Vehicle Subframe Spring Compression for Fast Manual Disassembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for servicing vehicle suspension systems, particularly the removal of springs, require significant force and often expensive complex equipment, making the process inefficient and costly.
Innovation Solution
A compression apparatus and system comprising blocks, connectors, and drive assemblies that allow for the manual compression of vehicle subframes, reducing the force needed to disengage springs from fasteners by aligning and positioning engagement plates and drive assemblies to compress leaf springs, thereby eliminating the conversion of potential energy into kinetic energy in fasteners.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If complex and expensive equipment is used to apply significant force to the spring, then the spring can be removed from the vehicle, but the equipment complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is divided into multiple functional components including first and second blocks, connectors, drive assemblies, and engagement plates. Each component performs a specific function in the compression process, allowing the system to achieve high force application through modular, manageable segments rather than a single complex device
Solution Approach 2:
Engagement plates are introduced as intermediary elements that interface between the apparatus and the vehicle subframe components. These plates distribute and transmit the compressive force efficiently, enabling the removal of springs without requiring excessively complex direct-force application mechanisms
2Force
If significant force is applied to the spring to facilitate removal, then the spring can be disengaged from fasteners, but the time and energy required increase
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is positioned and configured around the vehicle subframe before compression begins. Engagement plates are pre-aligned with mounting surfaces, and drive assemblies are prepared in advance, allowing immediate application of compressive force without setup delays during the actual spring removal process
Solution Approach 2:
The drive assemblies incorporate threaded sections that convert rotational motion into linear compression dynamically. This dynamic mechanism allows continuous adjustment of compression force and rate, optimizing the removal process to complete spring disengagement in minimal time while controlling the applied force
3Force
If heavy equipment is used to compress the subframe, then sufficient compression force is achieved, but the equipment becomes less portable and more expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The compression apparatus is segmented into multiple lighter components (blocks, connectors, drive assemblies) that can be handled and positioned separately. This segmentation reduces the weight of individual pieces of equipment while maintaining the capability to generate high compression force when assembled around the subframe
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus utilizes the vehicle subframe's own structure and geometry to facilitate positioning and application of compression force. Engagement plates interface with existing mounting surfaces, and the distributed connector system leverages the subframe's configuration, reducing the need for heavy external support structures
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
Facilitates quick, cost-effective, and efficient disassembly of vehicle subframe components with reduced downtime and manufacturing/servicing time, eliminating the need for heavy and expensive equipment, and enhancing throughput.
Implementation Method 1
The drive assembly includes a drive shaft comprising a head section, a threaded section, and an end section, the threaded section disposed between the head section and the end section
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to compression apparatus and compression systems, and related components and methods, for manufacturing and servicing operations. In one or more embodiments, a compression apparatus for vehicle subframes includes a first block, a second block spaced from the first block, a first connector extending between the first block and the second block, and a second connector extending between the first block and the second block. The compressions apparatus includes a drive assembly extending through the second block. The drive assembly includes a drive shaft comprising a head section, a threaded section, and an end section, the threaded section disposed between the head section and the end section. The drive assembly includes a drive cap coupled to the drive shaft.