Interface element for shock absorber and shock absorber

Abstract

The present application relates to an interface element (100) suitable for a shock absorber (200), the interface element (100) comprising a cylindrical shape coaxially arranged about an axis A wherein the interface element (100) further comprises a first engagement end (110), a second engagement end (120), an engagement portion (130) and at least one valve slot (140). The interface element (100) forms a sealed interface between a first center cylinder (230), a second center cylinder (240), an inner cylinder (210) and at least one valve (262, 264) in a shock absorber (200). The present disclosure also relates to a shock absorber (200) and a method (300) of installing an interface element (100) into a shock absorber (200). By combining the functions of two separate intermediate tubes into one common intermediate tube using the interface element according to the invention, it is possible to reduce the number of sealing parts, reduce costs, and achieve sealing of the chambers and valves of a shock absorber in a more efficient manner.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to an interface element for engaging with at least one valve and at least one cylinder in a shock absorber to form a sealed interface, and a shock absorber including such an interface element. Background Art

[0002] Shock absorbers are known in the art. Shock absorbers are an important part of the vehicle suspension system, especially to improve stability, safety, and comfort. The types of shock absorbers include mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, electromagnetic, etc. Shock absorbers for vehicles are usually designed as double-tube or single-tube. A single-tube shock absorber includes a tube and two pistons that move up and down in the tube. A double-tube shock absorber includes two nested cylindrical tubes. The inner tube defines a pressure chamber, which is divided into two chambers, a compression chamber and a rebound chamber, by a piston. The outer tube defines a reserve chamber. In addition, at least one valve is usually arranged in the inner cylinder, allowing hydraulic fluid to flow into or out of the compression chamber and / or the rebound chamber. When the piston moves up and down in the inner cylinder, the hydraulic fluid flows between the compression chamber, the rebound chamber, and the reserve chamber via the valve, converting the impact energy into heat energy.

[0003] One challenge faced by double-tube shock absorbers is that if the chambers and valves are not properly sealed, the hydraulic fluid may leak between the chambers and valves, even when it should not. This may cause a pressure drop in the compression chamber and / or the rebound chamber, and the hydraulic fluid may eventually flow into the "wrong" chamber, that is, leak into the rebound chamber when it should flow into the compression chamber, resulting in impaired shock absorption effect of the shock absorber. This will ultimately reduce the comfort, stability, and safety of the vehicle driver.

[0004] One type of double-tube shock absorber includes an intermediate tube installed between the inner cylinder and the outer cylinder of the double-tube for sealing the compression chamber, the rebound chamber, and the valve.

[0005] One problem with such a shock absorber is that a large number of sealing components are required to properly seal the shock absorber. In addition, if there are multiple valves, double components may be required, thus increasing the manufacturing cost of the shock absorber. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The object of the present invention is to overcome the problem of effectively sealing a shock absorber (more specifically, a double-valve shock absorber with three tubes). The first object of the present invention is to provide an improved shock absorber according to the first aspect of the present invention, more specifically, an interface element of the shock absorber. The second object of the present invention is to provide a shock absorber including the interface element. The third object of the present invention is to provide a method for installing the interface element into the shock absorber. Preferred embodiments are defined in the dependent claims. Further advantageous embodiments will be described below.

[0007] The present invention is based on the inventor's recognition that by combining an interface element / sleeve with two intermediate tubes / central cylinders, the sealing of a shock absorber can be improved, which combines the sealing between the compression chamber, the rebound chamber, and the reservoir chamber with the sealing of the valve. In other words, an interface element can be used to seal between the chambers and seal the valve, rather than using two separate central cylinders with separate seals, thereby substantially integrating / merging the two central cylinders into one central cylinder / intermediate tube. Using two separate central cylinders results in an increase in the number of sealing elements that need to be installed in the shock absorber. In addition, if there is more than one valve in the shock absorber, a two-component part may be required to properly seal all the valves, further increasing the number of components. Sealing components take up space, and the more sealing components there are, the greater the risk that one of the sealing components will fail / damage. This can result in high costs and, in the worst case, pose a safety risk. Another problem with separately sealed central cylinders is that the radial dimensions of the central cylinders and the sealing components may increase to accommodate all the components, resulting in a larger outer tube, and thus the size of the shock absorber may have to be increased in the radial direction. In addition, having two separate intermediate tubes, for example, one valve in each tube, limits the possible minimum distance between the valves, which may limit the flexibility of the shock absorber. The possible minimum distance between the valves is determined by the shape and fit of the sealing components of the two separate intermediate tubes, which means that the sealing components may impose an undesirable limitation on the distance between the valves. This problem is at least partially solved by using the interface element according to the present invention.

[0008] By combining the functions of two separate intermediate tubes into a common intermediate tube using the interface element according to the present invention, the number of sealing components can be reduced, costs can be lowered, and the chambers and valves of the shock absorber can be sealed in a more efficient manner. In addition, the flexibility of the shock absorber can be increased since the distance limitation between the valves can be reduced. Therefore, the distance between the valves can be adjusted more freely to accommodate external limitations.

[0009] A twin-tube shock absorber can include an inner tube defining an internal volume, an intermediate tube disposed outside the inner tube, with an intermediate chamber defined between the intermediate tube and the inner tube. The intermediate chamber is in fluid connection with the internal volume. In addition, the shock absorber includes an outer tube disposed outside the intermediate tube, defining a reservoir chamber between the outer tube and the intermediate tube. The inner tube and the intermediate tube are located within the outer tube. In addition, a piston is slidably disposed within the inner tube, dividing the internal volume into a rebound chamber and a compression chamber. Two valves can be disposed in the outer cylinder, fluidly connecting the intermediate chamber and the reservoir chamber. One valve can be fluidly connected to the rebound chamber via the intermediate chamber, and the other valve can be fluidly connected to the compression chamber via the intermediate chamber. There may also be a bottom valve between the compression chamber and the reservoir chamber for controlling the flow of hydraulic fluid between the compression chamber and the reservoir chamber.

[0010] The rebound chamber, compression chamber, intermediate chamber, and reservoir contain a hydraulic fluid, such as a liquid and / or gas like hydraulic oil. The hydraulic fluid flows between the rebound / compression chamber and the reservoir through valves and the intermediate chamber to adjust the damping level of the shock absorber. The valves typically provide a one-way flow from the rebound / compression chamber to the reservoir, i.e., active valving. The hydraulic fluid flowing between the rebound chamber and the reservoir and from the rebound chamber to the reservoir within the internal volume is actively controlled by one valve. Similarly, the hydraulic fluid flowing between the compression chamber and the reservoir and from the compression chamber to the reservoir within the internal volume is actively controlled by another valve. During the rebound of the shock absorber, the piston reduces the rebound working chamber and expands the compression chamber. This movement compresses the hydraulic fluid in the rebound chamber, and the hydraulic fluid flows from the rebound chamber to the reservoir under the control of one of the valves. During this movement, the hydraulic fluid can also flow through and / or around the piston from the rebound chamber to the compression chamber, and / or the hydraulic fluid can flow through and / or around the bottom valve from the reservoir to the compression chamber. During the compression of the shock absorber, the piston expands the rebound chamber and reduces the compression chamber. During this movement, the hydraulic fluid can flow through and / or around the piston from the compression chamber to the rebound chamber under the control of one of the valves, and / or the hydraulic fluid can flow through and / or around the bottom valve from the compression chamber to the reservoir.

[0011] Furthermore, in the context of the present application, the phrase "arranged within [......] the inner tube" for the pressurizing piston encompasses different embodiments in which the pressurizing piston can be arranged directly or indirectly within the inner tube by being arranged within one (or more) other components located within the inner tube.

[0012] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an interface element suitable for a shock absorber. The shock absorber includes an inner cylinder that at least partially defines a fluid chamber, a first central cylinder, a second central cylinder, and an outer cylinder, and at least one valve arranged to establish a fluid connection between the fluid chamber and the exterior of the outer cylinder. The interface element has a cylindrical shape, and the interface element, the inner cylinder, the first central cylinder, the second central cylinder, and the outer cylinder are coaxially arranged about an axis A. The interface element further includes: a first engagement end configured to sealingly engage the surface of the first central cylinder; a second engagement end configured to sealingly engage the surface of the second central cylinder; an engagement portion configured to sealingly engage the surface of the inner cylinder; and at least one valve groove configured to sealingly engage the at least one valve such that the interface element forms a sealed interface between the first central cylinder, the second central cylinder, the inner cylinder, and the at least one valve.

[0013] Thus, the interface element can advantageously be used as a third tube together with the first and second central cylinders for sealing between the compression chamber, the rebound chamber, and at least one valve of the shock absorber. The inner cylinder defining the fluid chamber can correspond to the inner tube of the shock absorber. The inner tube can define an inner volume corresponding to the fluid chamber. The pressure piston can be slidably inserted into the inner cylinder and divide the fluid chamber into a first inner volume (hereinafter referred to as the "compression chamber") and a second inner volume (hereinafter referred to as the "rebound chamber"). Thus, the shock absorber can be a twin-tube shock absorber.

[0014] In addition, the first central cylinder and the second central cylinder can be arranged between the inner tube and the outer tube of the shock absorber. The first central cylinder and the second central cylinder can define a volume between the inner cylinder and the first and second central cylinders (hereinafter referred to as the "intermediate chamber"). The outer cylinder can define a volume between the first and second central cylinders and the outer cylinder (hereinafter referred to as the "reservoir chamber"). In addition, at least one valve can be arranged in the outer cylinder and establish a fluid connection between the fluid chamber and the outside of the outer cylinder. The outside of the outer cylinder can be a valve housing. The valve housing can be fixed to the shock absorber, for example, fixed to the outer cylinder. At least one valve can further establish a fluid connection between the intermediate chamber and the reservoir chamber.

[0015] In the case where the at least one valve is one valve, the fluid chamber can correspond to the compression chamber or the rebound chamber. Thus, the at least one valve can establish a fluid connection between the compression chamber and the outside of the outer cylinder or between the rebound chamber and the outside of the outer cylinder. In the case where the at least one valve is two valves, the fluid chamber can correspond to the rebound chamber and the compression chamber. The first valve can be fluidly connected to the compression chamber, and the second valve can be fluidly connected to the rebound chamber. In this example, the outside of the outer cylinder can be two valve housings, the first valve housing being connected to the first valve, and the second valve housing being connected to the second valve. The at least one valve can be arranged in the outer surface of the outer cylinder. In the example where the at least one valve is two valves, the first valve can be arranged in the outer surface of the outer cylinder at a first position around the cylindrical body. The second valve can be arranged at a second position around the cylindrical body, opposite to the first position of the first valve. In another example, the first position of the first valve and the second position of the second valve are arranged adjacent to each other. It can be understood that the positions of the first valve and the second valve are not limited to being positioned opposite or adjacent to each other, and within the scope of the present invention, further relative orientations between the first valve and the second valve are also possible.

[0016] In addition, at least one valve can be a check valve, i.e., a one-way valve. The one-way valve can allow hydraulic fluid to flow into the fluid chamber from outside the outer cylinder or to flow out of the fluid chamber to the outside of the outer cylinder. Thus, at least one valve can be an intake valve or an exhaust valve. In an example where there are two valves for at least one valve, the first valve can be an intake valve and the second valve can be an exhaust valve, and vice versa. It should be understood that at least one valve can be shown in the present application as part of a larger valve unit and constitutes a part that interacts with the cylinder and the interface element, and is still referred to as a valve.

[0017] As previously mentioned, the fluid connection can fluidly connect the fluid chamber to the outside of the outer cylinder. According to one embodiment, the inner cylinder includes at least one hole, wherein the hole establishes a fluid connection between at least one valve and the fluid chamber. In one example, at least one hole is arranged in the compression chamber, and wherein at least one hole can be one hole or multiple holes. In another example, at least one hole is arranged in the rebound chamber, and wherein at least one hole can be one hole or multiple holes. According to another example, at least one hole can be at least two holes, a first hole is arranged in the compression chamber of the inner cylinder, and a second hole is arranged in the rebound chamber of the inner cylinder. The first hole can be multiple holes, and the second hole can be multiple holes. The first and second holes can be fluidly connected to an intermediate chamber and flow into at least one valve via the intermediate chamber. The first hole and the second hole can be, for example, machined holes and / or punched holes in the surface of the inner cylinder. Thus, hydraulic fluid can be able to flow bidirectionally through the first hole and the second hole, either flowing out of the compression chamber and / or the rebound chamber into the intermediate chamber or flowing out of the intermediate chamber into the compression chamber and / or the rebound chamber. The hole can be any opening / aperture / slit that allows fluid to pass through. Thus, the fluid connection can include an intermediate chamber. Hydraulic fluid can flow from outside the outer cylinder or from the reservoir through at least one valve, through the intermediate chamber via the first hole and / or the second hole into the compression chamber or the rebound chamber. In another example, hydraulic fluid can flow from the rebound chamber or the compression chamber via the first and / or second holes, through the intermediate chamber, through at least one valve to the outside of the outer cylinder or the reservoir. The hydraulic fluid can be hydraulic liquid (such as oil) and / or gas. It should be understood that the shock absorber can be configured to use any type of shock-absorbing medium / fluid, such as hydraulic fluid.

[0018] The interface element has a cylindrical shape and is arranged coaxially with the inner cylinder, the outer cylinder, the first central cylinder, and the second central cylinder about axis A. The interface element can be a unit / module / component / part applicable to a shock absorber. The interface element can be arranged / fitted / installed inside the shock absorber. The interface element can be constructed as an auxiliary element for a plurality of different shock absorbers. The first engaging end of the interface element is constructed to sealingly engage the surface of the first central cylinder, and the second engaging end of the interface element is constructed to sealingly engage the surface of the second central cylinder. Here, the "engaging end" refers to, but is not limited to, an end / portion / part / section configured to form a seal between the engaging end and a part of the shock absorber. In other words, the engaging end can be defined as an engaging portion. The engaging end can constitute an extremity of the interface element, i.e., a part of the periphery of the interface element. The engaging end can include a surface configured to sealingly engage the surface of a component / part of the shock absorber, such as the first and second central cylinders. It should be understood that "sealingly engage" can mean tightly fixing / arranging two elements so as to establish at least a partial seal between the two elements, where the seal can prevent / hinder / obstruct anything from passing between them, such as the shock-absorbing medium / fluid in the shock absorber. As previously mentioned, the first central cylinder and the second central cylinder can be arranged between the outer cylinder and the inner cylinder of the shock absorber. A gap can be provided between the first central cylinder and the second central cylinder. Thus, the first end of the first central cylinder can face the first end of the second central cylinder. In addition, the surface of the first central cylinder can be the outer surface of the first central cylinder, i.e., the surface of the first central cylinder facing the outer cylinder. Similarly, the surface of the second central cylinder can be the outer surface of the second central cylinder, i.e., the surface of the second central cylinder facing the outer cylinder. Therefore, the interface element can partially bridge the gap between the first central cylinder and the second central cylinder. For example, the interface element can be partially arranged between the first central cylinder and the second central cylinder, i.e., between the first end of the first central cylinder and the first end of the second central cylinder. The interface element can also be partially arranged around the first central cylinder and the second central cylinder, i.e., arranged on the surface of the first central cylinder and on the surface of the second central cylinder. The first engaging end and the second engaging end of the interface element can correspond to the first end and the second end of the cylindrical shape of the interface element.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the first joint end is configured to sealingly join the surface of the first central cylinder by at least one of welding and press-fitting, and the second joint end is configured to sealingly join the surface of the second central cylinder by at least one of welding and press-fitting. Thus, the interface element can be configured to press-fit between the first central cylinder and the second central cylinder and / or welded to the first central cylinder and the second central cylinder. For example, in the case where the interface element is partially disposed between the first end of the central cylinder and the first end of the second central cylinder to bridge the gap therebetween, the interface element can be press-fitted into the gap to seal the space between the first central cylinder and the second central cylinder. Press-fitting can be advantageously used to sealingly join the interface element to the first central cylinder and the second central cylinder because it is a reliable manufacturing step that provides a secure seal. In addition, press-fitting between parts is easy to detect, which helps to identify and prevent any leaks and / or damages present in the sealed joint.

[0020] In an example where the first and second joining ends of the interface element correspond to the first and second ends of the cylindrical shape of the interface element, the cylindrical body can be arranged between the first and second central cylinders, and the first and second joining ends can be arranged around the first and second central cylinders. The first joining end of the interface element can be a protruding portion extending in the axial direction along axis A. The protruding portion can have a diameter greater than the diameter of the first central cylinder in the axial direction, so as to overlap with the first central cylinder, that is, to be sleeved on the first central cylinder, such that the first joining end is in sealing engagement with the surface of the first central cylinder, where the surface can be the surface facing the outer cylinder. The protruding portion can extend along a part of the length of the first central cylinder, for example, at the first end of the first central cylinder. Similarly, the second joining end of the interface element can be a protruding portion extending in the axial direction along A. The protruding portion has a diameter greater than the diameter of the second central cylinder in the axial direction, so as to be sleeved on the second central cylinder, making the second joining end in sealing engagement with the surface of the second central cylinder, where the surface can be the surface facing the outer cylinder. The protruding portion can extend along a part of the length of the second central cylinder, for example, at the first end of the second central cylinder. The first and second joining ends can be welded to the surfaces of the first and second central cylinders. Welding is beneficial because it is a traditional manufacturing method that provides a secure and strong seal between the parts. In an example where the cylindrical body of the interface element is arranged between the first and second central cylinders and the first and second joining ends are protruding portions arranged on the surfaces of the first and second central cylinders, press fitting and welding can be used. The body of the interface element can be press fitted between the first end of the first central cylinder and the first end of the second central cylinder, while the first joining end can be welded to the surface of the first central cylinder, and the second joining end can be welded to the surface of the second central cylinder. This can advantageously seal the first and second central cylinders to the interface element. Thus, the interface element can be advantageously arranged to form a third pipe together with the first and second central cylinders.

[0021] The interface element further includes a joint portion configured to sealingly engage the surface of the inner cylinder. The "joint portion" herein refers to, but is not limited to, the portion, component, and / or section that forms a seal between the joint portion and a part of the shock absorber. The joint portion may include a surface configured to sealingly engage a component / part of the shock absorber, such as the inner cylinder. The surface of the inner cylinder may correspond to the outer surface of the inner cylinder, i.e., the surface facing the interface element, the first central cylinder, and the second central cylinder. The joint portion may advantageously seal the space between the interface element and the outer surface of the inner cylinder. Since the space between the third tube (i.e., the first central cylinder, the second central cylinder, and the interface element) and the inner cylinder defines an intermediate chamber, the joint portion may divide the intermediate chamber into a first intermediate chamber and a second intermediate chamber. The first intermediate chamber may be, for example, the chamber defined by the space enclosed by the first central cylinder, the joint portion, and the inner cylinder. Similarly, the second intermediate chamber may be defined by the space enclosed by the second central cylinder, the joint portion, and the inner cylinder. In one example, the first hole in the inner cylinder may be fluidly connected to the first intermediate chamber, and the second hole in the inner cylinder may be fluidly connected to the second intermediate chamber. Thus, the joint component may prevent hydraulic fluid from flowing from the first hole in the compression chamber into the rebound chamber via the intermediate chamber, and vice versa, preventing hydraulic fluid from flowing from the second hole in the rebound chamber into the compression chamber via the intermediate chamber.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the joint component includes a protruding portion configured to protrude radially from the interface element and sealingly engage the surface of the inner cylinder. The protruding portion may protrude radially from the interface element in a direction towards the inner cylinder. The protruding portion may extend from the cylindrical-shaped body of the interface element, such as from the inner surface of the interface element, i.e., the surface of the interface element facing the inner cylinder. The protruding portion may be continuously distributed around the perimeter of the interface element. Thus, the protruding portion may be a ridge formed on the inner surface of the interface element. The protruding portion may have one of a rectangular profile and a semi-circular profile. The protruding portion may extend from the interface element until it contacts the outer surface of the inner cylinder. Thus, the protruding portion may advantageously form a sealing engagement with the surface of the inner cylinder.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the protruding portion includes a first groove and a first sealing device disposed in the first groove, wherein the first sealing device is configured to sealingly engage the surface of the inner cylinder. In the case where the protruding portion is a ridge having a rectangular profile, the first groove may be disposed within the rectangular profile and may also have a rectangular profile. In other examples, the first groove may have a semi-circular profile. The first groove may be continuous within the protruding portion. Further, the first groove may have a shape corresponding to the first sealing device. The first sealing device may be, for example, a gasket or an O-ring. Thus, the first groove may be adapted to match a first sealing device of this type. In this example, the first sealing device may be a component / portion within the protruding portion that extends to contact the outer surface of the inner cylinder. Thus, the protruding portion itself may not contact the outer surface, while the first sealing device forms the sealing engagement. The advantage of this embodiment is that the first groove ensures that the first sealing device remains in place and prevents its displacement. It is advantageous to use gaskets, O-rings or other types of standard sealing components as it facilitates manufacturing. By using standardized components, the time and cost of manufacturing steps can be saved and the quality can be ensured. Further, by disposing the sealing device within a groove in the interface element, the interface element can be smaller and thus the shock absorber can be smaller.

[0024] Further, the interface element includes at least one valve groove configured to sealingly engage at least one valve. The at least one valve groove may be disposed in the surface of the interface element. The at least one valve groove may be, for example, a hole / aperture / orifice. The at least one valve groove may be configured to receive at least one valve. The at least one valve groove may be disposed in the interface element at a position that coincides with the position of at least one valve in the outer cylinder. Thus, the at least one valve groove may be in fluid communication with the intermediate chamber. Thus, the fluid connection between the exterior of the outer cylinder and the fluid chamber may be determined by hydraulic fluid flowing out from outside the outer cylinder body, through the valve, through the valve groove disposed in the interface element, into the intermediate chamber, and through at least one hole within the fluid chamber or vice versa. The at least one valve groove may sealingly engage the at least one valve, which means that leakage between the valve and the interface element can be advantageously prevented.

[0025] According to one embodiment, at least one valve includes a first valve and a second valve, and at least one valve groove includes a first valve groove configured to sealingly engage the first valve and a second valve groove configured to sealingly engage the second valve. The first valve groove may be disposed at a first position in the interface element, coinciding with the first position of the first valve in the outer cylinder. Additionally, the second valve groove may be disposed at a second position in the interface element, coinciding with the second position of the second valve in the outer cylinder. Thus, in an example where the at least one valve is two valves, the first valve groove may be in fluid connection with the first intermediate chamber, equivalent to being in fluid connection with the compression chamber. Then, the second valve groove may be in fluid connection with the second intermediate chamber, equivalent to being in fluid connection with the rebound chamber. Subsequently, the first valve groove may be disposed on one side of the interface element relative to the engagement portion, and the second valve groove may be disposed on the other side of the interface element relative to the engagement portion.

[0026] According to one embodiment, at least one valve groove includes a second groove and a second sealing device disposed in the second groove, wherein the second sealing device is configured to sealingly engage at least one valve. As previously mentioned, at least one valve groove may be a hole on the surface of the interface element. Thus, the height of at least one valve groove may be equal to the thickness of the cylindrical shape of the interface element. The second groove may be disposed in the inner wall of at least one valve groove, corresponding to the height of the hole. The second groove may have a semi-circular profile or a rectangular profile. The second groove may be continuously distributed around the perimeter of the inner wall of at least one valve groove. Additionally, the second groove may have a shape corresponding to the second sealing device. The second sealing device may be, for example, a washer or an O-ring. Thus, the second groove may be adapted to match a second sealing device of this type. In this example, the second sealing device may constitute a sealing engagement between at least one valve disposed in at least one valve groove and at least one valve groove. The advantage of this embodiment is that the second groove ensures that the second sealing device remains in place and prevents its displacement. Furthermore, by integrating the second sealing device into the thickness of the interface element, the overall diameter of the interface element can be reduced because there is no need to add additional components on top of the interface element. This is advantageous because it enables the use of an outer cylinder with a smaller diameter, which means the size of the shock absorber can be reduced while still maintaining the same efficiency. Additionally, this embodiment can reduce the distance between the valves along the length direction of the cylinder / tube. Moreover, it is advantageous to use washers, O-rings, or other types of standard sealing components because it facilitates manufacturing. By using standardized components, the time and cost of manufacturing steps can be saved, and the quality can be ensured. Additionally, by disposing the sealing device in a groove in the interface element, the interface element can be smaller, and thus the shock absorber can be smaller.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the interface element includes: a third groove disposed in a surface facing the outer cylinder; and a third sealing device configured to sealingly engage at least one valve. The third groove may be disposed in the outer surface of the interface element, facing the outer cylinder. The third groove may have a semi-circular profile or a rectangular profile. The third groove may be continuously distributed around the perimeter of the outer surface of the interface element. Additionally, the third groove may have a shape corresponding to the third sealing device. The third sealing device may be, for example, a washer or an O-ring. In this case, the third sealing device may be made of standard components, such as a washer of a standard type or an O-ring of a standard size. Thus, the third groove may be adapted to match such a type of third sealing device. In this example, the third sealing device may form a sealing engagement between at least one valve disposed in at least one valve groove and a liquid storage chamber defined by the outer cylinder. The advantage of this embodiment is that the third groove ensures that the third sealing device remains in place and prevents its displacement. It is advantageous to use washers, O-rings or other types of standard sealing components because it facilitates manufacturing. By using standardized components, the time and cost of manufacturing steps can be saved, and quality can be ensured. Additionally, by disposing the sealing device in a groove in the interface element, the interface element can be smaller, and thus the shock absorber can be smaller.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the interface element includes a first rotating part and a second rotating part, each rotating part being rotatably disposed about axis A. The first rotating part includes a first valve groove configured to sealingly engage a first valve, and the second rotating part includes a second valve groove configured to sealingly engage a second valve. The first part and the second part are configured to rotate independently of each other, wherein the first rotating part is configured to engage the first valve, and the second rotating part is configured to engage the second valve. Thus, the interface element can be divided into two cylindrical bodies, namely the first rotating part and the second rotating part. The first rotating part and the second rotating part may be connected to each other to form a unit. The advantage of this embodiment is that it provides increased flexibility. In the case where the positions of the valves are fixed, the interface element may be restricted for use in shock absorbers having corresponding valve positions for accessing the first valve groove and the second valve groove respectively. The first rotating part and the second rotating part can rotate independently of each other, thus alleviating this problem. By rotating the first rotating part and / or the second rotating part of the interface element, the first and second valve grooves can be rotated to a desired position. Thus, the interface element can be adapted to a greater number of shock absorbers, making the interface element more versatile.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the interface element further includes a sealing element that is at least partially disposed between the first rotating part and the second rotating part, wherein the sealing element is configured to sealingly engage the first rotating part and the second rotating part, and wherein the first rotating part and the second rotating part are configured to be rotatable relative to the sealing element independently. The sealing element can be a gasket. The sealing element is beneficial because it ensures that the interface element can operate as a unit and prevents leakage between the first rotating part and the second rotating part. In an exemplary embodiment, the sealing element can include a sealing cylinder / sleeve / bearing. The sealing element can be configured to be compressed between the inner tube and the interface element. Thus, a further advantage of this embodiment is that the distance between the valves can be customized in a general and practical manner without using additional components / functions, such as grooves and / or O-rings of different lengths.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the sealing element includes a fourth groove and a fourth sealing device disposed in the fourth groove, wherein the fourth sealing device is configured to sealingly engage the surface of the inner cylinder. The fourth groove can be disposed in the sealing element. The fourth sealing device can be a gasket or an O-ring. Due to the use of the first rotating part and the second rotating part, when the sealing element is present, the fourth sealing device can be used instead of the first sealing device. This embodiment is beneficial because arranging the fourth groove and the fourth sealing device in the sealing element can combine two sealing components into one sealing component. In addition, by arranging the sealing device in the groove, the interface element can be smaller, and thus the shock absorber can be smaller.

[0031] Therefore, the interface element provides an integrated component for the intermediate tube in the shock absorber. The interface element allows for the combination of the sealing functions between the compression chamber and the rebound chamber and provides a sealing engagement for at least one valve. This makes the shock absorber more robust with fewer sealing components. Additionally, the interface element provides a more compact solution for sealing in a three-cylinder shock absorber. As previously mentioned, since at least one valve groove can be incorporated into the cylindrical shape of the interface element and the first and second sealing means can be arranged therein, the diameter of the intermediate tube, i.e., the first central tube, the second central tube, and the interface element, can be reduced, which is beneficial as the diameter of the outer cylinder can be reduced. Moreover, the distance between the first valve and the second valve in the direction along axis A can be reduced. This is beneficial as it allows for greater freedom in the design and assembly of the shock absorber, so the shock absorber can be adapted to different requirements, which improves the flexibility of the shock absorber. Thus, the interface element makes the shock absorber smaller. Another advantage of the interface element is that the intermediate tube (i.e., the first central cylinder) and the second central cylinder do not need to be directly welded to the inner tube (i.e., the inner cylinder). Instead, the interface element provides an interface between the first central cylinder and the second central cylinder and provides a first sealing means for dividing the first and second intermediate chambers. This is beneficial from a manufacturing perspective as the step of welding the first and second intermediate cylinders can be eliminated. Additionally, the risk of damaging the inner cylinder due to poor welding can be prevented. Poor welds may be difficult to detect during the manufacturing process. Moreover, the interface element can be replaced as a unit without having to replace the entire shock absorber during use.

[0032] According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a shock absorber. The shock absorber comprises: an inner cylinder that at least partially defines a fluid chamber; a first central cylinder, a second central cylinder, and an outer cylinder, wherein all the cylinders are arranged coaxially about an axis A; a first valve arranged to establish a first fluid connection between the fluid chamber and the exterior of the outer cylinder; a second valve arranged to establish a second fluid connection between the fluid chamber and the exterior of the outer cylinder, wherein the first and second fluid connections are two different fluid connections; and an interface element according to the first aspect of the invention. The interface element forms a sealed interface between the first central cylinder, the second central cylinder, the inner cylinder, the first valve, and the second valve.

[0033] According to one embodiment, at least one of the first valve and the second valve includes a fifth groove, wherein the shock absorber includes a fifth sealing device disposed in the fifth groove, and the fifth sealing device is configured to sealingly engage an interface element. As an alternative to the second groove and the second sealing device, the fifth groove and the fifth sealing device may instead be disposed in the first valve or the second valve to seal the first valve and / or the second valve and the interface element. The fifth groove may be disposed in an outer surface of at least one of the first valve and the second valve, i.e., a surface of at least one valve groove facing the interface element. The fifth groove may have a semi-circular profile or a rectangular profile. The fifth groove may be continuously distributed around a perimeter of the outer surface of at least one of the first valve and the second valve. Further, the fifth groove may have a shape corresponding to the fifth sealing device. The fifth sealing device may be, for example, a washer or an O-ring. Thus, the fifth groove may be adapted to match a fifth sealing device of this type. In this example, the fifth sealing device may form a sealing engagement between at least one of the first valve and the second valve and at least one valve groove. The advantage of this embodiment is that the fifth groove ensures that the fifth sealing device remains in place and prevents its displacement. It is advantageous to use washers, O-rings or other types of standard sealing components because this facilitates manufacturing. By using standardized components, the time and cost of manufacturing steps can be saved, and the quality can be ensured.

[0034] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for installing an interface element according to the first aspect of the present invention into a shock absorber. The method includes installing the interface element by at least one of the following: press-fitting the interface element between a first central cylinder and a second central cylinder such that a first engagement end sealingly engages a surface of the first central cylinder and a second engagement end sealingly engages a surface of the second central cylinder; and welding the first engagement end to the surface of the first central cylinder and welding the second engagement end to the surface of the second central cylinder.

[0035] The effects and features of the second and third aspects are largely similar to those described above in connection with the first aspect. The embodiments related to the first aspect are largely compatible with the second and third aspects. It should also be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly stated, the concept of the present invention relates to all possible combinations of features.

[0036] The present invention is defined by the appended independent claims, and embodiments thereof are set forth in the appended dependent claims, the following description, and the drawings. It should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the specific components of the device or the steps of the method, as these may vary. It should also be understood that the terms used herein are for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and are not restrictive. It must be noted that the articles "a," "an," "the," and "said" used in this specification and the appended claims mean that there is one or more elements unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, "a unit" or "the unit" may include a plurality of devices, etc. In addition, the terms "comprising," "including," "containing," and the like do not exclude other elements or steps. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] The present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the drawings, in which: Figure 1 A cross-section of a shock absorber including an interface element according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is schematically shown; Figure 2 A cross-section of an interface element according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is schematically shown; Figure 3 A perspective view of an interface element according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 4 A cross-section of a detailed view of an interface element according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is schematically shown; Figure 5 A detailed view of a first rotating part and a second rotating part of an interface element according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is schematically shown; Figure 6 A perspective view of a first valve housing and a second valve housing arranged in a shock absorber according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 7 A method for installing an interface element into a shock absorber according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is schematically shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] The present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings. Features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment may be used with another embodiment to yield yet another embodiment. For the sake of clarity, not all features of actual embodiments are described in this specification. The various structures, systems, and devices are schematically depicted in the drawings for illustrative purposes only, so as not to obscure the description with details well known to those skilled in the art. Nevertheless, the drawings are included to describe and explain illustrative examples of the disclosed subject matter.

[0039] The terms and phrases used in this document should be understood and interpreted to have meanings consistent with those understood by a person skilled in the relevant art. The consistent use of a term or phrase in this document does not imply any special definition of that term or phrase, i.e., a definition different from the ordinary and customary meaning understood by a person skilled in the art. In cases where a term or phrase is intended to have a special meaning, i.e., a meaning other than that understood by a person skilled in the art, such special definition will be explicitly set forth in the specification in a defining manner that directly and clearly provides the special definition of the term or phrase.

[0040] Figure 1 Fig. 4 shows a cross-section of a shock absorber 200 including an interface element 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The shock absorber 200 includes an outer cylinder 250, a first central cylinder 230, a second central cylinder 240, and an inner cylinder 210, all of which are coaxially arranged around a central axis A. The outer cylinder 250 defines a fluid chamber 251, referred to as a "reservoir chamber", between the outer cylinder 250, the first central cylinder 230, the second central cylinder 240, and the interface element 100. The inner cylinder 210 defines a fluid chamber 220 into which a piston 203 is slidably inserted. The fluid chamber 220 is divided by the piston 203 into two fluid chambers, namely a first fluid chamber 221, referred to as a "compression chamber", and a second fluid chamber 222, referred to as a "rebound chamber". The shock absorber 200 includes at least one valve 260 arranged to establish a fluid connection between the fluid chamber 220 and the outside of the outer cylinder 250. In other words, at least one valve 260 can effect a fluid connection between the fluid chamber 220 and / or intermediate chambers 213, 214. It will be appreciated that at least one valve may not be directly connected to the intermediate chambers 213, 214, and intermediate parts / components may be used between at least one valve 260 and the intermediate chambers 213, 214. Here, the shock absorber includes a first valve 262 and a second valve 264. The interface element 100 is arranged coaxially around the axis A and around the inner cylinder 210, which forms a cylindrical sleeve. The interface element 100 is partially arranged between the first central cylinder 230 and the second central cylinder 240. The interface element 100, the first central cylinder 230, and the second central cylinder 240 together define the intermediate chambers 213, 214. The interface element 100 includes a sealing element 170 having a groove 172 in which a gasket 276 is arranged. The gasket 276 seals the outer surface 211 of the interface element 100 and the inner cylinder 210. Thus, the gasket 276 divides the intermediate chambers 213, 214 into a first intermediate chamber 213 and a second intermediate chamber 214.

[0041] In addition, the compression chamber 221 includes two holes 212. The holes 212 are in fluid connection with the first intermediate chamber 213. Similarly, the rebound chamber 222 may include two holes (not shown). These holes are in fluid connection with the second intermediate chamber 214.

[0042] The bottom valve 223 is arranged in the bottom of the compression chamber 221. The bottom valve 223 establishes a fluid connection between the hydraulic fluid (not shown) in the compression chamber 221 and the liquid storage chamber 251.

[0043] The interface element 100 further includes a first valve groove 144 for receiving one end of the first valve 262 and a second valve groove 146 for receiving one end of the second valve 264. The other ends of the first valve 262 and the second valve 264 are respectively connected to the valve housing. More specifically, the first valve 262 is connected to the first valve housing 201, and the second valve 264 is connected to the second valve housing 202. The first valve groove 144 establishes a fluid connection between the first valve 262 and the first intermediate chamber 213. The second valve groove 146 establishes a fluid connection between the second valve 264 and the second intermediate chamber 214. Thus, the hydraulic fluid (not shown) can flow into or out of the first valve 262 and flow into or out of the first intermediate chamber 213. Similarly, the hydraulic fluid can flow into or out of the second valve 264 and flow into or out of the second intermediate chamber 214. In the example shown in this figure, a first fluid connection 263 is shown, in which the hydraulic fluid flows from the compression chamber 221 through the hole 212 and into the first valve 262 through the first intermediate chamber 213. In addition, a second fluid connection 265 is also shown, in which the hydraulic fluid flows from the rebound chamber 222 through a hole (not shown) in the rebound chamber into the second intermediate chamber 214 and flows to the second valve 264. In both cases, due to the sealing element 170 and the gasket 276, the hydraulic fluid is prevented from flowing from the first intermediate chamber 213 into the second intermediate chamber 214, and vice versa.

[0044] One end of the first valve 262 is arranged in the first valve housing 201, and one end of the second valve 264 is arranged in the second valve housing 202. The first and second valve housings 201, 202 are arranged in the outer cylinder 250. The first and second valve housings 201, 202 are partially hollow to allow the hydraulic fluid to flow therein. Thus, the first and second valve housings 201, 202 can be arranged to be in fluid connection with the liquid storage chamber 251, which means that the first and second valves 262, 264 are in fluid connection with the liquid storage chamber 251. As shown in this figure, the first and second valve housings 201, 202 are in fluid connection with the liquid storage chamber 251 via the holes 252 surrounding the first and second valves 262, 264. Thus, the hydraulic fluid (not shown) can flow into or out of the first valve 262 and / or the second valve 264 and into or out of the liquid storage chamber 251.

[0045] Continue to refer to Figure 1, the interface element 100 includes a first rotating part 150 and a second rotating part 160. The first rotating part 150 is connected to the second central cylinder 240, and the second rotating part 160 is connected to the first central cylinder 230. In addition, a first valve groove 144 and a first valve 262 are arranged in the first rotating part 150. Similarly, a second valve groove 146 and a second valve 264 are arranged in the second rotating part 160. In other words, the interface element 100 can be divided into two parts, one for the compression flow valve 262 and the other for the rebound flow valve 264. This division can be in the middle of the interface element 100 around the axis A, such that the interface element 100 includes two cylindrical parts, namely the first rotating part 150 and the second rotating part 160. Here, the first rotating part 150 and the second rotating part 160 include a sealing element 170, wherein a part of the sealing element 170 is arranged in the first rotating part 150, and another part of the sealing element 170 is arranged in the second rotating part 160. The sealing element 170 is arranged on the side of the outer surfaces of the first and second rotating parts 150, 160 facing the inner cylinder 210. In addition, the sealing element 170 includes a groove 172, which is arranged in the surface of the sealing element 170 facing the outer surface of the inner cylinder 210. A gasket 276 is arranged in the groove 172. The gasket 276 seals the space between the outer surfaces of the first and second rotating parts 150, 160 and the inner cylinder 210. Since the first and second rotating parts 150, 160 are partially arranged between the first central cylinder 230 and the second central cylinder 240, and each of the first and second central cylinders 230, 240 defines first and second intermediate chambers 213, 214, the gasket 276 provides a seal between these first and second intermediate chambers 213, 214. The following figure will introduce the interface element and its structure in more detail.

[0046] Referring to Figure 2 , a cross-section of the interface element 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. It should be noted that Figure 2 the shown interface element 100 is the same as Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 the shown interface element 100 has several common features. Therefore, for a better understanding of certain features and / or functions of the interface element 100, please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 3 , Figure 4and related text. The interface element 100 is shown as being disposed within a shock absorber (not shown) that includes an outer cylinder 250, a first central cylinder 230, a second central cylinder 240, and an inner cylinder 210. The piston 203 of the shock absorber is not shown in this figure. The interface element 100 has a cylindrical shape and is partially disposed between the first central cylinder 230 and the second central cylinder 240 along an axis A. The first engagement end 110 and the second engagement end 120 of the interface element 100 are arranged to contact the outer surface 231 of the first central cylinder 230 and the outer surface 241 of the second central cylinder 240. The first engagement end 110 and the second engagement end 120 are respectively sealed to the first central cylinder 230 and the second central cylinder 240. The sealing engagement can be achieved by press-fitting or welding the first engagement end 110 and the second engagement end 120 to the first central cylinder 230 and the second central cylinder 240. Accordingly, the first and second engagement ends 110, 120 of the interface element 100 are disposed within the fluid reservoir chamber 251. The cylindrical body of the interface element 100 that is not constituted by the first and second engagement ends 110, 120 is disposed within the space between the first central cylinder 230 and the second central cylinder 240. Accordingly, the interface element 100 is partially disposed within the first and second intermediate chambers 213, 214. The sealing element 100 further includes an engagement portion 130 that is disposed on the surface of the sealing element 100 facing the outer surface 211 of the inner cylinder 210. The engagement portion includes a protruding portion 132 that protrudes from the cylindrical body of the interface element 100 on the inner surface of the interface element 100 toward the outer surface 211 of the inner cylinder 210. A groove 134 is disposed in the surface of the protruding portion 132, and a gasket 270 is disposed within the groove 132. The gasket 270 seals the space between the protruding portion 132 and the outer surface 211 of the inner cylinder 210. Accordingly, the gasket 270 seals between the first intermediate chamber 213 and the second intermediate chamber 214. The first and second central cylinders 230, 240 are respectively sealed by a gasket 232 and a gasket 242 at their respective other ends. Accordingly, the only way for hydraulic fluid to flow into or out of the first intermediate chamber 213 and / or the second intermediate chamber 214 is through the hole 212 disposed within the inner cylinder 210 or through the first valve 262 or the second valve 262.

[0047] Continue to refer to Figure 2, the first valve 262 and the second valve 264 are arranged in the interface element 100. More specifically, the first valve 262 and the second valve 264 are respectively arranged in the first valve groove 144 and the second valve groove 146 in the interface element 100. The first and second valve grooves 144, 146 are arranged on opposite sides of the axis A. In other embodiments, the first and second valve grooves 144, 146 may be arranged on the same side of the axis A. In addition, the first and second valve grooves 144, 146 are arranged on opposite sides of the gasket 270 in the direction along the axis A. Therefore, the first valve groove 144 and the first valve 262 are in fluid connection with the first intermediate chamber 213. Similarly, the second valve groove 146 and the second valve 264 are in fluid connection with the second intermediate chamber 214. The first valve 262 and the second valve 264 are respectively sealed in the first valve groove 144 and the second valve groove 146. This means that no hydraulic fluid will leak from the liquid storage chamber 251 through the first valve groove 144 and / or the second valve groove 146 into the first intermediate chamber 213 and / or the second intermediate chamber 214, and vice versa, no hydraulic fluid will leak from the first intermediate chamber 213 and / or the second intermediate chamber 214 through the first valve groove 144 and / or the second valve groove 146 into the liquid storage chamber 251. The first valve 262 is sealed in the first valve groove 144 by the gasket 278. The gasket 278 is arranged in the groove 266. The groove 266 is arranged in the first valve 262, and when the first valve 262 is arranged in the first valve groove 144, the groove 266 is arranged in the outer surface of the first valve 262 facing the first valve groove 144. The second valve 264 is sealed in the second valve groove 146 by the gasket 272. The gasket 272 is arranged in the groove 142. The groove 142 is arranged in the second valve groove 146, and when the second valve 264 is arranged in the second valve groove 146, the groove 142 is arranged in the surface of the second valve groove 146 facing the second valve 264. The gaskets 272, 278 can be any type of gasket suitable for sealing the valve to the valve groove, such as an O-ring type. In addition, the first valve 262 and the second valve 264 are arranged in the outer cylinder 250. Therefore, the first valve 262 and the second valve 264 extend from the outer cylinder 250 through the liquid storage chamber 251, through the interface element 100 into the first intermediate chamber 213 and the second intermediate chamber 214. It can be understood that at least one of the valves 262, 264 shown here can be part of a large valve unit not shown here, such as as Figure 1 shown.

[0048] Referring to Figure 3 , a perspective view of the interface element 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. It should be noted that Figure 3 the interface element 100 shown is the same as Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4 shown interface elements 100 have several common features. Therefore, for a better understanding of certain features and / or functions of the interface element 100, please refer to Figure 1, Figure 2 , Figure 4 and related text. As previously described, the interface element 100 has a cylindrical shape. The first engagement end 110 of the interface element 100 is a groove that is arranged in the inner surface 102 of the interface element 100. The thickness of the groove of the first engagement element 110 may correspond to the thickness of the first central cylinder 230. The second engagement element 120 is arranged in a similar manner (not shown), i.e., a groove arranged in the inner surface 102 of the interface element 100. The first engagement end 110 and the second engagement end 120 continuously extend around the inner perimeter of the interface element 100.

[0049] Continuing to refer to Figure 3 , it can be seen that the first valve groove 144 is arranged in the cylindrical body of the interface element 100. The first valve groove 144 is a hole that extends through the wall of the cylindrical body of the interface element 100. Similarly, the second valve groove 146 is arranged in the cylindrical body of the interface element 100. The second valve groove 146 is a hole that extends through the wall of the cylindrical body of the interface element 100. The first valve groove 144 and the second valve groove 146 are arranged on opposite sides of the axis A. The first valve groove 144 and the second valve groove 146 can be manufactured by drilling or milling holes in the cylindrical body of the interface element 100.

[0050] In addition, it can be seen that the protruding portion 132 is arranged in the inner surface 102 of the interface element 100. The protruding portion 132 protrudes radially towards the center of the cylindrical body of the interface element 100. The protruding portion 132 includes a groove 134 in which a gasket 270 is arranged. The protruding portion 132, the groove 134, and the gasket 270 continuously extend around the inner perimeter of the interface element 100.

[0051] Referring to Figure 4 , a cross-section of a detailed view of the interface element 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. It should be noted that Figure 4 the shown interface element 100 and Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 the shown interface element 100 have several common features. To deepen the understanding of certain features and / or functions of the interface element 100, reference is hereby made to Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3and related text. In this figure, the interface element 100 includes a groove 180 that is disposed in the surface 101 of the interface element 100 facing the outer cylinder 250. The groove 180 is arranged around the first valve groove 144. In addition, a first outer valve groove 258 and a second outer valve groove 259 are disposed in the liquid storage chamber 251 between the outer cylinder 250 and the interface element 100. The first outer valve groove 258 and the second outer valve groove 259 coincide with the first valve groove 144 and the second valve groove 146 respectively. The second outer valve groove 258 includes a groove 182 that is disposed in the surface of the second outer valve groove 258 facing the interface element 100. The grooves 180, 182 have a gasket 274 disposed therein, and the gasket 274 is an O-ring for sealing between the interface element 100 and the first and second outer valve grooves 258, 259. The first outer valve groove 258 and the second outer valve groove 259 can be plugs or the like that are arranged to seal the first valve 262 and the second valve 264 from the liquid storage chamber 251. The first outer valve groove 258 and the second outer valve groove 259 have corresponding grooves 181 disposed on the surface of their inner surfaces facing the outer cylinder 250. The grooves 181 have gaskets 275 disposed therein, and these gaskets 275 are O-rings for sealing the first and second outer valve grooves 258, 259 from the valves 262, 264. The first outer valve groove 258 and the second outer valve groove 259 can form an interface element unit together with the interface element 100. The first outer valve groove 258 and the second outer valve groove 259 can be additional components (in addition to the interface element 100) that are part of a shock absorber. Hydraulic fluid flow (not shown in the figure) can flow into the first valve groove 144 or the second valve groove 146 of the first outer valve groove 258 or the second outer valve groove 259 from the first intermediate chamber 213 or the second intermediate chamber 214 respectively. Then, the hydraulic fluid can flow into a chamber 401 disposed in one of the first valve 262 or the second valve 264 and flow out through a second chamber 402 disposed in the first valve 262 or the second valve 264. The first valve 262 and the second valve 264 are disposed in the outer cylinder 250 in the hole 252 of the outer cylinder 250, so that the hydraulic fluid can flow out from the chamber 402 in the first valve 262 and the second valve 264 and flow into the liquid storage chamber 251 through the hole 252.

[0052] Refer to Figure 5, a detailed view of the first rotating portion 150 and the second rotating portion 160 of the interface element 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The first rotating portion 150 includes a first engaging end 110, and the second rotating portion 160 includes a second engaging end 120. A sealing element 170 is mounted between the first rotating portion 150 and the second rotating portion 160 in the direction along A. The sealing element 170 is a cylindrical member configured to seal between the first rotating portion 150 and the second rotating portion 160. Opposite the first engaging end 110 of the first rotating portion 150 is a third engaging end 173. Similarly, opposite the second engaging end 120 of the second rotating portion 160 is a fourth engaging end 174. The third engaging end 173 of the first rotating portion 150 and the fourth engaging end 174 of the second rotating portion 160 are arranged to interlock with each other. The inner diameter of the fourth engaging end 174 is larger than that of the third engaging end 173, so the fourth engaging end 174 fits over the third engaging end 173 like a sleeve. Thus, the first rotating portion 150 and the second rotating portion 160 can be interlocked to form a unit. However, the interlock between the first rotating portion 150 and the second rotating portion 160 is configured to allow the first rotating portion 150 and the second rotating portion 160 to rotate independently of each other about the axis A. The sealing element 170 further includes a groove 172 in which a gasket 276 is arranged. The gasket 276 is an O-ring. In this figure, the sealing element 170, the groove 172, and the gasket 276 are arranged within the third engaging end 173 and the fourth engaging end 174 to seal between the first rotating portion 150 and the second rotating portion 160. In other examples, such as Figure 1 shown, the sealing element 170, the groove 172, and the gasket 276 protrude from the outer surfaces of the first rotating portion 150 and the second rotating portion 160. Thus, the sealing element 170 can also be used to seal between the first intermediate chamber 213 and the second intermediate chamber 214. The first rotating portion 150 and the second rotating portion 160 can rotate independently of each other to adapt the interface element 100 for installation in the shock absorber 200. Some types of shock absorbers including more than one valve may arrange their valve housings at different positions relative to each other around the outer cylinder 250. Therefore, it may be useful to divide the interface element 100 into the first rotating portion 150 and the second rotating portion 160 because this enables the first valve groove 144 and the second valve groove 146 to rotate to positions coinciding with the positions of the valve housings in the outer cylinder 250 of the shock absorber.

[0053] Referring to Figure 6, the shock absorber 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown from the outside, wherein the shock absorber 200 extends along the axis A. Here, the first valve housing 201 and the second valve housing 202 are arranged in the shock absorber 200. As described above, the first rotating portion 150 and the second rotating portion 160 of the interface element 100 can be rotated to coincide with the first valve housing 201 and the second valve housing 202 of the shock absorber. In Figure 6 the example shown, the first valve housing 201 and the second valve housing 202 are arranged such that the angle between them is α. Therefore, the first rotating portion 150 and the second rotating portion 160 can be arranged such that the angle between them is also the same angle α, so that the first valve groove (not shown) and the second valve groove (not shown) of the interface element 100 coincide with the positions of the first valve housing 201 and the second valve housing 202, respectively. In addition, the angle α between the first and second valve grooves (not shown) of the interface element 100 can be changed to adapt to different applications.

[0054] Referring to Figure 7 , a method 300 for installing an interface element into a shock absorber according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The method includes step 310 of press-fitting the interface element 100 between the first central cylinder 230 and the second central cylinder 240 such that the first engagement end 110 sealingly engages the surface 231 of the first central cylinder 230 and the second engagement end 120 sealingly engages the surface 241 of the second central cylinder 240. Alternatively, the method includes step 320 of welding the first engagement end 110 to the surface 231 of the first central cylinder 230 and welding the second engagement end 120 to the surface 241 of the second central cylinder 240.

[0055] Although the above content is directed to specific embodiments of the present invention, other more embodiments can be designed without departing from the inventive concept discussed herein. The scope of the present invention is determined by the claims.

Claims

1. An interface element (100) suitable for use in a shock absorber (200), the shock absorber (200) comprising an inner cylinder (210) at least partially defining a fluid chamber (220), a first central cylinder (230), a second central cylinder (240) and an outer cylinder (250), and at least one valve (260), the valve (260) being arranged to establish a fluid connection between the fluid chamber (220) and the exterior of the outer cylinder (250), in, The interface element (100) comprises a cylindrical shape, and wherein the interface element (100), the inner cylinder (210), the first central cylinder (230), the second central cylinder (240) and the outer cylinder (250) are coaxially arranged around an axis A, Wherein, the interface element (100) comprises: a first engagement end (110), the first engagement end (110) being configured to sealingly engage a surface (231) of the first central cylinder (230); a second engagement end (120) configured to sealingly engage a surface (241) of the second center cylinder (240); and an engaging portion (130) configured to sealingly engage a surface (211) of the inner cylinder (210); and at least one valve spool (140) configured to sealingly engage the at least one valve (260), The interface element (100) forms a sealed interface between the first central cylinder (230), the second central cylinder (240), the inner cylinder (210) and the at least one valve (260).

2. The interface element (100) according to claim 1, wherein: The engaging portion (130) includes a protruding portion (132) configured to radially protrude from the interface element (100) and sealingly engage a surface (211) of the inner cylinder (210).

3. The interface element (100) according to claim 2, wherein: The protruding portion (132) includes a first groove (134) and a first sealing device (270) disposed in the first groove (134), wherein the first sealing device (270) is configured to sealingly engage a surface (211) of the inner cylinder (210).

4. The interface element (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The at least one valve spool (140) includes a second groove (142) and a second sealing device (272) disposed in the second groove (142), wherein the second sealing device (272) is configured to sealingly engage the at least one valve (260).

5. The interface element (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The interface element (100) comprises a third groove (180) arranged in a surface (101) facing the outer cylinder and a third sealing device (274) configured to sealingly engage the at least one valve (260).

6. The interface element (100) according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein: At least one of the first sealing device (270), the second sealing device (272), and the third sealing device (274) includes a gasket.

7. The interface element (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The inner cylinder (210) includes at least one hole (212), wherein the hole (212) establishes a fluid connection between the at least one valve (260) and the fluid chamber (220).

8. The interface element (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The first engaging end (110) is configured to sealingly engage the surface (231) of the first central cylinder (230) by at least one of welding and press fitting, and the second engaging end (120) is configured to sealingly engage the surface (241) of the second central cylinder (240) by at least one of welding and press fitting.

9. The interface element (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The at least one valve (260) includes a first valve (262) and a second valve (264), and the at least one valve spool (140) includes a first valve spool (144) and a second valve spool (146), wherein the first valve spool (144) is configured to sealingly engage the first valve (262) and the second valve spool (146) is configured to sealingly engage the second valve (264).

10. The interface element (100) according to claim 9, in, The interface element (100) comprises a first rotating portion (150) and a second rotating portion (160), each of the first rotating portion (150) and the second rotating portion (160) being rotatably arranged about the axis A, wherein the first rotating portion (150) comprises the first valve slot (144), the first valve slot (144) being configured to sealingly engage the first valve (262), and the second rotating portion (160) comprises the second valve slot (146), the second valve slot (146) being configured to sealingly engage the second valve (264), and wherein the first rotating portion (150) and the second rotating portion (160) are configured to rotate independently of each other, wherein the first rotating portion (150) is configured to engage the first valve (262), and the second rotating portion (160) is configured to engage the second valve (264).

11. The interface element (100) according to claim 10, wherein: The interface element (100) further comprises a sealing element (170) which is at least partially arranged between the first rotating part (150) and the second rotating part (160), wherein the sealing element (170) is configured to sealingly engage the first rotating part (150) and the second rotating part (160), The first rotating part (150) and the second rotating part (160) are configured to be independently rotatable relative to the sealing element (170).

12. The interface element (100) according to claim 11, wherein: The sealing element (170) includes a fourth groove (172) and a fourth sealing device (276) disposed in the fourth groove (172), wherein the fourth sealing device (276) is configured to sealingly engage a surface (211) of the inner cylinder (210).

13. A shock absorber (200), comprising: an inner cylinder (210), the inner cylinder (210) at least partially defining a fluid chamber (220); A first central cylinder (230), a second central cylinder (240) and an outer cylinder (250), wherein all cylinders are coaxially arranged around an axis A; a first valve (262) arranged to establish a first fluid connection (263) between the fluid chamber (220) and the exterior of the outer cylinder (250); a second valve (264) arranged to establish a second fluid connection (265) between the fluid chamber (220) and the outside of the outer cylinder (250), wherein the first fluid connection (263) and the second fluid connection (265) are two different fluid connections; and The interface element (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, The interface element (100) forms a sealed interface between the first central cylinder (230), the second central cylinder (240), the inner cylinder (210), the first valve (262), and the second valve (264).

14. The shock absorber (200) according to claim 13, wherein: At least one of the first valve (262) and the second valve (264) includes a fifth groove (266), wherein the shock absorber (200) includes a fifth sealing device (278) arranged in the fifth groove (266), and the fifth sealing device (278) is configured to sealingly engage the interface element (100).

15. A method (300) of installing an interface element (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 11 in a shock absorber (200), wherein: The interface element (100) is installed in at least one of the following ways: press-fitting (310) the interface element (100) between a first central cylinder (230) and a second central cylinder (240) such that the first engagement end (110) sealingly engages a surface (231) of the first central cylinder (230) and the second engagement end (120) sealingly engages a surface (241) of the second central cylinder (240), and The first joint end (110) is welded (320) to the surface (231) of the first central cylinder (230), and the second joint end (120) is welded to the surface (241) of the second central cylinder (240).

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