Four-point link

US9555683B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AG · DE

Inventors

• Jens Eismann · Melle, DE
• Matthias Quaing · Schüttorf, DE
• Eike Helm · Diepholz, DE
• Holger Bublies · Osnabrück, DE
• Matthias Gercke · Affinghausen, DE
• Thomas Eifflaender · Friedrichshafen, DE
• Daniel Wolf · Friedrichshafen, DE
• Markus Steffens · Winnweiler, DE
• Frank Anna · Blieskastel, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Jun 22, 2012
• Grant date: Jan 31, 2017
• Expiry date: Jul 22, 2032

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B60G2206/85
• WIPO field: Transport
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A four-point link for the suspension of a rigid axle which has four bearing seats. Two bearing seats can be articulated on the axle and two can be articulated on the vehicle frame. The link has a single-piece link body which is inscribed by the trapezoid formed by the bearing seats. The link body is formed of a fiber-composite arrangement that comprises at least one longitudinal fiber arrangement. The longitudinal fiber arrangement encases the bearing seat, at least along half circumference thereof and extends along at least a portion of the link body in order to optimize loading, reduce mass and increase its application. Torsional compliance makes it possible to use relatively small and/or hard rubber bearings for articulating the four-point link or the vehicle axle.