"Round the Corner" Torsion Bars
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r\NE of the disadvantages of torsion rod suspension systems is that the rods have to be of some considerable length to avoid over-stressing, and to find space for them is often difficult. A scheme for achieving the effect of a long rod in approximately half its length is shown in patent No, 895,475. (Ford Motor Co., Ltd,, 88 Regent Street, London, W.I.)
The drawing shows a spring assembly in which the wheel is carried on an upper wishbone link (1) and a lower one. The upper one pivots about the axis (2). The torsion bar is U-shaped, as shown at 3, doubling back on itself to reach an anchor point in line with the wheel.
The actual U-bend (4) of the rods is of larger diameter and is blended smoothly into the rod to avoid creating stressraising points.