Segmented Suspension Mounting Brackets for Fast Vehicle Installation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing supplemental suspension systems for vehicles require substantial disassembly of existing components, increasing installation time and complexity, and lead to unnecessary component variations and inventory costs due to varying vehicle structures.
Innovation Solution
The development of mounting bracket assemblies and kits that securely attach supplemental suspension components to vehicle structures using adaptable bracket members, allowing for easier installation and reducing the need for multiple component variations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If supplemental suspension systems are installed using existing mounting methods, then the suspension components can be secured to the vehicle, but substantial disassembly of existing suspension components is required, increasing installation time and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
A mounting bracket assembly serves as an intermediary component between the supplemental suspension spring and the vehicle's existing suspension structure. The bracket includes a first bracket member that interfaces with the suspension component and a second bracket member that interfaces with the vehicle structure, eliminating the need to disassemble existing components while providing secure mounting
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting bracket assembly is divided into separate bracket members (first bracket member, second bracket member) that can be independently positioned and secured. This segmentation allows the system to adapt to different vehicle configurations without requiring complete disassembly of existing suspension components
2Reliability
If supplemental suspension systems are installed using existing mounting methods, then the suspension components can be secured to the vehicle, but the level of complexity of the installation increases, exceeding the capability of some self-installers
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket assembly acts as a pre-engineered intermediary solution that simplifies the installation process. Rather than requiring complex disassembly and reconfiguration of existing suspension components, the bracket provides a straightforward mounting interface that reduces installation complexity to basic attachment operations
3Adaptability or versatility
If new components are developed to accommodate varying vehicle structures, then supplemental suspension systems can be mounted on different vehicles, but a large number of different parts and components must be manufactured and inventoried
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket assembly is designed as a universal solution that can accommodate multiple vehicle types and suspension configurations. The bracket members can be positioned at different locations and oriented in different directions, allowing a single kit to serve multiple vehicle applications without requiring vehicle-specific component variations
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting bracket assembly incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable features that allow it to adapt dynamically to different vehicle structures. The bracket members can be repositioned and reoriented during installation to match various mounting locations, providing versatility without requiring multiple fixed-design components
Data Source
AI summary
Mounting bracket assemblies including first, second and third bracket members. The first bracket member includes first and second mounting surface portions. The first mounting surface portion engaging a suspension component. The second mounting surface portion defining a receiving zone for receiving a vehicle structure and is disposed along a first side of a first central plane of the receiving zone. A second bracket member includes first and second contact surface portions. The second bracket member is disposed along a second side of the first central plane and along a first side of a second central plane of the receiving zone. A third bracket member includes third and fourth contact surface portions. The third bracket member is disposed along the second side of the first central plane and along a second side of the second central plane. Suspension systems, kits and methods are also included.