Vehicle Suspension Module Modular Bearing Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle suspension systems lack a modular design that allows for easy removal and replacement of suspension components, and existing crimping tools are not optimized for securely fixing components without damaging the housing.
Innovation Solution
A novel suspension module with a spherical bearing and adapter tubes, along with a specialized crimping tool using a cup holder and crimping cup with a beveled surface, allows for secure fixation of components within the suspension module housing without excessive crimping, utilizing a retainer ring and elastomeric ring for alignment and retention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If existing crimping tools are used to fix components in suspension housing, then components can be secured, but the housing may be damaged due to excessive crimping force
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a specialized crimping tool with a cup holder and crimping cup that acts as an intermediary between the crimping force and the suspension housing. The cup holder receives the spherical bearing and positions it against the housing, while the crimping cup applies controlled radial force to secure the bearing without excessive crimping that would damage the housing. This intermediary mechanism distributes and controls the securing force.
Solution Approach 2:
The crimping tool changes the parameters of the crimping process by providing a controlled, localized crimping action. The beveled surface of the crimping cup and the cup holder geometry transform the applied force into a controlled radial contraction that secures the bearing while limiting the crimping depth and force to prevent housing damage. This represents a change in how the crimping parameters (force, distribution, localization) are applied.
2Stability of the object's composition
If traditional suspension component design is used, then structural integrity is maintained, but removal and replacement becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the suspension assembly into modular segments: the spherical bearing, the cup holder, the crimping cup, and the suspension housing. The spherical bearing is designed as a separate component that can be independently removed and replaced. The cup holder and crimping cup form a removable securing mechanism. This segmentation allows the bearing to be easily removed and replaced while the housing remains intact, resolving the contradiction between structural integrity and ease of repair.
3Ease of manufacture
If spherical bearing is fixed without specialized tooling, then assembly is simple, but secure fixation cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The spherical bearing and cup holder are designed to work together in a self-service manner. The cup holder has a centered opening that receives the spherical bearing, and the bearing's geometry allows it to be positioned and secured by the crimping action without requiring additional alignment tools or complex procedures. The design enables the components to service each other's positioning and securing functions.
Data Source
AI summary
A suspension module for the suspension systems of vehicles, which is easily removed and replaced in a repair mode. The suspension module comprises a suspension module, a bearing housed in the suspension module wherein the bearing is comprised of a spherical bearing in a housing, the spherical bearing being fixed in the suspension module housing by a crimp in the housing. There is a set of two adapter tubes and a retainer ring mounted on the distal end of the suspension module housing to retain the suspension module in a suspension knuckle of a vehicle suspension system. There is also disclosed a crimping tool for placing a crimp in the housing to retain the spherical bearing therein.