Suspension Coupling Structure With Variable Rod Steering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current suspension systems face limitations in applying steering force to the wheel only when the knuckle is rotated simultaneously with an assist knuckle, restricting independent wheel steering and effective absorption of displacement during wheel rebound.
Innovation Solution
A coupling structure incorporating a RevoKnuckle independently rotated from the assist knuckle, a steering input portion, and a rotation transmission unit with a variable rod system that adjusts length in response to wheel rebound, allowing independent steering and displacement absorption in both vertical and width directions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the knuckle is rotated simultaneously with an assist knuckle to apply steering force, then the steering force can be applied to the wheel, but the wheel cannot perform independent steering and the degree of freedom is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The assist knuckle is divided into two independently rotatable components: the assist knuckle itself and the RevoKnuckle. This segmentation allows the RevoKnuckle to perform independent steering rotation while the assist knuckle handles suspension functions, resolving the contradiction between independent steering capability and structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The RevoKnuckle is nested within the assist knuckle structure, with the RevoKnuckle positioned inside the assist knuckle's hollow chamber. This nesting arrangement enables independent rotation of the RevoKnuckle while maintaining a compact overall structure, addressing both independent steering capability and device complexity.
2Reliability
If a fixed-length rotation transmission unit is used, then the structure is simple, but it cannot effectively absorb displacement generated according to wheel rebound
Solution Approach 1:
The rotation transmission unit employs a variable-length rod instead of a fixed-length rod. The variable-length rod can dynamically adjust its length in response to wheel rebound movements, effectively absorbing displacement while maintaining structural integrity. This dynamic adjustment capability resolves the contradiction between displacement absorption and structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The length parameter of the rotation transmission unit is made variable rather than fixed. The variable-length rod changes its length parameter according to the wheel's rebound motion, enabling effective displacement absorption. This parameter change approach balances reliability with controlled structural complexity.
3Force
If the RevoKnuckle is fixed to the assist knuckle, then the structure is stable, but steering force cannot be effectively transmitted during wheel rebound
Solution Approach 1:
The variable-length rod acts as an intermediary element between the steering input portion and the RevoKnuckle. It transmits steering force while accommodating wheel rebound movements through its variable length capability. This intermediary mechanism enables effective force transmission without requiring a rigid fixed connection, balancing force transmission with controlled complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling structure of a suspension, may include a lower arm having one end portion engaged with a vehicle body, an assist knuckle in which a strut is located, a RevoKnuckle engaged with the assist knuckle, rotated independently from the assist knuckle, and configured to perform steering of a vehicle wheel, a steering input portion fixed to the vehicle body and configured to apply a steering force to the RevoKnuckle during steering, and a rotation transmission unit which is engaged with the RevoKnuckle and the steering input portion and has a length which is varied in a response to a wheel rebound of a vehicle.