Damper assembly

Abstract

A damper assembly includes a cylinder defining a chamber. The damper assembly includes a body supported by the cylinder and having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface. The body defines a passage extending from the first surface to the second surface. One of the first surface or the second surface defines a ramp at the passage. The damper assembly includes a check disc at the ramp that selectively restricts fluid flow through the passage.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This patent application claims priority and all benefits to provisional patent applications filed on March 27, 2020, US 63 / 001,013, October 12, 2020, US 63 / 090,475, October 12, 2020, and US 63 / 090,510, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0003] Dampers are typically used in conjunction with a car's suspension system or other suspension systems to control the movement of a vehicle's wheels relative to the vehicle's body. To control movement, dampers are usually connected between the sprung (body) mass and the unsprung (suspension / drivetrain) mass of the vehicle.

[0004] A damper controls wheel movement by restricting the flow of fluid through its piston. As the damper moves toward a compression or extension position, fluid flows through the piston, for example, via a passage. This passage may have a fixed opening size. Movement resistance is provided by limiting the amount of fluid flowing through it. As the movement speed increases, the movement resistance may increase exponentially.

[0005] The disc can be used to control fluid flow through a channel, for example, by flexing or translating to increase or decrease the opening size at one end of the channel. Changing the opening size may alter the force response characteristics of the damper assembly. For example, increasing the opening size may decrease drag, while decreasing the opening size may increase drag.

[0006] Further tunability is desired to control the force response of the damper, with reduced manufacturing costs and package size. Summary of the Invention

[0007] A damper assembly provides variable and tunable drag and can be configured to provide a desired responsive force that resists movement of the damper assembly based on the speed and direction of movement (e.g., toward an extended or compressed position). The damper assembly includes a check disc located at an incline on a body surface, the check disc defining one or more channels. The check disc at the incline regulates fluid flow through the one or more channels of the body and controls the rate of change of the responsive force provided by the damper assembly, for example, controlling the acceleration and / or jerk of the movement of the damper assembly. Other discs may be supported by the body to regulate fluid flow through the one or more channels of the body.

[0008] The damper assembly includes a cylinder defining a working chamber. The damper assembly includes a body supported by the cylinder, the body having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface. The body defines a channel extending from the first surface to the second surface. One of the first surface or the second surface defines a ramp at the channel. The damper assembly includes a check disc located at the ramp, the check disc selectively restricting fluid flow through the channel.

[0009] The damper assembly may include an orifice plate located between the check plate and the body.

[0010] The orifice plate may be adjacent to the body and the check plate.

[0011] The orifice plate defines an orifice between the check plate and the body, the orifice opening in the radial direction.

[0012] The inclined plane can be convex.

[0013] The check plate can move between a first position and a second position toward the outer edge of the channel.

[0014] The inclined plane can be concave.

[0015] The check disc can move between a first position and a second position toward the inner edge of the channel.

[0016] The check disc can selectively restrict fluid flow in a first direction, and the damper assembly may include a second check disc that selectively restricts fluid flow through the channel in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0017] The body may define a second channel extending from the first surface to the second surface, and the damper assembly may include a discharge disc that selectively allows fluid to flow out of the second channel.

[0018] The check plate may be located between the body and the discharge plate.

[0019] The discharge disc can be configured with an opening and a center opening.

[0020] The damper assembly may include a spacer disc that covers the opening of the discharge disc.

[0021] The damper assembly may include a limiting disc that covers a portion of the second channel.

[0022] The damper assembly may include a spring disc that pushes the discharge disc toward the body.

[0023] The damper assembly may include a ring located between the spring disc and the discharge disc.

[0024] The damper assembly may include multiple spring discs that push the discharge disc toward the body, and these spring discs are progressively smaller in size.

[0025] The damper assembly may include a spring that pushes the check disc toward the body.

[0026] The spring may include a base and a plurality of arms extending circumferentially and axially from the base.

[0027] These arms are adjacent to the check disc.

[0028] In this disclosure and as further described herein, the body defining one or more channels is provided by the exemplary piston described herein. The piston defines one or more channels. Movement of the piston within the working chamber of the pressure tube causes fluid to flow between a compression sub-chamber and a rebound sub-chamber located on opposite sides of the piston. This fluid movement allows a disc (e.g., a check disc, discharge disc, spring disc, etc.) attached to the piston to flex. The flexure of the disc attached to the piston controls the opening size of the channels of the piston, regulates the fluid flow through them, and provides variable and tunable resistance to the damper assembly. Alternatively, the body may be a base attached to the end of the pressure tube of the damper assembly, defining one or more channels. The channel defined by the base provides fluid flow between the working chamber of the pressure tube and a storage chamber outside the pressure tube. The base may include surfaces, features, channels, etc., as described with respect to the piston herein. Various discs described herein may be attached to the base (e.g., as described with respect to the disc attached to the piston), including their orientation, relative position, etc. The base and the various discs may together provide a base valve (or compression valve) assembly that regulates fluid flow between the working chamber and the storage chamber. Movement of the piston within the working chamber of the pressure tube causes fluid to flow between the working chamber and the storage chamber via the channel of the base, and causes the disc attached to the base to flex. The flexure of the disc attached to the base controls the opening size of the channel of the base, regulates the fluid flow through it, and provides variable and tunable resistance to the damper assembly. Attached Figure Description

[0029] Figure 1 It is a perspective view of a vehicle with multiple damper assemblies.

[0030] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of one of the damper components in the damper assembly.

[0031] Figure 3A This is an exploded view of the components of the damper assembly.

[0032] Figure 3B yes Figure 3A A continuation of the exploded view.

[0033] Figure 3C yes Figure 3B A continuation of the exploded view.

[0034] Figure 4 It is along Figure 3B A cross-sectional view of a portion of the damper assembly taken from line 4-4.

[0035] Figure 5A This is an exploded view of a component of another damper assembly.

[0036] Figure 5B yes Figure 5A A continuation of the exploded view.

[0037] Figure 5C yes Figure 5B A continuation of the exploded view.

[0038] Figure 6 It is along Figure 5B A cross-sectional view of a portion of the damper assembly taken from line 6-6.

[0039] Figure 7 yes Figure 4 The cross-sectional view shows when Figures 3A to 4 The first fluid flow path as the damper assembly moves toward the compression position.

[0040] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 The cross-sectional view shows when Figures 5A to 6 The first fluid flow path as the damper assembly moves toward the compression position.

[0041] Figure 9 This is a diagram of the force response curve of the damper assembly moving toward the compression position, and the diagram identifies the first part of the curve.

[0042] Figure 10 yes Figure 4 The cross-sectional view shows when Figures 3A to 4 The first fluid flow path when the damper assembly moves toward the compression position and the fluid velocity and / or pressure difference is higher than a first threshold.

[0043] Figure 11 yes Figure 6 The cross-sectional view shows when Figures 5A to 6 The first fluid flow path when the damper assembly moves toward the compression position and the fluid velocity and / or pressure difference is higher than a first threshold.

[0044] Figure 12 This is a diagram of the force response curve of the damper assembly moving toward the compression position, and the diagram identifies the second part of the curve.

[0045] Figure 13 yes Figure 4 The cross-sectional view shows that when Figures 3A to 4 The first fluid flow path and the second fluid flow path when the damper assembly moves toward the compression position and the fluid velocity and / or pressure difference is higher than the second threshold.

[0046] Figure 14 yes Figure 6 The cross-sectional view shows that when Figures 5A to 6 The first fluid flow path and the second fluid flow path when the damper assembly moves toward the compression position and the fluid velocity and / or pressure difference is higher than the second threshold.

[0047] Figure 15 This is a diagram of the force response curve of the damper assembly moving toward the compression position, and the diagram identifies the third part of the curve.

[0048] Figure 16 yes Figure 4 The cross-sectional view shows that when Figures 3A to 4 The third and fourth fluid flow paths when the damper assembly moves toward the extension position and the fluid velocity and / or pressure difference is above the second threshold.

[0049] Figure 17 yes Figure 6 The cross-sectional view shows that when Figures 5A to 6 The third and fourth fluid flow paths when the damper assembly moves toward the extension position and the fluid velocity and / or pressure difference is above the second threshold.

[0050] Figure 18 It is a diagram showing the force response curve of the damper assembly moving towards the compression position.

[0051] Figure 19 This is an exploded view of the components of the damper assembly.

[0052] Figure 20 yes Figure 19 Cross-sectional view of the component.

[0053] Figure 21 yes Figure 19 A cross-sectional view of the component shows the third fluid flow path.

[0054] Figure 22 This is an exploded view of the components of the damper assembly.

[0055] Figure 23 yes Figure 22 Cross-sectional view of the component.

[0056] Figure 24 yes Figure 22 A cross-sectional view of the component shows the third fluid flow path.

[0057] Figure 25 This is a perspective view of the piston in the damper assembly. Detailed Implementation

[0058] refer to Figures 1 to 6 In all these views, the same numbers represent the same components. The damper assemblies 200 and 300 for vehicle 30 include a cylinder 32 that defines a working chamber 34. The damper assemblies 200 and 300 include pistons 202 and 302 that are axially slidable within the working chamber 34. The pistons 202 and 302 have first surfaces 204 and 304 and second surfaces 206 and 306 opposite to the first surfaces 204 and 304. The pistons 202 and 302 define channels 208 and 308 extending from the first surfaces 204 and 304 to the second surfaces 206 and 306. One of the first surfaces 204 and 304 or the second surfaces 206 and 306 defines ramps 210, 212, 310, and 312 at the channels 208 and 308. The damper assemblies 200 and 300 include check discs 214, 216, 314, and 316 located at ramps 210, 212, 310, and 312 and selectively restrict fluid flow through channels 208 and 308.

[0059] Figure 1 The vehicle 30 shown can be any type of passenger car or commercial vehicle 30, such as automobiles, trucks, SUVs, crossovers, vans, minivans, taxis, buses, etc. Vehicle 30 includes a body 36 and a frame. The body 36 and frame can be a monocoque structure. In a monocoque structure, the body 36 (e.g., door sills) serves as the frame, and the body 36 (including door sills, struts, roof rails, etc.) is an integral, continuous, monocoque unit. As another example, the body 36 and frame can have a body-on-frame construction (also known as a cab-on-frame construction). In other words, the body 36 and frame are separate components, i.e., modular, and the body 36 is supported on and attached to the frame. Alternatively, the body 36 and frame can have any suitable construction. The body 36 and / or frame can be formed from any suitable material (e.g., steel, aluminum, etc.).

[0060] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2The damper assemblies 200 and 300 control the movement of the wheels 38 of the vehicle 30 relative to the body 36 of the vehicle 30. The damper assemblies 200 and 300 provide variable forces to resist the movement based on the speed and direction of the movement of the wheels 38 relative to the body 36.

[0061] Damper assemblies 200 and 300 are defined by an axis A1 extending between the ends of the damper assemblies 200 and 300. The damper assemblies 200 and 300 may extend along axis A1. The terms “axially,” “radially,” and “circumferentially” as used herein are relative to axis A1 defined by the damper assemblies 200 and 300.

[0062] Damper assemblies 200 and 300 are capable of moving from a compressed position to an extended position and vice versa. The distance between the ends of damper assemblies 200 and 300 is smaller in the compressed position than in the extended position. Springs or the like can push damper assemblies 200 and 300 toward the extended position. Forces applied to the wheels 38 of the vehicle 30 (e.g., from bumps, potholes, etc.) can push damper assemblies 200 and 300 toward the compressed position.

[0063] Damper assemblies 200 and 300 provide motion resistance, i.e., resistance to movement toward a compressed or extended position, which varies with the speed of this movement. For example, refer to... Figure 9 , Figure 12 , Figure 15 and Figure 18 Curves C1 and C2 show the functional relationship between the moving speed (i.e., direction and velocity) of damper assemblies 200 and 300 and this moving resistance.

[0064] refer to Figures 2 to 6 The damper assemblies 200 and 300 include a defined cylinder 32 with a working chamber 34. The cylinder 32 is elongated along an axis A1 of the damper assemblies 200 and 300, meaning the cylinder 32 can be hollow and tubular. The cylinder 32 can be made of metal or any suitable material. The working chamber 34 is filled with fluid (e.g., incompressible hydraulic fluid).

[0065] The damper assemblies 200 and 300 include a rod 36 extending away from and movable relative to the cylinder 32. The rod 36 is elongated along axis A1 of the damper assemblies 200 and 300. The rod 36 moves relative to the cylinder 32 as the damper assemblies 200 and 300 move toward a compressed or extended position.

[0066] Rod 36 extends out of the working chamber 34 of cylinder 32. For example, cylinder 32 may define an opening 38 at its end, and rod 36 may extend from inside working chamber 34 to outside working chamber 34 through the opening 38 at its end.

[0067] Pistons 202 and 302 can slide along axis A1 within the working chamber 34. Pistons 202 and 302 are supported by rod 36, i.e., the pistons 202 and 302 and rod 36 move substantially in unison with respect to cylinder 32. For example, pistons 202 and 302 may include a central opening 40. Rod 36 may be located within the central opening 40. Pistons 202 and 302 may be secured to rod 36, for example, via fasteners 41, welding, friction fit, etc. Pistons 202 and 302 may be made of metal, plastic, or any suitable material.

[0068] Pistons 202 and 302 divide the working chamber 34 into a compression sub-chamber 42 located on one side of pistons 202 and 302, and a rebound sub-chamber 44 located on the opposite side of pistons 202 and 302. The movement of pistons 202 and 302 within the working chamber 34 changes the volume of the compression sub-chamber 42 and the rebound sub-chamber 44. For example, when the damper assemblies 200 and 300 move toward the compression position, the movement of pistons 202 and 302 decreases the volume of the compression sub-chamber 42 and increases the volume of the rebound sub-chamber 44. As another example, when the damper assemblies 200 and 300 move toward the extension position, the movement of pistons 202 and 302 increases the volume of the compression sub-chamber 42 and decreases the volume of the rebound sub-chamber 44. Changing the volume of the compression chamber 42 and the rebound chamber 44 creates a pressure difference between them, and allows fluid in the working chamber 34 to flow from one side of pistons 202 and 302 to the opposite side of pistons 202 and 302, i.e., from the compression chamber 42 to the rebound chamber 44, or vice versa. Fluid can flow from one side of pistons 202 and 302 to the opposite side of pistons 202 and 302 via one or more of the channels 46, 48, 208, and 308 defined by pistons 202 and 302.

[0069] The damper assemblies 200 and 300 move toward the extended position, decreasing the fluid pressure at the first surfaces 204 and 304 and increasing the fluid pressure at the second surfaces 206 and 306. The damper assemblies 200 and 300 move toward the compressed position, increasing the fluid pressure at the first surfaces 204 and 304 and decreasing the fluid pressure at the second surfaces 206 and 306. The first surfaces 204 and 304 are located between the second surfaces 206 and 306 and the compression sub-chamber 42 of the working chamber 34. The second surfaces 206 and 306 are located between the first surfaces 204 and 304 and the rebound sub-chamber 44 of the working chamber 34. As an example, the first surfaces 204 and 304 may face the compression sub-chamber 42 of the working chamber 34, and the second surfaces 206 and 306 may face the rebound sub-chamber 44 of the working chamber 34.

[0070] Pistons 202 and 302 define one or more channels 46, 48, 208, and 308, such as one or more first channels 208 and 308, second channels 46, and third channels 48. Channels 46, 48, 208, and 308 extend from first surfaces 204 and 304 of pistons 202 and 302 to second surfaces 206 and 306 of pistons 202 and 302. Channels 46, 48, 208, and 308 provide fluid communication between the compression chamber 42 and the return chamber 44 of cylinder 32, i.e., allowing fluid to flow from the compression chamber 42 to the return chamber 44 in a first direction D1, or from the return chamber to the compression chamber in a second direction D2 opposite to the first direction D1. Channels 46, 48, 208, and 308 may be circumferentially spaced about axis A1. A pair of first channels 208, 308 may be spaced apart from each other, i.e., spaced approximately 180 degrees apart around axis A1. A second channel 46 and a third channel 48 may be located between the first channels 208, 308, for example, arranged circumferentially around axis A1. The adjectives “first,” “second,” and “third” are used as identifiers and are not intended to indicate importance or order. For example, pistons 202, 302 may include first channels 208, 308 and third channel 48, but not second channel 46. As another example, a first direction D1 is shown in the figure as from first surfaces 204, 304 to second surfaces 206, 306; however, the first direction D1 may be from second surfaces 206, 306 to first surfaces 204, 304.

[0071] The first surfaces 204, 304 and / or the second surfaces 206, 306 may each include one or more ribs 50, 52, 54, 56, such as inner ribs 50, 52 and one or more outer ribs 54, 56. Ribs 50, 52, 54, 56 extend away from pistons 202, 302 to their respective distal ends 55, 57. Outer ribs 54, 56 may surround the second channel 46 and the third channel 48. For example, each outer rib 54 of the second surfaces 206, 306 may surround a corresponding channel in the second channel 46. As another example, each outer rib 56 of the first surfaces 204, 304 may surround a corresponding channel in the third channel 48. Inner ribs 50, 52 may be closer to the central opening 40 of pistons 202, 302 than outer ribs 54, 56. Inner ribs 50, 52 may extend about axis A1, for example, surrounding the central opening 40.

[0072] The second surfaces 206, 306 and / or the first surfaces 204, 304 may each define a passage 58, 60. The passages 58, 60 may be radially located between the corresponding inner ribs 50, 52 and outer ribs 54, 56. The passages 58, 60 may extend about axis A1, for example, surrounding the central opening 40 and the corresponding inner ribs 50, 52.

[0073] The second surfaces 206, 306 and / or the first surfaces 204, 304 may each define discharge inlet regions 62, 64, at which fluid may enter the second channel 46 or the third channel 48. For example, the discharge inlet regions 62, 64 of the second surfaces 206, 306 may surround the third channel 48 at the second surfaces 206, 306. As another example, the discharge inlet regions 62, 64 of the first surfaces 204, 304 may surround the second channel 46 at the first surfaces 204, 304. The discharge inlet regions 62, 64 may be spaced along axis A1 from the distal ends 55, 57 of the corresponding outer ribs 54, 56. For example, the discharge inlet regions 62, 64 may be closer to the radially extending centerline CL along axis A1 centered on pistons 202, 302.

[0074] The second surfaces 206, 306 and / or the first surfaces 204, 304 define ramps 210, 212, 310, 312 at the first channels 208, 308. The ramps 210, 310 of the second surfaces 206, 306 and the ramps 212, 312 of the first surfaces 204, 304 surround the first channels 208, 308, for example, at their respective opposite ends. The ramps 210, 212, 310, 312 extend laterally relative to axis A1, i.e., not perpendicularly. For example, the second surfaces 206, 306 at the radially inner edges 218, 318 of the first channels 208, 308 may be spaced along axis A1 from the second surfaces 206, 306 at the radially outer edges 220, 320 of the first channels 208, 308. As another example, the first surfaces 204 and 304 at the radial inner edges 218 and 318 of the first channels 208 and 308 may be spaced apart along axis A1 from the first surfaces 204 and 304 at the radial outer edges 220 and 320 of the first channels 208 and 308.

[0075] refer to Figure 3B and Figure 4 The piston 202 shown may have concave ramps 210 and 212, extending radially away from axis A1 and along axis A1 away from centerline CL. For example, the second surface 206 at the radially inner edge 218 of the first channel 208 may be located between the second surface 206 at the radially outer edge 220 of the first channel 208 and the centerline CL along axis A1. As another example, the first surface 204 at the radially inner edge 218 of the first channel 208 may be located between the first surface 204 at the radially outer edge 220 of the first channel 208 and the centerline CL along axis A1. The angle between ramps 210 and 212 and axis A1 may be, for example, 91-100 degrees, as measured on the side of ramps 210 and 212 closer to centerline CL.

[0076] refer to Figure 5B and Figure 6 The piston 302 shown may have convex surfaces 310 and 312, meaning they extend radially away from axis A1 and along axis A1 toward the centerline CL. For example, the second surface 306 at the radially outer edge 320 of the first channel 308 may be located between the second surface 306 at the radially inner edge 318 of the first channel 308 and the centerline CL along axis A1. As another example, the first surface 304 at the radially outer edge 320 of the first channel 308 may be located between the first surface 304 at the radially inner edge 318 of the first channel 308 and the centerline CL along axis A1. The angle between the inclined surfaces 310 and 312 and axis A1 may be, for example, 80-89 degrees, as measured, for example, on the side of the inclined surfaces 210, 212, 310, and 312 closer to the centerline CL.

[0077] return Figures 3A to 6 The check discs 214, 216, 314, 316 (e.g., first check discs 214, 314 and second check discs 216, 316) increase the resistance to movement in response to fluid flow through the respective check discs 214, 216, 314, 316 and / or the difference in fluid pressure on one side of the check discs 214, 216, 314, 316 relative to the opposite side. The fluid flow and / or fluid pressure difference can cause the check discs 214, 216, 314, 316 to translate or deflect, and reduce the openings 222, 224, 322, 324 through which fluid can flow (in... Figure 4 and 6 The dimensions (shown in the diagram) increase the resistance to movement. For example, check plates 214, 216, 314, and 316 can be used to... Figure 4 , Figures 6 to 8 , Figure 21 and Figure 23 The undeflected position shown moves to Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 13 , Figure 14 , Figure 16 , Figure 21 and Figure 24 The deflection position is shown.

[0078] Check discs 214, 216, 314, 316 may include extensions 226, 326 extending radially outward from the base rings 228, 328 of the respective check discs 214, 216, 314, 316. Extensions 226, 326 may be opposite to each other, for example, spaced approximately 180 degrees apart about axis A1. Check discs 214, 216, 314, 316 may be bow-shaped. For example, the width of extensions 226, 326 may increase along extensions 226, 326, for example, such that extensions 226, 326 widen as they extend away from the respective base rings 228, 328. Each extension 226, 326 may include a pair of contractions 230, 330. Contractions 230, 330 may be located proximal to the respective base rings 228, 328. The contraction portions 230 and 330 provide a reduced width for the extensions 226 and 326, which reduces the stiffness of the check discs 214, 216, 314, and 316 at the contraction portions 230 and 330, for example, causing the check discs 214, 216, 314, and 316 to flex at the contraction portions 230 and 330. Although shown as having two extensions 226 and 326 respectively, the check discs 214, 216, 314, and 316 may each include only one or more extensions 226 and 326.

[0079] The deflection and / or translation of check discs 214, 216, 314, 316 (and the associated reduction in the dimensions of openings 222, 224, 322, 324) can be proportional to the fluid velocity and / or pressure difference between the compression chamber 42 and the rebound chamber 44 of cylinder 32. For example, the greater the fluid velocity and / or pressure difference, the greater the deflection and / or translation of check discs 214, 216, 314, 316. A threshold fluid velocity and / or pressure difference may be required for check discs 214, 216, 314, 316 to deflect and / or translate. Check discs 214, 216, 314, 316 may not increase the resistance to movement until the threshold fluid velocity and / or pressure difference is reached.

[0080] Check discs 214, 216, 314, 316 may be supported by pistons 202, 302 and / or rod 36, for example, via a central opening 232, 332 in each of the check discs 214, 216, 314, 316. Pistons 202, 302 may be located between rod 36 and check discs 214, 216, 314, 316. For example, inner ribs 50 of the second surfaces 206, 306 may be located in the central openings 232, 332 of the first check discs 214, 314, between rod 36 and such check discs 214, 314. As another example, inner ribs 52 of the first surfaces 204, 304 may be located in the central openings 232, 332 of the second check discs 216, 316, between rod 36 and such check discs 216, 316. Check discs 214, 216, 314, 316 are supported at ramps 210, 212, 310, 312. For example, extensions 226, 326 of the first check discs 214, 314 may cover ramps 210, 310 of the second surfaces 206, 306. As another example, extensions 226, 326 of the second check discs 216, 316 may cover ramps 212, 312 of the first surfaces 204, 304.

[0081] refer to Figure 4 , Figure 7 , Figure 10 , Figure 13 and Figure 16 Check discs 214 and 216 can be moved from their unflexed position toward the inner edge 218 of the first channel 208 to a flexed position. For example, the extension 226 of the check discs 214 and 216 in the unflexed position can be farther from the inner edge 218 than the check discs in the flexed position.

[0082] refer to Figure 6 , Figure 8 , Figure 11 , Figure 14 , Figure 17 , Figure 21 and Figure 25 The check discs 314 and 316 can be moved from the unflexed position toward the outer edge 320 of the first channel 308 to a flexed position. For example, the extension 326 of the check discs 314 and 316 in the unflexed position can be farther from the outer edge 320 than the check discs in the flexed position.

[0083] The first check discs 214 and 314 selectively restrict fluid flow through the first channels 208 and 308 along the first direction D1, i.e., depending on the direction and amount of fluid pressure applied to the first check discs 214 and 314 and / or the velocity of the fluid flow. The first check discs 214 and 314 selectively allow fluid to pass through the first channels 208 and 308 by controlling the size of the openings 222 and 322 between the first check discs 214 and 314 and another component of the damper assemblies 200 and 300 (such as the ramps 210 and 310 of the pistons 202 and 302).

[0084] As the damper assemblies 200 and 300 move toward the extended position, the volume of the compression chamber 42 increases while the volume of the rebound chamber 44 decreases, creating a pressure difference where the fluid pressure in the rebound chamber 44 is greater than the fluid pressure in the compression chamber 42. This pressure difference and / or the fluid flow caused by it causes the first check discs 214 and 314 to move toward the pistons 202 and 302. This movement of the first check discs 214 and 314 toward the pistons 202 and 302 reduces the size of the openings 222 and 322 between them through which fluid can flow. Reducing the size of the openings 222 and 322 increases the resistance to motion provided by the damper assemblies 200 and 300 by restricting the fluid flow through the first channels 208 and 308.

[0085] The first check discs 214 and 314 may move toward the pistons 202 and 302 only when the pressure difference and / or fluid velocity exceed a threshold amount. This threshold amount may be determined based on the desired response characteristics of the damper assemblies 200 and 300, and the first check discs 214 and 314 may be designed to flex at the threshold amount, for example, through geometry such as thickness and material type. For example, increasing the thickness of the first check discs 214 and 314 and / or selecting a stiffer material for the first check discs 214 and 314 increases the threshold amount required to reduce the opening size. Decreasing the thickness of the first check discs 214 and 314 and / or selecting a more flexible material for the first check discs 214 and 314 decreases the threshold amount required to reduce the size of the openings 222 and 322.

[0086] As the damper assemblies 200 and 300 move toward the compression position, the volume of the compression chamber 42 decreases while the volume of the return chamber 44 increases, creating a pressure difference where the fluid pressure in the compression chamber 42 is greater than the fluid pressure in the return chamber 44. This pressure difference and / or the fluid flow caused by it can move the first check discs 214 and 314 away from the pistons 202 and 302, and may not reduce the size of the openings 222 and 322.

[0087] The second check discs 216, 316 selectively restrict fluid flow through the first channels 208, 308 along the second direction D2, i.e., depending on the direction and amount of fluid pressure applied to the second check discs 216, 316 and / or the velocity of the fluid flow. The second check discs 216, 316 selectively allow fluid to pass through the second channel 46 by controlling the size of the openings 224, 324 between the second check discs 216, 316 and another component of the damper assemblies 200, 300 (such as the ramps 212, 312 of the pistons 202, 302).

[0088] As the damper assemblies 200 and 300 move toward the compression position, the second check discs 216 and 316 can move toward the pistons 202 and 302. This movement of the second check discs 216 and 316 toward the pistons 202 and 302 reduces the size of the openings 224 and 324 between them, through which fluid can flow. Reducing the size of the openings 224 and 324 increases the resistance to motion provided by the damper assemblies 200 and 300 by restricting fluid flow through the second channel 46. The second check discs 216 and 316 can only move toward the pistons 202 and 302 when the pressure difference and / or fluid velocity is greater than a threshold amount. This threshold amount can be determined based on the desired response characteristics of the damper assemblies 200 and 300. The second check discs 216 and 316 can be designed to flex at the threshold amount, for example, via geometries such as thickness and material type, as described for the first check discs 214 and 314.

[0089] The damper assemblies 200 and 300 may include one or more orifice discs 234, 236, 334, 336, such as a first orifice disc 234, 334 and a second orifice disc 236, 336. The orifice discs 234, 236, 334, 336 may include extensions 238, 338 extending radially outward from the base rings 240, 340 of the respective check discs 214, 216, 314, 316. The extensions 238, 338 may be opposite each other, for example, spaced approximately 180 degrees apart about axis A1. The orifice discs 234, 236, 334, 336 may be bow-shaped. For example, the width of the extensions 238, 338 may increase along the extensions 238, 338, for example, such that the extensions 238, 338 widen as they extend away from the base rings 240, 340. Each extension 238, 338 may include a pair of contractions 242, 342. The contractions 242, 342 may be located near the base rings 240, 340. The contractions 242, 342 provide a reduced width for the extensions 238, 338, which reduces the stiffness of the orifice discs 234, 236, 334, 336 at the contractions 242, 342, for example, causing the orifice discs 234, 236, 334, 336 to flex at the contractions 242, 342.

[0090] Orifice plates 234, 236, 334, 336 may be supported, for example, by rod 36 and / or piston 202, 302 via central openings 244, 344. Inner ribs 50, 52 may be located within the central openings 244, 344 of orifice plates 234, 236, 334, 336. First orifice plates 234, 334 may be located along axis A1 between first check discs 214, 314 and pistons 202, 302. First orifice plates 234, 334 may be adjacent to first check discs 214, 314. Second orifice plates 236, 336 may be located along axis A1 between second check discs 216, 316 and pistons 202, 302. Second orifice plates 236, 336 may be adjacent to second check discs 216, 316. The extensions 238 and 338 of the orifice plates 234, 236, 334, and 336 can be aligned with the extensions 226 and 326 of the check plates 214, 216, 314, and 316, for example, to cover the first channels 208 and 308 at the slopes 210 and 310 of the second surfaces 206 and 306 and / or the slopes 212 and 312 of the first surfaces 204 and 304.

[0091] Each orifice disc 234, 236, 334, 336 defines one or more orifices 246, 346. The orifices 246, 346 may be circumferentially spaced around the orifice discs 234, 236, 334, 336. The orifices 246, 346 allow fluid to flow axially and / or radially relative to the axis A1 of the damper assemblies 200, 300. Each orifice 246, 346 may open radially. For example, the orifices 246, 346 may extend radially inward from the outer edges 248, 348 of the extensions 238, 338 of the respective orifice discs 234, 236, 334, 336, for example, allowing fluid to flow radially into the orifices 246, 346 at the outer edges 248, 348.

[0092] Orifice plates 234, 236, 334, and 336 may be adjacent to pistons 202 and 302 and check discs 214, 216, 314, and 316. For example, first orifice plates 234 and 334 may be located between and adjacent to first check discs 214 and 314 and pistons 202 and 302, wherein orifices 246 and 346 are located at the outer edges 220 and 320 of first channels 208 and 308. Second orifice plates 236 and 336 may be located between and adjacent to second check discs 216 and 316 and pistons 202 and 302, wherein orifices 246 and 346 are located at the outer edges 220 and 320 of first channels 208 and 308. When the check discs 214, 216, 314, 316 are in the flexed position, the orifices 246, 346 maintain the minimum size of the openings 222, 224, 322, 324 between the check discs 214, 216, 314, 316 and the pistons 202, 302, allowing fluid to flow through the first channels 208, 308. For example, the minimum size of the openings 222, 224, 322, 324 can be equal to the radial flow area of ​​the orifices 246, 346.

[0093] refer to Figures 3B to 4 Springs 250 and 252 can push check discs 214 and 216 and orifice discs 234 and 236 toward piston 202. For example, the first spring 250 can push the first check disc 214 toward the second surface 206 of piston 202. As another example, the second spring 252 can push the second check disc 216 and the second orifice disc 236 toward the first surface 204 of piston 202.

[0094] Each of springs 250 and 252 may include a base 254 and a plurality of arms 256 extending circumferentially and axially from the base 254. Springs 250 and 252 are made of an elastically deformable material (e.g., spring steel, plastic) having suitable elastic properties. Arms 256 of springs 250 and 252 may abut check discs 214 and 216. For example, arm 256 of the first spring 250 may abut a first check disc 214. As another example, arm 256 of the second spring 252 may abut a second check disc 216.

[0095] refer to Figures 5B to 6Springs 350 and 352 can push check discs 314 and 316 and orifice discs 334 and 336 away from piston 302. For example, the first spring 350 can push the first check disc 314 and the first orifice discs 334 and 334 away from the second surface 306 of piston 302. As another example, the second spring 352 can push the second check disc 316 and the second orifice disc 336 away from the first surface 304 of piston 302. Springs 350 and 352 can be, for example, washer springs, coil springs, or any suitable type. Springs 130 and 132 can be made of elastically deformable materials, such as suitable metals, plastics, etc.

[0096] refer to Figure 19 and Figure 20 Orifice discs 334 and 336 at the first surface 304 and the second surface 306 may abut the piston 302, for example, without a spring between them. For example, orifice disc 336 at the first surface 304 may abut the first surface 304 radially inside the first channel 308 (e.g., near the central opening 40). The inclined surface 312 of the first surface 304 may extend away from the orifice disc 336, for example, toward the centerline CL. The orifice disc 336 may be spaced apart from the first surface 304 at the inclined surface 312 located radially outside the first channel 308. As another example, orifice disc 334 at the second surface 306 may abut the second surface 306 radially inside the first channel 308 (e.g., near the central opening 40). The inclined surface 310 of the second surface 306 may extend away from the orifice disc 334, for example, toward the centerline CL. The orifice disc 334 may be spaced apart from the second surface 306 at the inclined surface 310 located radially outside the first channel 308. Fluid can flow into and out of the first channel 308 through the openings 322 and 324 between the orifice plates 334 and 336 and the corresponding first surface 304 or second surface 306 outside the first channel 308.

[0097] Check discs 314 and 316 may be located axially outside orifice discs 334 and 336 relative to the centerline CL. Check disc 316 at the first surface 304 may be adjacent to orifice disc 336 opposite to the first surface 304. Check disc 314 at the second surface 306 may be adjacent to orifice disc 334 opposite to the second surface 306. Check discs 334 and 336, for example, respond to fluid flow and control the size of openings 322 and 324 as described herein.

[0098] Spacers 355 and 357 are located axially outside check discs 314 and 316 relative to the centerline CL. Spacer 357 at the first surface 304 is adjacent to check disc 316 opposite orifice disc 336. Spacer 355 at the second surface 306 is adjacent to check disc 314 opposite orifice disc 334. Spacers 355 and 357 separate check discs 314 and 316 from limiting discs 66 and 68.

[0099] Restricting discs 66 and 68 may be located axially outside spacers 355 and 357 relative to the centerline CL. Restricting disc 68 at the first surface 304 may be adjacent to spacer 357 opposite check disc 316. Restricting disc 66 at the second surface 306 may be adjacent to spacer 355 opposite check disc 314. Restricting discs 66 and 68 restrict fluid flow through piston 302, for example, as further described below.

[0100] Springs 351 and 353 may be located axially outside the limiting discs 66 and 68 relative to the centerline CL. Each of springs 66 and 68 may include a body 67 and a plurality of arms 69 extending circumferentially and radially outward from the body 67 and along axis A1 toward the piston 302. Arms 69 of springs 351 and 353 may abut the limiting discs 66 and 68. Arm 69 of spring 353 at a first surface 304 may abut the limiting disc 68 opposite the spacer disc 357. Arm 69 of spring 351 at a second surface 306 may abut the limiting disc 66 opposite the spacer disc 355. Springs 351 and 353 push the limiting discs 66 and 68, the spacer disc 355, the check discs 314 and 316, and the orifice discs 334 and 336 toward the piston 302, for example, toward the corresponding first surface 304 or second surface 306.

[0101] Discharge discs 74, 76 and spring discs 86a-86e, 88a-88e may be located axially outside springs 351, 353. Discharge discs 74, 76 and spring discs 86a-86e, 88a-88e control fluid flow through 46 and 48, for example, as further described below.

[0102] refer to Figure 22 and Figure 23 Orifice discs 334 and 336 may abut against the first surface 304 and the second surface 306 radially inside and radially outside the first channel 308, respectively. Orifice discs 334 and 336 may seal the first surface 304 and the second surface 306 around the periphery of the first channel, for example, to inhibit fluid flow between them. Fluid may enter and exit the first channel 308 through orifices 346 of the orifice discs 334 and 336. The first surface 304 and the second surface 306 may extend substantially perpendicular to axis A1.

[0103] Pivot disks 359 and 361 may be located axially outside orifice disks 334 and 336 relative to the centerline CL. Pivot disk 361 at the first surface 304 may be adjacent to orifice disk 336 opposite to the first surface 304. Pivot disk 359 at the second surface 306 may be adjacent to orifice disk 334 opposite to the second surface 306. Pivot disks 359 and 361 separate orifice disks 334 and 336 from check disks 314 and 316, and allow fluid to flow axially and radially into and out of orifice 346 of orifice disks 334 and 336.

[0104] Check discs 314 and 316 may be located axially outside of pivot discs 359 and 361 relative to the centerline CL. Check disc 316 at the first surface 304 may be adjacent to pivot disc 361 opposite orifice disc 336. Check disc 314 at the second surface 306 may be adjacent to pivot disc 359 opposite orifice disc 334. Check discs 334 and 336, for example, respond to fluid flow and control the dimensions of openings 322 and 324 as described herein.

[0105] Springs 351 and 353 may be located axially outside check discs 334 and 336 relative to the centerline CL. Arms 69 of springs 351 and 353 may abut check discs 334 and 336. Arm 69 of spring 353 at the first surface 304 may abut check disc 336 opposite fulcrum disc 361. Arm 69 of spring 351 at the second surface 306 may abut check disc 334 opposite fulcrum disc 314. Springs 351 and 353 push check discs 334 and 336, fulcrum discs 359 and 361, and orifice discs 334 and 336 toward piston 302, for example, toward the corresponding first surface 304 or second surface 306.

[0106] Discharge discs 74, 76 and spring discs 86a-86e, 88a-88e may be located axially outside springs 351, 353. Discharge discs 74, 76 and spring discs 86a-86e, 88a-88e control fluid flow through 46 and 48, for example, as further described below.

[0107] return Figures 3A to 6 The damper assemblies 200 and 300 may include one or more limiting discs 66 and 68, such as a first limiting disc 66 and a second limiting disc 68. The limiting discs 66 and 68 restrict fluid flow through the pistons 202 and 302. The limiting discs 66 and 68 may be supported by the rod 36 and / or the pistons 202 and 302. For example, inner ribs 50 and 52 may be located in the central opening 70 of the respective limiting discs 66 and 68. The first limiting disc 66 may be located at a second surface 206 or 306. The second limiting disc 68 may be located at a first surface 204 or 304. Each limiting disc 66 and 68 may include a radially outwardly extending extension 72.

[0108] The first limiting disc 66 may cover a portion of the second channel 46. For example, an extension 72 of the first limiting disc 66 may cover the second channel 46 at the second surfaces 206, 306. The second limiting disc 68 may cover a portion of the third channel 48. For example, an extension 72 of the second limiting disc 68 may cover the end of the third channel 48 at the first surfaces 204, 304.

[0109] The damper assemblies 200, 300 may include one or more discharge discs 74, 76, such as a first discharge disc 74 and / or a second discharge disc 76. The discharge discs 74, 76 may be supported by a rod 36. For example, each discharge disc 74, 76 may include a central opening 78, and the rod 36 may be located within the central opening 78. The discharge discs 74, 76 may be located axially outside the check discs 214, 216, 314, 316 relative to the pistons 202, 302. For example, the first check discs 214, 314 may be located between the first discharge disc 74 and the pistons 202, 302. As another example, the second check discs 216, 316 may be located between the second discharge disc 76 and the pistons 202, 302.

[0110] The discharge discs 74 and 76 reduce movement resistance in response to fluid flow through them and / or the difference in fluid pressure on one side of the discharge discs 74 and 76 relative to the opposite side. Fluid flow and / or fluid pressure difference can cause the discharge discs 74 and 76 to translate or flex to form openings 80 and 82 through which fluid can flow (in... Figure 13 , Figure 14 , Figure 16 , Figure 17 (As shown in the diagram) and / or increase the size of the openings. Increasing the size of the openings 80, 82 reduces movement resistance by allowing a larger amount of fluid to flow from one sub-working chamber 34 to the other. The amount of deflection and / or translation of the discharge discs 74, 76, and the resulting increase in the size of the openings 80, 82, can be proportional to the fluid velocity and / or pressure difference between the compression sub-chamber 42 and the rebound sub-chamber 44 of the cylinder 32. For example, the greater the fluid velocity and / or fluid pressure difference, the greater the amount of deflection and / or translation of the discharge discs 74, 76 away from the pistons 202, 302, thus providing a greater increase in the size of the openings 80, 82 between them. A threshold fluid velocity and / or fluid pressure difference may be required for the discharge discs 74, 76 to deflect and / or translate. The discharge discs 74, 76 may not reduce movement resistance until the threshold fluid velocity and / or fluid pressure difference is reached.

[0111] Each discharge disc 74, 76 may define one or more openings 84. The openings 84 allow fluid to flow from one side of the respective discharge disc 74, 76 to the other side. The openings 84 may reduce the stiffness of the discharge discs 74, 76. The openings 84 may be arranged about axis A1.

[0112] The openings 84 of each discharge disc 74, 76 may overlap circumferentially, that is, two or more openings 84 may be along a common radius extending from axis A1. Such openings 84 may be spaced apart from each other along the radius.

[0113] The first discharge disc 74 may be spaced apart from the second surfaces 206, 306 at the third channel 48, for example, at the discharge inlet region 62. Spaced apart from the second surfaces 206, 306 at the third channel 48, the first discharge disc 74 allows fluid to flow freely into and out of the third channel 48 without being impeded by the first discharge disc 74.

[0114] The first discharge plate 74 selectively allows fluid to flow out of the second channel 46, i.e., depending on the amount and direction of the fluid pressure applied to the first discharge plate 74. For example, the first discharge plate 74 may selectively allow fluid to flow through the second channel 46 in a first direction D1. The first discharge plate 74 selectively allows fluid flow by controlling the size of the opening 80 between the first discharge plate 74 and the pistons 202, 302.

[0115] When the damper assemblies 200 and 300 are in a neutral state, the first discharge disc 74 covers the second channel 46 at the second surfaces 206 and 306, and restricts or inhibits the flow of fluid into and out of the second channel 46. The first discharge disc 74 in the neutral state may abut the second surfaces 206 and 306 of the pistons 202 and 302 at the second channel 46, for example, at the distal end 55 of the outer rib 54 of the second surfaces 206 and 306.

[0116] As the damper assemblies 200 and 300 move toward the compression position, the first discharge disc 74 can move away from the pistons 202 and 302 by the pressure difference and / or fluid flow generated by this movement. The movement of the first discharge disc 74 away from the pistons 202 and 302 creates an opening 80 between the pistons 202 and 302 and the first discharge disc 74. Fluid can flow through the opening 80 out of the second channel 46 to reach the return ball chamber 44 of the cylinder 32. The first discharge disc 74 can only move away from the pistons 202 and 302 when the pressure difference is greater than a threshold amount. This threshold amount can be determined based on the desired response characteristics of the damper assemblies 200 and 300, and the first discharge disc 74 and other components of the damper assemblies 200 and 300 can be designed to flex at the threshold amount, for example, through geometry such as thickness and material type.

[0117] When the damper assemblies 200 and 300 move toward the extended position, the first discharge disc 74 can be pushed toward the pistons 202 and 302 without forming or enlarging the opening 80 between the pistons 202 and 302 and the first discharge disc 74.

[0118] The second discharge disc 76 may be spaced apart from the first surfaces 204, 304 at the second channel 46, for example, at the discharge inlet region 64. Spacing the second discharge disc 76 from the first surfaces 204, 304 at the second channel 46 allows fluid to flow freely into and out of the second channel 46, for example, without being inhibited by the second discharge disc 76.

[0119] The second discharge plate 76 selectively allows fluid to flow out of the third channel 48 of the pistons 202 and 302, i.e., depending on the amount and direction of the fluid pressure applied to the second discharge plate 76. For example, the second discharge plate 76 may selectively allow fluid to flow through the third channel 48 in a second direction D2. The second discharge plate 76 selectively allows fluid flow by controlling the size of the opening 82 between the second discharge plate 76 and the pistons 202 and 302.

[0120] When the damper assemblies 200 and 300 are in a neutral state, the second discharge disc 76 covers the third channel 48 at the first surfaces 204 and 304, restricting or inhibiting fluid inflow and outflow from the third channel 48. In the intermediate state, the second discharge disc 76 may abut the first surfaces 204 and 304 of the pistons 202 and 302 at the third channel 48, for example, at the distal end 57 of the outer rib 56 of the first surfaces 204 and 304.

[0121] When the damper assemblies 200 and 300 move toward the extended position and the pressure in the rebound chamber 44 of the cylinder 32 is greater than the pressure in the compression chamber 42, the second discharge disc 76 can move away from the pistons 202 and 302, forming an opening 82 between the pistons 202 and 302 and the second discharge disc 76. Fluid can flow through the opening 82 out of the third channel 48 to reach the compression chamber 42 of the cylinder 32. The second discharge disc 76 can only move away from the pistons 202 and 302 when the pressure difference and / or fluid velocity is greater than a threshold amount. This threshold amount can be determined based on the desired response characteristics of the damper assemblies 200 and 300, and the second discharge disc 76 and other components of the damper assemblies 200 and 300 can be designed to flex at the threshold amount, for example, through geometry such as thickness and material type.

[0122] When the damper assemblies 200 and 300 move toward the compression position and the fluid pressure in the compression sub-chamber 42 of the cylinder 32 is greater than the fluid pressure in the rebound sub-chamber 44, the second discharge disc 76 can be pushed toward the pistons 202 and 302 without forming or enlarging the opening 82 between the pistons 202 and 302 and the second discharge disc 76.

[0123] refer to Figure 25The first surface 304 and / or the second surface 306 may each define one or more recesses 99 in fluid communication with channels 46, 48, 308. The recesses 99 extend radially outward from the respective channels 46, 48, 308. The recesses 99 provide venting fluid flow into and / or out of channels 46, 48, 308. When the second discharge disc 76 covers the third channel 48, the recesses 99 extending radially outward from the third channel 48 at the first surface 304 provide fluid flow between the first surface 304 and the second discharge disc 76. When the first discharge disc 74 covers the second channel 46, the recesses 99 extending radially outward from the second channel 46 at the second surface 306 provide flow between the second surface 306 and the first discharge disc 74. The recesses 99 extending radially outward from the first channel 46 at the first surface 304 provide flow between the first surface 304 and the second check disc 316. A recess 99 extending radially outward from the first channel 46 at the second surface 306 provides flow between the second surface 306 and the first check disc 314. When the respective check discs 314, 316 are in a flexed position, the recess 99 extending radially outward from the first channel 46 at the first surface 304 and the second surface 306 provides flow into the first channel 46. The recess 99 extending radially outward from the first channel 46 at the first surface 304 and the second surface 306 may replace orifice discs 334, 336; for example, the damper assembly 300 may not include orifice discs 334, 336, and the recess 99 provides fluid flow when the respective check discs 314, 316 flex toward the piston 302 (e.g., replacing orifice 346 of orifice discs 334, 336).

[0124] refer to Figures 5A to 6 The damper assembly 300 may include one or more spacer discs 354, 356. For example, a first spacer disc 354 may be located between and adjacent to a first discharge disc 74 and first check discs 214, 314. The first spacer disc 354 may cover an opening 84 in the first discharge disc 74. As another example, a second spacer disc 356 may be located between and adjacent to a second discharge disc 76 and second check discs 216, 316. The second spacer disc 356 may cover an opening 84 in the second discharge disc 76.

[0125] return Figures 3A to 6The damper assemblies 200 and 300 may include one or more spring discs 86a-86e and 88a-88e, such as one or more first spring discs 86a-86e and / or one or more second spring discs 88a-88e. The spring discs 86a-86e and 88a-88e may be supported by a rod 36. For example, the rod 36 may extend through a central opening 90 of the spring discs 86a-86e and 88a-88e. The spring discs 86a-86e and 88a-88e may be elastically deformable. For example, a force applied to the outer edge of the spring discs 86a-86e and 88a-88e may cause the spring discs 86a-86e and 88a-88e to flex, such that the outer edge moves axially relative to the corresponding central opening 90 of the spring discs 86a-86e and 88a-88e. Spring discs 86a-86e and 88a-88e are made of elastic deformable materials (e.g., spring steel, plastic, etc.) with suitable elastic properties.

[0126] The first spring discs 86a-86e push the pistons 202 and 302 towards the first discharge disc 74, that is, the first spring discs 86a-86e increase the amount of force required to deflect the first discharge disc 74 away from the pistons 202 and 302. The second spring discs 88a-88e push the pistons 202 and 302 towards the second discharge disc 76, that is, the second spring discs 88a-88e increase the amount of force required to deflect the second discharge disc 76 away from the pistons 202 and 302.

[0127] The dimensions of the spring discs 86a-86e and 88a-88e can gradually decrease with increasing distance from the pistons 202 and 302 along axis A1. For example, the outer diameter of the first spring disc 86a closest to the pistons 202 and 302 can be larger than the outer diameter of the first spring disc 86b adjacent to it, and so on. The diameter of the first spring disc 86e furthest from the pistons 202 and 302 can be smaller than the diameters of the other first spring discs 86a-86b. As another example, the spring discs 86a-86e and 88a-88e can be configured similarly to leaf springs.

[0128] The first spring disc 86a, closest to pistons 202 and 302, may be adjacent to the first discharge disc 74 near the rod 36. The second spring disc 88a, closest to pistons 202 and 302, may be adjacent to the second discharge disc 76 near the rod 36.

[0129] The spring discs 86a and 88a closest to pistons 202 and 302 may be spaced apart from discharge discs 74 and 76 at their outer edges. For example, a first ring 92 may be located along axis A1 between the first spring disc 86a and the first discharge disc 74. As another example, a second ring 94 may be located between the second spring disc 88a and the second discharge disc 76. Rings 92 and 94 may be circular or any suitable shape. Rings 92 and 94 may be metal, plastic, or any suitable material. Rings 92 and 94 provide internal preload to spring discs 86a-86e and 88a-88e. Rings 92 and 94 may be located radially outside the opening 84 of discharge discs 74 and 76.

[0130] Each damper assembly 200, 300 may include a pair of pivot disks 96, 98. Pivot disks 96, 98 provide a pivot point for spring disks 86a-86e, 88a-88e. For example, one of the pivot disks 96 may be adjacent to a smallest first spring disk 86e opposite to an adjacent larger first spring disk 86d. Such a pivot disk 96 may have a smaller outer diameter than the adjacent smallest first spring disk 86e. As another example, another pivot disk 98 may be adjacent to a smallest second spring disk 88e opposite to an adjacent larger second spring disk 88d. Such a pivot disk 98 may have a smaller outer diameter than the smallest second spring disk 88e.

[0131] Each damper assembly 200, 300 may include a pair of preload washers 100, 102. The preload washers 100, 102 sandwich the pistons 202, 302, discs 74, 76, 86a-86e, 88a-88e, and other components of the damper assembly 200, 300 supported by the rod 36. For example, one preload washer 100 may be located axially outside one of the pivot discs 96, while the other preload washer 102 may be located axially outside the other pivot disc 98. Fasteners 41 may be attached to the rod 36 axially outside the preload washer near the first surfaces 204, 304. Fasteners 41 may be, for example, threaded lock nuts.

[0132] Preload shims 100 and 102 protect spring discs 86a-86e and 88a-88e. Fastener 41 restricts the preload shims 100 and 102, discharge discs 74 and 76, spring discs 86a-86e and 88a-88e, pistons 202 and 302, etc., into a stack with a predetermined length. The thickness of the preload shims 100 and 102 can increase or decrease the available space for discs 74, 76, 86a-86e, 88a-88e, pistons 202 and 302, etc.

[0133] refer to Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 13 The diagram illustrates first fluid flow paths FF1A and FF1B defined by corresponding damper assemblies 200 and 300. These first fluid flow paths FF1A and FF1B are defined as the corresponding damper assemblies 200 and 300 move toward the compression position. Figure 7 and Figure 8 The first fluid flow paths FF1A and FF1B show the corresponding damper assemblies 200 and 300 moving toward the compression position when the fluid velocity and / or pressure difference between the compression sub-chamber 42 and the rebound sub-chamber 44 is less than a first threshold.

[0134] Figure 7 The first fluid flow path FF1A shown extends from the compression chamber 42 around the preload gasket, the second spring discs 88a-88e, and the second discharge disc 76 to the opening 224 between the second check disc 216 and the piston 202. The first fluid flow path FF1A extends from the opening 224 through the first channel 208 and from the opening between the first check disc 214 and the piston 202 to the rebound working chamber 34.

[0135] Figure 8 The first fluid flow path FF1B shown extends from the compression chamber 42 around the preload gasket, the second spring discs 88a-88e, and the second discharge disc 76 to the opening 324 between the second check disc 316 and the piston 302. The first fluid flow path FF1B extends from the opening 324 through the first channel 308 and from the opening between the first check disc 314 and the piston 302 to the springback working chamber 34.

[0136] First fluid flow paths FF1A and FF1B each define a region, for example, perpendicular to the respective first fluid flow path FF1A or FF1B, through which fluid can flow. The defined region may be located at the narrowest portion of the respective first fluid flow path FF1A or FF1B. The defined region may include multiple regions. For example, the first fluid flow paths FF1A and FF1B may be divided into multiple sub-paths, for example, each sub-path extending through one of the first channels 208 and 308. Each sub-path may have a sub-region at the narrowest portion of the respective sub-path, and the defined region of the respective first fluid flow path FF1A or FF1B may be a combination of the regions of the sub-paths. Flow through the first fluid flow paths FF1A and FF1B can provide a venting flow to equalize the pressure difference between the compression sub-chamber 42 and the rebound sub-chamber 44.

[0137] When the fluid velocity and / or pressure difference between the compression chamber 42 and the return chamber 44 is less than a first threshold, the area defined by the first fluid flow paths FF1A and FF1B provides resistance to the movement of pistons 202 and 302 by limiting the rate at which fluid can flow from the compression chamber 42 to the return chamber 44. Figure 9 The cross section X of curve C1 illustrates this resistance.

[0138] refer to Figure 10 and Figure 11 When the fluid velocity and / or pressure difference between the rebound chamber 44 and the compression chamber 42 exceeds a first threshold, the corresponding damper assemblies 200 and 300 are shown moving toward the compression position. The first threshold allows the amplitude of curve C1 to reach a predetermined amount of responsive force within a predetermined time period. The predetermined amount may be based on, for example, empirical testing, to optimize vehicle performance and / or occupant comfort.

[0139] When the fluid velocity and / or pressure difference is greater than the first threshold, the fluid flow along the first fluid flow paths FF1A and FF1B causes the corresponding second check discs 216 and 316 to move toward the corresponding pistons 202 and 302. The movement of the second check discs 216 and 316 toward the pistons 202 and 302 reduces the size of the openings 224 and 324 between them.

[0140] For example, Figure 10 The second orifice plate 236 shown is movable to abut the piston 202 at the inner edge 218 of the first channel 208, and the second check plates 214, 314 abut the second orifice plate 236 opposite to the piston 202, thereby minimizing the size of the opening 224, for example, making it approximately equal to the radial flow area of ​​the orifice 246 of the second orifice plate 236.

[0141] As another example, Figure 11 The second orifice plate 336 shown is movable to abut the piston 302 at the outer edge 320 of the first channel 308, and the second check plate 316 abuts the second orifice plate 336 opposite to the piston 302, thereby minimizing the size of the opening 324, for example, making it approximately equal to the radial flow area of ​​the orifice 346 of the second orifice plate 336.

[0142] Reducing and / or minimizing the size of openings 224, 324 reduces the defined area of ​​the corresponding first fluid flow paths FF1A, FF1B, and increases the movement resistance of the corresponding damper assemblies 200, 300 by reducing the rate at which fluid can flow from the compression sub-chamber 42 to the return sub-chamber 44. Figure 12 The cross section Y of curve C1 illustrates this resistance.

[0143] refer to Figure 13 and Figure 14The diagram illustrates a second fluid flow path FF2 defined by each damper assembly 200, 300. The second fluid flow path FF2 is defined when the corresponding damper assembly 200, 300 moves toward a compression position and the fluid velocity and / or pressure difference between the compression sub-chamber 42 and the rebound sub-chamber 44 is greater than a second threshold. The second threshold may be greater than a first threshold such that the slope and / or amplitude of curve C1 does not exceed a predetermined amount. The predetermined amount may be based, for example, empirical testing, to optimize vehicle performance and / or occupant comfort.

[0144] When the fluid velocity and / or pressure difference exceeds the second threshold, the first discharge disc 74 and the first spring discs 86a-86e are pushed away from the corresponding pistons 202, 302, forming an opening 80 between them. The second fluid flow path FF2 extends from the compression chamber 42 to the rebound chamber 44 via the second channel 46 and the opening 80 between the pistons 202, 302 and the first discharge disc 74. The second fluid flow path FF2 defines the area through which fluid can flow. The defined area of ​​the second fluid flow path FF2 may include multiple sub-regions.

[0145] The combined region defined by the first fluid flow paths FF1A and FF1B and the second fluid flow path FF2 reduces the moving resistance of the corresponding damper assemblies 200 and 300 (relative to the region defined by only the first fluid flow paths FF1A and FF1B) by increasing the rate at which fluid can flow from the compression chamber 42 to the rebound chamber 44. Figure 15 The cross section Z of curve C1 illustrates this resistance.

[0146] refer to Figure 16 , Figure 17 , Figure 21 and Figure 24 The diagram illustrates a third fluid flow path FF3A, FF3B and a fourth fluid flow path FF4 defined by the respective damper assemblies 200, 300. The third and fourth fluid flow paths FF3A, FF3B, and FF4 are defined when the respective damper assemblies 200, 300 move toward the extended position and the fluid velocity and / or pressure difference between the compression sub-chamber 42 and the rebound sub-chamber 44 is higher than a second threshold.

[0147] Figure 16 The third fluid flow path FF3A shown extends from the return chamber 44 to the compression chamber 42 via the first channel 208 and the opening 222 between the first check plate 214 and the piston 202.

[0148] Figure 17 , Figure 21 and Figure 24The third fluid flow path FF3B shown extends from the return chamber 44 to the compression chamber 42 via the first channel 308 and the opening 322 between the first check plate 314 and the piston 302.

[0149] return Figure 17 The fourth fluid flow path FF4 extends from the return chamber 44 to the compression chamber 42 via the third channel 48 and the opening 82 between the second discharge plate 76 and the pistons 202 and 302.

[0150] refer to Figure 18 Curves C1 and C2 are shown. Curve C1 represents the response force provided by the damper assemblies 200 and 300 moving towards the compression position at an increasing speed. Curve C2 represents the response force provided by the damper assemblies 200 and 300 moving towards the extension position at an increasing speed. Various components of the damper assemblies 200 and 300 can be configured to control curves C1 and C2, that is, to control the amount of response force provided by the damper assemblies 200 and 300 at various speeds.

[0151] Curves C1 and C2 can be increased or decreased in slope and / or amplitude near arrows A and A', for example, to provide tuning for low-speed movement of damper assemblies 200 and 300. For example, increasing the steepness of ramps 210 and 310, increasing the stiffness of check discs 214 and 314, and / or increasing the size of orifice 246 and 346 of orifice discs 234 and 334 can decrease the slope and / or amplitude of curve C1 near arrow A. Similarly, increasing the steepness of ramps 212 and 312, increasing the stiffness of check discs 216 and 316, and / or increasing the size of orifice 246 and 346 of orifice discs 236 and 336 can decrease the slope and / or amplitude of curve C2 near arrow A'. As another example, reducing the steepness of ramps 210 and 310, reducing the stiffness of check discs 214 and 314, and / or reducing the dimensions of orifice 246 and 346 of orifice discs 234 and 334 can increase the slope and / or amplitude of curve C1 approaching arrow A. Similarly, reducing the steepness of ramps 212 and 312, reducing the stiffness of check discs 216 and 316, and / or reducing the dimensions of orifice 246 and 346 of orifice discs 236 and 336 can increase the slope and / or amplitude of curve C2 approaching arrow A'.

[0152] Curves C1 and C2 can be increased or decreased in terms of slope and / or amplitude near arrows B and B'. For example, asymmetrically increasing the stiffness of the first discharge disc 74 can increase the slope and / or amplitude of curve C1 near arrow B. Similarly, asymmetrically increasing the stiffness of the second discharge disc 76 can increase the slope and / or amplitude of curve C2 near arrow B'. As another example, asymmetrically decreasing the stiffness of the first discharge disc 74 can decrease the slope and / or amplitude of curve C1 near arrow B. Similarly, asymmetrically decreasing the stiffness of the second discharge disc 76 can decrease the slope and / or amplitude of curve C2 near arrow B'.

[0153] Curves C1 and C2 can be increased or decreased in slope and / or amplitude near arrows C and C', for example, to provide tuning for medium-speed motion of the damper assembly 20. For example, decreasing the thickness of rings 92 and 94 can decrease the slope and / or amplitude of curve C1 near arrows C and C'. As another example, increasing the thickness of rings 92 and 94 can increase the slope and / or amplitude of curve C1 near arrows C and C'.

[0154] Curves C1 and C2 can be increased or decreased in terms of slope and / or amplitude near arrows D and D'. For example, increasing the stiffness of the first spring discs 86a-86d increases the slope and / or amplitude of curve C1 near arrow D. Similarly, increasing the stiffness of the second spring discs 88a-88d increases the slope and / or amplitude of curve C2 near arrow D'. As another example, decreasing the stiffness of the first spring discs 86a-86d decreases the slope and / or amplitude of curve C1 near arrow D. Similarly, decreasing the thickness of the second spring discs 88a-88d decreases the slope and / or amplitude of curve C2 near arrow D'.

[0155] Curves C1 and C2 can be increased or decreased in their slope and / or amplitude near arrows E and E', for example, to control high-speed response. For example, increasing the size of the extension 72 of the first limiting disc 66 can increase the slope and / or amplitude of curve C1 near arrow E. Similarly, increasing the size of the extension 72 of the second limiting disc 68 can increase the slope and / or amplitude of curve C2 near arrow E'. As another example, decreasing the size of the extension 72 of the first limiting disc 66 can decrease the slope and / or amplitude of curve C1 near arrow E. Similarly, decreasing the size of the extension 72 of the second limiting disc 68 can decrease the slope and / or amplitude of curve C2 near arrow E.

[0156] Although curves C1 and C2 approaching various arrows A, A', B, B', C, C', D, D', E, E' are described individually, curves C1 and C2 can be controlled based on the cumulative effect of the configuration of various components. For example, configuring the damper assembly 20 to control curves C1 and C2 approaching arrows A and A' can also change curves C1 and C2 approaching other arrows B, B', C, C', D, D', E, E'.

[0157] This disclosure has been described in an illustrative manner, and it should be understood that the terminology used is intended to be descriptive rather than limiting. Based on the above teachings, many modifications and variations of this disclosure are possible, and this disclosure can be practiced in ways other than those specifically described.

Claims

1. A damper assembly, the damper assembly comprising: A cylinder that defines a chamber and extends along an axis; A body, supported by the cylinder and having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface, the body defining a channel in fluid communication with the chamber and extending from the first surface to the second surface; An orifice plate, the orifice plate being supported by the body and adjacent to the first surface or the second surface on the radially inner and radially outer sides of the channel; A check plate, which is supported by the main body and axially spaced from the orifice plate along the axis; A fulcrum plate, supported by the body, is axially positioned between the orifice plate and the check plate along the axis. The fulcrum plate provides a fulcrum for the check plate, allowing it to move along the axis from an undeflected position spaced apart from the orifice plate to a deflected position adjacent to the orifice plate. By controlling the size of the opening between the check plate and the body, fluid flow through the channel is selectively restricted.

2. The damper assembly of claim 1, wherein the pivot plate is adjacent to the orifice plate and the check plate.

3. The damper assembly of claim 1, wherein the orifice disc defines an orifice between the check disc and the body.

4. The damper assembly of claim 3, wherein the orifice opens in a radial direction away from the axis.

5. The damper assembly of claim 3, wherein the orifice is located radially outward from the axis of the pivot disk.

6. The damper assembly of claim 1, wherein the check disc selectively restricts fluid flow in a first direction, and further comprises a second check disc that selectively restricts fluid flow through the channel in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

7. The damper assembly of claim 6, wherein the body is located along the axis between the check disc and the second check disc.

8. The damper assembly according to claim 7, the assembly further comprising a second orifice plate supported by the body, the second orifice plate being located between the body and the second check plate.

9. The damper assembly of claim 8, wherein the second check disc is movable from an undeflected position spaced apart from the second orifice disc along the axis to a deflected position adjacent to the second orifice disc.

10. The damper assembly of claim 1, further comprising a spring that pushes the check disc toward the orifice disc.

11. The damper assembly of claim 10, wherein the spring comprises a plurality of arms adjacent to the check disc.

12. The damper assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the body is a piston.

Images