Multi-Axle Suspension Load Equalization via Adjustable Pivot
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multi-axle vehicle suspension systems experience inadequate and abrupt load equalization between axles, leading to uneven stress distribution, reduced service life of suspension components, and potential damage to the vehicle and roadways due to unequal load distribution.
Innovation Solution
A multi-axle vehicle suspension system with at least two torsion axles, each coupled to a vehicle frame, and a pivotal member pivotally coupled to the frame and each torsion axle, featuring adjustable pivot points to absorb and distribute differential movements and loads more evenly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional equalizers are used in multi-axle suspension systems, then load equalization between axles is achieved, but the load equalization is abrupt and uneven, causing unequal moments about the center pivot point
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the equalizer arm movable and adjustable rather than fixed. The equalizer arm can pivot about a center pivot point and its position can be adjusted along the axle to dynamically balance loads between axles. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the system to adapt to varying load conditions and road surfaces, providing smooth and continuous load equalization rather than abrupt transitions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by varying the position of the equalizer arm along the axle to optimize load distribution. By changing the positional parameter of the equalizer arm, the system can adjust the moment arms and achieve balanced load equalization between multiple axles under different operating conditions, eliminating the abrupt and unequal moments caused by fixed configurations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If torsion axles with independent stub axles are used, then independent wheel movement is enhanced, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple components into a unified torsion axle assembly. Instead of separate suspension components for each wheel, the torsion axle integrates both wheels and their suspension functions into a single flexible structure. The torsion bar provides independent wheel movement capability while the equalizer arm combines load distribution functions, reducing overall system complexity despite maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The torsion axle assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides independent wheel movement, absorbs shock, distributes loads between axles, and maintains trailer alignment. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby reducing system complexity while enhancing adaptability and versatility.
3Device complexity
If rigid straight axles are used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but the trailer cannot compensate for uneven road surfaces, causing turning and misalignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flexible elements in the form of torsion bars and movable equalizer arms that can bend and rotate to accommodate uneven road surfaces. These flexible components allow the axle to maintain structural integrity while adapting to road irregularities, preventing trailer turning and misalignment that would occur with rigid straight axles.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces dynamic capabilities to the previously static rigid axle through movable equalizer arms and torsion bars. These dynamic elements allow real-time adjustment of wheel positions and load distribution, enabling the trailer to compensate for uneven road surfaces and maintain proper alignment without requiring complex rigid 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
The system effectively absorbs and distributes differential movements and loads, reducing stress on suspension components, enhancing vehicle stability and minimizing road damage by ensuring even load distribution across axles.
Implementation Method 1
A first torsion axle mounted to a first suspension pivot member... A second torsion axle mounted to a second suspension pivot member
Implementation Method 2
a pivotal member pivotally coupled to the vehicle frame and pivotally coupled to each torsion axle
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-axle vehicle suspension system comprising a first torsion axle mounted to a first suspension pivot member, the first suspension pivot member pivotally coupled to a vehicle frame, a second torsion axle mounted to a second suspension pivot member, the second suspension pivot member pivotally coupled to the vehicle frame, a pivot member pivotally coupled to the vehicle frame, the first suspension pivot member pivotally coupled to the pivot member, and the second suspension pivot member pivotally coupled to the pivot member.