Interchangeable Rear Axle Frames for Flexible Chassis Geometry Setup
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motor vehicle production lines face inefficiencies in setting and adjusting the chassis geometry parameters of rear axles, particularly when handling different types of rear axles, leading to increased space requirements and cycle times due to the need for multiple frames and complex tooling adaptations.
Innovation Solution
The integration of interchangeable frames with standardized interfaces and positioning means within the production line, allowing the bearing, loading, measuring, and setting tools for the rear axle to be part of the removable frame, which can be easily swapped to accommodate different vehicle types, reducing the need for extensive tooling adaptations and optimizing space usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple frames are provided for different rear axle types, then different vehicle types can be accommodated, but the production line length and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The production line is segmented into a fixed base structure and interchangeable frames. Each frame is a self-contained unit that can be independently swapped. This segmentation allows the system to handle different rear axle types without requiring separate complete production lines, thereby reducing the total space needed while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The production line configuration is made dynamic through the ability to interchange frames during operation. Instead of a static layout with all frames permanently installed, the system allows dynamic reconfiguration by removing and installing different frames as needed, optimizing space utilization while maintaining adaptability to different vehicle types.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple frames are arranged one behind another, then different rear axle types can be processed, but the production cycle time increases
Solution Approach 1:
Frames are prepared in advance and staged for quick interchange. The positioning means are pre-configured to receive specific frames, and the interchange process is designed to minimize disruption to the production flow. This preliminary preparation reduces the time penalty associated with switching between different rear axle types.
Solution Approach 2:
Positioning means act as an intermediary mechanism that facilitates rapid frame interchange. This specialized positioning system serves as a mediator between the different frame types and the production line, enabling smooth transitions without requiring complete line shutdowns or complex reconfiguration, thereby reducing cycle time losses.
3Ease of manufacture
If bearing means, loading means, measuring means, and setting tools are integrated into interchangeable frames, then tooling adaptations are simplified, but the frame design complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functional components (bearing means, loading means, measuring means, and setting tools) are merged into a single integrated frame unit. This consolidation simplifies the overall system by reducing the number of separate components that need to be adapted when changing vehicle types. The integrated frame acts as a complete, self-contained module that can be easily swapped without requiring separate adjustments of individual tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame design incorporates universal, standardized interfaces and components that can accommodate different rear axle types through interchange rather than customization. The bearing means, loading means, measuring means, and setting tools are designed with universal characteristics that allow them to function across multiple vehicle types, reducing design complexity while maintaining ease of manufacture and adaptation.
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 solution enables flexible and efficient production of various rear axle types by minimizing space requirements and reducing cycle times, as the necessary tools and interfaces are relocated to the removable frames, allowing for direct processing of different rear axles without extensive reconfiguration of the production line.
Implementation Method 1
These loading means are constructed as spring load units, which simulate weight forces at the points on the axle via springs
Implementation Method 2
It is known to measure the orientation of the wheel plane using optical measuring devices
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a device for measuring and adjusting the parameters of the chassis geometry at a rear axle of a motor vehicle on a production line for the motor vehicle. Gripping and holding means for the rear axle and loading means for the rear axle are associated with the production line. According to the invention, a plurality of interchangeable frames is associated with the production line, and positioning means for positioning one of the interchangeable frames into a position for gripping the rear axle in the production process are associated with the production line. The gripping and holding means for the rear axle and the loading means for the rear axle are associated with the interchangeable frame in question. The interchangeable frames can thereby be matched to rear axles of different vehicle types, such that these different rear axles can be processed in one assembly line.