Offset Lift Air Bag Suspension Geometry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle suspension systems with lift axles face challenges in efficiently adjusting the height of the axle, particularly in providing adequate lateral stability and sufficient travel between lifted and lowered positions, while maintaining effective load distribution.
Innovation Solution
The axle lift system incorporates angled control arms and a lift air bag positioned at an angle relative to the control arms, with the air bag's center axis offset from the control arms' axis, allowing for adjustable axle height through inflation and deflation, and utilizing suspension air bags for load support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the lift air bag is disposed substantially between the control arms, then the structure is compact, but the lateral stability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by positioning the lift air bag offset from the centerline of the chassis rather than symmetrically between the control arms. This asymmetric placement creates a more effective lateral stabilizing moment arm, improving lateral stability without requiring additional structural components.
2Length of moving object
If the control arms are positioned to provide adequate travel, then the axle can move between lifted and lowered positions, but the lateral stability is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by introducing a vertical dimension to the stability mechanism. The offset air bag placement creates a vertical offset that generates a lateral stabilizing moment as the air bag inflates and deflates, allowing full travel distance while maintaining lateral stability through this third-dimensional effect.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the lift air bag is positioned offset from the control arms, then lateral stability is improved, but the load distribution may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the counterweight principle by using the offset air bag placement to create a stabilizing moment that counteracts the potential adverse effects on load distribution. The asymmetric positioning generates a lateral stabilizing force that balances the system during axle movement, maintaining proper load distribution while improving lateral stability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration enhances lateral stability and increases the travel distance between lifted and lowered positions, enabling efficient load transfer and improved vehicle operation by allowing the axle to be raised or lowered as needed, with the tire optionally lifted off the ground.
Implementation Method 1
a lift air bag attached between the upper air bag bracket and the lower air bag bracket, wherein the lift air bag is disposed at an angle to the control arms
Implementation Method 2
utilizing suspension air bags for load support
Data Source
AI summary
A suspension system with an axle lift system for use on vehicles is described, the axle lift system having control arms with an offset lift air bag configuration. The suspension system includes offset control arms and an off-axis lift air bag. The off-axis lift air bag is disposed away from and sometimes at an angle to the axis of the control arms.