Torsion Beam Joint Layout for Torsional Durability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing torsion beam joint structures restrict torsional motion, leading to decreased durability of the torsion beam.

Innovation Solution

A torsion beam joint structure with a set of joint portions arranged in an inverted V-shape, including an outer joint portion at the lowermost position and an inner joint portion at the uppermost position, which are aligned with imaginary lines orthogonal to the maximum principal stress directions, allowing for efficient stress dispersion without restricting torsional motion.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If riveted joint points are located at positions that limit torsional motion (at the upper surface of the torsion beam), then the joining strength is improved, but the torsional motion of the torsion beam is restricted and durability is decreased

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvejoining strengthVSAvoiddurability in torsion mode
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from a single-plane joint arrangement (conventional upper surface only) to a multi-dimensional arrangement by positioning joint portions at both the upper surface and lower surface of the torsion beam. This spatial distribution in multiple dimensions allows the joints to accommodate torsional deformation while maintaining joining strength, thereby resolving the contradiction between strength and durability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The joint structure is segmented into multiple joint portions distributed at different locations (upper surface and lower surface) of the torsion beam. This segmentation allows each joint portion to independently handle stress, preventing stress concentration at a single location and enabling the torsion beam to maintain both strength and torsional flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Weight of moving object

If the thickness of torsion beam components is reduced for weight reduction, then weight is decreased, but strength and rigidity may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveweight of torsion beamVSAvoidstrength and rigidity
Core Design Contradiction:
Weight of moving objectVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

By distributing joint portions across multiple dimensions (upper and lower surfaces), the patent achieves enhanced structural efficiency that allows for thickness reduction. The multi-dimensional joint arrangement creates a more efficient stress distribution pattern, enabling weight reduction while maintaining or even improving strength and rigidity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs a composite joint structure combining multiple joint portions at different locations, creating a composite structural system that achieves superior strength-to-weight ratio. This composite arrangement allows the use of thinner components while maintaining overall structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Data Source

PatentUS12202312B2Torsion beam joint structure
Publication Date: 2025.01.21 HONDA MOTOR CO LTD
  • US12202312B2 patent drawing
  • US12202312B2 patent drawing
  • US12202312B2 patent drawing

AI summary

There is provided a torsion beam joint structure in a torsion beam suspension including a torsion beam and right and left trailing arms connected to end portions of the torsion beam. The torsion beam has front and rear wall portions, an upper wall portion, and an opening provided at a lower side in an upper-lower direction of the vehicle. The front wall portion and the rear wall portion have a set of joint portions on their right side and left side in the vehicle width direction, by which the front wall portion and the rear wall portion are joined to each of the trailing arms. The set of joint portions includes an outer joint portion located on an outer side at a lowermost position, and an inner joint portion located on an inner side at an uppermost position. The inner joint portion is located higher than the outer joint portion.