Wheel Module Spring-Damper Positioning for Height Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing wheel modules for motor vehicles face design limitations due to the integration of level adjustment units with spring-damper units, requiring additional installation space and affecting the functionality, and changes to the chassis or vehicle equipment necessitate a complete redesign of the spring-damper unit, while inertia and weight impair the spring-damper unit's function.
Innovation Solution
The spring-damper unit is positioned between the wheel fork and the wheel carrier unit, decoupling it from the steering actuator, allowing for increased design freedom and functionality, with a rocker arm arrangement and a spindle drive with an electric drive unit for level adjustment, enabling independent operation of components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the level adjustment unit is integrated with the spring-damper unit, then the vehicle height can be adjusted, but the design freedom is limited and additional installation space is required
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel guide is divided into functionally independent units: the spring-damper unit and the level adjustment unit are separated into distinct components. The spring-damper unit handles suspension functions while the level adjustment unit independently manages height adjustment, eliminating design constraints and space requirements associated with integrated solutions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the level adjustment unit is integrated with the spring-damper unit, then height adjustment is possible, but changes to chassis require complete redesign of the spring-damper unit
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the wheel guide into independent functional modules, the spring-damper unit can be manufactured and supplied as a standard component. Modifications to chassis or vehicle equipment no longer require redesign of the suspension unit, reducing manufacturing complexity and enabling flexible customization.
3Volume of moving object
If the level adjustment unit is integrated with the spring-damper unit, then compact design is achieved, but the function of the spring-damper unit is impaired by inertia, weight and adjustment unit effects
Solution Approach 1:
The level adjustment unit is extracted from the spring-damper unit, eliminating the negative effects of inertia, weight, and mechanical interference on suspension performance. The spring-damper unit operates independently without being influenced by the adjustment mechanism, ensuring optimal reliability and performance.
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 enhances design flexibility and functionality by preventing component interference, allowing for improved steering and height adjustment without affecting the spring-damper unit's performance, suitable for self-driving motor vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
spring-damper unit
Implementation Method 2
spring-damper unit
Implementation Method 3
electric drive unit for level adjustment
Data Source
AI summary
A wheel module (10) for a motor vehicle includes a wheel (12) and a wheel guide (14) for guiding the wheel (12). The wheel guide (14) includes a wheel carrier unit (16) for supporting the wheel (12); a wheel fork (24) supporting the wheel carrier unit (16); a steering actuator (18) for adjusting the steering angle of the wheel (12);a spring-damper unit (28); and a level adjustment unit (36) for adjusting the height of the vehicle body (32) of the motor vehicle. The spring-damper unit (28) is arranged in a region of the wheel guide (14) between the wheel fork (24) and the wheel carrier unit (16).