Steering Axle Bearing Layout for Smaller Rims and Sensor Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle axle designs with king pin fastening mechanisms increase the vertical dimension, limiting the rim diameter that can be used and making it difficult to accommodate smaller rim diameters while also mounting a steering sensor.
Innovation Solution
The axle assembly includes an axle body, a steering knuckle assembly, a top bearing directly coupled to the axle body, a bottom bearing directly coupled to the steering knuckle assembly, a rotating top pin, and a stationary bottom pin, with the bearings arranged in a tandem configuration to reduce the overall height of the axle assembly and allow for a steering sensor to be mounted.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a king pin fastening mechanism is used to attach the steering knuckle to the axle body, then the steering knuckle can be securely coupled to the axle body, but the vertical dimension of the axle arrangement increases, limiting the rim diameter that can be used
Solution Approach 1:
The single king pin fastening mechanism is segmented into two separate pins: a top pin that rotates with the steering knuckle assembly and a bottom pin that remains stationary relative to the axle body. This segmentation allows the coupling function to be distributed across two points, reducing the vertical space required while maintaining secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a vertical stacking arrangement (single king pin extending through the axle body) to a more distributed spatial arrangement where the top and bottom pins are positioned at different vertical levels but coupled through bearings. This dimensional redistribution reduces the overall vertical envelope of the assembly.
2Length of stationary object
If the axle assembly is made compact to accommodate smaller rim diameters, then the vertical dimension is reduced, but mounting a steering sensor becomes unfeasible
Solution Approach 1:
The top pin serves multiple functions: it couples the steering knuckle assembly to the axle body, allows rotational movement for steering, and provides a mounting surface for the steering sensor. This multi-functionality ensures that sensor mounting capability is maintained even in the compact design.
Solution Approach 2:
The top bearing acts as an intermediary element between the top pin and the axle body, facilitating the rotational movement while providing a stable mounting platform for the steering sensor. This intermediary structure enables sensor installation without increasing the vertical dimension.
3Device complexity
If a single rotating pin is used to couple the axle body to the steering knuckle assembly, then the structure is simplified, but the vertical dimension increases and sensor mounting becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The single rotating pin is segmented into two pins with different rotational characteristics: the top pin rotates with the steering knuckle assembly while the bottom pin remains stationary. This segmentation reduces vertical dimension while maintaining coupling functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces dynamic differentiation between the two pins: the top pin is designed to rotate along with the steering knuckle assembly, while the bottom pin is designed to remain stationary relative to the axle body. This dynamic assignment optimizes both compactness and functional performance.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for an axle are described. The axle may be a steering axle that is coupled to wheels that may move to change a steering angle of a vehicle. In one example, the axle includes two bearings that are arranged similarly so as to reduce a height of an axle. The two bearings may be tapered wheel bearings so that vertical and lateral wheel loads may be supported via an actual total of two bearings per wheel.