Enhanced computer optimized adaptive suspension system and method

Abstract

A system and method for controlling a damping system. The system has at least two dampers for damping between sprung and unsprung masses in the compression and rebound directions. Sensors generate signals based on position and other parameters of motion representative of the displacement between the sprung and unsprung masses. The process determines the appropriate compression and rebound forces to be applied at the wheels. A regulator responds to at least one of the independent compression and rebound control signals for adjusting, respectively, at least one of compression and rebound resisting forces of the dampers between the masses. Compliance for the dampers is emulated with software to produce the desired compliance forces. The distributed controller includes a processor that is responsive to signals representative of the position signals for forming the compression and rebound control signals for the regulator as a function of motion between the masses or a motion of a vehicle in which the dampers are located. The system has the capability of locking the suspension when parked.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S) [0001] This application is a Continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 205,205, filed on Jul. 24, 2002 which is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09 / 439,109, filed Nov. 11, 1999, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60 / 107,999 filed Nov. 11, 1998, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates to computer controlled vehicle suspension systems and methods, and more particularly to vehicle suspension systems and methods in which computer controlled damping forces in compression and rebound directions are used to optimize ride and handling characteristics of the vehicle. [0003] A typical suspension system interlinks wheels and axles of the vehicle with the body and chassis of the vehicle. The suspension system generally includes springs and damping devices. The spring compress and expand to minimize...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention provides a real-time computer control system for controlling suspension control units in a vehicle suspension system. The system uses constant force valves to control movement in both compression and rebound directions, ensuring optimal ride and handling characteristics. The control system calculates the desired control forces based on position signals indicating the relative position of the sprung and unsprung masses. The control system takes into account various parameters such as vehicle speed, acceleration, and load compensation to dynamically adjust the suspension control units. The control system uses a conical surface to optimize the valve's response and stability. The technical effects of the invention include improved control accuracy, reduced body motions, and improved vehicle performance."

Problems solved by technology

However, while a compression force is being applied and regulated it is not possible to regulate force in the rebound direction.

A problem with this design is that there is a lack of force when the direction of travel of the damper is wrong for the application of a control force.

This is because the direction of travel has changed, and forces applied to control movement in a direction opposite to the movement are ineffective.

Thus, control forces can be momentarily lost during damper movements in an undesired direction when attempting to maintain a constant force.

This loss of force is not as serious as what happens when the direction of movement one again engages the control valve and the previously preset pressure returns very abruptly, which results in severe harshness.

In addition in some applications a loaded vehicle's suspension becomes mushy.

In providing UNF forces a steep force causes a mechanical strain on the system hardware.

In the bottoming out and toping out force generation sufficient control was not obtained.

However, the use of mechanical parts to provide compliance increases the number of parts required for fabrication and assembly.

Images