Vehicle suspension shock absorber including a transfer ring for a controllable valve

Abstract

A shock absorber for a suspension system of a vehicle includes an inner tube defining an inner cavity, a piston slidably disposed in the inner tube, the piston dividing the inner cavity of the inner tube into a rebound working chamber and a compression working chamber, an intermediate tube on the inner tube, the intermediate tube defining an intermediate chamber between the inner tube and the intermediate tube, the intermediate chamber being in fluid communication with the inner cavity of the inner tube, an outer tube, the inner tube and the intermediate tube being in the outer tube, the outer tube defining a reserve chamber between the outer tube and the intermediate tube, a valve fluidly connecting the intermediate chamber and the reserve chamber, a transfer ring fluidly connecting the intermediate chamber and the valve, the transfer ring including a body, a first seal, a second seal, and a connector, the first seal being between the body and the intermediate tube, the second seal being between the body and the valve, and the connector being connected to the first seal and the second seal, the connector extending from the first seal to the second seal through the body. The shock absorber can provide different damping forces.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application generally relates to shock absorbers. More specifically, this application relates to a shock absorber for a vehicle suspension system. Background Technology

[0002] Vehicle shock absorbers are typically included across a wide range of vehicle classes. Some vehicles include semi-active damping systems, which adjust the damping level based on road conditions and vehicle dynamics. A shock absorber is located between the vehicle body and the vehicle's suspension system. A piston is located within the shock absorber. The piston is connected to the body or vehicle suspension via a piston rod. When the shock absorber is compressed or extended, working fluid flows between the rebound and compression chambers within the shock absorber to counteract vibrations. By adjusting the flow of working fluid between the chambers, greater or lesser damping forces can be generated. Summary of the Invention

[0003] To this end, according to one aspect, this application provides a shock absorber, comprising: an inner tube defining an inner cavity; a piston slidably disposed in the inner tube, the piston dividing the inner cavity of the inner tube into a rebound chamber and a compression chamber; an intermediate tube on the inner tube, the intermediate tube defining an intermediate chamber between the inner tube and the intermediate tube, the intermediate chamber being in fluid communication with the inner cavity of the inner tube; an outer tube; the inner tube and the intermediate tube being in the outer tube, the outer tube defining a reservoir chamber between the outer tube and the intermediate tube; a valve fluidly connecting the intermediate chamber and the reservoir chamber; a transfer ring fluidly connecting the intermediate chamber and the valve; the transfer ring including a body, a first seal, a second seal, and a connector; the first seal being between the body and the intermediate tube, the second seal being between the body and the valve, and the connector being connected to the first seal and the second seal, the connector extending from the first seal to the second seal through the body.

[0004] In some embodiments, the first seal, the second seal, and the connector are made of the same material type.

[0005] In some embodiments, the first seal, the second seal, and the connector are made of a different material type than the body.

[0006] In some embodiments, the first seal, the second seal, and the connector are integrated.

[0007] In some embodiments, the shock absorber provided in this application further includes a second connector spaced apart from the connector and extending from the first seal to the second seal through the body.

[0008] In some embodiments, the first seal, the second seal, and the connector are vulcanized rubber.

[0009] In some embodiments, the body of the transfer ring is sintered metal.

[0010] In some embodiments, the body of the transfer ring includes an internal channel, and the connector is located within the internal channel.

[0011] In the above embodiments, the main body of the transfer ring includes a first sealing seat supporting a first seal and a second sealing seat supporting a second seal, an internal channel extending from the first sealing seat to the second sealing seat, and a connector in the internal channel.

[0012] In some embodiments, the body of the transfer ring includes an orifice from the intermediate chamber to the valve.

[0013] In this embodiment, the first seal extends endlessly around the hole.

[0014] In this embodiment, the intermediate tube includes an orifice in fluid communication with the intermediate chamber, the orifice of the transfer ring is in fluid communication with the orifice, and the first seal extends endlessly around the orifice.

[0015] In this embodiment, the body of the transfer ring includes an internal channel spaced apart from the hole, and the connector is located in the internal channel.

[0016] In the above embodiments, the transfer ring has an axis, and the internal channels and holes extend parallel to the channels.

[0017] In some embodiments, the transfer ring extends from the intermediate tube to the valve.

[0018] In some embodiments, the intermediate chamber is in fluid communication with the rebound chamber.

[0019] In some embodiments, the inner tube includes an opening between the springback chamber and the intermediate chamber.

[0020] According to another aspect, this application provides a shock absorber comprising: an inner tube defining an inner cavity; a piston slidably disposed within the inner tube, the piston dividing the inner cavity of the inner tube into a rebound chamber and a compression chamber; an intermediate tube on the inner tube defining an intermediate cavity between the inner tube and the intermediate tube, the intermediate cavity being in fluid communication with the rebound chamber; an outer tube containing the inner tube and the intermediate tube, the outer tube defining a reservoir chamber between the outer tube and the intermediate tube; a valve fluidly connecting the intermediate chamber and the reservoir chamber; a transfer ring including a body having an orifice fluidly connecting the intermediate chamber and the valve; and the transfer ring including a sealing unit comprising a first seal between the transfer ring and the intermediate tube, a second seal between the transfer ring and the valve, and a connector connected to the first seal and the second seal; the body of the transfer ring defining an internal channel spaced apart from the orifice, the connector extending through the transfer ring from the first seal to the second seal.

[0021] In some embodiments, the first seal, the second seal, and the connector are integrated. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a vehicle that includes a suspension system with multiple shock absorber assemblies.

[0023] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of the shock absorber.

[0024] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A magnified view of a portion of it.

[0025] Figure 4 This is a 3D diagram of the transmission ring of the shock absorber.

[0026] Figure 5 This is a three-dimensional view of the transfer ring, with the main body of the transfer ring represented by dashed lines to show the sealing unit of the transfer ring.

[0027] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the transfer ring.

[0028] Figure 7 It is a three-dimensional view of the main body of the transfer ring.

[0029] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of a vehicle system that includes an electronic control unit that controls the operation of valves that control the shock absorbers. Detailed Implementation

[0030] Referring to the accompanying drawings, where like numerals denote like elements, a shock absorber 10 for a suspension system 12 of a vehicle 14 is generally shown. The shock absorber 10 includes an inner tube 16 defining a cavity 18. A piston 20 is slidably disposed within the inner tube 16. The piston 20 divides the cavity 18 of the inner tube 16 into a rebound chamber 22 and a compression chamber 24. An intermediate tube 26 is on the inner tube 16 and defines an intermediate chamber 28 between the inner tube 16 and the intermediate tube 26. The intermediate chamber 28 is in fluid communication with the cavity 18 of the inner tube 16. The shock absorber 10 includes an outer tube 30. The inner tube 16 and the intermediate tube 26 are within the outer tube 30. The outer tube 30 defines a reservoir chamber 32 between the outer tube 30 and the intermediate tube 26. A valve 34 fluidly, i.e., hydraulically connects the intermediate chamber 28 and the reservoir chamber 32. A transmission ring 36 fluidly connects the intermediate chamber 28 and the valve 34. The transmission ring 36 includes a body 38 and a sealing unit 40. The sealing unit 40 includes a first seal 42, a second seal 44, and a connector 46. The first seal 42 is located between the transfer ring 36 and the intermediate tube 26. The second seal 44 is located between the transfer ring 36 and the valve 34. The connector 46 connects to the first seal 42 and the second seal 44. The connector 46 extends from the first seal 42 to the second seal 44 through a body 38.

[0031] Because connector 46 connects the first seal 42 and the second seal 44, the transfer ring 36 possesses durability and fatigue resistance, allowing for high internal hydraulic pressure. Connector 46 also simplifies the assembly process of the transfer ring 36 and reduces the likelihood of assembly errors. The design of the transfer ring 36 also allows for a range of materials, including, in some examples, the availability of vulcanized rubber for the first seal 42, the second seal 44, and the connector 46 to provide durability and fatigue resistance, and the availability of sintered metal for the body 38 of the transfer ring 36, which is cost-effective.

[0032] The shock absorber 10 continuously adjusts its damping level according to road conditions and vehicle dynamics to dampen the impacts and vibrations caused by road surface changes felt by the passengers of the vehicle 14. Figure 1 An example of a vehicle 14 with a suspension system 12 and a body is shown. The suspension system 12 may include more than one shock absorber 10. The shock absorber 10 may be coupled with a coil spring. The performance of the shock absorber 10 is electronically controlled, specifically by an electronic control unit (ECU 48) controlling the damping level. The ECU 48 receives information (e.g., acceleration, speed, pitch, yaw, roll, steering, braking) from sensors 76 at various locations on the vehicle 14 to independently adjust each shock absorber 10.

[0033] Reference Figure 2 Intermediate tube 26 is on inner tube 16, defining an intermediate chamber 28 between inner tube 16 and intermediate tube 26. Inner tube 16 and intermediate tube 26 are in outer tube 30. Inner tube 16, outer tube 30 and intermediate tube 26 may be concentric. Outer tube 30 and inner tube 16 define a reservoir 32 between outer tube 30 and inner tube 16 and between outer tube 30 and intermediate tube 26. Reservoir 32 may be annular and continuous around inner tube 16 and intermediate tube 26. Inner tube 16 defines an inner cavity 18 that selectively communicates with reservoir 32. Specifically, inner tube 16 and intermediate tube 26 define intermediate chamber 28 that opens into inner cavity 18 and is selectively communicated with reservoir 32 via valve 34, as detailed below.

[0034] The rebound chamber 22, intermediate chamber 28, and reservoir 32 contain a working fluid, such as a liquid and / or gas like hydraulic oil. The working fluid flows between the rebound chamber 22 and the reservoir 32 via valve 34 and intermediate chamber 28 to adjust the damping level of the shock absorber 10. Valve 34 provides unidirectional flow from the rebound chamber 22 to the reservoir 32; it is an active valve. As described below, the shock absorber 10 also includes a passive valve.

[0035] Continue to refer to Figure 2The shock absorber 10 includes a piston assembly 50, which includes a rod 52 and a piston 20. The piston 20 is located within an inner tube 16, and the rod 52 extends externally into an outer tube 30 via a rod guide assembly (not numbered). The piston 20 is slidably disposed within the inner tube 16. The piston 20 divides the inner cavity 18 of the inner tube 16 into a rebound chamber 22 and a compression chamber 24. The compression chamber 24 may contain working fluid, and the piston 20 may allow controlled flow of the working fluid between the compression chamber 24 and the rebound chamber 22 through and / or around the piston 20. For example, the piston 20 may include flow control features such as channels, spring plates, blow-out plates, valves, etc., which allow the working fluid to flow between the compression chamber 24 and the rebound chamber 22 and may provide controlled resistance to such flow.

[0036] Continue to refer to Figure 2 The shock absorber 10 may include a foot valve 54. The foot valve 54 is located between the compression chamber 24 and the reservoir 32. Specifically, the foot valve 54 has a port between the chamber 24 and the reservoir 32 and has flow control functions that allow working fluid to flow between and / or around the compression chamber 24 and the reservoir 32 in a controlled manner. For example, the flow control features of the foot valve 54 may include a channel, spring plate, blow-out plate, valve, etc., which allow working fluid to flow between the compression chamber 24 and the reservoir 32 and can provide controlled resistance to such flow.

[0037] The working fluid in the inner cavity 18 flows between the rebound chamber 22 and the reservoir chamber 32, and the flow from the rebound chamber 22 to the reservoir chamber 32 is actively controlled by the valve 34. During the rebound of the damper 10, the piston 20 causes the shrinking rebound chamber 22 to shrink and the compressing working chamber 24 to expand. This movement compresses the working fluid in the rebound chamber 22, and the working fluid flows from the rebound chamber 22 to the reservoir chamber 32 under the control of the valve 34. During this movement, the working fluid can also flow from the rebound chamber 22 to the compression chamber 24 through and / or around the piston 20, and / or the working fluid can flow from the reservoir chamber 32 to the compression chamber 24 through and / or around the bottom valve 54. During the compression of the damper 10, the piston 20 expands the rebound chamber 22 and shrinks the compression working chamber 24. During this movement, the working fluid can flow from the compression chamber 24 to the rebound chamber 22 through and / or around the piston 20, and / or the working fluid can flow from the compression chamber 24 to the reservoir chamber 32 through and / or around the bottom valve 54. As described above, valve 34 is a one-way valve that controls the flow of working fluid from the rebound chamber 22 to the reservoir chamber 32, and therefore the working fluid does not flow through valve 34 during the compression stroke of the shock absorber 10.

[0038] like Figure 2As shown, the inner tube 16, the intermediate tube 26, and the outer tube 30 can each be tubular. Specifically, the inner tube 16, the intermediate tube 26, and the outer tube 30 can have a circular cross-section and can also be cylindrical. The inner tube 16, the intermediate tube 26, and the outer tube 30 can extend along axis A1. Specifically, the inner tube 16, the intermediate tube 26, and the outer tube 30 can be coaxial on axis A1 and concentric about axis A1. The inner tube 16, the intermediate tube 26, and the outer tube 30 can be, for example, metal or other known rigid materials.

[0039] As described above, the inner tube 16 defines an inner cavity 18. Specifically, the inner tube 16 has an inner wall, and the piston 20 abuts against the inner wall. The piston assembly 50 may include one or more seals, such as metal rings, between the piston 20 and the inner wall of the inner tube 16.

[0040] The inner tube 16 contains the working fluid. As further described below, during operation of the damper assembly, the working fluid exits the inner tube 16 and flows into the intermediate tube 26. Additionally, the working fluid may exit the inner tube 16 and flow into other damping devices, but under no circumstances will the working fluid exit the shock absorber 10 during normal operation.

[0041] The piston assembly 50 has a rod 52 that extends through one end of the inner tube 16. The shock absorber 10 assembly includes a seal between the rod 52 and the inner tube 16 to contain working fluid within the inner tube 16.

[0042] The inner cavity 18 is in fluid communication with the intermediate chamber 28. Specifically, in the example shown in the figure, the spring chamber 22 is in fluid communication with the intermediate chamber 28. For example, the inner tube 16 has an orifice 58 between the inner tube 16 and the intermediate tube 26 from the spring chamber 22 to the intermediate chamber 28. The orifice 58 opens to the intermediate chamber 28 and the spring chamber 22, allowing working fluid to flow through the orifice 58. The inner tube 16 may have any number of orifices 58 between the spring chamber 22 and the intermediate chamber 28. The orifice 58 defines a contact area representing a two-dimensional region through which the working fluid flows.

[0043] Intermediate tube 26 is tubular and extends circumferentially around inner tube 16, for example, concentrically with inner tube 16. Intermediate tube 26 may be referred to as a "transfer tube". Intermediate tube 26 is sealed to inner tube 16 at its two ends spaced apart along axis A1. Intermediate tube 26 is radially spaced from inner tube 16 to define intermediate chamber 28 therebetween. Intermediate chamber 28 may be annular and is continuous around inner tube 16. Intermediate chamber 28 allows working fluid to flow between spring chamber 22 and valve 34. As described above, intermediate chamber 28 is in fluid communication with the inner cavity 18 of inner tube 16, for example, spring chamber 22, through, for example, orifice 58.

[0044] The outer tube 30 is tubular and extends circumferentially around the intermediate tube 26 and the inner tube 16, for example, extending concentrically with the intermediate tube 26 and the inner tube 16. The outer tube 30 is radially spaced from the intermediate tube 26 and the inner tube 16 to define a reservoir 32 therebetween. Specifically, in the example shown in the figure, the reservoir 32 is longer along axis A1 than the intermediate tube 26, such that a portion of the reservoir 32 extends directly between the outer tube 30 and the intermediate tube 26, and another portion extends directly between the outer tube 30 and the inner tube 16. The outer tube 30 is sealed at its ends to contain working fluid. The reservoir 32 may be annular and continuous around the intermediate tube 26 and the inner tube 16. As described below, working fluid flows into or out of the reservoir 32 from the valve 34.

[0045] Intermediate pipe 26 allows working fluid to flow between intermediate chamber 28 and valve 34. For example, intermediate pipe 26 has an orifice 60 from intermediate chamber 28 to valve 34. Orifice 60 leads to intermediate chamber 28 and electronic devices, allowing working fluid to flow through orifice 60 based on the operation of valve 34.

[0046] A transfer ring 36 provides fluid communication between the intermediate chamber 28 and the valve 34. The transfer ring 36 may also be referred to as a "hydraulic connection." Working fluid flows through the transfer ring 36 from the intermediate chamber 28 to the valve 34 and from the valve 34 back to the intermediate chamber 28. The transfer ring 36 has an orifice 62 in fluid communication with both the valve 34 and the intermediate chamber 28. Specifically, the orifice 62 of the transfer ring 36 extends uninterruptedly from the intermediate chamber 28 to the valve 34. As further described below, the transfer ring 36 is sealed to the valve 34 and to the intermediate chamber 28.

[0047] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 The transfer ring 36 extends from the intermediate pipe 26 to the valve 34 through the reservoir 32. The valve 34 leads to the reservoir 32 and is connected to the intermediate chamber 28 through the hole 62 of the transfer ring 36.

[0048] Continue to refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The shock absorber includes a valve housing 64 that is sealed to an outer tube 30 and to a valve 34. The valve housing 64 can be fixed to the outer tube 30 by, for example, welding, bonding, or joining. The valve housing 64 leads to a reservoir 32. Specifically, the valve housing 64 has a chamber 66 leading to the reservoir 32. The valve 34 communicates with the reservoir 32 through the valve housing 64, allowing working fluid to flow from the valve 34 to the reservoir 32 through the valve housing 64.

[0049] The outer tube 30 defines an opening 68, and the valve body 64 seals to the outer tube 30 and to the valve 34 around the opening 68. The valve body 64 surrounds the opening 68 and completely seals to the outer tube 30 around the opening 68 to contain working fluid in the cavity 66 of the outer tube 30 and the valve body 64. A transfer ring 36 and / or the valve 34 extends through the opening 68. In the example shown in the figure, the transfer ring 36 extends from the intermediate tube 26 through the opening 68 into the cavity 66 of the valve body 64 of the valve 34. The opening 68 is radially spaced from the transfer ring 36, defining a flow path therebetween. This flow path is open between the cavity 66 of the valve body 64 and the reservoir 32 to allow working fluid to flow from the cavity 66 to the reservoir 32 and from the reservoir 32 back to the cavity 66.

[0050] Valve 34 is fluidly connected to the spring chamber 22 and the reservoir 32. Specifically, valve 34 fluidly connects the intermediate chamber 28 and the reservoir 32.

[0051] Valve 34 is located within cavity 66 of valve housing 64 and is sealed to orifice 62 of transfer ring 36. Specifically, valve 34 includes a first port 70 in cavity 66 of valve housing 64 and a second port 72 at orifice 62 of transfer ring 36. The second port 72 supplies working fluid to cavity 66 of valve housing 64 under the control of valve 34. The first port 70 supplies working fluid from orifice 62 of transfer ring 36 to second port 72 under the control of valve 34. Valve 34 may include more than one first port 70, for example, a plurality of second ports 72 circumferentially spaced around valve 34 and each connected to a first port 70.

[0052] Valve 34 controls the flow from the first port 70 to the second port 72. Valve 34 can be electrically actuated, i.e., using power from the power source of vehicle 14, to open or close the communication between the first port 70 and the second port 72. In other words, valve 34 can be an electric valve 34. Valve 34 can, for example, include a helical tube for opening and closing the communication between the first port 70 and the second port 72, and / or can have any suitable features for opening 68 and closing the communication between the first port 70 and the second port 72, including known features.

[0053] Valve 34 may have variable flow resistance to change the flow rate through valve 34. In other words, valve 34 may be a flow control valve. Specifically, valve 34 is configured to change the flow rate through valve 34 between first port 70 and second port 72. In other words, valve 34 can open and close, and the flow rate between first port 70 and second port 72 can be adjusted to change the flow rate of the working fluid flowing through it; specifically, there is no flow when valve 34 is closed, while the flow rate is variable based on the variable open position of valve 34. Variable flow rate can be achieved by adjusting the size of the flow path through valve 34. Specifically, variable flow resistance can be achieved by changing the size of the orifice in valve 34 between first port 70 and second port 72. For example, valve 34 may be an electrically operated flow control valve 34. In this example, valve 34 includes a helical tube that changes the size of the orifice in valve 34 between first port 70 and second port 72.

[0054] The variable flow resistance can be adjusted based on conditions to change the damping of the shock absorber 10. Specifically, the shock absorber 10 may include an ECU (electronic control unit) 48 for controlling the valve 34. Figure 8 In an example where valve 34 is an electrically controlled flow control valve with a helical coil, the helical coil is operatively controlled by ECU 48. ECU 48 receives information from vehicle 14 (e.g., acceleration, speed, pitch, yaw, roll, steering, braking) and adjusts valve 34 (i.e., sets valve 34 to a closed position or any variable open position) to regulate the flow through valve 34. For example, ECU 48 may cause valve 34 to restrict the flow of working fluid through reservoir 32 to provide a stiffer ride or to provide less restriction of the flow through reservoir 32 to provide a softer ride. Information from vehicle 14 for controlling the operation of valve 34 is detected by sensors 76 at various locations on vehicle 14. In an example including multiple shock absorbers 10, each shock absorber 10 may operate independently at different flow rates to independently change the damping rate, thereby adapting to changing road conditions. In such an example, the multiple shock absorbers 10 may each include an ECU 48 dedicated to their respective shock absorber 10, or the multiple shock absorbers 10 may share a single ECU 48.

[0055] ECU 48 may be a computer having a processor and a storage medium storing instructions executable by the processor to control valve 34. ECU 48 may be, for example, a suspension control module including electronic hardware, such as known electronic hardware. The storage medium may be any non-transient computer-readable or machine-readable storage medium, such as optical, magnetic, or semiconductor storage media. In various embodiments, the storage medium may be an article of manufacture. In some embodiments, the storage medium may store computer-executable instructions, such as computer-executable instructions for implementing logical flows. Examples of computer-readable or machine-readable storage media may include any tangible medium capable of storing electronic data, including volatile or non-volatile memory, removable or non-removable memory, erasable or non-erasable memory, writable or rewritable memory, etc. Examples of computer-executable instructions may include any suitable type of code, such as source code, compiled code, interpreted code, executable code, static code, dynamic code, object-oriented code, visual code, etc. Vehicle 14 includes a communication network 74, which may include buses in vehicle 14, such as controller area network (CAN) and / or other wired and / or wireless mechanisms. Through the vehicle network, a computer can send messages to and / or receive messages (e.g., CAN messages) from various devices in vehicle 14, such as sensors, actuators, human machine interfaces (HMIs).

[0056] Figure 3 The flow path during the springback stroke is shown, with the fluid flow of the working fluid indicated by arrows. During the springback stroke, piston 20 moves away from compression chamber 24, and the working fluid is pressurized in springback chamber 22. Valve 34 is selectively opened, in which case the working fluid flows from springback chamber 2 through orifice 58, through intermediate chamber 28, through orifice 60 into orifice 62 of transfer ring 36, and then to valve 34. Valve 34 controls the flow of working fluid from first port 70 to second port 72. When valve 34 allows working fluid to flow from first port 70 to second port 72, the working fluid flows from first port 70 into cavity 66 of valve housing 64, and then into reservoir 32.

[0057] During the springback stroke, the pressure in the compression chamber 24 decreases. In an example including flow control features on the piston 20 and / or the foot valve 54, the flow control features may allow working fluid to flow from the springback chamber 22 through and / or around the piston 20 to the compression chamber 24 and from the reservoir 32 through and / or around the foot valve 54 to the compression chamber 24 during the springback stroke.

[0058] During the compression stroke, the pressure in the compression chamber 24 increases. Valve 34 does not allow working fluid to flow from the reservoir chamber 32 through valve 34 to the intermediate chamber 28. In an example including flow control features on piston 20 and / or foot valve 54, the flow control features may allow working fluid to flow from compression chamber 24 through and / or around piston 20 to springback chamber 22, and from compression chamber 22 to reservoir chamber 32, and through and / or around foot valve 54 from compression chamber 22 to reservoir chamber 32.

[0059] Reference Figure 3 A transfer ring 36 extends from the intermediate pipe 26 to the valve 34. The transfer ring 36 fluidly connects the intermediate chamber 28 and the valve 34. Specifically, an orifice 62 extends from the intermediate chamber 28 to the valve 34. The transfer ring 36 provides uninterrupted fluid communication between the intermediate chamber 28 and the valve 34. The transfer ring 36 extends from the intermediate pipe 26 through the reservoir chamber 32 to the valve 34, and the orifice 62 extends uninterruptedly from the orifice 60 of the intermediate pipe 26 to the second port 72 of the valve 34.

[0060] Reference Figures 4 to 6 The transfer ring 36 includes a body 38 and a sealing unit 40. The body 38 defines an orifice 62 extending from an opening 60 in the intermediate tube 26 to a second port 72 of the valve 34. The sealing unit 40 seals between the body 38 and the valve 34, and between the body 38 and the intermediate tube 26. The sealing unit 40 prevents leakage of working fluid between the body 38 and the valve 34, and between the body 38 and the intermediate tube 26.

[0061] The transfer ring 36, particularly the body 38, extends radially from the intermediate tube 26 through the opening 68 of the outer tube 30 relative to the intermediate tube 26. In other words, the length of the transfer ring 36 from the intermediate tube 26 to the valve 34 is greater than the radial thickness of the reservoir 32. The width of the body 38, i.e., the width in the radial direction from the orifice 62, is less than the diameter of the opening 68 of the outer tube 30. The opening 68 defines a flow path between the outer tube 30 and the body 38 of the transfer ring 36 to allow working fluid to flow between the reservoir 32 and the cavity 66 of the valve housing 64. For example, as illustrated in the figure, the body 38 and the cylinder can be cylindrical and can be coaxial, in which case the diameter of the body 38 is smaller than the diameter of the opening 68.

[0062] The body 38 of the transfer ring 36 includes a first surface 78 and a second surface 80 spaced apart from each other. The first surface 78 ends at the intermediate tube 26, and the second surface 80 ends at the valve 34. The body 38 terminates at the first surface 78 and the second surface 80. The first surface 78 and the second surface 80 can be shaped to mate with corresponding surfaces of the intermediate tube 26 and the valve 34, respectively. The body 38 may have an axis A2 passing through the first surface 78 and the second surface 80. For example, the body 38 may extend along the axis A2 from the first surface 78 to the second surface 80. The axis A2 may be perpendicular to the axis A1. As described above, the body 38 may be cylindrical, in which case the first end and the second end are circular, i.e., the two ends of a cylinder.

[0063] The body 38 may include a sealing seat supporting a seal. The sealing seat may be on a first surface 78 and / or a second surface 80. In the example shown, the body 38 includes a sealing seat (referred to as "first sealing seat 82") on the first surface 78 and a sealing seat (referred to as "second sealing seat 84") on the second surface 80. In other examples, the body 38 may not include a sealing seat or may include a plurality of sealing seats on either the first surface 78 or the second surface 80. The sealing seats 82, 84 are designed to receive seals 42, 44, i.e., sized, shaped, and positioned to receive the respective seals. Specifically, the first sealing seat 82 is configured to receive a first seal 42, and the second sealing seat 84 is configured to receive a second seal 44. The first sealing seat 82 is recessed relative to an end surface 86 of the first surface 78, and the second sealing seat 84 is recessed relative to an end surface 88 of the second surface 80. The sealing seats 82, 84 are continuous and without end about axis A2. The sealing seats 82 and 84 can be circular, or more specifically, annular around axis A2, as shown in the example in the figure.

[0064] The body 38 of the transfer ring 36 includes at least one internal channel 90 extending from a first surface 78 to a second surface 80. The internal channel 90 is continuous from the first surface 78 to the second surface 80. As described below, the connector 46 extends continuously from the first surface 78 to the second surface 80 via the internal channel 90. In an example including a first sealing seat 82 and a second sealing seat 84, the connector 46 extends from the first sealing seat 82 to the second sealing seat 84. The body 38 may have a plurality of internal channels 90. In this case, the internal channels 90 may be spaced apart from each other on an annular path around axis A2. In examples including more than one internal channel 90, the internal channels 90 may be identical or different. Multiple internal channels are identified using a common numeral 90 in the figures.

[0065] The internal channel 90 is spaced apart from the orifice 62 from the first surface 78 to the second surface 80. In other words, the internal channel 90 is not in fluid communication with the orifice 62, and the working fluid in the orifice 62 does not contact the internal channel 90. The internal channel 90 is radially spaced apart from the orifice 62. In an example comprising a plurality of internal channels 90, the internal channels 90 may be spaced apart from each other from the first surface 78 to the second surface 80. The internal channel 90 and the orifice 62 may extend parallel to each other, and more specifically, may each extend along axis A2.

[0066] As described above, the sealing unit 40 includes a first seal 42, a second seal 44, and at least one connector 46 between the first seal 42 and the second seal 44. As further described below, the first seal 42 seals the transfer ring 36 to the intermediate tube 26, and the second seal 44 seals the transfer ring 36 to the valve 34. The connector 46 connects the first seal 42 and the second seal 44 to retain the first seal 42 and the second seal 44 to the body 38.

[0067] The first seal 42 seals the transfer ring 36 to the intermediate pipe 26, and the second seal 44 seals the transfer ring 36 to the valve 34. Specifically, the first seal 42 seals the first end of the body 38 to the intermediate pipe 26, and the second seal 44 seals the second end of the body 38 to the valve 34. In other words, the first seal 42 prevents the working fluid from flowing between the first end and the intermediate pipe 26, and the second seal 44 prevents the working fluid from flowing between the second end and the valve 34.

[0068] The first seal 42 is designed to seal to the first end and the intermediate tube 26, and the second seal 44 is designed to seal to the second end and the valve 34. For example, the first seal 42 may be sized and shaped to fill the first sealing seat 82, and the second seal 44 may be sized and shaped to fill the second sealing seat 84. The first seal 42 and / or the second seal 44 may include sealing fingers. In the example shown in the figure, the first seal 42 includes a sealing finger abutting the intermediate tube 26, and the second seal 44 includes a sealing finger abutting the valve 34.

[0069] A first seal 42 and a second seal 44 extend endlessly around an orifice 62. For example, the first seal 42 extends endlessly around an orifice 60 of the intermediate tube 26 to seal the working fluid in the flow path between the orifice 60 and the orifice 62. The second seal 44 extends endlessly around a second port 72 of the valve 34 to seal the working fluid in the flow path between the second port 72 and the orifice 62. For example, as shown in the example in the figure, the first seal 42 and the second seal 44 are annular around the orifice 62. In the example shown in the figure, the body 38 includes a fitting 92 that extends into the orifice 60 of the intermediate tube 26, and the first seal 42 extends endlessly around the fitting 92.

[0070] The sealing unit 40 may include a plurality of connectors 46. In this example, the connectors 46 may be identical or different from each other. Common numbers are used to identify the plurality of connectors 46 in the figure.

[0071] The first seal 42 and the second seal 44 are connected to the connector 46. In other words, the first seal 42 and the second seal 44 cannot be removed from the connector 46 without damaging the first seal 42, the second seal 44, and / or the connector 46. The connector 46 extends from the first seal 42 to the second seal 44 through the body 38. The connector 46 extends continuously from the first seal 42 to the second seal 44.

[0072] Connector 46 is located within an internal channel 90 of body 38. Specifically, connector 46 may fill the internal channel 90. In an example comprising a plurality of connectors 46, connectors 46 are spaced apart from each other between the first seal 42 and the second seal 44. Connectors 46 may extend parallel to each other, and more specifically, may each extend along the axis A2 of transfer ring 36.

[0073] The sealing unit 40 is integral. Specifically, the first seal 42, the second seal 44, and the connector 46 (or multiple connectors 46) are integral. In other words, the first seal 42, the second seal 44, and the connector 46 (or multiple connectors 46) are single, homogeneous pieces of material, held together without seams, joints, fasteners, or adhesives, i.e., simultaneously formed together as a single continuous unit. For example, the first seal 42, the second seal 44, and the connector 46 (or multiple connectors 46) can be formed together by overmolding them as a unit onto the body 38. In contrast, non-integral components are formed separately and subsequently assembled, for example, by bonding, joining, ultrasonic welding, etc.

[0074] As an example of the first seal 42, the second seal 44, and the connector 46 (or multiple connectors 46) being formed together as a single continuous unit, the first seal 42, the second seal 44, and the connector 46 (or multiple connectors 46) are formed by the vulcanization of rubber, including known vulcanization methods. It is well known that the vulcanization of rubber includes a bath of sulfur and / or other additives, molding, and heating. In this example, the first seal 42, the second seal 44, and the connector 46 (or multiple connectors 46) are vulcanized rubber. "Vulcanized rubber" is a structural description of the sealing unit, not the process of manufacturing the sealing unit. In other words, the vulcanized rubber sealing unit has the structure of vulcanized rubber components. When molded in the vulcanization process, the first seal 42, the second seal 44, and the connector 46 (or multiple connectors 46) are simultaneously molded as a single continuous unit.

[0075] The first seal 42, the second seal 44, and the connector 46 (or multiple connectors 46) are of the same material type. For example, the integral seal can be any suitable type of rubber. The sealing unit 40 is made of a different material than the body 38 of the transfer ring 36. For example, the body 38 can be sintered metal, as described below.

[0076] The body 38 can be a single, uniform piece of material. In other words, the body 38 is a single, homogeneous piece of material held together without seams, joints, fasteners, or adhesives, i.e., formed simultaneously as a single continuous unit. As an example, the body 38 can be formed as a single continuous unit by sintering metal, including known sintering methods. It is well known that sintering of metals involves compacting material into a solid form through heating and / or pressure, without melting the material to a liquefied state. In such an example, the body 38 is sintered metal. "Sintered metal" is a structural description of the body 38, not the process of manufacturing the body 38. In other words, the sintered metal body 38 has the structure of a sintered metal component. When formed in a sintering process, the body 38 is a single continuous unit.

[0077] This application has been described in an illustrative manner, and it should be understood that the terminology used is intended to be descriptive rather than restrictive. Based on the foregoing teachings, numerous modifications and variations are possible with respect to this application, and this application may be implemented in ways different from the specific descriptions.

Claims

1. A shock absorber, comprising: Inner tube, which defines an inner cavity; A piston, which is slidably disposed in the inner tube, divides the inner cavity of the inner tube into a springback chamber and a compression chamber; The intermediate tube on the inner tube defines an intermediate chamber between the inner tube and the intermediate tube, the intermediate chamber being in fluid communication with the inner cavity of the inner tube; outer tube; The inner tube and the intermediate tube are within the outer tube, and the outer tube defines a storage chamber between the outer tube and the intermediate tube; A valve that fluidly connects the intermediate chamber and the reservoir chamber; A transfer ring that fluidly connects the intermediate chamber and the valve; The transfer ring includes a main body, a first seal located at a first end of the main body, a second seal located at a second end of the main body, and a connector, wherein the first end and the second end are the two ends of the main body; The first seal is between the body and the intermediate tube, the second seal is between the body and the valve, and the connector is connected to the first seal and the second seal. The body defines an orifice extending from the first end to the second end to fluidly communicate the intermediate chamber with the valve. The body includes an internal channel spaced apart from the orifice, and the connector is in the internal channel, extending from the first seal to the second seal through the internal channel.

2. The shock absorber of claim 1 further includes a second connector, the second connector being spaced apart from the connector and extending through the body from the first seal to the second seal.

3. The shock absorber according to claim 1, wherein, The first seal, the second seal, and the connector are vulcanized rubber.

4. The shock absorber according to claim 1, wherein, The main body of the transfer ring is sintered metal.

5. The shock absorber according to claim 1, wherein, The main body of the transfer ring includes a first sealing seat supporting the first seal and a second sealing seat supporting the second seal, and the internal channel extends from the first sealing seat to the second sealing seat.

6. The shock absorber according to claim 1, wherein, The first seal extends endlessly around the hole.

7. The shock absorber according to claim 1, wherein, The intermediate tube includes an orifice in fluid communication with the intermediate chamber, the orifice of the transfer ring is in fluid communication with the orifice, and the first seal extends endlessly around the orifice.

8. The shock absorber according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein, The first seal, the second seal, and the connector are integrated.

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