Offset Inclined Suspension for Independent Caster Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing independent vehicle suspensions lack independent control over caster angle and wheel movement in response to obstacles, leading to inefficient absorption of forces and potential changes in handling characteristics.
Innovation Solution
An offset inclined suspension system with a hinge angle between 10 and 45 degrees, allowing independent control of caster angle and wheel movement through a steering spindle and support members, enabling vertical and horizontal movement of the wheel over obstacles without affecting camber.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the suspension is tilted to allow horizontal wheel movement over obstacles, then wheel movement capability is improved, but the caster angle changes and handling characteristics deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension system is divided into two independent control mechanisms: one for controlling wheel movement over obstacles and another for maintaining caster angle. This segmentation allows each function to be optimized independently without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The suspension employs dynamic adjustment capabilities where the caster angle can be independently controlled and adjusted during operation. This dynamic control allows the system to maintain optimal handling characteristics even as the wheel moves over obstacles.
2Adaptability or versatility
If vertical wheel movement is provided to encounter obstructions, then wheel adaptability is improved, but force transmission to the vehicle increases
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension system introduces intermediary elements including spring assemblies and shock absorbers between the wheel and vehicle chassis. These intermediaries absorb and dampen forces generated during wheel movement over obstacles, preventing direct force transmission to the vehicle body.
Solution Approach 2:
The suspension incorporates spring assemblies and damping elements that are pre-configured to cushion and absorb impact forces before they reach the vehicle chassis. This beforehand cushioning mechanism protects the vehicle from sudden force transmissions during obstacle encounters.
3Adaptability or versatility
If independent suspension control is implemented, then wheel movement flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension system employs multi-functional components that perform multiple roles simultaneously. For example, the control arms and linkages serve both as structural support elements and as control mechanisms for wheel movement, reducing the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The design merges the control of wheel movement and caster angle maintenance into an integrated suspension assembly. By combining these functions into a unified system with shared components, the overall complexity is reduced compared to having completely separate control mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
An independent suspension for a steerable wheel has a support member that is inclined so that the movement of the wheel as it travels over an obstacle includes a rearward vector. The steering spindle is positioned in such a way that it is not perpendicular to the support member, but is angled to provide the desired caster angle, which may vary between embodiments.