Suspension Coupling Structure Reducing Kingpin Offset
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing suspension systems face issues with excessive kingpin offset and increased load on the steering input portion due to the positioning of the kingpin axis, leading to potential degradation in suspension performance.
Innovation Solution
A coupling structure is designed where the RevoKnuckle is engaged with a steering input portion and features a rotation transfer unit that allows the RevoKnuckle to rotate independently, with a kingpin axis positioned adjacent to the wheel's central axis, utilizing link units and ball joints to manage the rotation and distribute forces effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the steering input portion is located in each suspension with the kingpin axis spaced far from the wheel central axis, then the steering structure is simplified, but the kingpin offset becomes excessive and excessive load is generated on the steering input portion
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension system is divided into separate functional components: the RevoKnuckle for wheel positioning and the steering input portion for steering control. The RevoKnuckle includes a wheel mount portion, shock absorber connector, and lower arm connector, while the steering input portion is positioned separately on the vehicle body. This segmentation allows the kingpin axis to be optimally positioned near the wheel central axis, reducing kingpin offset and the resulting excessive loads on the steering input portion.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the kingpin axis is positioned far from the wheel central axis, then the steering input portion can be integrated into the suspension structure, but the kingpin offset increases excessively
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the suspension function (RevoKnuckle) from the steering input function. The RevoKnuckle handles wheel mounting, shock absorption, and lateral support, while the steering input portion is positioned independently on the vehicle body. This functional segmentation enables the kingpin axis to be positioned close to the wheel central axis, achieving precise control of kingpin offset while maintaining suspension integration through the link units that connect the RevoKnuckle to the vehicle body.
3Device complexity
If the RevoKnuckle is fixed to the assist knuckle, then the structure is simplified, but the suspension cannot absorb displacement generated according to wheel rebound
Solution Approach 1:
The RevoKnuckle is designed with rotational freedom relative to the assist knuckle through a spherical joint connection. This dynamic configuration allows the RevoKnuckle to rotate and absorb displacement generated during wheel rebound, maintaining suspension performance. The link units connect the RevoKnuckle to the vehicle body, providing structural support while allowing the necessary rotational movement for effective suspension operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling structure of suspension may include an assist knuckle, a RevoKnuckle rotatably engaged with the assist knuckle, rotated independently from the assist knuckle, and performing steering of a wheel located at an outermost periphery, a steering input portion fixed to a vehicle body and applying a steering force to the RevoKnuckle during steering, a rotation transfer unit located between and coupled between the RevoKnuckle and the steering input portion and absorbing angular displacement formed between the steering input portion and the RevoKnuckle, a first link unit having one end located on one side surface of the assist knuckle and the other end located at a lower end of the RevoKnuckle, and a second link unit having one end located on the other side surface of the assist knuckle and the other end located adjacent to the other end of the first link unit at the lower end of the RevoKnuckle.