R&D Efforts Regarding Lightweight, High-Rigidity Hub Units

摘要

In recent years, the demand worldwide for weight reduction in automotive parts in order to improve fuel efficiency has increased. Despite this, automakers are requiring that wheel bearing performance in the areas of rigidity, strength and life be maintained or improved. This report explains JTEKT's development of a generation III hub unit featuring both lightweight and high rigidity, achieved by means of a parameter study regarding bearing specifications and the outer ring and shaft shape along with utilization of advanced CAE analysis technology. JTEKT will continue utilizing this study method and these results to create products with the optimal performance to meet the needs of customers in regard to multiple design requirements including strength, rigidity, life, and mass.