The present subject matter described herein, relates to torsion bars, more particularly to stabilizer bar assembly having a variable stiffness stabilizer bar for 5 vehicles.
BACKGROUND AND PRIOR ART:
[002] Stabilizer bars are used in the automotive industry for well-known reasons. Stabilizer bars include multiple bars or segments configured to be attached to vehicle chassis and wheels. During turning or cornering of vehicles, the bars or 10 segments undergo torsional, rolling as well as bending stresses and strains. Such characteristics are based on a cross-sectional profile of the bars or segments, and material properties.
[003] Laboratory simulations and track tests are widely used in the automotive industry to evaluate and verify characteristics, designs and durability of a vehicle 15 and/or a component or subsystem thereof. Similar track testing, like ride and handling, of vehicles is done to evaluate characteristics of stabilizer bars, such as roll stiffness, bending stiffness. The stiffness of the stabilizer bar depends on material properties and a cross-sectional shape of the stabilizer bar, for example, circular in case of cylindrical stabilizer bar. 20
[004] However, conventional stabilizer bars are mounted on suspension frame at fixed points and have a uniform cross-section throughout, and hence only a single stiffness value of stabilizer bar can be evaluated during vehicle testing operation. This leads to manufacturing of multiple stabilizer bars with different cross sections in order to evaluate various stiffness values for a particular mounting. 25 Such is an expensive, ineffective, complex, and time-consuming procedure.
[005] United States Patent publication US7931281B2 discloses a variable stiffness stabilizer device. The variable stiffness stabilizer device (1) has a stabilizer bar (2) and actuators (3). The stabilizer bar (2) has a torsion bar (4)
3
extending in the lateral direction (X1) of a vehicle and arms (6) connected through bend portions (5) to the ends (4 a, 4 b) of the torsion bar (4) and deformation due to bending occurs according to the strokes of wheel as well as stiffnesss of supporting members (11). Variable bending stiffness parts (13; 130) of the arms (6) are rotatable about the axes (C1) of the arms (6), so that the bending stiffness 5 of the arms (6) can be changed according to their rotational positions. The actuators (3) rotationally drive the variable bending stiffness parts (13; 130) about the axes (C1) to adjust the rotational positions of the variable bending stiffness parts (13; 130).
[006] The US prior art provides variable stiffness stabilizer device wherein arms 10 of the stabilizer bar are configured to be rotated by actuators to achieve different orientations. Such multiple orientations induce variable bending stiffness in the stabilizer bar. However, the central torsion bar is mounted on fixed points relative to the arms, and the stabilizer bar provides limited variability to its stiffness on rotation of the arms. Further, incorporation of actuators and other electrical 15 components makes the system complex and expensive.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION:
[007] The principal objective of the present invention is to provide a variable stiffness stabilizer bar for vehicles to overcome the deficiencies of the prior art.
[008] Another object of the present subject matter is to provide a simple, cost 20 effective, and efficient design to the stabilizer bar assembly to achieve variable stiffness characteristics.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:
[009] The present invention relates to a variable stiffness stabilizer bar assembly for vehicles. The assembly includes a plurality of side stabilizer bars, the side 25 stabilizer bars having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein a cross-sectional profile of the proximal end is different from a cross-sectional profile of the distal end. The assembly further includes a central stabilizer arm configured to be coupled to the plurality of side stabilizer bars, the central stabilizer arm having a
4
first end and a second end separated by an intermediate portion, wherein a cross-sectional profile of the first end and the second end is different from a cross-sectional profile of the intermediate portion. The assembly further includes a plurality of connecting devices for coupling the plurality of side stabilizer bars with the central stabilizer arm. The connecting devices includes a first receptacle 5 configured to receive the proximal end of the side stabilizer bar, wherein a profile of the first receptacle is corresponding to the cross-sectional profile of the proximal end, a first hinge pivotally connected to the first receptacle, a second hinge pivotally connected to the first hinge, a second receptacle pivotally connected to the second hinge, the second receptacle configured to receive the 10 first end or the second end of the central stabilizer arm, wherein a profile of the second receptacle is corresponding to the cross-sectional profile of the first end or the second end.
[0010] In order to further understand the characteristics and technical contents of the present subject matter, a description relating thereto will be made with 15 reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the drawings are illustrative only but not used to limit scope of the present subject matter.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] It is to be noted, however, that the appended drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of the present subject matter and are therefore not to be 20 considered for limiting of its scope, for the invention may admit to other equally effective embodiments. The detailed description is described with reference to the accompanying figures. In the figures, the left-most digit(s) of a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears. The same numbers are used throughout the figures to reference like features and 25 components. Some embodiments of system or methods in accordance with embodiments of the present subject matter are now described, by way of example, and with reference to the accompanying figures, in which:
[0012] Fig. 1 illustrates a state of the art stabilizer bar conventionally used with vehicles; 30
5
[0013] Fig. 2a and 2b illustrates a side stabilizer bar in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0014] Fig. 3a and 3b illustrates a central stabilizer arm in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0015] Fig. 4 illustrates the variable stiffness stabilizer assembly in accordance 5 with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0016] Fig. 5 illustrates views of the variable stiffness stabilizer assembly of Fig. 4; and
[0017] Fig. 6 illustrates cross-sectional views associated with the side stabilizer bars and the central stabilizer arm. 10
[0018] The figures depict embodiments of the present subject matter for the purposes of illustration only. A person skilled in the art will easily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the disclosure described herein. 15
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS:
[0019] The present disclosure presents embodiments for a variable stiffness stabilizer assembly for vehicles. The assembly includes a plurality of side stabilizer bars, the side stabilizer bar having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein a cross-sectional profile of the proximal end is different from a cross-20 sectional profile of the distal end. The assembly further includes a central stabilizer arm configured to be coupled to the plurality of side stabilizer bars, the central stabilizer arm having a first end and a second end separated by an intermediate portion, wherein a cross-sectional profile of the first end and the second end is different from a cross-sectional profile of the intermediate portion. 25 The assembly further includes a plurality of connecting devices for coupling the plurality of side stabilizer bars with the central stabilizer arm. The connecting devices includes a first receptacle configured to receive the proximal end of the side stabilizer bar, wherein a profile of the receptacle is corresponding to the
6
cross-sectional profile of the proximal end, a first hinge pivotally connected to the first receptacle, a second hinge pivotally connected to the first hinge, a second receptacle pivotally connected to the second hinge, the second receptacle configured to receive the first end or the second end of the central stabilizer arm, wherein a profile of the second receptacle is corresponding to the cross-sectional 5 profile of the first end or the second end.
[0020] It should be noted that the description and figures merely illustrate the principles of the present subject matter. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that conception and specific embodiment disclosed may be readily utilized as a basis for modifying or designing other structures for carrying out the 10 same purposes of the present subject matter. It should also be appreciated by those skilled in the art that by devising various arrangements that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, embody the principles of the present subject matter and are included within its spirit and scope. Furthermore, all examples recited herein are principally intended expressly to be for pedagogical purposes to 15 aid the reader in understanding the principles of the present subject matter and the concepts contributed by the inventor(s) to furthering the art, and are to be construed as being without limitation to such specifically recited examples and conditions. The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the present subject matter, both as to its organization and method of operation, 20 together with further objects and advantages will be better understood from the following description when considered in connection with the accompanying figures.
[0021] These and other advantages of the present subject matter would be described in greater detail with reference to the following figures. It should be 25 noted that the description merely illustrates the principles of the present subject matter. It will thus be appreciated that those skilled in the art will be able to devise various arrangements that, although not explicitly described herein, embody the principles of the present subject matter and are included within its scope.
7
[0022] Fig. 1 illustrates a state of the art stabilizer bar 100 conventionally used with vehicles, the stabilizer bar 100 is cylindrical having a circular cross-section throughout. The stabilizer bar 100 includes mounting points 102 through which the bar 100 is mounted on a vehicle chassis (not shown). The stabilizer bar 100 effectively serves as a torsion spring mounted to the vehicle chassis during a 5 testing of the vehicle. Movement of the vehicle, and of the wheels, including vertical, horizontal, and / or rolling transfer forces and in turn applies a torque to the stabilizer bar 100. That torque is transmitted through the stabilizer bar 100 from one end to the other end. Such induced forces and torques are evaluated during vehicle testing for estimating stiffness value associated with the stabilizer 10 bar. However, due to a single cross-section and single degree of freedom, a single stiffness value for the stabilizer bar 100 can be evaluated during a vehicle testing operation.
[0023] Fig. 2a and 2b illustrates a side stabilizer bar 204 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The side stabilizer bar 204 is a component 15 of a variable stiffness stabilizer assembly 400 as described with reference to Fig. 4. The side stabilizer bar 204 includes a proximal end 206 and a distal end 208. In an embodiment, a cross-sectional profile of the proximal end 206 is different from a cross-sectional profile of the distal end 208. In an example, the cross-sectional profile of the proximal end 206 is circular, and the cross-sectional profile of the 20 distal end 208 is rectangular. In a different example, the cross-sectional profiles may differ and include any geometrical orientation.
[0024] The proximal end 206 of the side stabilizer bar 204 further includes a first recess 210 and a second recess 212, the first recess 210 and the second recess 212 define a depth. In an example, the first recess 210 and the second recess 212 are 25 hollow cavities. In an embodiment, the depth is parallel to a short edge of the rectangular cross-sectional profile of the distal end 208. Fig. 2a further describes positioning of the side stabilizer bar 204 according to a first orientation 214, and Fig. 2b describes positioning of the side stabilizer bar 204 in a second orientation
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216, wherein the first orientation 214 and the second orientation 216 are orthogonal to each other.
[0025] Fig. 3a and 3b illustrates a central stabilizer arm 218 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The central stabilizer arm 218 is a component of the variable stiffness stabilizer assembly 400 as described with 5 reference to Fig. 4. In an embodiment, the central stabilizer arm 218 is configured to be coupled to the side stabilizer arm 204. The central stabilizer arm 218 includes a first end 220 and a second end 222 (not shown), the first end 220 and the second end 222 being similar to each other. The first end 220 and the second end 222 are separated by an intermediate portion 224. In an embodiment, a cross-10 sectional profile of the first end 220 and the second end 222 is different from a cross-sectional profile of the intermediate portion 224.
[0026] The first end 220 and the second end 222 of the central stabilizer arm 218 further includes a third recess 226 and a fourth recess 228. The third recess 226 and the fourth recess 228 defining a depth parallel to a short edge of the 15 rectangular cross-sectional profile of the intermediate portion 224. In an example, the third recess 226 and the fourth recess 228 are hollow cavities. Fig. 3a further describes positioning of the central stabilizer arm 218 according to a third orientation 230, and Fig. 3b describes positioning of the central stabilizer arm 218 according to a fourth orientation 232, wherein the third orientation 230 and the 20 fourth orientation 232 are orthogonal to each other.
[0027] Fig. 4 illustrates the variable stiffness stabilizer assembly 400 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The variable stiffness stabilizer assembly 400 includes a plurality of the side stabilizer bars 204 as described in Figs. 2a & 2b, and the central stabilizer arm 218 as described in Figs. 25 3a & 3b. In an embodiment, the side stabilizer bars 204 and the central stabilizer arm 218 of the variable stiffness stabilizer assembly 400 are coupled to each other by a plurality of connecting devices 402.
[0028] The connecting devices 402 includes a first receptacle 404 configured to receive the proximal end 206 of the side stabilizer bar 204. In an embodiment, a 30
9
profile of the first receptacle 404 is corresponding to the cross-sectional profile of the proximal end 206. The first receptacle 404 includes a first hole 406 and a second hole 408. The first hole 406 has an axis parallel to the depth of the first recess 210 and the second recess 212 of the proximal end 206, and the second hole 408 has an axis perpendicular to the depth of the first recess 210 and the 5 second recess 212 of the proximal end 206, such that the first recess 210 corresponds to the first hole 406 as per the first orientation 214 of the proximal end 206 being received by the first receptacle 404, and the second recess 212 corresponds to the second hole 408 as per the second orientation 216 of the proximal end 206 being received by the first receptacle 404, the first orientation 10 214 being orthogonal to the second orientation 216.
[0029] The connecting devices 402 further includes a first hinge 410 pivotally connected to the first receptacle 404. The connecting devices 402 further includes a second hinge 412 pivotally connected to the first hinge 410. The connecting devices 402 further includes a second receptacle 414 pivotally connected to the 15 second hinge 412. In accordance with an embodiment, the first hinge 410 and the second hinge 412 of the connecting devices 402 provides multiple angular displacements among the side stabilizer bars 204 and the central stabilizer arm 218 of the variable stiffness stabilizer assembly 400 during track testing of the vehicle. 20
[0030] The second receptacle 414 is configured to receive the first end 220 or the second end 222 of the central stabilizer arm 218. In an embodiment, a profile of the second receptacle 414 is corresponding to the cross-sectional profileof the first end 220 or the second end 222. The second receptacle 414 includes a third hole 416 and a fourth hole 418. The third hole 416 has an axis parallel to the depth of 25 the third recess 226 and the fourth recess 228 of the first end 220 and the second end 222, and the fourth hole 418 has an axis perpendicular to the depth of the third recess 226 and the fourth recess 228 of the first end 220 and the second end 222, such that the third recess 226 corresponds to the third hole 416 as per the third orientation 230 of the first end 220 and the second end 222 being received by the 30
10
second receptacle 414, and the fourth recess 228 corresponds to the fourth hole 418 as per the fourth orientation 232 of the first end 220 and the second end 222 being received by the second receptacle 414, the third orientation 230 being orthogonal to the fourth orientation 232.
[0031] In an embodiment, the connection between the first receptacle 404 and the 5 first hinge 410; the first hinge 410 and the second hinge 412; and the second hinge 412 and the second receptacle 414 is achieved by bolts 422.
[0032] Fig. 5 illustrates views of the variable stiffness stabilizer assembly 400. The views include the variable stiffness stabilizer assembly 400 as seen in the XZ plane 502, and the variable stiffness stabilizer assembly 400 as seen in the XY 10 plane 504.
[0033] Fig. 6 illustrates cross-sectional views associated with the side stabilizer bars 204 and the central stabilizer arm 218. In an embodiment, the distal end 208 of the side stabilizer bar 204, and the intermediate portion 224 of the central stabilizer arm 218 includes a rectangular cross section 602. Alternatively, the 15 distal end 208 of the side stabilizer bar 204, and the intermediate portion 224 of the central stabilizer arm 218 may include a splined cross section 604, a hexagonal cross section 606, or a plus cross section 608 etc.
[0034] In an embodiment, a stiffness of the variable stiffness stabilizer assembly 400 depends upon the stiffness and relative angular orientation of the side 20 stabilizer bars 204 and the central stabilizer arm 218. The stiffness of the side stabilizer bars 204 and the central stabilizer arm 218 depends upon moment of inertia corresponding to the associated cross-sectional layout. Hence, different stiffness values are achieved for the variable stiffness stabilizer assembly 400 for the first orientation 214 and the second orientation 216 of the side stabilizer bars, 25 and the third orientation 230 and the fourth orientation 232 of the central stabilizer arm 218, as different moment of inertias are achieved for multiple cross-sectional layouts as per multiple orientations 214, 216, 230, 232. Further, the stiffness value associated with the variable stiffness stabilizer assembly 400 also depends upon a relative orientation of the side stabilizer bar 204 with the central stabilizer arm 30
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218, wherein the relative orientation depends upon the connecting device 402 used for coupling the side stabilizer bar 204 with the central stabilizer arm 218.
[0035] In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the relative orientation of the side stabilizer bar 204 with the central stabilizer arm 218 is denoted by an angle alpha (α). The relative orientation between the side stabilizer 5 bar 204 and the central stabilizer arm 218 can be adjusted manually to achieve multiple angular orientations, and in turn multiple stiffness values. Further, a number of different stiffness values (N) may be evaluated based on the following equation:
N = 360° / (4 * α) 10
[0036] Although embodiments for the present subject matter have been described in language specific to structural features, it is to be understood that the present subject matter is not necessarily limited to the specific features described. Rather, the specific features and methods are disclosed as embodiments for the present subject matter. Numerous modifications and adaptations of the system/component 15 of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and thus it is intended by the appended claims to cover all such modifications and adaptations which fall within the scope of the present subject matter.

Claims:We claim:
1. A variable stiffness stabilizer bar assembly (400) for vehicles, the assembly (400) comprising:
a plurality of side stabilizer bars (204), the side stabilizer bars (204) having a proximal end (206) and a distal end (208), wherein a cross-sectional profile of the proximal end (206) is different from a cross-sectional profile of the distal end (208);
a central stabilizer arm (218) configured to be coupled to the plurality of side stabilizer bars (204), the central stabilizer arm (218) having a first end (220) and a second end (222) separated by an intermediate portion (224), wherein a cross-sectional profile of the first end (220) and the second end (222) is different from a cross-sectional profile of the intermediate portion (224); and
a plurality of connecting devices (402) for coupling the plurality of side stabilizer bars (204) with the central stabilizer arm (218), the connecting devices (402) including:
a first receptacle (404) configured to receive the proximal end (206) of the side stabilizer bar (204), wherein a profile of the first receptacle (404) is corresponding to the cross-sectional profile of the proximal end (206),
a first hinge (410) pivotally connected to the first receptacle (404),
a second hinge (412) pivotally connected to the first hinge (410),
a second receptacle (414) pivotally connected to the second hinge (412), the second receptacle (414) configured to receive the first end (220) or the second end (222) of the central stabilizer arm (218), wherein a profile of the second receptacle (414) is corresponding to the cross-sectional profile of the first end (220) or the second end (222).

2. The variable stiffness stabilizer bar assembly (400) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the distal end (208) of the side stabilizer bar (204) is configured to be coupled to a vehicle suspension.

3. The variable stiffness stabilizer bar assembly (400) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the cross-sectional profile of the proximal end (206) of the side stabilizer bar (204), and the cross-sectional profile of the first end (220) and the second end (222) of the central stabilizer arm (218) is circular.

4. The variable stiffness stabilizer bar assembly (400) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the cross-sectional profile of the distal end (208) of the side stabilizer bar (204), and the intermediate portion (224) of the central stabilizer arm (218) is rectangular.

5. The variable stiffness stabilizer bar assembly (400) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the connection between the first receptacle (404) and the first hinge (410); the first hinge (410) and the second hinge (412); and the second hinge (412) and the second receptacle (414) is achieved by bolts (422).

6. The variable stiffness stabilizer bar assembly (400) as claimed in claim 1, wherein a stiffness of the stabilizer assembly (400) depends on the cross-sectional profile of the side stabilizer bar (204) and the central stabilizer arm (218), and a relative orientation (a), wherein a number of stiffness values (N) is evaluated as:

N = 360° / (4 * a)

7. The variable stiffness stabilizer bar assembly (400) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the proximal end (206) of the side stabilizer bar (204) includes a first recess (210) and a second recess (212), the first recess (210) and the second recess (212) defining a depth parallel to a short edge of the rectangular cross-sectional profile of the distal end (208).

8. The variable stiffness stabilizer bar assembly (400) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the first receptacle (404) includes a first hole (406) and a second hole (408), the first hole (406) having an axis parallel to the depth of the first recess (210) and the second recess (212) of the proximal end (206), and the second hole (408) having an axis perpendicular to the depth of the first recess (210) and the second recess (212) of the proximal end (206), such that the first recess (210) corresponds to the first hole (406) in a first orientation (214) of the proximal end (206) being received by the first receptacle (404), and the second recess (212) corresponds to the second hole (408) in a second orientation (216) of the proximal end (206) being received by the first receptacle (404), wherein the first orientation (214) and the second orientation (216) are orthogonal to each other.

9. The variable stiffness stabilizer bar assembly (400) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first end (220) and the second end (222) of the central stabilizer arm (218) includes a third recess (226) and a fourth recess (228), the third recess (226) and the fourth recess (228) defining a depth parallel to a short edge of the rectangular cross-sectional profile of the intermediate portion (224).

10. The variable stiffness stabilizer bar assembly (400) as claimed in claim 9, wherein the second receptacle (414) includes a third hole (416) and a fourth hole (418), the third hole (416) having an axis parallel to the depth of the third recess (226) and the fourth recess (228) of the first end (220) and the second end (222), and the fourth hole (418) having an axis perpendicular to the depth of the third recess (226) and the fourth recess (228) of the first end (220) and the second end (222), such that the third recess (226) corresponds to the third hole (416) in a third orientation (230) of the first end (220) and the second end (222) being received by the second receptacle (414), and the fourth recess (228) corresponds to the fourth hole (418) in a fourth orientation (232) of the first end (220) and the second end (222) being received by the second receptacle (414), wherein the third orientation (230) and the fourth orientation (232) are orthogonal to each other.
, Description:VARIABLE STIFFNESS STABILIZER BAR ASSEMBLY FOR VEHICLES
FIELD OF INVENTION:
[001] The present subject matter described herein, relates to torsion bars, more particularly to stabilizer bar assembly having a variable stiffness stabilizer bar for vehicles.
BACKGROUND AND PRIOR ART:
[002] Stabilizer bars are used in the automotive industry for well-known reasons. Stabilizer bars include multiple bars or segments configured to be attached to vehicle chassis and wheels. During turning or cornering of vehicles, the bars or segments undergo torsional, rolling as well as bending stresses and strains. Such characteristics are based on a cross-sectional profile of the bars or segments, and material properties.
[003] Laboratory simulations and track tests are widely used in the automotive industry to evaluate and verify characteristics, designs and durability of a vehicle and/or a component or subsystem thereof. Similar track testing, like ride and handling, of vehicles is done to evaluate characteristics of stabilizer bars, such as roll stiffness, bending stiffness. The stiffness of the stabilizer bar depends on material properties and a cross-sectional shape of the stabilizer bar, for example, circular in case of cylindrical stabilizer bar.
[004] However, conventional stabilizer bars are mounted on suspension frame at fixed points and have a uniform cross-section throughout, and hence only a single stiffness value of stabilizer bar can be evaluated during vehicle testing operation. This leads to manufacturing of multiple stabilizer bars with different cross sections in order to evaluate various stiffness values for a particular mounting. Such is an expensive, ineffective, complex, and time-consuming procedure.
[005] United States Patent publication US7931281B2 discloses a variable stiffness stabilizer device. The variable stiffness stabilizer device (1) has a stabilizer bar (2) and actuators (3). The stabilizer bar (2) has a torsion bar (4) extending in the lateral direction (X1) of a vehicle and arms (6) connected through bend portions (5) to the ends (4 a, 4 b) of the torsion bar (4) and deformation due to bending occurs according to the strokes of wheel as well as stiffnesss of supporting members (11). Variable bending stiffness parts (13; 130) of the arms (6) are rotatable about the axes (C1) of the arms (6), so that the bending stiffness of the arms (6) can be changed according to their rotational positions. The actuators (3) rotationally drive the variable bending stiffness parts (13; 130) about the axes (C1) to adjust the rotational positions of the variable bending stiffness parts (13; 130).
[006] The US prior art provides variable stiffness stabilizer device wherein arms of the stabilizer bar are configured to be rotated by actuators to achieve different orientations. Such multiple orientations induce variable bending stiffness in the stabilizer bar. However, the central torsion bar is mounted on fixed points relative to the arms, and the stabilizer bar provides limited variability to its stiffness on rotation of the arms. Further, incorporation of actuators and other electrical components makes the system complex and expensive.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION:
[007] The principal objective of the present invention is to provide a variable stiffness stabilizer bar for vehicles to overcome the deficiencies of the prior art.
[008] Another object of the present subject matter is to provide a simple, cost effective, and efficient design to the stabilizer bar assembly to achieve variable stiffness characteristics.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:
[009] The present invention relates to a variable stiffness stabilizer bar assembly for vehicles. The assembly includes a plurality of side stabilizer bars, the side stabilizer bars having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein a cross-sectional profile of the proximal end is different from a cross-sectional profile of the distal end. The assembly further includes a central stabilizer arm configured to be coupled to the plurality of side stabilizer bars, the central stabilizer arm having a first end and a second end separated by an intermediate portion, wherein a cross-sectional profile of the first end and the second end is different from a cross-sectional profile of the intermediate portion. The assembly further includes a plurality of connecting devices for coupling the plurality of side stabilizer bars with the central stabilizer arm. The connecting devices includes a first receptacle configured to receive the proximal end of the side stabilizer bar, wherein a profile of the first receptacle is corresponding to the cross-sectional profile of the proximal end, a first hinge pivotally connected to the first receptacle, a second hinge pivotally connected to the first hinge, a second receptacle pivotally connected to the second hinge, the second receptacle configured to receive the first end or the second end of the central stabilizer arm, wherein a profile of the second receptacle is corresponding to the cross-sectional profile of the first end or the second end.
[0010] In order to further understand the characteristics and technical contents of the present subject matter, a description relating thereto will be made with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the drawings are illustrative only but not used to limit scope of the present subject matter.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] It is to be noted, however, that the appended drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of the present subject matter and are therefore not to be considered for limiting of its scope, for the invention may admit to other equally effective embodiments. The detailed description is described with reference to the accompanying figures. In the figures, the left-most digit(s) of a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears. The same numbers are used throughout the figures to reference like features and components. Some embodiments of system or methods in accordance with embodiments of the present subject matter are now described, by way of example, and with reference to the accompanying figures, in which:
[0012] Fig. 1 illustrates a state of the art stabilizer bar conventionally used with vehicles;
[0013] Fig. 2a and 2b illustrates a side stabilizer bar in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0014] Fig. 3a and 3b illustrates a central stabilizer arm in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0015] Fig. 4 illustrates the variable stiffness stabilizer assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0016] Fig. 5 illustrates views of the variable stiffness stabilizer assembly of Fig. 4; and
[0017] Fig. 6 illustrates cross-sectional views associated with the side stabilizer bars and the central stabilizer arm.
[0018] The figures depict embodiments of the present subject matter for the purposes of illustration only. A person skilled in the art will easily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the disclosure described herein.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS:
[0019] The present disclosure presents embodiments for a variable stiffness stabilizer assembly for vehicles. The assembly includes a plurality of side stabilizer bars, the side stabilizer bar having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein a cross-sectional profile of the proximal end is different from a cross-sectional profile of the distal end. The assembly further includes a central stabilizer arm configured to be coupled to the plurality of side stabilizer bars, the central stabilizer arm having a first end and a second end separated by an intermediate portion, wherein a cross-sectional profile of the first end and the second end is different from a cross-sectional profile of the intermediate portion. The assembly further includes a plurality of connecting devices for coupling the plurality of side stabilizer bars with the central stabilizer arm. The connecting devices includes a first receptacle configured to receive the proximal end of the side stabilizer bar, wherein a profile of the receptacle is corresponding to the cross-sectional profile of the proximal end, a first hinge pivotally connected to the first receptacle, a second hinge pivotally connected to the first hinge, a second receptacle pivotally connected to the second hinge, the second receptacle configured to receive the first end or the second end of the central stabilizer arm, wherein a profile of the second receptacle is corresponding to the cross-sectional profile of the first end or the second end.
[0020] It should be noted that the description and figures merely illustrate the principles of the present subject matter. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that conception and specific embodiment disclosed may be readily utilized as a basis for modifying or designing other structures for carrying out the same purposes of the present subject matter. It should also be appreciated by those skilled in the art that by devising various arrangements that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, embody the principles of the present subject matter and are included within its spirit and scope. Furthermore, all examples recited herein are principally intended expressly to be for pedagogical purposes to aid the reader in understanding the principles of the present subject matter and the concepts contributed by the inventor(s) to furthering the art, and are to be construed as being without limitation to such specifically recited examples and conditions. The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the present subject matter, both as to its organization and method of operation, together with further objects and advantages will be better understood from the following description when considered in connection with the accompanying figures.
[0021] These and other advantages of the present subject matter would be described in greater detail with reference to the following figures. It should be noted that the description merely illustrates the principles of the present subject matter. It will thus be appreciated that those skilled in the art will be able to devise various arrangements that, although not explicitly described herein, embody the principles of the present subject matter and are included within its scope.
[0022] Fig. 1 illustrates a state of the art stabilizer bar 100 conventionally used with vehicles, the stabilizer bar 100 is cylindrical having a circular cross-section throughout. The stabilizer bar 100 includes mounting points 102 through which the bar 100 is mounted on a vehicle chassis (not shown). The stabilizer bar 100 effectively serves as a torsion spring mounted to the vehicle chassis during a testing of the vehicle. Movement of the vehicle, and of the wheels, including vertical, horizontal, and / or rolling transfer forces and in turn applies a torque to the stabilizer bar 100. That torque is transmitted through the stabilizer bar 100 from one end to the other end. Such induced forces and torques are evaluated during vehicle testing for estimating stiffness value associated with the stabilizer bar. However, due to a single cross-section and single degree of freedom, a single stiffness value for the stabilizer bar 100 can be evaluated during a vehicle testing operation.
[0023] Fig. 2a and 2b illustrates a side stabilizer bar 204 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The side stabilizer bar 204 is a component of a variable stiffness stabilizer assembly 400 as described with reference to Fig. 4. The side stabilizer bar 204 includes a proximal end 206 and a distal end 208. In an embodiment, a cross-sectional profile of the proximal end 206 is different from a cross-sectional profile of the distal end 208. In an example, the cross-sectional profile of the proximal end 206 is circular, and the cross-sectional profile of the distal end 208 is rectangular. In a different example, the cross-sectional profiles may differ and include any geometrical orientation.
[0024] The proximal end 206 of the side stabilizer bar 204 further includes a first recess 210 and a second recess 212, the first recess 210 and the second recess 212 define a depth. In an example, the first recess 210 and the second recess 212 are hollow cavities. In an embodiment, the depth is parallel to a short edge of the rectangular cross-sectional profile of the distal end 208. Fig. 2a further describes positioning of the side stabilizer bar 204 according to a first orientation 214, and Fig. 2b describes positioning of the side stabilizer bar 204 in a second orientation 216, wherein the first orientation 214 and the second orientation 216 are orthogonal to each other.
[0025] Fig. 3a and 3b illustrates a central stabilizer arm 218 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The central stabilizer arm 218 is a component of the variable stiffness stabilizer assembly 400 as described with reference to Fig. 4. In an embodiment, the central stabilizer arm 218 is configured to be coupled to the side stabilizer arm 204. The central stabilizer arm 218 includes a first end 220 and a second end 222 (not shown), the first end 220 and the second end 222 being similar to each other. The first end 220 and the second end 222 are separated by an intermediate portion 224. In an embodiment, a cross-sectional profile of the first end 220 and the second end 222 is different from a cross-sectional profile of the intermediate portion 224.
[0026] The first end 220 and the second end 222 of the central stabilizer arm 218 further includes a third recess 226 and a fourth recess 228. The third recess 226 and the fourth recess 228 defining a depth parallel to a short edge of the rectangular cross-sectional profile of the intermediate portion 224. In an example, the third recess 226 and the fourth recess 228 are hollow cavities. Fig. 3a further describes positioning of the central stabilizer arm 218 according to a third orientation 230, and Fig. 3b describes positioning of the central stabilizer arm 218 according to a fourth orientation 232, wherein the third orientation 230 and the fourth orientation 232 are orthogonal to each other.
[0027] Fig. 4 illustrates the variable stiffness stabilizer assembly 400 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The variable stiffness stabilizer assembly 400 includes a plurality of the side stabilizer bars 204 as described in Figs. 2a & 2b, and the central stabilizer arm 218 as described in Figs. 3a & 3b. In an embodiment, the side stabilizer bars 204 and the central stabilizer arm 218 of the variable stiffness stabilizer assembly 400 are coupled to each other by a plurality of connecting devices 402.
[0028] The connecting devices 402 includes a first receptacle 404 configured to receive the proximal end 206 of the side stabilizer bar 204. In an embodiment, a profile of the first receptacle 404 is corresponding to the cross-sectional profile of the proximal end 206. The first receptacle 404 includes a first hole 406 and a second hole 408. The first hole 406 has an axis parallel to the depth of the first recess 210 and the second recess 212 of the proximal end 206, and the second hole 408 has an axis perpendicular to the depth of the first recess 210 and the second recess 212 of the proximal end 206, such that the first recess 210 corresponds to the first hole 406 as per the first orientation 214 of the proximal end 206 being received by the first receptacle 404, and the second recess 212 corresponds to the second hole 408 as per the second orientation 216 of the proximal end 206 being received by the first receptacle 404, the first orientation 214 being orthogonal to the second orientation 216.
[0029] The connecting devices 402 further includes a first hinge 410 pivotally connected to the first receptacle 404. The connecting devices 402 further includes a second hinge 412 pivotally connected to the first hinge 410. The connecting devices 402 further includes a second receptacle 414 pivotally connected to the second hinge 412. In accordance with an embodiment, the first hinge 410 and the second hinge 412 of the connecting devices 402 provides multiple angular displacements among the side stabilizer bars 204 and the central stabilizer arm 218 of the variable stiffness stabilizer assembly 400 during track testing of the vehicle.
[0030] The second receptacle 414 is configured to receive the first end 220 or the second end 222 of the central stabilizer arm 218. In an embodiment, a profile of the second receptacle 414 is corresponding to the cross-sectional profileof the first end 220 or the second end 222. The second receptacle 414 includes a third hole 416 and a fourth hole 418. The third hole 416 has an axis parallel to the depth of the third recess 226 and the fourth recess 228 of the first end 220 and the second end 222, and the fourth hole 418 has an axis perpendicular to the depth of the third recess 226 and the fourth recess 228 of the first end 220 and the second end 222, such that the third recess 226 corresponds to the third hole 416 as per the third orientation 230 of the first end 220 and the second end 222 being received by the second receptacle 414, and the fourth recess 228 corresponds to the fourth hole 418 as per the fourth orientation 232 of the first end 220 and the second end 222 being received by the second receptacle 414, the third orientation 230 being orthogonal to the fourth orientation 232.
[0031] In an embodiment, the connection between the first receptacle 404 and the first hinge 410; the first hinge 410 and the second hinge 412; and the second hinge 412 and the second receptacle 414 is achieved by bolts 422.
[0032] Fig. 5 illustrates views of the variable stiffness stabilizer assembly 400. The views include the variable stiffness stabilizer assembly 400 as seen in the XZ plane 502, and the variable stiffness stabilizer assembly 400 as seen in the XY plane 504.
[0033] Fig. 6 illustrates cross-sectional views associated with the side stabilizer bars 204 and the central stabilizer arm 218. In an embodiment, the distal end 208 of the side stabilizer bar 204, and the intermediate portion 224 of the central stabilizer arm 218 includes a rectangular cross section 602. Alternatively, the distal end 208 of the side stabilizer bar 204, and the intermediate portion 224 of the central stabilizer arm 218 may include a splined cross section 604, a hexagonal cross section 606, or a plus cross section 608 etc.
[0034] In an embodiment, a stiffness of the variable stiffness stabilizer assembly 400 depends upon the stiffness and relative angular orientation of the side stabilizer bars 204 and the central stabilizer arm 218. The stiffness of the side stabilizer bars 204 and the central stabilizer arm 218 depends upon moment of inertia corresponding to the associated cross-sectional layout. Hence, different stiffness values are achieved for the variable stiffness stabilizer assembly 400 for the first orientation 214 and the second orientation 216 of the side stabilizer bars, and the third orientation 230 and the fourth orientation 232 of the central stabilizer arm 218, as different moment of inertias are achieved for multiple cross-sectional layouts as per multiple orientations 214, 216, 230, 232. Further, the stiffness value associated with the variable stiffness stabilizer assembly 400 also depends upon a relative orientation of the side stabilizer bar 204 with the central stabilizer arm 218, wherein the relative orientation depends upon the connecting device 402 used for coupling the side stabilizer bar 204 with the central stabilizer arm 218.
[0035] In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the relative orientation of the side stabilizer bar 204 with the central stabilizer arm 218 is denoted by an angle alpha (a). The relative orientation between the side stabilizer bar 204 and the central stabilizer arm 218 can be adjusted manually to achieve multiple angular orientations, and in turn multiple stiffness values. Further, a number of different stiffness values (N) may be evaluated based on the following equation:
N = 360° / (4 * a)
[0036] Although embodiments for the present subject matter have been described in language specific to structural features, it is to be understood that the present subject matter is not necessarily limited to the specific features described. Rather, the specific features and methods are disclosed as embodiments for the present subject matter. Numerous modifications and adaptations of the system/component of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and thus it is intended by the appended claims to cover all such modifications and adaptations which fall within the scope of the present subject matter.