Torsion Rod Preload Device for Vehicle Deck Lid Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of torsion rods in vehicles is challenging due to the need for high force and the risk of damage from high heat processes like painting, which often require torsion rods to be installed after certain manufacturing stages are complete.
Innovation Solution
A torsion rod preload device comprising a body, driver, and retainer that allows for incremental loading of torsion force onto the torsion rods, enabling easy installation without maximum torque initially and allowing for adjustment of stored energy levels post-manufacturing processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If torsion rod is installed under high force to provide sufficient opening force for deck lid, then the deck lid can be reliably opened, but the installation becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The torsion rod is pre-assembled with the driver and retainer components in a controlled manner before installation into the vehicle. The driver is preliminarily positioned to engage with the torsion rod, and the retainer is preliminarily set to engage with the stop, allowing the entire assembly to be installed as a unit rather than requiring complex multi-step installation under high force conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The driver acts as an intermediary component between the torsion rod and the retainer/stop assembly. It facilitates the engagement process by providing a controlled interface that allows incremental loading of the torsion rod, preventing direct high-force installation difficulties.
2Adaptability or versatility
If torsion rod is installed before high heat painting processes, then installation timing is flexible, but the high heat may adversely affect the torsion rod
Solution Approach 1:
The torsion rod assembly is pre-assembled and pre-loaded with the driver and retainer in place before the vehicle undergoes high heat painting processes. This preliminary assembly ensures the torsion rod is protected from heat damage since it is installed after the painting, while the pre-assembly approach maintains installation timing flexibility by allowing the complete assembly to be installed in one step at the appropriate time.
Solution Approach 2:
The driver serves as a protective intermediary that allows the torsion rod to be assembled with retaining mechanisms before heat exposure, while the retainer-stop engagement system ensures the torsion rod remains protected during painting processes and can be activated after heating is complete.
3Force
If maximum torque is applied to torsion rod during installation, then sufficient opening force is achieved, but the installation requires high force and is difficult to perform
Solution Approach 1:
The torsion rod is preliminarily assembled with the driver and retainer components in a controlled sequence, allowing the torsion force to be gradually applied and secured. The driver is preliminarily positioned to engage the torsion rod, and the retainer is preliminarily set to engage the stop at a controlled position, enabling incremental loading rather than requiring maximum torque during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The driver acts as an intermediary mechanism that facilitates controlled engagement of the torsion rod with the retainer and stop. It provides a controlled interface that allows incremental application of torsion force, preventing the need for high-force installation while maintaining sufficient opening force in the completed assembly.
4Reliability
If retainer is engaged with stop to maintain desired torsion force, then the torsion rod stores energy reliably, but the driver movement is inhibited
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides dynamic adjustability during assembly, allowing the driver to move relative to the body and engage the retainer with the stop at different positions to achieve desired torsion force levels. During normal operation, the retainer remains engaged with the stop to maintain reliable energy storage, but the design allows for adjustment during assembly and maintenance phases.
Solution Approach 2:
The driver serves as an intermediary that provides controlled movement during assembly, allowing adjustment of the retainer's engagement position with the stop. This intermediary mechanism enables setting of desired torsion force levels during installation while maintaining reliable energy storage during normal operation through the retainer-stop engagement.
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
Facilitates easier and safer installation of torsion rods, preventing damage from high heat and allowing for adjustable torque levels, ensuring reliable operation and maintenance of vehicle panels like deck lids.
Implementation Method 1
movement of the driver relative to the body increases a torsion force within the torsion rod
Implementation Method 2
The retainer is engageable with the stop to inhibit or prevent movement of the driver when the retainer is engaged with the stop to maintain a desired magnitude of stored energy in the torsion rod
Data Source
AI summary
In at least one implementation, a torsion rod preload device, includes a body, a driver and a retainer. The body may have a base adapted to be connected to a vehicle and at least one stop. The driver is carried by the body for movement relative to the body, and is adapted to engage a torsion rod so that movement of the driver relative to the body increases a torsion force within the torsion rod. The retainer is carried by one or both of the body and the driver, and is movable by the driver as the driver moves relative to the body. The retainer is engageable with the stop to inhibit or prevent movement of the driver when the retainer is engaged with the stop to maintain a desired torsion force in the torsion rod.