Modular Torsion Beam Axle with Multi-Part Side Assemblies

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current rear wheel suspension systems, particularly torsion beam axles, are designed as single-unitary steel parts, limiting the use of new materials, modularity, and scalability, which increases production costs and time due to specific tailoring and reduced tolerances.

Innovation Solution

The design of torsion beam axles with multi-part side assemblies allows for the integration of various materials, including lightweight and stronger materials, enabling modular construction and improved tolerance compensation, achieved through pivotable connections and plug-in connections with depth control, facilitating the use of extruded components and cast parts.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Weight of moving object

If single-unitary steel parts are used for torsion beam axles, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but weight reduction and material optimization are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveweight of rear axleVSAvoidcomplexity of axle construction
Core Design Contradiction:
Weight of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The torsion beam axle is divided into multiple separate components including longitudinal members, cross members, and connection elements that can be manufactured from different materials and assembled together. This segmentation enables weight optimization by selecting lightweight materials for specific components while maintaining overall structural integrity and performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Manufacturing precision

If specific tailoring and reduced tolerances are implemented, then manufacturing precision is improved, but production time and costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetolerance compensationVSAvoidproduction time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

By dividing the axle into modular components with standardized connection interfaces, the system achieves tolerance compensation through the assembly process rather than requiring ultra-precise single-piece manufacturing. This modular approach maintains manufacturing precision while significantly reducing production time and costs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If modular construction with multi-part assemblies is used, then adaptability and material optimization are improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different vehicle requirementsVSAvoidcomplexity of assembly structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The modular axle system employs universal connection interfaces and standardized components that can be configured for different vehicle applications. This universality enables adaptability to various vehicle requirements while controlling manufacturing complexity through reuse of proven design elements across different configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11535079B2Torsion beam axles for vehicles
Publication Date: 2022.12.27 FORD GLOBAL TECH LLC
  • US11535079B2 patent drawing
  • US11535079B2 patent drawing
  • US11535079B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Torsion beam axles for vehicles are disclosed. An example torsion beam axle disclosed herein includes a first side assembly, the first side assembly including a longitudinal member and a receiver. The example torsion beam axle further including a second side assembly, and a cross strut extending transversely between the first side assembly and the second side assembly.