Non-Parallel Control Arm Suspension Geometry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle suspension systems require additional roll-stiffness devices like torque boxes or anti-roll bars to achieve desired roll stability, which can lead to torque reactivity and axle wind-up, complicating the suspension design.
Innovation Solution
A suspension assembly with non-parallel control arms that intersect at a virtual center of rotation, providing auxiliary roll stiffness without torque-reactive components, and optimizing the virtual center location to balance roll stability and torque reactivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If additional roll-resisting devices (torque box, anti-roll bar) are added to achieve auxiliary roll stiffness, then roll stability is improved, but device complexity and torque reactivity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the roll stiffness function with the existing control arm linkage system by positioning control arms to create a virtual center of rotation. This merges the roll stability function into the primary suspension linkage, eliminating the need for separate roll-resisting devices like torque boxes or anti-roll bars.
Solution Approach 2:
The control arm linkage is designed to perform multiple functions: primary wheel location, roll stability, and torque reaction management. By configuring the control arms at specific angles to intersect at a virtual center of rotation, the same components provide both suspension and roll resistance functions.
2Stability of the object's composition
If additional roll-resisting devices are added to achieve auxiliary roll stiffness, then roll stability is improved, but torque reactivity and axle wind-up increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the roll stiffness function with the existing control arm linkage system by positioning control arms to create a virtual center of rotation. This merges the roll stability function into the primary suspension linkage, eliminating the need for separate roll-resisting devices like torque boxes or anti-roll bars.
3Device complexity
If control arms are positioned to create virtual center of rotation, then auxiliary roll stiffness is achieved without additional devices, but control arm geometry complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies precise geometric parameters for the control arms, including angles (e.g., 30-60 degrees from horizontal) and positioning requirements to achieve the virtual center of rotation. By controlling these geometric parameters, the system achieves roll stability through linkage geometry rather than additional components.
Data Source
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AI summary
A suspension assembly having a frame hanger, a first control arm mounted between the frame hanger and an axle attachment member, a second control arm mounted to the frame hanger and to the axle attachment member, wherein the second arm extends from a centerline of the first control arm at an angle alpha such that the first control arm and the second control arm are not parallel to each other, wherein the centerline of the first control arm and the centerline of the second control arm extend to intersect at a point that is at a virtual center of rotation.