Wheel Alignment Control With Real-Time Camber and Toe Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle suspension systems require manual adjustment of settings like camber, castor, and toe, which is time-consuming and expensive for vehicles used in multiple driving conditions, and there is a need for quick, easy, and automated wheel alignment monitoring and adjustment.
Innovation Solution
The development of electromechanical apparatuses and systems that can independently or jointly control wheel alignment settings, including devices with drive motors, gears, and offset bushings to adjust camber and castor, and systems with IMUs and magnetometers for precise monitoring and automatic correction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual adjustment of wheel alignment settings is used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity deteriorates due to time-consuming and expensive adjustment processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment with an electromechanical system comprising drive motors, gears, and offset bushings that automatically adjust wheel alignment settings. This substitution enables rapid, precise adjustment without manual intervention, directly resolving the productivity-device complexity contradiction by automating the adjustment process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors and control mechanisms that enable the wheel alignment system to self-adjust and self-monitor. The electromechanical apparatus automatically detects alignment deviations and corrects them without external intervention, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating the need for manual adjustment while maintaining simplicity through automation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed wheel alignment settings are used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability deteriorates for vehicles used in multiple driving conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic wheel alignment system where settings can be changed in real-time based on driving conditions. The electromechanical apparatus allows adjustment of camber, castor, and toe settings according to whether the vehicle is used for commuting or sport/recreational activities, enabling the system to adapt dynamically rather than remaining fixed.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromechanical adjustment system serves multiple functions: it adjusts wheel alignment for different driving modes (commuting and sport), monitors alignment settings via sensors, and can be controlled through user interfaces. This multi-functionality provides universal adaptability across various driving conditions while consolidating controls into a single integrated system.
3Adaptability or versatility
If frequent wheel alignment adjustment is performed, then adaptability is improved for varying driving conditions, but loss of time increases due to manual adjustment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces time-consuming manual adjustment with automated electromechanical adjustment driven by motors and gear mechanisms. This substitution reduces adjustment time from potentially lengthy manual procedures to rapid automated movements, enabling frequent adjustments between driving modes without significant time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-positions adjustment mechanisms and maintains components in ready states, allowing immediate adjustment when driving conditions change. The electromechanical apparatus is designed so that alignment changes can be initiated instantly without preparation time, enabling seamless transitions between commuting and sport modes.
4Ease of operation
If manual wheel alignment adjustment is used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates requiring mechanic intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes manual adjustment operations with an electromechanical system that automatically adjusts wheel alignment through motor-driven mechanisms. This substitution dramatically improves ease of operation, allowing drivers to change alignment settings without mechanic intervention, while the manufacturing complexity is managed through modular design and standardization of components.
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
These systems improve handling performance, safety, fuel efficiency, and tire life by allowing quick and precise adjustment of wheel alignment, even in varying conditions, and provide real-time monitoring and alerting mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
a magnet module configured to generate a magnetic field and a sensor module including a magnetometer coupled to the wheel assembly and configured to detect the magnetic field generated by the magnet module
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses and systems for monitoring wheel alignment and/or for controlling vehicle suspension settings to adjust alignment. Described herein are alignment monitoring apparatuses for determining wheel alignment (e.g., camber, castor and/or toe). Also described herein are alignment adjusting or control apparatuses for adjusting one or more of camber, caster and/or toe.