Suspension Subframe Link Attachment Structure for Torsional Rigidity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional automobile suspension structures face challenges in maintaining rigidity, particularly against torsional deformation and local deformation of link attachment parts when subjected to lateral forces, which affects ride quality and driving stability.
Innovation Solution
The proposed automobile suspension structure includes a subframe with side members and cross members, featuring link attachment parts that are pivotable across the automobile length direction, with the link attachment parts being integrated with the side and cross members to enhance structural rigidity through a hat-shaped configuration and reinforcing elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional undercarriage components are used with existing fastening methods, then the structure is simple, but the fastening reliability is insufficient due to vibration and thermal expansion differences
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system is divided into multiple functional components: a fastening component with threaded engagement, a separate elastic element (disc spring) that compensates for vibration and thermal effects, and a locking mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to address specific reliability issues independently while maintaining overall system manageability.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic disc spring element is pre-installed in the fastening component to provide cushioning against vibrations and thermal expansion differences before they cause damage. This beforehand cushioning prevents loosening and failure by absorbing dynamic loads and accommodating dimensional changes in advance.
2Ease of operation
If traditional fastening methods are used, then the manufacturing process is simple, but assembly and disassembly require excessive force and time
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening component incorporates a locking mechanism that dynamically transitions between locked and unlocked states. During assembly, the mechanism allows easy engagement with a locking action; during disassembly, it provides a controlled release. This dynamic behavior reduces the force and time required for operations while maintaining secure fastening during service.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic disc spring acts as an intermediary element between the fastening threads and the components being joined. It mediates the force transmission, providing gradual loading during assembly and controlled force during disassembly, which reduces peak forces required and simplifies the operational process.
3Adaptability or versatility
If rigid fastening connections are used, then the structure is simple, but the components cannot accommodate vibrations and thermal expansion differences
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic disc spring changes its physical parameters (deflection, force) in response to vibrations and thermal expansion. As temperature changes or vibrations occur, the spring dynamically adjusts its compression state, maintaining constant contact pressure and accommodating dimensional changes without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening assembly combines materials with different properties: the elastic disc spring (typically polymer or elastomer) complements the metallic fastening component. This composite approach allows the system to exhibit both the strength of metal and the flexibility of elastic materials, accommodating thermal and vibrational effects while maintaining structural integrity.
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
This configuration significantly improves the rigidity of the suspension structure, reducing local deformation and enhancing ride quality and driving stability by integrating the side, cross members, and link attachment parts, as demonstrated by simulation results showing increased rigidity against lateral forces and torsional deformation.
Implementation Method 1
a fastening component comprising a fastening body and an elastic element integrated with the fastening body, the elastic element comprising a disc spring
Data Source
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AI summary
An automobile suspension structure includes: a subframe; a first link; and a second link, in which the subframe includes: a pair of side members; a pair of cross members; and a link attachment part, the link attachment part is arranged to be continuous with an end of the cross member, the link attachment part includes: a first link attachment part; and a second link attachment part, the link attachment part is joined to an upper surface and a lower surface of the side member in an automobile height direction and an outer surface of the side member in an automobile width direction, the first link attachment part and the second link attachment part are arranged with the side member sandwiched therebetween in the automobile height direction, the first link is attached to the first link attachment part, and the second link is attached to the second link attachment part.