Steering Stopper Unit With Hinged Magnetic Plate
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional steering stopper units have a fixed limit angle, which can cause interference and damage when snow chains are mounted, as they do not allow for adjustable steering angle limits to prevent interference with the suspension system.
Innovation Solution
A steering stopper unit with a hingedly engaged stopper plate and stopper bracket, where the stopper plate can selectively contact either side of the stopper bracket, allowing for adjustable steering angle limits, and is made of magnetic material for secure fixation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the stopper and stopper bracket are fixed to the knuckle and lower arm respectively, then the steering angle limit is stable and reliable, but the steering angle limit cannot be adjusted when snow chains are mounted
Solution Approach 1:
The stopper bracket is designed to be rotatable relative to the lower arm, transforming the fixed stopper mechanism into a dynamic one. The rotation angle of the stopper bracket can be adjusted within a predetermined range, allowing the steering angle limit to be changed according to whether snow chains are mounted, while maintaining reliability through the rotatable connection structure
Solution Approach 2:
The stopper mechanism is divided into separable components: the stopper bracket that can be rotated independently, the stopper plate that can be repositioned, and the lower arm. This segmentation allows the stopper bracket to be adjusted to different angles without affecting the overall structure, enabling adaptability while keeping each component relatively simple
2Reliability
If the stopper plate contacts the forward side of the stopper bracket, then the steering angle limit is restricted to prevent snow chain interference, but the steering range is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The stopper plate is hingedly engaged with the stopper bracket, allowing it to pivot between contacting the forward side and the rearward side of the stopper bracket. This dynamic positioning enables the system to provide different steering angle limits: a more restricted angle when contacting the forward side to prevent snow chain interference, and a larger angle when contacting the rearward side for normal operation
Solution Approach 2:
The steering angle limit parameter can be changed by repositioning the stopper plate to contact different sides of the stopper bracket. When the stopper plate contacts the forward side, it provides a more restrictive steering angle limit for snow chain protection; when it contacts the rearward side, it allows for a larger steering angle range, thus dynamically adjusting the parameter based on operational needs
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
Enables variable steering angle limits to prevent snow chains from interfering with the suspension system, thereby preventing damage and ensuring smooth operation.
Implementation Method 1
the stopper plate may be formed of a magnetic material
Data Source
AI summary
A steering stopper unit for vehicle includes a stopper that is disposed to a knuckle and a stopper bracket that corresponds to the stopper and is disposed to a lower arm that is rotatably connected with a lower portion of the knuckle, and includes a stopper plate, which is hingedly engaged with an end of the stopper bracket, selectively contacts a forward side or rearward side of the stopper bracket, and has a predetermined thickness.