.), allowing the system to be segmented into modular components that can be recombined to simulate various real-world scenarios without requiring a completely different testing setup for each condition.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs adjustable undulation sections with variable parameters (height, width, spacing, profile shape) that can be dynamically modified to match different driving conditions. The ability to adjust these parameters in real-time allows the testing apparatus to adapt to various simulation requirements while maintaining a relatively simple base structure, resolving the contradiction between versatility and complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple fixed testing configurations are used, then comprehensive testing is achieved, but the time and resources required for reconfiguration are excessive
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the testing track into standardized, interchangeable undulation sections, the system allows rapid reconfiguration through simple assembly and disassembly of modular components rather than complete rebuilding. Each section can be independently manufactured and stored, enabling quick changes between different testing scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The undulation sections incorporate adjustable parameters (height, width, spacing, profile) that can be modified without changing the fundamental structure. This allows the same physical component to represent multiple different driving conditions through parameter adjustment, reducing the number of physical reconfigurations needed and minimizing setup time while maintaining comprehensive testing capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If modular undulation sections are introduced, then versatility and simulation capability are improved, but the device complexity and initial setup become more complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The modular undulation sections are designed with universal interfaces and standardized dimensions that allow them to be used in multiple configurations and positions. A single section type can serve multiple functions depending on its placement and orientation in the sequence, reducing the total number of unique components needed while maintaining the ability to replicate diverse driving scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs a hierarchical structure where basic undulation sections can be nested or combined to form more complex testing sequences. Simpler sections serve as building blocks for more advanced configurations, allowing the system to scale in complexity only when needed while maintaining a simple core structure that can handle basic testing requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A suspension testing or demonstrating apparatus includes a first section of track having a first undulation that displaces a wheel of the vehicle by a first predetermined amount when the wheel traverses at least a portion of the first undulation. A second section of track is positioned proximate to the first section of track such that the wheel traverses the second section of track after traversing the first section of track. The second section of track includes a second undulation that displaces the wheel of the vehicle by a second predetermined amount when the wheel traverses at least a portion of the second undulation.