Subframe Insert Parts for Adjustable Control Arm Height
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manufacturing different subframes for passenger vehicles with varying ground clearance levels results in high manufacturing costs due to the need for distinct control arm configurations, which are not specified until late in the process.
Innovation Solution
A subframe with variably adjustable control arm connections using insert parts that differ in vertical position, allowing for late specification of ground clearance variant, featuring interlocking and frictional connections, and a design that includes threaded holes and bush-like portions for robust and space-saving connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If different subframes are manufactured for high and low ground clearance vehicles, then the control arm connections are optimized for each vehicle type, but manufacturing costs increase due to multiple variants
Solution Approach 1:
The control arm connection is segmented into a standardized subframe body and interchangeable insert parts. The insert parts are further segmented into different height variants that can be selected based on vehicle type. This allows the main subframe structure to be manufactured once and reused, while only the specific insert part needs to vary between high and low ground clearance vehicles.
Solution Approach 2:
The subframe is designed with universal compatibility through standardized opening geometries that can accommodate multiple insert part variants. The same subframe body can serve both high ground clearance and low ground clearance vehicles by simply changing the insert part, making the subframe design multi-functional across different vehicle types.
2Productivity
If control arm connections are specified early in manufacturing, then production planning is simplified, but flexibility to accommodate late specification of ground clearance variant is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The subframe body is prepared in advance with standardized openings and mounting structures, but the specific insert part is not permanently attached until the final configuration is determined. This preliminary preparation allows the subframe to be ready for assembly while maintaining the flexibility to select the appropriate insert part variant at a later stage based on vehicle type requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The control arm connection system transitions from a fixed, early-specified configuration to a dynamic, late-specified configuration. The modular insert parts can be selected and attached at different stages of the manufacturing process, allowing the system to adapt its configuration dynamically based on the final vehicle type determination, thereby maintaining both productivity and flexibility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple insert parts with different vertical positions are used, then ground clearance variants can be accommodated, but control arm connection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Only the local region where the insert part is attached varies between high and low ground clearance variants, while the rest of the subframe structure remains identical. The insert parts differ only in their vertical position and mounting characteristics, allowing the control arm connection to be adapted locally without changing the overall subframe design or introducing system-wide complexity.
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 cost reduction by using a single subframe design for both high and low ground clearance vehicles, with adjustable control arm suspension that can be specified late in the manufacturing process, maintaining robustness and reducing material weight while ensuring reliable connections.
Implementation Method 1
the insert part being received in an interlocking manner in an opening in the subframe and being integrally and/or frictionally connected to the subframe
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a subframe for a passenger vehicle. The subframe includes at least two longitudinal members, at least one crossmember which interconnects the longitudinal members, vehicle body connecting elements for connecting the subframe to a vehicle body, and at least one control arm connection for each side of the vehicle. The control arm connection has at least one insert part which is received in an interlocking manner in an opening of the subframe and is integrally and/or frictionally connected to the subframe. The insert part has a connecting portion for forming a screw connection and being chosen from a group comprising at least two different insert parts, the various insert parts differing from one another in terms of the vertical position of the connecting portion.