Pivot Device Asymmetric Spacer for Standardized Suspension Links
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pivot link designs in suspension systems require specific, locally weakened sections for each assembly, making it difficult to modify bending stress thresholds without redesigning components, and face challenges under heavy loads and repairability constraints, with complex stiffener design and deformation control issues.
Innovation Solution
A pivot device with a clevis and clamping spacer system that allows for standardized links by creating an asymmetry in the load distribution through a space between the pivot rod and the clamping spacer, enabling controlled breakage without weakening the components, and adjustable threshold intensities via pivot rod tightening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locally weakened section is created in the connecting rod to enable controlled rupture, then programmed breakage can be achieved at a specific threshold, but the link design becomes specific to each assembly and requires long adjustments, reducing standardization
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into a standardized connecting rod and a separate adjustable clamping assembly. The clamping assembly includes a clamping element with adjustable positioning features that can be set to different locations along the connecting rod, allowing the rupture threshold to be modified without changing the rod itself. This segmentation enables standardization of the rod while providing flexibility through the adjustable clamping mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping assembly incorporates adjustable positioning features that allow dynamic reconfiguration of the clamping location along the connecting rod. This adjustability enables the rupture threshold to be dynamically modified by repositioning the clamping element, eliminating the need for multiple specialized rod designs and enabling standardization while maintaining adaptability to different threshold requirements.
2Reliability
If a weakened section is designed for controlled rupture, then threshold-based breakage is achieved, but the design may not be compatible with heavy load constraints and repairability requirements, necessitating replacement of the connecting rod
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the permanent connecting rod from the adjustable clamping assembly. The clamping assembly acts as a sacrificial or adjustable component that can be repositioned or replaced independently of the connecting rod. This allows the rod to be preserved and reused after an event, improving repairability by eliminating the need to replace the entire rod assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping assembly is designed as a recoverable component that can be repositioned or replaced without discarding the connecting rod. After controlled rupture or failure, the clamping assembly can be adjusted to a new position or replaced, while the connecting rod is recovered and reused. This reduces waste and improves repairability by separating the sacrificial element from the valuable rod component.
3Reliability
If a stiffener is designed to deform under stress to control breaking point, then rupture control is achieved, but the stiffener design becomes complex and difficult to design and manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The rupture control function is extracted from the connecting rod and stiffener components and transferred to a separate, standardized clamping assembly. This clamping element provides the controlled rupture mechanism through its adjustable positioning and clamping force, eliminating the need for complex stiffener designs. The rod and support structures can then be simplified and standardized, improving ease of manufacture while maintaining breaking point control through the separate clamping mechanism.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a pivot device which comprises: a first mounting (1) secured to a yoke (4), said yoke (4) comprising a so-called stationary arm (5) and a so-called sliding arm (5'); a second mounting (2) hinged about a clamping spacer (7), said spacer (7) having a through-hole (12) between a sliding end (13) opposite the sliding arm (5') and a stationary end (14) opposite the stationary arm (5) of said spacer (7); a pivoting rod (3) passing through said arms (5, 5') and said clamping spacer (7) via said hole (12), in particular with an assembly clearance (23), and clamping the spacer (7) between said arms (5, 5') and said ends (13, 14), said device being characterised in that a space (9) is arranged between said pivoting rod (3) and said clamping space (7), said space (9) only opening into said sliding end (13).