Thrust Rod Assembly Anti-Rotation Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thrust rod assemblies for linear actuators in vehicle axle steering systems are complex and expensive due to the need for material connections to secure anti-rotation safeguards.
Innovation Solution
A thrust rod assembly design that uses a securing element independent of the first rod, slid onto a spindle shoulder and held axially between the spindle and the first rod, eliminating the need for complex anti-rotation safeguards on the rod.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an anti-rotation safeguard is formed on the rod with material connection, then the rod assembly is securely held against rotation, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The anti-rotation safeguard is separated from the rod and implemented as an independent securing element on the spindle. This segmentation allows the rod to remain simple while the securing element provides the anti-rotation function through non-round geometry interaction with the housing.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing element acts as an intermediary component between the spindle and the housing. It provides the anti-rotation safeguard function without requiring complex material connections to the rod, instead using a simple axial holding arrangement between the spindle shoulder and rod end.
2Reliability
If an anti-rotation safeguard is formed on the rod with material connection, then the rod assembly is securely held against rotation, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the anti-rotation function from the rod and implementing it as an independent securing element, the rod manufacturing is simplified. The securing element can be manufactured separately and held in place by simple axial positioning between the spindle and rod, eliminating expensive material connection processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing element is a simple, inexpensive component that can be easily manufactured and replaced if needed. Its simple axial holding arrangement between the spindle shoulder and rod end avoids the need for expensive permanent material connections while providing reliable anti-rotation security.
3Ease of manufacture
If a securing element is used independent of the rod, then manufacturing is simplified and costs are reduced, but the axial securing of the securing element must be achieved through the spindle-rod connection
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between the spindle and rod serves multiple functions: it transmits the driving force and simultaneously provides axial securing for the independent securing element. The spindle shoulder and rod end arrangement accomplishes both the mechanical connection and the anti-rotation safeguard positioning in a unified structure.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a thrust rod assembly for a linear actuator of an axle steering system of a vehicle, having at least one first rod and a spindle for converting a rotational movement of a drive device into a linear movement of the thrust rod assembly. The spindle has a spindle shoulder and, at a first axial end, a first connector shoulder for connection to the first rod. Between the spindle shoulder and the first connector shoulder, the spindle has a first receiving shoulder with a securing element received fixedly thereon for conjoint rotation for providing an anti-rotation safeguard of the thrust rod assembly. The securing element is held in the axial direction between the spindle shoulder and the first rod.