Disconnectable Stabilizer Bar Clutch Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional vehicle suspension systems face challenges with roll instability and reduced traction due to stiff stabilizer bars, which can cause undesirable 'cross-talk' between wheels and inhibit wheel movement on uneven terrain.
Innovation Solution
A stabilizer bar system with a clutch and actuator mechanism that allows independent rotation of stabilizer bar members, enabling selective decoupling to manage torque transmission and improve traction by positioning transmission members along a longitudinal axis, allowing for relative rotation between stabilizer bar members when necessary.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a stiff stabilizer bar is used to reduce vehicle roll, then vehicle stability is improved, but wheel independence is worsened causing cross-talk between wheels
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilizer bar is divided into two separate members (first stabilizer bar member and second stabilizer bar member) that can be independently mounted to opposite wheels. This segmentation allows each wheel to be stabilized independently while maintaining overall vehicle stability, eliminating the cross-talk problem of traditional single-piece stabilizer bars.
Solution Approach 2:
The clutch mechanism provides dynamic coupling and decoupling of the two stabilizer bar members. When coupling is engaged, the members work together for enhanced stability; when decoupled, they allow independent wheel movement. This dynamic adaptability resolves the contradiction between stability and wheel independence.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a stiff stabilizer bar is used to prevent roll, then vehicle stability is improved, but wheel travel freedom is worsened on uneven terrain
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch mechanism enables dynamic switching between coupled and decoupled states. In decoupled mode, each stabilizer bar member allows independent wheel travel over uneven terrain without torsional resistance from the opposite wheel, while in coupled mode, vehicle stability is enhanced during cornering.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows the stabilizer bar members to serve themselves by independently responding to wheel movements and terrain conditions when decoupled, without being constrained by the torsional stiffness of a connected opposite member.
3Ease of operation
If spring rate is lowered for softer ride, then ride comfort is improved, but vehicle roll increases
Solution Approach 1:
The dual stabilizer bar members work together in coupled mode to provide enhanced anti-roll capability, allowing the use of softer springs for comfort while compensating with the combined stabilizing effect of both bar members acting in unison.
Data Source
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AI summary
A vehicle stabilizer bar assembly having a pair of stabilizer bar members that are selectively uncoupled via a clutch. The clutch includes a moving element that can be selectively moved via an actuator to effect the uncoupling of the stabilizer bar members. The actuator is configured to apply a force to the moving element concentrically about the axis along which the moving element translates. The clutch is configured Io transmit torque from one of the stabilizer bar members to the other stabilizer bar member concentrically about the axis. A method for operating a vehicle stabilizer bar assembly is also provided.