| 摘要 |
<p>An improved steering knuckle assembly is described which is made by combining a bearing carrier component preferably formed by casting or forging processes to a steering knuckle housing preferably made from stamped sheet metal. This composite structure replaces existing integral cast or forged units. By replacing a portion of a conventional cast or forge steering knuckle with stamped sheet metal components, significant weight savings are achieved. Further, production tooling costs are further reduced due to the comparable cost advantage of metal stamping tools versus casting, forging, and machining tooling. In addition to a cartridge wheel bearing assembly within the steering knuckle assembly, a redundant bearing mounting is provided when this mechanical trapping is coupled with an interference fit between the bearing carrier internal bore and the cartridge wheel bearing assembly. The stamped steering knuckle housing has several suspension fastening bushings, welded or otherwise, attached thereto. The structural integrity of the mounting between the suspension fastening sockets and the stamped steering knuckle housing is enhanced by providing inner reinforcing plates which are also attached to the suspension fastening bushings. Since a major portion of the steering knuckle assembly according to this invention is stamped, it is possible to use many carry over components for various motor vehicle designs simply by changing the configuration and design of the stamped steering knuckle housing.</p> |
