TECHNICAL FIELD
[001] The embodiments herein relate to a wheel support arrangement for a vehicle and a wheel alignment angle adjusting mechanism and a method for adjusting alignment angles of wheels of a vehicle.
BACKGROUND
[002] Generally, a front wheel support arrangement of a vehicle is used for supporting the front wheels of the vehicle. The front wheel support arrangement in vehicles such as tractors and other similar vehicles, include a single front axle beam which is connected to a chassis of the 10 vehicle at a single point. With the single front axle beam in the front wheel support arrangement, adjusting a camber angle of the front wheels of the vehicle is difficult and is one of the challenges posed to original equipment manufacturers (OEM’S) due to mounting of the single front axle beam with the chassis at the single point. The maintenance of the single front axle 15 beam is difficult as the entire single front axle beam must be replaced in an event of failure of the front axle beam which occurs due to deformations in the front axle beam. For example, the single front axle beam is subjected to undesirable deformations due to larger overhang portion at both sides of the front axle beam which in turn leads to failure of the front axle beam. 20 Furthermore, a front load of the vehicle is distributed at the single point in the front axle beam results in deformations in the front axle beam which in turn leads to failure of the front axle beam.
[003] Therefore, there exists a need for a wheel support arrangement and a wheel alignment angle adjusting mechanism and a 25 method for adjusting alignment angles of wheels of a vehicle, which obviates the aforementioned drawbacks.
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OBJECTS
[004] The principal object of an embodiment of this invention is to provide a wheel support arrangement for a vehicle.
[005] Another object of an embodiment of this invention is to provide a wheel alignment angle adjusting mechanism for a vehicle, which 5 is configured to alter the position of corresponding axle beams of the vehicle to change an alignment angle of corresponding wheels of the vehicle.
[006] Another object of an embodiment of this invention is to provide a method for adjusting alignment angles of the wheels of a vehicle. 10
[007] Another object of an embodiment of this invention is to provide a wheel support arrangement for a vehicle, which enables distribution of corresponding load of the vehicle at a plurality of axle beam pivot points to reduce the deformation of corresponding axle beams.
[008] Another object of an embodiment of this invention is to 15 provide a wheel support arrangement for a vehicle, which enables the wheels of the vehicle to have variable alignment angles.
[009] Yet, another object of an embodiment of this invention is to provide a wheel support arrangement for a vehicle, which comprises a split type axle beam arrangement having at least one left axle beam and at least 20 one right axle beam that enables replacement of the left axle beam or right axle beam in an event of failure of corresponding axle beam thereby reducing replacement costs.
[0010] A further object of an embodiment of this invention is to provide a wheel support arrangement for a vehicle, which comprises a 25 plurality of axle beams comprising a left axle beam pivoted to a vehicular structure at a predefined distance from a pivotal point of a right axle beam
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thereby enabling the axle beams to have reduced overhang portion to reduce the deformation in the axle beams.
[0011] These and other objects of the embodiments herein will be better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with the following description and the accompanying drawings. It should be 5 understood, however, that the following descriptions, while indicating embodiments and numerous specific details thereof, are given by way of illustration and not of limitation. Many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the embodiments herein without departing from the spirit thereof, and the embodiments herein include all such 10 modifications.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0012] The embodiments of the invention are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, throughout which like reference letters indicate corresponding parts in the various figures. The embodiments herein will be 15 better understood from the following description with reference to the drawings, in which:
[0013] Fig. 1 depicts a perspective view of a wheel support arrangement for a vehicle, according to an embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein; 20
[0014] Fig. 2 depicts a front view of the wheel support arrangement, according to an embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein;
[0015] Fig. 3 depicts a perspective view of a wheel alignment angle adjusting mechanism, according to an embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein; 25
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[0016] Fig. 4a depicts a schematic diagram of an electric drive mechanism, according to an embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein;
[0017] Fig. 4b depicts a depicts a schematic diagram of an electric drive mechanism, according to another embodiment of the invention as 5 disclosed herein;
[0018] Fig. 4c depicts a schematic diagram of an electric drive mechanism, according to another embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein;
[0019] Fig. 5 depicts a schematic diagram of a wheel alignment 10 angle adjusting mechanism, according to an embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein; and
[0020] Fig. 6 depicts a flowchart showing the steps of a method for adjusting alignment angles of the wheels of a vehicle, according to an embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein. 15
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DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0021] The embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained more fully with reference to the non-limiting embodiments that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and detailed in the following description. Descriptions of well-5 known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the embodiments herein may be practiced and to further enable those of skill in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples 10 should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein.
[0022] The embodiments herein achieve a wheel support arrangement for a vehicle and a wheel alignment angle adjusting mechanism and a method for adjusting alignment angles of the wheels of a vehicle. Referring now to the drawings, and more particularly to Figs. 1 15 through 6, where similar reference characters denote corresponding features consistently throughout the figures, there are shown embodiments.
[0023] Fig. 1 depicts a perspective view of a wheel support arrangement 100 for a vehicle, according to an embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein. Fig. 2 depicts a front view of the wheel 20 support arrangement 100, according to an embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein. In an embodiment, the wheel support arrangement 100 includes a plurality of axle beams (102L and 102R), a wheel alignment angle adjusting mechanism 104, a plurality of linkages (106L and 106R), a plurality of kingpin tubes (108L and 108R), a plurality of kingpins (110L 25 and 110R), a plurality of stub axles (112L and 112R), a plurality of wheel hub assemblies (114L and 114R), a plurality of wheels FW and may include other standard components as present in a standard vehicle wheel
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support arrangement. In an embodiment, the wheel support arrangement 100 is a front wheel support arrangement 100 which is used for supporting the front wheels FW of the vehicle, each axle beam (102L and 102R) is a front axle beam, and the wheel alignment angle adjusting mechanism 104 is a front wheel alignment adjusting mechanism 104 which is configured to 5 alter the position of the front axle beams (102L and 102R) to change an alignment angle of corresponding front wheels FW of the vehicle. It is also within the scope of the invention to implement/practice the components of the wheel support arrangement 100 (as disclosed in this description) for supporting any of middle wheels, rear wheels and any wheels which is in 10 between the front wheels and the rear wheels of a vehicle, and to implement/practice the wheel alignment angle adjusting mechanism 104 (as disclosed in this description) for altering the position of corresponding any axle beams to change an alignment angle of corresponding any wheels of the vehicle. For the purpose of this description and ease of understanding, 15 the wheel support arrangement 100 and the wheel alignment angle adjusting mechanism 104 is explained herein below with reference to be provided in an agricultural vehicle. However, it is also within the scope of the invention to implement/practice wheel support arrangement 100 and the wheel alignment angle adjusting mechanism 104 in an agricultural 20 harvester, a constructional vehicle, a tractor mounted combine harvester, an off-road vehicle, passenger vehicles, race cars and any other type of vehicles without otherwise deterring the intended function of the wheel alignment angle adjusting mechanism 104 and the wheel support arrangement 100 as can be deduced from the description and corresponding 25 drawings.
[0024] The plurality of axle beams (102L and 102R) includes at least one left axle beam 102L and at least one right axle beam 102R. One end of the left axle beam 102L is pivotably connected to a vehicular
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structure C about a first pivot axis Px and another end of the left axle beam 102L is connected to the left kingpin tube 108L. One end of the right axle beam 102R is pivotably connected to the vehicular structure C about a second pivot axis Py and another end of the right axle beam 102R is connected to the right kingpin tube 108R. The second pivot axis Py and the 5 first pivot axis Px are spaced away from each other and are parallel to each other. The vehicular structure C is at least a chassis frame.
[0025] The plurality of linkages (106L and 106R) is used for supporting and movably connecting the wheel alignment angle adjusting mechanism 104 to the axle beams (102L and 102R). For the purpose of 10 this description and ease of understanding, the plurality of linkages (106L and 106R) includes a plurality of first linkages 106L and a plurality of second linkages 106R. One end of each first linkage 106L is connected to the left axle beam 102L and another end of each first linkage 106L is connected to the first adjustable member 104L. One end of each second 15 linkage 106R is connected to the right axle beam 102R and another end of each second linkage 106R is connected to the second adjustable member 104R.
[0026] Fig. 3 depicts a perspective view of a wheel alignment angle adjusting mechanism 104, according to an embodiment of the invention as 20 disclosed herein. In an embodiment, the wheel alignment angle adjusting mechanism 104 is configured to alter the position of the axle beams (102L and 102R) to change an alignment angle of corresponding wheels FW of the vehicle. The wheel alignment angle adjusting mechanism 104 is adapted to be movably connected to the axle beams (102L and 102R). For 25 the purpose of this description and ease of understanding, the wheel alignment angle adjusting mechanism 104 is adapted to be movably connected to the axle beams (102L and 102R) through the plurality of linkages (106L and 106R). It is also within the scope of the invention to
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provide any other linkage arrangement and any other mechanisms for movably connecting the wheel alignment angle adjusting mechanism 104 with the axle beams (102L and 102R). In an embodiment, the wheel alignment angle adjusting mechanism 104 includes a rotatable center assembly 104C, a first adjustable member 104L, a second adjustable 5 member 104R and at least one locking element 104Z.
[0027] The rotatable center assembly 104C is configured to be moved to move the first adjustable member 104L and the second adjustable member 104R with respect to the rotatable center assembly 104C to alter the position of the axle beams (102L and 102R) to change the alignment 10 angle of corresponding wheels FW of the vehicle. The rotatable center assembly 104C includes a first threaded element 104N1, a second threaded element 104N2 and a rotatable member 104T. The first threaded element 104N1 is connected to corresponding end of the rotatable member 104T. The first threaded element 104N1 of the rotatable center assembly 104C is 15 at least one of a threaded fastener, a threaded insert and nut 104N1. The second threaded element 104N2 is connected to corresponding another end of the rotatable member 104T. The second threaded element 104N2 of the rotatable center assembly 104C is at least one of a threaded insert, a threaded fastener and a nut 104N2. The rotatable member 104T is 20 connected between the first threaded element 104N1 and the second threaded element 104N2. The rotatable member 104T of the rotatable center assembly 104C is a rotatable center outer tube. It is also within the scope of the invention to eliminate the first threaded element (104N1) and the second threaded element (104N2) and provide threads integrated with 25 corresponding portion of the rotatable member (104T) with respect to the threads to be provided to the first adjustable member 104L and the second adjustable member 104R. In another embodiment, the rotatable member
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(104T) is at least one of a rotatable center outer rod, a rotatable center inner tube and a rotatable center inner rod.
[0028] The first adjustable member 104L is adapted to be movably connected to the left axle beam 102L and the rotatable center assembly 104. The first adjustable member 104L includes a first portion 104Lf and a 5 second portion 104Ls. The first portion 104Lf of the first adjustable member 104L is adapted to be movably connected to the left axle beam 102L through at least one first linkage 106L. The second portion 104Ls of the first adjustable member 104L extends from the first portion 104Lf in a direction towards of the rotatable center assembly 104C. The second 10 portion 104Ls of the first adjustable member 104L is movably connected to the rotatable center assembly 104C. For the purpose of this description and ease of understanding, the second portion 104Ls of the first adjustable member 104L is movably connected to the first threaded element 104N1 of the rotatable center assembly 104C. It is also within the scope of the 15 invention to movably connect the first adjustable member 104L to the rotatable member 104T. In an embodiment, the second portion 104Ls of the first adjustable member 104L defines a plurality of external threads, where the first adjustable member 104L is at least one of an adjustable inner tie rod 104L and an adjustable inner tie tube. In another embodiment, 20 the second portion 104Ls of the first adjustable member (104L) defines a plurality of internal threads, where the first adjustable member (104L) is at least one of an adjustable outer tie rod and an adjustable outer tie tube.
[0029] The second adjustable member 104R is adapted to be movably connected to the right axle beam 102R and the rotatable center 25 assembly 104. The second adjustable member 104R is opposite to the first adjustable member 104L. The second adjustable member 104R includes a first portion 104Rf and a second portion 104Rs. The first portion 104Rf of the second adjustable member 104R is adapted to be movably connected to
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the right axle beam 102R through at least one second linkage 106R. The second portion 104Rs of the second adjustable member 104R extends from the first portion 104Rf in a direction towards the rotatable center assembly 104C. The second portion 104Rs of the second adjustable member 104R is movably connected to the rotatable center assembly 104C. For the purpose 5 of this description and ease of understanding, the second portion 104Rs of the second adjustable member 104R is movably connected to the rotatable member 104T. It is also within the scope of the invention connect the second adjustable member 104R to the rotatable member 104T through any other means. In an embodiment, the second portion 104Rs of the second 10 adjustable member 104R defines a plurality of external threads, where the second adjustable member 104R is at least one of an adjustable inner tie rod 104R and an adjustable inner tie tube (104R). In another embodiment, the second portion 104Rs of the second adjustable member (104R) defines a plurality of internal threads, where the second adjustable member (104R) is 15 at least one of an adjustable outer tie rod and an adjustable outer tie tube.
[0030] When there is a requirement to change the alignment angle of corresponding wheels FW of the vehicle, the rotatable center assembly 104C is rotated in at least one of an anti-clockwise direction and a clockwise direction about a longitudinal axis of the rotatable center 20 assembly 104C to move the second portion 104Ls of the first adjustable member 104L and the second portion 104Rs of the second adjustable member 104R towards each other and/or away from each other respectively to alter the angular position of the axle beams (102L and 102R) thereby varying the position of corresponding wheels FW to change the alignment 25 angle of corresponding wheels FW. The change in alignment angles of corresponding wheels FW include camber angles and toe angles.
[0031] The locking element 104Z is movably connected to the first adjustable member 104L and movable between an unlocked position in
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which the locking element 104Z is unlocked from the rotatable center assembly 104C, and a locked position in which the locking element 104Z is engaged to the rotatable center assembly 104C to restrict a rotational movement of the rotatable center assembly 104C. The movement of the locking element 104Z from the unlocked position to the locked position 5 occurs after the adjustment of the alignment angle of corresponding wheels FW of the vehicle so as to maintain the wheel alignment angle at the adjusted position. The locking element 104Z is at least one of a threaded insert, a threaded fastener and a threaded lock nut 104Z (as shown in fig. 6). It is also within the scope of the invention to provide any other locking 10 arrangement for restricting the rotational movement of the rotatable center assembly 104C.
[0032] In an embodiment, the rotatable center assembly 104C is manually rotated to change the alignment angles of the wheels FW of the vehicle. In another embodiment, the wheel alignment angle adjusting 15 mechanism (104) comprises a hand operated lever mechanism (not shown) for moving the rotatable center assembly (104C) to alter the position of the axle beams (102L and 102R) to change the alignment angle of corresponding wheels FW of the vehicle.
[0033] In another embodiment, the wheel alignment angle adjusting 20 mechanism 104 comprises an electric drive mechanism 104E (as shown in fig. 4a to fig.4c) for actuating (rotating) the rotatable center assembly 104C to change the alignment angle of the wheels FW of the vehicle.
[0034] Fig. 4a depicts a schematic diagram of an electric drive mechanism 104E, according to an embodiment of the invention as 25 disclosed herein. In an embodiment, the electric drive mechanism 104E includes an electric motor 104M and a control means 104S. The electric motor 104M is activated through the control means 104S. The rotatable
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member 104T of the rotatable center assembly 104C is rotatably connected to a shaft (not shown) of the electric motor (104M). The control means 104S is electrically connected to the electric motor 104M. The control means 104S is adapted to be moved between an ON position in which the control means 104S allows electric current supply to the electric motor 5 104M, and an OFF position in which the control means 104S switches-off the electric current supply to the electric motor 104M. The control means 104S is at least one of a switch and a button. However, it is also within the scope of the invention to provide any other means to function as control means 104S without otherwise deterring the intended function of the 10 control means 104S as can be deduced from the description and corresponding drawings. When there is a requirement to change the alignment angle of the wheels FW of the vehicle, the electric motor 104 drives the rotatable center assembly (104C) to move the first adjustable member (104L) and the second adjustable member (104R) with respect to 15 the rotatable center assembly (104C) to alter the position of the axle beams (102L and 102R) to change the alignment angle of corresponding wheels FW of the vehicle on movement of the control means 104S to the ON position.
[0035] Fig. 4b depicts a schematic diagram of an electric drive 20 mechanism 104E, according to another embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein. In another embodiment, the electric drive mechanism 104E comprises an electric motor 104M, a controller unit 104X and at least one control means 104K. The electric motor 104M is actuated through the controller unit 104X based on the information provided by the control 25 means 104K. The rotatable member 104T of the rotatable center assembly 104C is rotatably connected to a shaft (not shown) of the electric motor 104M. The controller unit 104X is provided in communication with the electric motor 104M. In an embodiment, the controller unit 104X is a
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dedicated electronic control unit (ECU). In another embodiment, the controller unit 104X is an electronic control unit present in the vehicle. The control means 104K is used to provide user defined inputs to the controller unit 104X. The control means 104K is moved by the user to select and/or set at least one of the plurality of alignment angles, where the 5 plurality of alignment angles are marked on the control means 104K. In an embodiment, the control means 104K is at least one of a knob and a lever. However, it is also within the scope of the invention to provide any other means to function as control means 104K without otherwise deterring the intended function of the control means 104K as can be deduced from the 10 description and corresponding drawings. When there is a requirement to change the alignment angle of corresponding wheels FW of the vehicle, the control means 104K is moved by the user to select and/or set at least one of a plurality of alignment angles, and accordingly the control means 104K provides the information to the controller unit 104X which actuates the 15 electric motor 104M which in turn drives the rotatable center assembly 104C to move the first adjustable member 104L and the second adjustable member 104R with respect to the rotatable center assembly 104C to alter the position of the axle beams (102L and 102R) to change the alignment angle of corresponding wheels FW of the vehicle. 20
[0036] Fig. 4c depicts a schematic view of an electric drive mechanism 104E, according to an embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein. In another embodiment, the electric drive mechanism 104E comprises an electric motor 104M, a controller unit 104X and a module 104Y. The electric motor 104M is actuated through the controller 25 unit 104X based on the information provided by the module 104Y. The rotatable member 104T of the rotatable center assembly 104C is rotatably connected to a shaft (not shown) of the electric motor 104M. The controller unit 104X is provided in communication with the electric motor
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104M. The module 104Y is provided in communication with the controller unit 104X. In one embodiment, the module 104Y is provided in communication with at least one of a smartphone, at least one computing device and at least one electronic device for receiving information about load of the vehicle, the road and soil condition of geographic region (area), 5 weather condition, at least one vehicle operating parameter, and at least one parameter which influences tyre life and performance. In another embodiment, the module 104Y is adapted to be provided in communication with a plurality of sensors (not shown) for receiving information about load of the vehicle, the road and soil condition of geographic region, weather 10 condition, at least one vehicle operating parameter and at least one parameter which influences tyre life and performance. The plurality of sensors (not shown) are embedded with the vehicle. To change the alignment angle of the wheels FW of the vehicle, the module 104Y is adapted to at least one of receive and process the information about at least 15 one of road and soil condition of geographic region, weather condition, load of the vehicle, at least one vehicle operating parameter and at least one parameter which influences tyre life and performance, and accordingly the module 104Y sends the information to the controller unit 104X which actuates the electric motor 104M which in turn drives the rotatable center 20 assembly 104C to move the first adjustable member 104L and the second adjustable member 104R with respect to said rotatable center assembly 104C to alter the position of the axle beams (102L and 102R) to change the alignment angle of corresponding wheels FW of the vehicle. In another embodiment, the electric drive mechanism 104E includes a manual 25 override arrangement which provides user defined inputs to the controller unit 104X when at least one of the module 104Y, the smartphone, the computing device, the electronic device and sensors is not functioning or not working or not available. In another embodiment, the controller unit
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104X is provided in direct communication with at least one of the smartphone, the computing device, at least one electronic device and sensors embedded in the vehicle, for receiving about at least one of road and soil condition of geographic region, weather condition, load of the vehicle, at least one vehicle operating parameter and at least one parameter 5 which influences tyre life and performance. The controller unit 104X actuates the electric motor 104M which in turn drives the rotatable center assembly 104C to move the first adjustable member 104L and the second adjustable member 104R with respect to said rotatable center assembly 104C to alter the position of the axle beams (102L and 102R) to change the 10 alignment angle of corresponding wheels FW of the vehicle based on the information received from at least one of the smartphone, the computing device, at least one electronic device and sensors embedded in the vehicle.
[0037] Fig. 5 depicts a schematic diagram of a wheel alignment angle adjusting mechanism 104, according to an embodiment of the 15 invention as disclosed herein. In another embodiment, the wheel alignment angle adjusting mechanism 104 is at least one of an electro-hydraulic actuator mechanism and an electro-pneumatic actuator mechanism. The mechanism 104 is movably connected to the axle beams (102L and 102R). For the purpose of this description and ease of understanding, the 20 mechanism 104 is movably connected to the axle beams (102L and 102R) through the plurality of linkages (106L and 106R). It is also within the scope of the invention to provide any other linkage arrangement and any other mechanisms for movably connecting the mechanism 104 to the axle beams (102L and 102R). The mechanism 104 includes at least one cylinder 25 assembly 104A, at least one first movable assembly 104D, at least one second movable assembly 104F, a plurality of control valves (104UF and 104US), a controller unit 104V, a control means 104W and a module 104Q. The cylinder assembly 104 of the mechanism 104 utilizes at least one of
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pressurized fluid and compressed air as working medium for adjusting the alignment angles of the wheels FW of the vehicle. The cylinder assembly 104A includes at least one cylinder 104Ac and a wall 104B. The cylinder 104Ac of the cylinder assembly 104 defines a first chamber 104Af and a second chamber 104As. The wall 104B is disposed inside the cylinder 5 104Ac between the first chamber 104Af and the second chamber 104As to restrict the fluid communication between the first chamber 104Af and the second chamber 104As of the cylinder 104Ac. The wall 104B is also called as block. The first chamber 104Af of the cylinder 104Ac defines a first port (not shown) and a second port (not shown). The first port and the 10 second port of the first chamber 104Af of the cylinder 104Ac are provided in fluid communication with corresponding at least one control valve 104UF. The first port of the first chamber 104Af of the cylinder 104Ac is used to facilitate at least one of entry of fluid into the first chamber 104Af of the cylinder 104Ac and exit of fluid from the first chamber 104Af of the 15 cylinder 104Ac through corresponding at least one control valve 104UF, and the second port of the first chamber 104Af of the cylinder 104Ac is used to facilitate at least one of entry of fluid into the first chamber 104Af of the cylinder 104Ac, and exit of fluid from the first chamber 104Af of the cylinder 104Ac through corresponding at least one control valve 104UF. 20 The second chamber 104As of the cylinder 104Ac of the cylinder assembly 104A defines a first port (not shown) and a second port (not shown). The first port and the second port of the second chamber 104As of the cylinder 104Ac are provided in fluid communication with corresponding at least one another control valve 104US. The first port of the second chamber 104As 25 of the cylinder 104Ac is used to facilitate at least one of entry of fluid into the second chamber 104As of the cylinder 104Ac, and exit of fluid from the second chamber 104As of the cylinder 104Ac through corresponding at least one control valve 104US, and the second port of the second chamber
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104As of the cylinder 104Ac is used to facilitate at least one of entry of fluid into the second chamber 104As of the cylinder 104Ac, and exit of fluid from the second chamber 104As of the cylinder 104c through corresponding at least one control valve 104US. The first movably assembly 104D is adapted to be movably connected to the cylinder 5 assembly 104A and the left axle beam 102. The first movably assembly 104D includes a first movable member 104Ds and a second movable member 104Dm. The first movable member 104Ds of the first movable assembly 104D is disposed inside the first chamber 104Af of the cylinder 104Ac and is slidably connected to the first chamber 104Af of the cylinder 10 104Ac. The second movable member 104Dm is adapted to be movably connected to the first movable member 104Ds, and movably connected to the left axle beam 102L. For the purpose of this ease of understanding, one end of the second movable member 104Dm of the first movably assembly 104D is connected to the left axle beam 102L through at least one first 15 linkage 106L, and another end of the second movable member 104Dm is connected to the first movable member 104Ds of the first movable assembly 104D. The second movable assembly 104F is opposite to the first movable assembly 104D. The second movable assembly 104F is adapted to be movably connected to the cylinder assembly 104A and the right axle 20 beam 102R. The second movable assembly 104F includes a first movable member 104Fs and a second movable member 104Fm. The first movable member 104Fs of the second movable assembly 104F is disposed inside the second chamber 104As of the cylinder 104Ac and is slidably connected to the second chamber 104As of the cylinder 104Ac. The second movable 25 member 104Fm of the second movable assembly 104F is adapted to be movably connected to the first movable member 104Fs, and movably connected to the right axle beam 102R. For the purpose of this ease of understanding, one end of the second movable member 104Fm of the
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second movable assembly 104F is connected to the right axle beam 102R through at least one second linkage 106R and another end of the second movable member 104Fm of the second movable assembly 104F is connected to the first movable member 104Fs of the second movable assembly 104F. The plurality of control valves (104UF and 104US) is 5 provided in communication with the controller unit 104V. The plurality of control valves (104UF and 104US) is provided in fluid communication with the cylinder assembly 104A, where the control valve 104UF is provided in fluid communication with the first chamber 104Af of the cylinder 104Ac of the cylinder assembly 104A, and another control valve 10 104US is provided in fluid communication with the second chamber 104As of the cylinder 104Ac of the cylinder assembly 104A. Each control valve (104UF and 104US) is used to control at least one of the flow of fluid to the cylinder assembly 104A and the flow of fluid from the cylinder assembly 104A on activation of each control valve (104UF and 104US) through the 15 controller unit 104V. The controller unit 104V is provided in communication with the plurality of control valves (104UF and 104US), the control means 104W and the module 104Q. In an embodiment, the controller unit 104V is also called as electronic control unit (ECU). In another embodiment, the controller unit 104V is an electronic control unit 20 present in the vehicle. The controller unit 104V is adapted to activate the plurality of control valves (104UF and 104US) to regulate at least one the flow of fluid to the cylinder assembly 104A and the flow of fluid from the cylinder assembly104A to move the first movable assembly 104D and the second movable assembly 104F with respect to the cylinder assembly 104A 25 to alter the position of the axle beams (102L and 102R) to change an alignment angle of corresponding wheels FW of the vehicle based on the information provided by at least one of at least one control means 104W and the module 104Q to the controller unit 104V. The control means
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104W is used to provide user defined inputs to the controller unit 104V. The control means 104W is adapted to be moved to select and/or set at least one of a plurality of alignment angles, and accordingly the control means 104W provides the information to the controller unit 104V. The control means 104W is at least one of a knob, a lever and the like. It is also within 5 the scope of the invention to provide any other means to function as control means 104W. The module 104Q is provided in communication with the controller unit 104V. The module 104Q is adapted to at least one of receive and process the information about at least one of road and soil condition of geographic region (area), weather condition, load of the vehicle, at least 10 one vehicle operating parameter and at least one parameter which influences tyre life and performance, and accordingly the module 104Q sends the information to the controller unit 104V. In one embodiment, the module 104Q is adapted to be provided in communication with a plurality of sensors for receiving information about load of the vehicle, the road and 15 soil condition of geographic region (area), weather condition, at least one vehicle operating parameter, and at least one parameter which influences tyre life and performance, where the plurality of sensors are adapted to be embedded with the vehicle. In another embodiment, the module 104Q is be provided in communication with at least one of a smartphone, at least one 20 computing device and at least one electronic device for receiving information about load of the vehicle, the road and soil condition of geographic region (area), weather condition, at least one vehicle operating parameter, and at least one parameter which influences tyre life and performance. The control means 104W also acts as a manual override 25 arrangement which provides user defined inputs to the controller unit 104V when at least one of the module 104Q, the smartphone, the computing device, the electronic device and sensors is not functioning or not working or not available.
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[0038] In another embodiment, the controller unit 104V is provided in direct communication with at least one of the smartphone, the computing device, at least one electronic device and sensors embedded in the vehicle, for receiving about at least one of road and soil condition of geographic region (area), weather condition, load of the vehicle, at least one vehicle 5 operating parameter and at least one parameter which influences tyre life and performance. The controller unit 104V is adapted to activate the plurality of control valves (104UF and 104US) to regulate at least one the flow of fluid to the cylinder assembly 104A and the flow of fluid from the cylinder assembly104A to move the first movable assembly 104D and the 10 second movable assembly 104F with respect to the cylinder assembly 104A to alter the position of the axle beams (102L and 102R) to change an alignment angle of corresponding wheels FW of the vehicle based on the information provided by at least one of the smartphone, the computing device, at least one electronic device and sensors embedded in the vehicle. 15 It is also within the scope of the invention to provide individual cylinder assembly or any other type of cylinder arrangement in any other configuration and orientation for moving corresponding axle beams (102L and 102R) to change the alignment angle of corresponding wheels FW of the vehicle. 20
[0039] In another embodiment, the wheel alignment angle adjusting mechanism (104) is at least one of a telescopic adjustable arrangement, an adjustable extendable and retractable arrangement, an adjustable screw arrangement, an electric motor with an extendable and retractable shaft, a linear adjustable arrangement, an adjustable linear actuator, a hydraulic 25 actuator, a pneumatic actuator, a telescopic cylinder mechanism, , an adjustable linear actuator, and an adjustable linear control mechanism.
[0040] The plurality of kingpin tubes (108L and 108R) includes a left kingpin tube 108L and a right kingpin tube 108R. The left kingpin tube
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108L is connected to the left axle beam 102L. The right kingpin tube 108R is connected to the right axle beam 102R.
[0041] The plurality of kingpins (110L and 110R) include a left kingpin 110L and a right kingpin 110R. The left kingpin 110L is supported by the left kingpin tube 108L. The left kingpin 110L is movably connected 5 to a left side stub axle 112L. The right kingpin 110R is supported by the right kingpin tube 108R. The right kingpin 110R is movably connected to a right-side stub axle 112R
[0042] The plurality of stub axles (112L and 112R) includes a left stub axle 112L and a right stub axle 112R. The left stub axle 112L is used 10 for supporting a corresponding wheel FW through a left wheel hub assembly 114L. The right stub axle 112R is used for supporting a corresponding another wheel FW through a right wheel hub assembly 114R.
[0043] Fig. 6 depicts a flowchart showing the steps of a method 10 15 for adjusting alignment angles of the wheels FW of a vehicle, according to an embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein. In an embodiment, the method 10 for adjusting alignment angles of the wheels FW of the vehicle is as follows, the method 10 comprising, pivoting at least one left axle beam 102L and at least one right axle beam 102R to a vehicular structure C 20 (step 12), connecting a wheel alignment angle adjusting mechanism 104 to the axle beams (102L and 102R), step (14), altering the position of the axle beams (102L and 102R) through the mechanism 104 to change the alignment angle of wheels FW of the vehicle (step 16). The method step (16) of altering the position of the axle beams (102L and 102R) through the 25 mechanism 104 to change the alignment angle of wheels FW of the vehicle includes, moving a rotatable center assembly 104C of the mechanism 104 to move a first adjustable member 104L and a second adjustable member
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104R with respect to the rotatable center assembly 104C to alter the position of the axle beams (102L and 102R) to change the alignment angle of wheels FW of the vehicle. The method step of moving the rotatable center assembly 104C of the mechanism 104 to move the first adjustable member 104L and the second adjustable member 104R with respect to the 5 rotatable center assembly 104C to alter the position of the axle beams (102L and 102R) to change the alignment angle of wheels FW of the vehicle includes, moving the rotatable center assembly 104C through an electric drive mechanism 104E to alter the position of the axle beams (102L and 102R) to change the alignment angle of wheels FW of the vehicle. The 10 method step of altering the position of the axle beams (102L and 102R) through the mechanism 104 to change the alignment angle of wheels FW of the vehicle includes, moving a first movably assembly 104D and a second movable assembly 104F with respect to a cylinder assembly 104A to alter the position of the axle beams (102L and 102R) to change the alignment 15 angle of wheels FW of the vehicle, where the mechanism 104 is at least one of an electro-hydraulic actuator mechanism and an electro-pneumatic actuator mechanism. The mechanism (104, as said in step 14), is at least one of a telescopic adjustable arrangement, an adjustable extendable and retractable arrangement, an adjustable screw arrangement, an electric motor 20 with an extendable and retractable shaft, a linear adjustable arrangement, an adjustable linear actuator, a hydraulic actuator, a pneumatic actuator, a telescopic cylinder mechanism, an electro-hydraulic actuator system, an electro-pneumatic actuator system, an adjustable linear actuator, and an adjustable linear control mechanism. 25
[0044] Therefore, a wheel support arrangement 100 for supporting corresponding wheels FW of a vehicle, and a wheel alignment angle adjusting mechanism 104 and a method 10 for adjusting the alignment angles of the wheels FW of the vehicle are provided.
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[0045] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are 5 intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the 10 embodiments herein can be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of the embodiments as described herein.

STATEMENT OF CLAIMS
We claim,
1. A wheel support arrangement 100 for a vehicle, said arrangement 100 comprising:
a plurality of axle beams (102L and 102R) comprising at least one left axle beam 102L and at least one right axle beam 102R; and
a wheel alignment angle adjusting mechanism 104 adapted to be movably connected to said axle beams (102L and 102R),
wherein
said mechanism 104 is configured to alter the position of said axle beams (102L and 102R) to change an alignment angle of corresponding wheels FW of the vehicle.
2. The arrangement 100 as claimed in claimed 1, wherein one end of said left axle beam 102L is pivotably connected to a vehicular structure C and another end of said left axle beam 102L is connected to a left kingpin tube 108L.
3. The arrangement 100 as claimed in claimed 2, wherein one end of said right axle beam 102R is pivotably connected to the vehicular structure C and another end of said right axle beam 102R is connected to a right kingpin tube 108R.
4. The arrangement 100 as claimed in claim 3, wherein said wheel alignment angle adjusting mechanism 104 is movably connected to said axle beams (102L and 102R) through a plurality of linkages (106L and 106R).
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5. The arrangement 100 as claimed in claim 4, wherein said wheel alignment angle adjusting mechanism 104 comprises,
a rotatable center assembly 104C;
a first adjustable member 104L adapted to be movably connected to said left axle beam 102L and said rotatable center assembly 104; and
a second adjustable member 104R adapted to be movably connected to said right axle beam 102R and said rotatable center assembly 104,
wherein
said rotatable center assembly 104C is configured to be moved to move said first adjustable member 104L and said second adjustable member 104R with respect to said rotatable center assembly 104C to alter the position of said axle beams (102L and 102R) to change the alignment angle of corresponding wheels FW of the vehicle.
6. The arrangement 100 as claimed in claim 5, wherein said rotatable center assembly 104C comprises,
a first threaded element 104N1;
a second threaded element 104N2; and
a rotatable member 104T adapted to be connected between said first threaded element 104N1 and said second threaded element 104N2.
7. The arrangement 100 as claimed in claim 6, wherein said first threaded element 104N1 is at least one of a nut 104N1, a threaded insert and a threaded fastener,
wherein said second threaded element 104N2 is at least one of a nut 104N2, a threaded insert and a threaded fastener,
wherein said rotatable member 104T is a rotatable outer tube 104T.
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8. The arrangement 100 as claimed in claim 5, wherein said first adjustable member 104L is adapted to be movably connected to said left axle beam 102L through at least one first linkage 106L, where said first adjustable member 104L is at least an adjustable inner tie rod 104L.
9. The arrangement 100 as claimed in claim 5, wherein said second adjustable member 104R is adapted to be movably connected to said right axle beam 102R through at least one second linkage 106R, where said second adjustable member 104R is at least an adjustable inner tie rod 104R.
10. The arrangement 100 as claimed in claim 5, wherein said wheel alignment angle adjusting mechanism 104 comprises,
a locking element 104Z adapted to be movably connected to said first adjustable member 104L and movable between an unlocked position in which said locking element 104Z is unlocked with said rotatable center assembly 104C, and a locked position in which said locking element 104Z is engaged to said rotatable center assembly 104C to restrict a rotational movement of said rotatable center assembly 104C
11. The arrangement 100 as claimed in claim 10, wherein said locking element 104Z is at least one of a threaded lock nut 104Z, a threaded insert and threaded fastener.
12. The arrangement 100 as claimed in claim 5, wherein said wheel alignment angle adjusting mechanism (104) comprises at least one of a hand operated lever mechanism and an electric drive mechanism 104E for moving said rotatable center assembly (104C) to alter the position of
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said axle beams (102L and 102R) to change the alignment angle of corresponding wheels FW of the vehicle.
13. The arrangement 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein said wheel alignment angle adjusting mechanism (104) is at least one of an electro-hydraulic actuator mechanism and an electro-pneumatic actuator mechanism.
14. The arrangement 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein said wheel alignment angle adjusting mechanism (104) is at least one of a telescopic adjustable arrangement, an extendable and retractable arrangement, an adjustable screw arrangement, an electric motor with an extendable and retractable shaft, a linear adjustable arrangement, an adjustable linear actuator, a hydraulic actuator, a pneumatic actuator, a telescopic cylinder mechanism, and an adjustable linear control mechanism.
15. A wheel alignment angle adjusting mechanism 104 for a vehicle, said mechanism 104 comprising:
a rotatable center assembly 104C;
a first adjustable member 104L adapted to be movably connected to said rotatable center assembly 104C and a left axle beam 102L; and
a second adjustable member 104R adapted to be movably connected to said rotatable center assembly 104C and a right axle beam 102L,
wherein
said rotatable center assembly 104C is configured to be moved to move said first adjustable member 104L and said second adjustable member 104R with respect to said rotatable center assembly 104C to alter the
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position of the axle beams (102L and 102R) to change an alignment angle of corresponding wheels FW of the vehicle.
16. The mechanism 104 as claimed in claim 15, wherein said rotatable center assembly 104C comprises,
a first threaded element 104N1;
a second threaded element 104N2; and
a rotatable member 104T adapted to be connected between said first threaded element 104N1 and said second threaded element 104N2.
17. The mechanism 104 as claimed in claim 16, wherein said first threaded element 104N1 is at least one of a nut 104N1, a threaded insert and a threaded fastener,
wherein said second threaded element 104N2 is at least one of a nut 104N2, a threaded insert and a threaded fastener,
wherein said rotatable member 104T is a rotatable outer tube 104T.
18. The mechanism 104 as claimed in claim 15, wherein said first adjustable member 104L is adapted to be movably connected to the left axle beam 104L through at least one first linkage 106L, where said first adjustable member 104L is at least an adjustable inner tie rod 104L.
19. The mechanism 104 as claimed in claim 15, wherein said second adjustable member 104R is adapted to be movably connected to the right axle beam 104R through at least one second linkage 106R, where said second adjustable member 104R is at least an adjustable inner tie rod 104R.
20. The mechanism 104 as claimed in claim 15 comprises a locking element 104Z adapted to be movably connected to said first adjustable
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member 104L and movable between an unlocked position in which said locking element 104Z is unlocked with said rotatable center assembly 104C, and a locked position in which said locking element 104Z is engaged to said rotatable center assembly 104C to restrict a rotational movement of said rotatable center assembly 104C.
21. The mechanism 104 as claimed in claim 20, wherein said locking element 104Z is at least one of a threaded lock nut 104Z, a threaded insert and threaded fastener.
22. The mechanism 104 as claimed in claim 15, wherein said rotatable center assembly 104C is manually rotated to alter the position of the axle beams (102L and 102R) to change the alignment angle of corresponding wheels FW of the vehicle.
23. The mechanism 104 as claimed in claim 15 comprises a hand operated lever mechanism for moving said rotatable center assembly (104C) to alter the position of the axle beams (102L and 102R) to change the alignment angle of corresponding wheels FW of the vehicle
24. The mechanism 104 as claimed in claim 15 comprises an electric drive mechanism 104E comprising,
at least one electric motor 104M adapted to drive said rotatable center assembly 104C to move said first adjustable member 104L and said second adjustable member 104R with respect to said rotatable center assembly 104C to alter the position of the axle beams (102L and 102R) to change the alignment angle of corresponding wheels FW of the vehicle,
wherein
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said rotatable center assembly (104C) is adapted to be rotatably connected to said electric motor 104M.
25. The mechanism 104 as claimed in claim 24, wherein said electric drive mechanism 104E comprises,
a control means 104S adapted to be moved between an ON position in which said control means 104S allows electric current supply to said electric motor 104M, and an OFF position in which said control means 104S switches off the electric current supply to said electric motor 104M,
wherein
said electric motor 104M is adapted to drive said rotatable center assembly 104C to move said first adjustable member 104L and said second adjustable member 104R with respect to said rotatable center assembly 104C to alter the position of the axle beams (102L and 102R) to change the alignment angle of corresponding wheels FW of the vehicle on movement of said control means 104S to the ON position.
26. The mechanism 104 as claimed in claim 25, wherein said control means 104S is at least one of a switch and a button.
27. The mechanism 104 as claimed in claim 24, wherein said electric drive mechanism 104E comprises,
a controller unit 104X adapted to actuate said electric motor 104M to drive said rotatable center assembly 104C to move said first adjustable member 104L and said second adjustable member 104R with respect to said rotatable center assembly 104C to alter the position of the axle beams (102L and 102R) to change the alignment angle of corresponding wheels FW of the vehicle based on the information
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provided by at least one of at least one control means 104K and a module 104Y to said controller unit 104X.
28. The mechanism 104 as claimed in claim 27, wherein said control means 104K is adapted to be moved to at least one of select and set at least one of a plurality of alignment angles, and accordingly said control means 104K provides the information to said controller unit 104X,
wherein said control means 104K is at least one of a knob and a lever.
29. The mechanism 104 as claimed in claim 27, wherein said module 104Y is adapted to at least one of receive and process the information about at least one of road and soil condition of geographic region, weather condition, load of the vehicle, at least one vehicle operating parameter and at least one parameter which influences tyre life and performance, and accordingly said module 104Y provides the information to the controller unit 104X.
30. The mechanism 104 as claimed in claim 29, wherein said module 104Y is adapted to be provided in communication with a plurality of sensors for receiving information about load of the vehicle, the road and soil condition of geographic region, weather condition, at least one vehicle operating parameter and at least one parameter which influences tyre life and performance,
wherein said plurality of sensors are adapted to be embedded in the vehicle.
31. The mechanism 104 as claimed in claim 29, wherein said module 104Y is adapted to be provided in communication with at least one of a smartphone, at least one computing device and at least one electronic
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device for receiving information about load of the vehicle, the road and soil condition of geographic region, weather condition, at least one vehicle operating parameter, and at least one parameter which influences tyre life and performance.
32. A mechanism 104 for adjusting the alignment angle of wheels FW of a vehicle, said mechanism 104 comprising:
at least one cylinder assembly 104A;
at least one first movable assembly 104D adapted to be movably connected to said cylinder assembly 104A and a left axle beam (102L);
at least one second movable assembly 104F adapted to be movably connected to said cylinder assembly 104A and a right axle beam (102R);
a plurality of control valves (104UF and 104US) adapted to be provided in fluid communication with said cylinder assembly 104A; and
a controller unit 104V adapted to be provided in communication with said plurality of control valves 104U,
wherein
said controller unit 104V is adapted to activate said plurality of control valves (104UF and 104US) to regulate at least one the flow of fluid to said cylinder assembly 104A and the flow of fluid from said cylinder assembly104A to move said first movable assembly 104D and said second movable assembly 104F with respect to said cylinder assembly 104A to alter the position of the axle beams (102L and 102R) to change an alignment angle of corresponding wheels FW of the vehicle based on the information provided by at least one of at least one control means 104W and a module 104Q to said controller unit 104V.
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33. The mechanism as claimed in claim 32, wherein said cylinder assembly 104A comprises,
a cylinder 104Ac having a first chamber 104Af adapted to be provided in fluid communication with corresponding at least one said control valve 104UF and a second chamber 104As adapted to be provided in fluid communication with corresponding at least one said another control valve 104US; and
a wall 104B adapted to be provided between the first chamber 102Af and the second chamber 102As of the cylinder 104Ac.
34. The mechanism as claimed in claim 33, wherein said first movable assembly 104D comprising,
a first movable member 104Ds adapted to be slidably connected inside the first chamber 104Af of the cylinder 104Ac of said cylinder assembly 104A; and
a second movable member 104Dm adapted to be movably connected to said first movable member 104Ds, and movably connected to the left axle beam 102L.
35. The mechanism 104 as claimed in claim 34, wherein said second movable assembly 104F comprising,
a first movable member 104Fs adapted to be slidably connected inside the second chamber 104As of the cylinder 104A of said cylinder assembly 104A; and
a second movable member 104Fm adapted to be movably connected to said first movable member 104Fs, and movably connected to the right axle beam 102R.
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36. The mechanism 104 as claimed in claim 32, wherein said at least one control means 104W is adapted to be moved to select at least one of a plurality of alignment angles, and accordingly said control means 104W provides the information to said controller unit 104V,
wherein said control means 104W is at least one of a knob and a lever.
37. The mechanism 104 as claimed in claim 32, wherein said module 104Q is adapted to at least one of receive and process the information about at least one of road and soil condition of geographic region, weather condition, load of the vehicle, at least one vehicle operating parameter and at least one parameter which influences tyre life and performance, and accordingly said module 104Q sends the information to the controller unit 104V.
38. The mechanism 104 as claimed in claim 37, wherein said module 104Q is adapted to be provided in communication with a plurality of sensors for receiving information about load of the vehicle, the road and soil condition of geographic region, weather condition, at least one vehicle operating parameter, and at least one parameter which influences tyre life and performance,
wherein said plurality of sensors are adapted to be embedded in the vehicle.
39. The mechanism 104 as claimed in claim 38, wherein said module 104Q is adapted to be provided in communication with at least one of a smartphone, at least one computing device and at least one electronic device for receiving information about load of the vehicle, the road and soil condition of geographic region, weather condition, at least one
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vehicle operating parameter, and at least one parameter which influences tyre life and performance.
40. A method 10 for adjusting the alignment angle of wheels FW of a vehicle, said method 10 comprising:
pivoting at least one left axle beam 102L and at least one right axle beam 102R to a vehicular structure C;
connecting a wheel alignment angle adjusting mechanism 104 to said axle beams (102L and 102R); and
altering the position of said axle beams (102L and 102R) through said mechanism 104 to change the alignment angle of wheels FW of the vehicle.
41. The method 10 as claimed in claim 40, wherein the method step of said altering the position of said axle beams (102L and 102R) through said mechanism 104 to change the alignment angle of wheels FW of the vehicle includes,
moving a rotatable center assembly 104C of said mechanism 104 to move a first adjustable member 104L and a second adjustable member 104R with respect to said rotatable center assembly 104C to alter the position of said axle beams (102L and 102R) to change the alignment angle of wheels FW of the vehicle.
42. The method 10 as claimed in claim 41, wherein the method step of said moving said rotatable center assembly 104C of said mechanism 104 to move said first adjustable member 104L and said second adjustable member 104R with respect to said rotatable center assembly 104C to alter the position of said axle beams (102L and 102R) to change the alignment angle of wheels FW of the vehicle includes,
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moving said rotatable center assembly 104C through an electric drive mechanism to alter the position of said axle beams (102L and 102R) to change the alignment angle of wheels FW of the vehicle.
43. The method 10 as claimed in claim 40, wherein the method step of said altering the position of said axle beams (102L and 102R) through said mechanism 104 to change the alignment angle of wheels FW of the vehicle includes,
moving a first movably assembly 104D and a second movable assembly 104F with respect to a cylinder assembly 104A to alter the position of said axle beams (102L and 102R) to change the alignment angle of wheels FW of the vehicle.
44. The method 10 as claimed in claim 40, wherein said mechanism (104) is at least one of a telescopic adjustable arrangement, an extendable and retractable arrangement, an adjustable screw arrangement, an electric motor with an extendable and retractable shaft, a linear adjustable arrangement, an adjustable linear actuator, a hydraulic actuator, a pneumatic actuator, a telescopic cylinder mechanism and an adjustable linear control mechanism.