DESC:SPEED SENSOR MOUNTING IN VEHICLE SUSPENSION SYSTEM
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
The present application claims priority from Indian Provisional Patent Application No. 202421024547 filed on 27/03/2024, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by a reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present disclosure generally relates to a suspension system. Particularly, the present disclosure relates to a speed sensor mounting in vehicle suspension system.
BACKGROUND
Recently, there has been a rapid development in the automotive technologies. The automobiles contain a propulsion system that propels the vehicle from one position to another by generating power and transferring the generated power to the wheels of the vehicle. The vehicles comprise various components that mechanically interact with each other to perform their designated function.
Generally, in two-wheelers, there is a need to measure the rotational speed of the wheel for providing accurate speed data for the speedometer. For these purpose, the speed sensor is used. Also, the speed sensor is essential for advanced features like ABS, traction control, and trip meter calculations. Additionally, the sensor aids in fuel efficiency monitoring and overall vehicle performance diagnostics. Usually, the magnetic proximity speed sensor is a type of speed sensor used to detects the rotational speed of a wheel, by sensing changes in the magnetic field. The sensor operates based on the principle of magnetic field variation. As a rotating metal disc (such as a toothed gear or speed disc) moves past the sensor which causes fluctuations in the magnetic field. These variations are detected by the sensor and converts into electrical pulses. Furthermore, the speed sensor is mounted on the fixed mounting arrangement to a designated location, such as the wheel hub, suspension fork, or gearbox, without adjustability. Due to which the mounting arrangement of the speed sensor often faces challenges related to maintaining an optimal gap between the sensor and the speed sensing disc or wheel.
Typically, the variations in maintaining the optimal gap between the wheel speed sensor and the rotating disc arises due to manufacturing inconsistencies in the components and assembly processes. The factors such as dimensional deviations in the sensor housing or mounting bracket due to inadequate machining or moulding tolerances may directly affect the gap. Furthermore, the surface irregularities and misaligned mounting points during manufacturing may be also contributes to inconsistent spacing. Additionally, variations in fastener torque during assembly or improper alignment during installation may be exacerbate the issue. These manufacturing discrepancies result in uneven gaps, potentially affecting the sensor's ability to detect speed accurately and reliably. However, the consistent gap between the speed sensor and rotating disc is critical for accurate speed sensing, as the gap ensures the magnetic field generated by the sensor may properly detect the passing teeth or slots on the rotating disc. If the Gap difference occurs between the speed sensor and the rotating disc, there may be chances of inaccurate speed readings or signal loss, affecting the speedometer and safety systems like ABS. Also, excessive gaps weaken the magnetic field detection and may create noise, while insufficient gaps risk physical contact, causing sensor damage.
Therefore, there is a need of improved mounting arrangement for wheel speed sensor to overcome the one or more problems associated as set forth above.
SUMMARY
An object of the present disclosure is to provide a speed sensor mounting in vehicle suspension system.
In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a suspension system of a vehicle. The suspension system comprises a suspension fork comprising a threaded hole, a wheel speed sensor, screwed in the threaded hole of the suspension fork and a locking mechanism, mounted on the wheel speed sensor to restrict the movement of the wheel speed sensor in the threaded hole.
The present disclosure provides a suspension system of a vehicle. The suspension system as disclosed in present disclosure is advantageously offers a precise and stable sensor placement, thereby eliminating the need for additional brackets or complex mounting structures. Beneficially, the suspension system has an ability to adjust the sensor along the axis that allows for fine-tuning the predefined gap with the speed sensing disc. Beneficially, the suspension system ensures the optimal signal detection and accuracy. Furthermore, the suspension system beneficially prevents unintended movement of the wheel speed sensor, thereby maintaining the consistent performance even under vibrations and dynamic riding conditions. Additionally, the suspension system enhances the durability by minimizing the risk of misalignment or sensor displacement over time. Furthermore, the suspension system has a provision to easily assemble the speed sensor which overcomes the issues such as variations in gaps that occur due to manufacturing inconsistencies during the manufacturing of various components. Moreover, the suspension system reduces maintenance efforts and ensures long-term reliability of speed sensing and improves the safety and efficiency in vehicle operation.
Additional aspects, advantages, features and objects of the present disclosure would be made apparent from the drawings and the detailed description of the illustrative embodiments constructed in conjunction with the appended claims that follow.
It will be appreciated that features of the present disclosure are susceptible to being combined in various combinations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
The summary above, as well as the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the present disclosure, exemplary constructions of the disclosure are shown in the drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to specific methods and instrumentalities disclosed herein. Moreover, those in the art will understand that the drawings are not to scale. Wherever possible, like elements have been indicated by identical numbers.
Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following diagrams wherein:
FIG. 1a illustrates a side view of a suspension system of a vehicle, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure.
FIG. 1b illustrates a perspective view of a suspension system of a vehicle, in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure.
FIG. 1c illustrates a cross-section view of a suspension system of a vehicle, in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure.
In the accompanying drawings, an underlined number is employed to represent an item over which the underlined number is positioned or an item to which the underlined number is adjacent. A non-underlined number relates to an item identified by a line linking the non-underlined number to the item. When a number is non-underlined and accompanied by an associated arrow, the non-underlined number is used to identify a general item at which the arrow is pointing.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The following detailed description illustrates embodiments of the present disclosure and ways in which they can be implemented. Although some modes of carrying out the present disclosure have been disclosed, those skilled in the art would recognise that other embodiments for carrying out or practising the present disclosure are also possible.
The description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of certain embodiments of a suspension system of a vehicle and is not intended to represent the only forms that may be developed or utilised. The description sets forth the various structures and/or functions in connection with the illustrated embodiments; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the disclosure that may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale; some features may be exaggerated or minimised to show details of particular components. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention.
While the disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiment thereof has been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail below. It should be understood, however, that it is not intended to limit the disclosure to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the disclosure.
The terms “comprise”, “comprises”, “comprising”, “include(s)”, or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a setup, system that comprises a list of components or steps does not include only those components or steps but may include other components or steps not expressly listed or inherent to such setup or system. In other words, one or more elements in a system or apparatus preceded by “comprises... a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other elements or additional elements in the system or apparatus.
In the following detailed description of the embodiments of the disclosure, reference is made to the accompanying drawings and which are shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the disclosure may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The following description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.
The present disclosure will be described herein below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, well known functions or constructions are not described in detail since they would obscure the description with unnecessary detail.
As used herein, the terms “vehicle” refers to any vehicle including but not limited to two-wheelers, three-wheelers, four-wheelers, and other automotive or non-automotive mobility systems, that incorporates a suspension system for absorbing shocks and vibrations during motion. The vehicle may be powered by internal combustion engines, electric motors, hybrid powertrains, or other propulsion systems, and may include land-based, off-road, or specialized transport applications.
As used herein, the term “suspension system” refers to an assembly of interconnected components designed to support the vehicle structure while accommodating relative movement between the wheels and the chassis. The suspension system comprises elements such as springs, dampers, control arms, and linkages, which work collectively to absorb road-induced shocks, maintain tire contact with the surface, and ensure ride comfort and vehicle stability.
As used herein, the terms “suspension fork” refers to a structural component of a vehicle's suspension system, typically comprising a pair of parallel fork arms connected to a steering assembly or chassis at one end and supporting a wheel assembly at the other. The suspension fork is designed to absorb shocks and vibrations using damping mechanisms such as springs, hydraulic dampers, or air-based suspensions. The suspension fork serves as a mounting structure for additional components, including speed sensors, brake assemblies, and wheel hubs, facilitating controlled motion and load distribution in response to terrain variations.
As used herein, the term “threaded hole” refers to a pre-formed hole in a component, such as a suspension fork, having internal threads configured to receive and secure a threaded fastener or a sensor with a threaded body. The threaded hole is designed to allow the wheel speed sensor to be screwed in, enabling precise positioning and adjustment along its axis.
As used herein, the term “wheel speed sensor” refers to a sensing device configured to detect the rotational speed of a vehicle's wheel by generating signals corresponding to the movement of a speed sensing disc or other rotating element. The sensor is mounted on the vehicle’s suspension system and positioned to maintain a predefined gap with the speed sensing disc, ensuring accurate speed measurement. The detected speed data is transmitted to vehicle control systems for functions such as speed display, anti-lock braking (ABS), and traction control.
As used herein, the term “locking mechanism” refers to a mechanical component configured to secure the wheel speed sensor in a predefined position within the threaded hole of the suspension fork, restricting unintended movement. The locking mechanism may include, but is not limited to, a security nut, a worm gear that applies a compressional force on the sensor to maintain a stable gap with the speed sensing disc.
As used herein, the term “speed sensing disc” refers to a rotatable component mounted on a wheel hub or associated rotating member of a vehicle, configured to interact with a wheel speed sensor for detecting rotational speed. The speed sensing disc may comprise a series of detectable features, such as slots, teeth, magnets, or encoded patterns, which generate signals as they pass by the sensor. These signals are processed to determine wheel speed, enabling functions like speed measurement, traction control, and anti-lock braking system (ABS) operation.
As used herein, the term “wheel hub” refers to a central component of the wheel assembly that serves as the mounting point for the wheel and connects the wheel to the axle or suspension system. The wheel hub typically includes a bearing or set of bearings to allow the wheel to rotate smoothly around the axle and may also incorporate features such as a disc for speed sensing or other components. The wheel hub is designed to transmit rotational motion from the wheel to other vehicle systems, such as the speed sensor, enabling the measurement of wheel speed for various functions.
As used herein, the term “predefined gap” refers to a specific, calibrated distance between the wheel speed sensor and the speed sensing disc. The gap is carefully determined to ensure optimal sensor performance, allowing for accurate signal detection without interference or physical contact between the sensor and disc. The predefined gap is critical for maintaining consistent functionality of the speed sensing mechanism, ensuring precise measurements of wheel speed while accommodating for potential tolerances and variations in manufacturing. The predefined gap may be in a range of 0.5 mm to 2 mm depending on configuration and type of sensor used.
Figure 1a, 1b & 1c in accordance with an embodiment describes a suspension system 100 of a vehicle. The suspension system 100 comprises a suspension fork 102, comprising a threaded hole 104, a wheel speed sensor 106, screwed in the threaded hole 104 of the suspension fork 102 and a locking mechanism 108, mounted on the wheel speed sensor 106 to restrict the movement of the wheel speed sensor 106 in the threaded hole 104.
The present disclosure provides the suspension system 100 of the vehicle. The suspension system 100 as disclosed by the present disclosure is advantageously enhance the precision, reliability, and adjustability of the mounting of the wheel speed sensor 106. Beneficially, the integration of the threaded hole 104 in the suspension fork 102 and the ability to securely mount the wheel speed sensor 106 with a locking mechanism 108 provides a stable platform for accurate speed measurement. Moreover, the locking mechanism 108 as disclosed by present disclosure is advantageously ensures the wheel speed sensor 106 remains fixed within the threaded hole 104, thereby prevents the unwanted movement of the wheel speed sensor 106 during operation. Beneficially, the suspension system 100 improving data consistency and the reliability on the wheel speed sensor 106. Additionally, the suspension system 100 allows for easy adjustment of the wheel speed sensor 106 within the threaded hole 104, enabling maintenance of a precise gap with the speed sensing disc 110, crucial for accurate speed readings. Beneficially, the suspension system 100 enables fine-tuning of the position of the wheel speed sensor 106 to account for manufacturing tolerances, wear, or environmental changes. Furthermore, the locking mechanism 108 restricts the movement and also applies compressional force on the wheel speed sensor 106 which helps to securing the sensor in desired position and minimizing vibrations that may lead to sensor misalignment. Additionally, the use of a worm gear as part of the locking mechanism 108 offers the added benefit of a self-locking feature, which prevents back-driving and maintains the alignment of the sensor without requiring continuous manual intervention.
In an embodiment, the suspension system 100 comprises a speed sensing disc 110 mounted on a wheel hub 112. The speed sensing disc 110 may be designed to interact with the wheel speed sensor 106 to detect the rotational speed of the wheel. The speed sensing disc may be typically fabricated from a durable material such as metal or a composite, which ensures that the speed sensing disc 110 may withstand the forces exerted during wheel rotation while providing the necessary pattern or features for the wheel speed sensor 106 to detect. Furthermore, the wheel hub 112 serves as the central component of the wheel assembly, and the speed sensing disc 110 may be attached directly to the wheel hub 112 in a manner that ensures accurate alignment with the wheel speed sensor 106, thereby allowing for precise speed measurements.
In an embodiment, the speed sensing disc 110 may be separately mounted within the suspension system 100, independent of the wheel hub 112. Beneficially, the sperate mounting allows for flexible positioning of the speed sensing disc 110 for optimal alignment with the wheel speed sensor 106. Moreover, the separate mounting ensures accurate speed detection while maintaining the structural integrity of the suspension system 100.
In an embodiment, the wheel speed sensor 106 is secured via the locking mechanism 108 inside the threaded hole 104 to maintain a predefined gap with the speed sensing disc 110. Furthermore, the wheel speed sensor 106 is configured to be adjusted in the threaded hole 104 to maintain the predefined gap with the speed sensing disc 110. The locking mechanism 108 may be configured to ensure that the wheel speed sensor 106 remains in a fixed position within the threaded hole 104 while maintaining the predefined gap with the speed sensing disc 110, which may be mounted on the wheel hub 112. The predefined gap may be critical for the accurate operation of the wheel speed sensor 106 which ensures optimal magnetic field detection between the wheel speed sensor 106 and the speed sensing disc 110, thereby allows for precise measurement of the rotational speed of the wheel. Once the appropriate gap between the wheel speed sensor 106 and the speed sensing disc 110 is set, the wheel speed sensor 106 is secured in place by the locking mechanism 108 which beneficially prevents any further movement, thereby ensuring the long-term stability and accuracy of the suspension system 100.
In an embodiment, the locking mechanism 108 is unlocked to adjust the wheel speed sensor 106 in the threaded hole 104 to maintain the predefined gap with the speed sensing disc 110. When the locking mechanism 108 is in unlocked state, the wheel speed sensor 106 may be moved along the axis of the threaded hole 104, providing the flexibility to precisely adjust the position of the wheel speed sensor 106. Beneficially, the adjustment capability ensures that the wheel speed sensor 106 maintains the predefined gap with the speed sensing disc 110, which is critical for accurate speed measurement.
In an embodiment, the locking mechanism 108 is locked to restrict the movement of the wheel speed sensor 106 in the threaded hole 104. The locking mechanism 108 may be designed to engage with the wheel speed sensor 106 and restrict any unwanted movement within the threaded hole 104 after the wheel speed sensor 106 has been adjusted to maintain the predefined gap with the speed sensing disc 110. Beneficially, the locking mechanism 108 ensures that the wheel speed sensor 106 sensor remains in a fixed position during operation, thereby preventing any misalignment that may affect the accuracy of speed measurements.
In an embodiment, the locking mechanism 108 exerts a compressional force on the wheel speed sensor 106 to restrict the movement of the wheel speed sensor 106 in the threaded hole 104. The compressional force ensures that the wheel speed sensor 106 remains securely positioned in the threaded hole 104, preventing any unintended movement or misalignment during operation. Beneficially, the compressional force helps to mitigate the risk of the wheel speed sensor 106 loosening over time due to external forces or vibrations, thereby maintaining the integrity of the suspension system 100 and the reliability of the wheel speed sensor 106.
In an embodiment, the locking mechanism 108 is a security nut or a worm gear. The security nut may be designed to screw into the external portion of the wheel speed sensor 106 after the wheel speed sensor 106 may be positioned within the threaded hole 104, thereby preventing any unintended loosening or movement of the sensor during operation. Furthermore, the locking mechanism may be the worm gear, which serves to adjust the position of the wheel speed sensor 106 and lock in place within the threaded hole 104. The worm gear provides a self-locking function that resists back-driving ensures that once the desired position of the wheel speed sensor 106 is achieved and the wheel speed sensor 106 remains stationary without further adjustment.
In an embodiment, the wheel speed sensor 106 screwed in the threaded hole 104 of the suspension fork 102 is adjustable in both mutually opposite directions along axis of the wheel speed sensor 106. The dual adjustability or adjustment in both mutually opposite direction may be achieved through the threading mechanism within the suspension fork 102, where the wheel speed sensor 106 may be moved axially along the threaded hole 104 by rotating the wheel speed sensor 106 in one direction or the other. Beneficially, the dual-directional adjustment allows for a flexible setup which ensures that the wheel speed sensor 106 is optimally positioned for accurate speed sensing, while accommodating potential manufacturing tolerances, wear, or other external factors that might affect the alignment.
In an embodiment, the suspension system 100 of the vehicle. The suspension system 100 comprises the suspension fork 102, comprising the threaded hole 104, the wheel speed sensor 106, screwed in the threaded hole 104 of the suspension fork 102 and the locking mechanism 108, mounted on the wheel speed sensor 106 to restrict the movement of the wheel speed sensor 106 in the threaded hole 104. Furthermore, the suspension system 100 comprises the speed sensing disc 110 mounted on the wheel hub 112. Furthermore, the speed sensing disc 110 may be separately mounted within the suspension system 100, independent of the wheel hub 112. Furthermore, the wheel speed sensor 106 is secured via the locking mechanism 108 inside the threaded hole 104 to maintain the predefined gap with the speed sensing disc 110. Furthermore, the wheel speed sensor 106 is configured to be adjusted in the threaded hole 104 to maintain the predefined gap with the speed sensing disc 110. Furthermore, the locking mechanism 108 is unlocked to adjust the wheel speed sensor 106 in the threaded hole 104 to maintain the predefined gap with the speed sensing disc 110. Furthermore, the locking mechanism 108 is locked to restrict the movement of the wheel speed sensor 106 in the threaded hole 104. Furthermore, the locking mechanism 108 exerts a compressional force on the wheel speed sensor 106 to restrict the movement of the wheel speed sensor 106 in the threaded hole 104. Furthermore, the locking mechanism 108 is the security nut or the worm gear. Furthermore, the wheel speed sensor 106 screwed in the threaded hole 104 of the suspension fork 102 is adjustable in both mutually opposite directions along axis of the wheel speed sensor 106.
In the description of the present invention, it is also to be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified or limited, the terms “disposed,” “mounted,” and “connected” are to be construed broadly, and may for example be fixedly connected, detachably connected, or integrally connected, either mechanically or electrically. They may be connected directly or indirectly through intervening media, or they may be interconnected between two elements. The specific meaning of the above terms in the present invention can be understood in specific cases to those skilled in the art.
Modifications to embodiments and combination of different embodiments of the present disclosure described in the foregoing are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the accompanying claims. Expressions such as “including”, “comprising”, “incorporating”, “have”, “is” used to describe and claim the present disclosure are intended to be construed in a non- exclusive manner, namely allowing for items, components or elements not explicitly described also to be present. Reference to the singular is also to be construed to relate to the plural where appropriate.
Although embodiments have been described with reference to a number of illustrative embodiments thereof, it should be understood that numerous other modifications and embodiments can be devised by those skilled in the art that will fall within the spirit and scope of the principles of this disclosure. More particularly, various variations and modifications are possible in the component parts and/or arrangements of the subject combination arrangement within the scope of the present disclosure, the drawings and the appended claims. In addition to variations and modifications in the component parts and/or arrangements, alternative uses will also be apparent to those skilled in the art.
,CLAIMS:WE CLAIM:
1. A suspension system (100) of a vehicle, wherein the suspension system (100) comprises:
- a suspension fork (102), comprising a threaded hole (104);
- a wheel speed sensor (106), screwed in the threaded hole (104) of the suspension fork (102); and
- a locking mechanism (108), mounted on the wheel speed sensor (106) to restrict the movement of the wheel speed sensor (106) in the threaded hole (104).
2. The suspension system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the suspension system (100) comprises a speed sensing disc (110) mounted on a wheel hub (112).
3. The suspension system (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the wheel speed sensor (106) is secured via the locking mechanism (108) inside the threaded hole (104) to maintain a predefined gap with the speed sensing disc (110).
4. The suspension system (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the wheel speed sensor (106) is configured to be adjusted in the threaded hole (104) to maintain the predefined gap with the speed sensing disc (110).
5. The suspension system (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the locking mechanism (108) is unlocked to adjust the wheel speed sensor (106) in the threaded hole (104) to maintain the predefined gap with the speed sensing disc (110).
6. The suspension system (100) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the locking mechanism (108) is locked to restrict the movement of the wheel speed sensor (106) in the threaded hole (104).
7. The suspension system (100) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the locking mechanism (108) exerts a compressional force on the wheel speed sensor (106) to restrict the movement of the wheel speed sensor (106) in the threaded hole (104).
8. The suspension system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the locking mechanism (108) is a security nut or a worm gear.
9. The suspension system (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the wheel speed sensor (106) screwed in the threaded hole (104) of the suspension fork (102) is adjustable in both mutually opposite directions along axis of the wheel speed sensor (106).