Suspension Slider Assembly for Adjustable Axle Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle suspension systems for heavy-duty vehicles lack flexibility in adjusting the position of the suspension slider assembly relative to the vehicle frame, limiting adaptability to varying vehicle configurations and load conditions.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle suspension arrangement featuring a suspension slider assembly that is slidably coupled to a vehicle frame assembly, incorporating longitudinal and lateral frame members, gusset members, and a suspension assembly with leaf springs and hanger brackets, allowing for adjustable positioning and support via axle members.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed suspension assembly is used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to varying vehicle configurations and load conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension assembly incorporates a slider mechanism that enables dynamic repositioning along the vehicle frame. The slider assembly can move between multiple positions and be locked at each position, transforming a static fixed suspension into a dynamic adjustable system that adapts to different vehicle configurations and load conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The suspension assembly is divided into separable components including the slider assembly, frame members, and suspension elements. This segmentation allows the slider to be independently positioned and locked at different locations along the frame, providing adaptability while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular design.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed suspension assembly is used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to different vehicle spacings deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The slider mechanism provides dynamic adjustability along the vehicle frame, allowing the suspension assembly to accommodate different vehicle spacings and configurations. This dynamic capability is achieved through a standardized slider design that can be positioned at multiple predetermined locations, balancing manufacturing simplicity with operational adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The slider assembly serves multiple functions: it enables repositioning for different vehicle spacings, accommodates varying load conditions, and maintains structural integrity. This multi-functionality is achieved through a universal slider design that can operate at different positions without requiring custom components for each configuration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the suspension assembly is made rigid and fixed, then structural stability is maintained, but flexibility in repositioning deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension assembly transitions from a purely rigid fixed structure to a dynamic system with controlled mobility. The slider mechanism allows movement during adjustment but provides locked positions during operation, achieving both repositioning flexibility and structural stability through time-dependent structural behavior.
Solution Approach 2:
The assembly is segmented into the movable slider component and the fixed frame structure. This segmentation allows the slider to provide repositioning flexibility while the rigid frame members maintain structural stability. The connection between slider and frame through controlled articulation points enables both mobility during adjustment and stability during operation.
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
Enables flexible repositioning of the suspension slider assembly along the vehicle frame, enhancing adaptability to different vehicle spacings and load conditions while maintaining structural integrity and ease of assembly.
Implementation Method 1
a spring member positioned between the suspension slider assembly and the axle member
Implementation Method 2
a first hanger bracket pivotably coupling the first end of the at least one leaf spring to the suspension slider assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle suspension arrangement includes a suspension slider assembly including first and second laterally spaced longitudinal frame members configured to be slidably coupled to a first vehicle frame member, first and second gusset members fixed to the first and second longitudinal frame members and each including a relief, a first lateral frame member extending between the first and second longitudinal frame members, the first lateral frame member having ends received within the reliefs, an axle member configured to support a pair of wheel assemblies, and a suspension assembly configured to support the suspension slider assembly from the axle member, the suspension assembly including a spring member positioned between the suspension slider assembly and the axle member.