Steering Apparatus Link Mechanism for Two-Wheeled Motor Vehicle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional steering apparatuses for vehicles require significant steering force and weight due to the rigidity needed to manage reaction forces from the road, leading to increased complexity and weight in the steering system.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight steering apparatus design that uses a cylindrical shaft and bracket member to propagate steering force, with a link mechanism that reduces rigidity and complexity by distributing load and using a spherical joint to absorb excessive twist, allowing for independent configuration of the axle and steering structures, and integrating the brake caliper support to reduce parts and weight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the link arms and knuckle arms are configured with high rigidity to manage reaction forces from the road, then the steering apparatus can support the front axle and wheel, but the weight of the steering apparatus increases and a great steering force is required
Solution Approach 1:
The invention separates the functions of the steering apparatus into two independent systems: (1) the axle supporting arm and its link mechanism for supporting the front axle and wheel, and (2) the steering force propagating members (steering shaft, link mechanism, bracket member) for steering control. This segmentation allows each system to be optimized independently, reducing the need for excessive rigidity in steering components while maintaining overall structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the steering force transmission path from the axle supporting structure. The steering force propagates through the steering shaft, link mechanism, and bracket member to the wheel supporting cylindrical shaft, independent of the axle supporting arm. This extraction eliminates the need for the steering apparatus to bear reaction forces from the road, allowing for reduced weight and steering effort.
2Strength
If the link arms and knuckle arms are configured with high rigidity to manage reaction forces from the road, then the front axle and wheel can be supported, but the structure of the steering apparatus becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the steering apparatus into functionally independent segments: the axle supporting arm with its link mechanism for suspension, and the steering force propagating members for steering control. This segmentation simplifies the overall structure by eliminating the need for complex integrated designs that must simultaneously handle both support and steering functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket member serves multiple functions: it supports the wheel supporting cylindrical shaft, transmits steering force, and provides mounting for the brake caliper. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying the overall structure while maintaining structural integrity.
3Strength
If a large front frame and large handlebars are used to support the front axle, then the front axle can be supported during lateral swinging, but a great steering force is required
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the front axle support function from the steering apparatus (front frame and handlebars). The axle supporting arm with its link mechanism independently supports the front axle during lateral swinging and vertical movement, while the steering apparatus only handles steering control. This extraction allows for a lighter front frame and handlebars while maintaining support capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs a dynamic suspension system where the axle supporting arm can vertically swing to accommodate road irregularities and lateral movements. This dynamic support mechanism reduces the need for an overly rigid and heavy front frame structure, as the suspension system actively adapts to maintain support during lateral swinging.
Data Source
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AI summary
A steering apparatus for a two-wheeled motor vehicle includes a handlebars-side steering shaft supported by a head pipe, a wheel supporting cylindrical shaft supported by a front axle and over which a hub is fitted, and a steering link mechanism. First and second link members of the link mechanism are connected to each other in a plurality of articulations such that the link members can angularly move. An amount of angular movement is limited to a predetermined range, and a distance between a front wheel-side end and the steering shaft-side end of the steering link mechanism can be changed. The front wheel-side end of the steering link mechanism is connected to the wheel supporting cylindrical shaft through a brake caliper bracket member.