Powertrain Roll Restructor Integrating Bracket and Link Arm
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing powertrain roll restrictors face challenges in simultaneously isolating engine excitation forces at different load conditions, controlling powertrain roll during dynamic events, meeting durability and metal strength criteria, and facilitating ease of assembly and service without special tooling or procedures.
Innovation Solution
A powertrain roll restrictor design comprising a bracket, a link arm, and resilient elements, where the link arm is coupled to the powertrain and the bracket is configured to be coupled to a vehicle sub-frame, allowing the restrictor to be installed as a single assembly within a sub-frame pocket, with features like U-shaped brackets and fastener receiving portions for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a roll restrictor is designed as a single assembly for ease of assembly and service, then assembly time and service requirements are improved, but manufacturing complexity and structural design difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the bracket, link arm, and resilient elements into a single integrated assembly that can be installed as one unit. The bracket and link arm are formed as a single piece with integrated features, eliminating the need for separate assembly of multiple components during installation, thus improving assembly ease while managing manufacturing complexity through modular design
2Volume of moving object
If the roll restrictor package size is reduced to meet vehicle packaging constraints, then space utilization is improved, but the rubber volume available for durability and strength requirements deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The link arm is designed to extend through the bracket, with the resilient elements nested within the bracket cavity. This nested arrangement allows the components to be compactly arranged within the available space while maintaining sufficient rubber volume for durability and strength requirements
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 design enhances ease of assembly and service while meeting durability and strength requirements, reduces the exposed link arm length, and minimizes the articulation envelope, thus addressing the conflicting demands of engine isolation and dynamic control within package constraints.
Implementation Method 1
one or more resilient elements between the bracket and an end of the link arm
Data Source
AI summary
A roll restrictor for restraining movement of a vehicle powertrain relative to a vehicle sub-frame. The roll restrictor has a bracket for coupling to the sub-frame in the form of a generally U-shaped housing defining a central cavity. A link arm for coupling to the powertrain has a first end positioned within the cavity and extends through an opening in the bracket. A plurality of resilient elements are disposed within the cavity between the housing and the first end of the link arm to resist movement of the first end relative to the bracket.