Trailer Suspension Equalizer with Segmented Arms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional suspension systems for trailers lack the ability to effectively dampen or absorb harsh shocks and vibrations, resulting in a less comfortable ride, especially near the center frame hangar.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of independent equalizer arm assemblies within the equalizer that rotate and deform shock absorbers upon leaf spring movement, absorbing shocks and vibrations to improve ride comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a traditional rigid equalizer is used to equalize weight on axles, then weight distribution is improved, but shock and vibration absorption deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The equalizer is divided into multiple segments: a first equalizer arm and a second equalizer arm connected by a shock absorber. This segmentation allows each arm to independently respond to suspension movements while the shock absorber handles vibration damping, resolving the contradiction between maintaining stable weight distribution and absorbing shocks.
Solution Approach 2:
A shock absorber is introduced as an intermediary element between the first and second equalizer arms. This intermediary component specifically addresses shock and vibration absorption while allowing the equalizer mechanism to maintain its weight equalization function, thus resolving the technical contradiction.
2Strength
If the equalizer is made rigid to maintain structural stability, then structural integrity is improved, but ride comfort deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid equalizer structure is segmented into two arms connected by a shock absorber. The arms maintain structural integrity for strength, while the shock absorber provides compliance to reduce harsh shocks, resolving the contradiction between structural integrity and ride comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the equalizer have different properties: the equalizer arms are rigid to maintain structural integrity, while the shock absorber is compliant to reduce harsh shocks. This local differentiation of mechanical properties resolves the contradiction between strength and shock absorption.
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 allows for a 'softer' ride by effectively dampening harsh shocks and vibrations, enhancing the overall suspension system's performance by equalizing weight distribution across axles.
Implementation Method 1
the associated equalizer arm assembly or casting is forced to rotate within the equalizer and to deform a shock absorber provided within the equalizer. The shock absorber, upon the deformation thereof, absorbs the harsh shocks or vibrations
Implementation Method 2
The equalizer 22 basically has only one purpose for being including in the suspension system 20, which is to equalize the weight on both the front and rear axles 58, 60 as the tires pass over uneven terrain
Data Source
AI summary
An equalizer for a suspension system for a trailer is configured to absorb or dampen the harsh shocks or vibrations coming off of the leaf springs proximate to a center frame hangar, thus allowing for a “softer” ride. The equalizer utilizes one or two independent equalizer arm assemblies or castings which are each rotatably secured within the equalizer. Each equalizer arm assembly or casting is operatively associated with one of the leaf springs such that upon upward movement of the leaf spring, the associated equalizer arm assembly or casting is forced to rotate within the equalizer and to deform a shock absorber provided within the equalizer. The shock absorber, upon the deformation thereof, absorbs the harsh shocks or vibrations which would otherwise normally be transferred from the leaf springs, to the equalizer, and thus to the frame of the trailer.