Suspension component having localized material strengthening

Abstract

A suspension component for an automobile, such as a stabilizer bar, is provided and includes at least one localized portion having a strengthened outer surface. The localized portion is positioned at a location of highest stress along the suspension component. A method of forming the suspension component is also disclosed.

1 . A suspension component for an automobile comprising: 
 a member having opposing first and second distal ends;    an attachment point located at each of said first and second distal ends; and    at least one localized portion having a strengthened outer surface, said localized portion being positioned at a location of highest stress along the suspension component.    
     
     
         2 . The suspension component of  claim 1  wherein said member is formed from steel.  
     
     
         3 . The suspension component of  claim 1  wherein said member is formed from one of micro-alloyed boron steel and vanadium steel.  
     
     
         4 . The suspension component of  claim 1  wherein said outer surface of said localized portions is shot peened.  
     
     
         5 . The suspension component of  claim 1  wherein said outer surface of said localized portions is heat treated.  
     
     
         6 . The suspension component of  claim 5  wherein said outer surface of said localized portions is quenched and tempered.  
     
     
         7 . The suspension component of  claim 5  wherein said outer surface of said localized portions is induction case hardened.  
     
     
         8 . The suspension component of  claim 1  wherein said member is a bar and said suspension component is a stabilizer bar.  
     
     
         9 . The suspension component of  claim 1  wherein said localized portion is located at a bend that is cold formed within said member.  
     
     
         10 - 20 . (canceled)