Electrically driven air spring

Abstract

The utility model discloses an electric drive type air spring belongs to vehicle suspension technical field. The air spring includes upper mounting seat, lower mounting seat, spring body and linear motor drive arrangement. Linear motor drive arrangement includes coil assembly and rotor assembly, and rotor assembly is connected through connecting rod with the swing arm or frame of suspension. The utility model discloses through electric control mode directly drive air spring initiative telescoping, has realized the high -speed regulation of car body height and the initiative suppression of suspension vibration, and response speed far exceeds traditional pneumatic mode. Meanwhile, in the passive vibration process, the device can recover energy as generator. The utility model solves the problem of slow response, the rebound of active control and energy dissipation of existing air spring, and significantly improves the vehicle comfort, the controllability and energy efficiency.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model belongs to the field of vehicle suspension systems, specifically relating to an electric air spring for vehicle suspension systems that integrates linear motor drive function. Background Technology

[0002] As a core component of modern automotive air suspension systems, the performance of air springs directly determines the overall performance of the suspension system, significantly impacting vehicle comfort, safety, and handling. In current air suspension systems, air spring height adjustment relies on the inflation and deflation of a compressor, and damping and rebound are achieved through the reaction force generated when the gas is compressed.

[0003] However, this suspension system based on pneumatically adjustable air springs has the following drawbacks:

[0004] First, the system response is slow: the compressor's inflation and deflation speeds are slow, resulting in a sluggish system response that is difficult to meet the requirements of active suspension for rapid response. Second, the compression and rebound processes cannot be actively controlled: during the damping process, the compression buffer and rebound speeds cannot be controlled, especially in the rebound phase after the tire bounces. Due to the lack of active control, the rebound speed of the air spring cannot be effectively suppressed, which can easily lead to a large impact between the tire and the ground.

[0005] To address the aforementioned problems, two improvement schemes have emerged in the existing technology. One scheme optimizes the air circuit of the air suspension system, employing a closed-loop air supply unit to improve response speed. However, this scheme can only increase the inflation speed to a limited extent and cannot fundamentally achieve rapid and precise force and displacement control. The other scheme uses a dual-chamber air spring, changing the internal volume of the air spring through a solenoid valve to increase stiffness, thereby increasing the rebound force and recovery strength during compression. However, this scheme is usually only effective under specific operating conditions, has a limited adjustment range, and a complex structure, making it unable to adapt to varying road conditions and driving needs. Therefore, both improvement schemes can only provide limited improvements in specific aspects and cannot fundamentally overcome the problems of response speed and active control capability. Utility Model Content

[0006] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the shortcomings of existing air springs, such as slow response speed and inability to actively control the compression and rebound processes, and to provide an electrically driven air spring that significantly improves the response speed of the suspension system and enables active control of the spring compression and rebound processes.

[0007] The technical solution adopted in this utility model is: an electrically driven air spring, including an upper mounting base, a lower mounting base, and a spring body located between the two, wherein an air chamber is formed inside the spring body. The feature is that it further includes a linear motor drive device, which includes a coil assembly and a mover assembly. The mover assembly and the coil assembly are axially movable relative to each other. The coil assembly is electrically connected to a vehicle control system, and the vehicle control system controls the vehicle power supply to power the coil assembly. The mover assembly is connected between the lower mounting base and the upper mounting base via a connecting rod assembly. The linear motor drive device is configured to: in the energized state, drive the spring body to actively extend and retract, causing relative displacement of the upper or lower mounting base to adjust the vehicle height or provide active damping force; when the suspension vibrates, the mover assembly cuts magnetic lines of force to generate an induced current, achieving energy recovery.

[0008] The term "moving element assembly" refers to the fact that the linear motion of the moving element assembly can drive a relative linear movement between the lower and upper mounting seats.

[0009] Furthermore, the coil assembly is fixedly mounted on the upper mounting base, and the moving part assembly is connected to the lower mounting base via the connecting rod assembly.

[0010] Furthermore, the upper mounting base is a spring-loaded piston, and the lower mounting base is a base; the coil assembly includes a magnet, a core seat, and a coil, the coil being wound on the core seat, and the magnet being disposed within the core seat; the core seat is installed within the spring-loaded piston; the mover assembly includes a piston sleeve and an axially sliding sliding piston, the piston sleeve being fitted around the outer periphery of the sliding piston; the magnet is installed around the outer periphery of the piston sleeve, and the sliding piston is connected to the base via a connecting rod.

[0011] Furthermore, a first air chamber is formed between the air spring piston and the sliding piston, and a second air chamber is formed between the sliding piston and the base. The first air chamber and the second air chamber are connected through a connecting hole provided on the sliding piston.

[0012] Furthermore, the sliding piston and the connecting rod are connected by a hinge.

[0013] Furthermore, the sliding piston is connected to the connecting rod by bolts and a first nut. The connecting rod has a mounting hole, and a movable part is fitted onto the bolt and placed inside the mounting hole of the connecting rod.

[0014] Furthermore, the movable component fitted on the bolt is a spherical bearing or a rubber bushing.

[0015] Furthermore, a slot is provided on the outer periphery of the piston sleeve, and the magnet is engaged in the slot.

[0016] Furthermore, the core seat is installed inside the air spring piston by welding, threaded connection, or retaining ring fixing.

[0017] The beneficial effects of this invention are as follows: This invention directly provides driving force through electric drive, completely eliminating the limitations of traditional pneumatic systems in terms of inflation and deflation speed, achieving rapid response, and meeting the high-precision control requirements of active suspension. Integrating drive, damping, and rebound control, it can actively apply force according to real-time road conditions, effectively suppressing changes in vehicle posture and reducing the impact between the tires and the ground, greatly improving comfort and handling stability. It can convert the mechanical energy that is usually dissipated during suspension vibration into electrical energy for recovery. The linear motor integrated inside the air spring has a compact structure and does not occupy additional space. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the electrically driven air spring of this utility model;

[0019] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of a preferred embodiment of the electrically driven air spring of this utility model;

[0020] Figure 3 for Figure 2 Enlarged view of a portion of the joint bearing area;

[0021] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the electrically driven part in this utility model.

[0022] In the figure, the components are: spring body 1, first air chamber 110, air inlet 120, connecting hole 130, second air chamber 140, coil assembly 2, coil 210, magnet 220, wire harness 230, core seat 240, air channel 3, upper mounting seat 4, air spring piston 410, moving part assembly 5, sliding piston 510, piston sleeve 520, connecting rod assembly 6, connecting rod 610, spherical bearing 620, bolt 630, first nut 640, O-ring 650, second nut 660, lower mounting seat 7, and base 710. Detailed Implementation

[0023] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments:

[0024] In this specification, unless otherwise stated, the terms "upper," "lower," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the appendix. Figure 1 The orientation or positional relationship shown is for the purpose of describing the present invention only, and is not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of the present invention.

[0025] like Figure 1As shown, this embodiment illustrates a basic structural form of an electrically driven air spring. Similar to air springs in existing air suspension systems, it includes an upper mounting base 4, a lower mounting base 7, and a spring body 1 located between them. The upper mounting base 4 connects to the vehicle frame, and the lower mounting base 7 connects to the lower control arm and the wheel. An air chamber is formed inside the spring body 1. Unlike existing air springs, it also includes a linear motor drive device. The linear motor drive device includes a coil assembly 2 and a mover assembly 5. The mover assembly 5 and the coil assembly 2 are axially movable relative to each other. The coil assembly 2 is electrically connected to the vehicle control system, which controls the vehicle power supply to power the coil assembly 2. The coil assembly 2 is fixedly mounted on the upper mounting base 4, and the mover assembly 5 is connected to the lower mounting base 7 via the connecting rod assembly 6. The linear motor drive device is configured to: drive the spring body 1 to actively extend and retract in the energized state, causing relative displacement of the upper mounting seat 4 or the lower mounting seat 7, so as to adjust the vehicle height or provide active damping force; when the suspension vibrates, the moving part assembly 5 cuts the magnetic field lines to generate induced current, thereby realizing energy recovery.

[0026] The electrically driven air spring disclosed in this utility model has a coil assembly 2, which is a coil winding electrically connected to the vehicle control system. The vehicle control system controls the vehicle power supply to power the coil assembly 2. The mover assembly 5 and the coil assembly 2 are arranged to move linearly relative to each other along the axial direction, forming the core of the linear motor drive device.

[0027] During operation, the vehicle control system controls the vehicle's power supply to power the coil assembly 2. The coil assembly 2 generates a magnetic field, which provides additional driving force for the up-and-down movement of the spring body 1, driving the actuator assembly 5, along with the connecting rod assembly 6 and the lower mounting seat 7, to move linearly. This can be used to quickly raise or lower the vehicle body. Furthermore, by precisely controlling the direction and magnitude of the current, it can provide assistance or restraint to the movement of the spring body 1, thereby accelerating suspension rebound and reducing impact.

[0028] For example, adjusting the vehicle height or providing active damping force.

[0029] Adjust vehicle height:

[0030] When a command to raise the vehicle body is received, the vehicle control system controls the vehicle power supply to provide a current in a specific direction to the coil assembly 2. The coil generates a magnetic field, pushing the mover assembly 5 downward. The mover assembly 5 transmits the downward force to the lower mounting seat 7 via the linkage assembly 6. The lower mounting seat 7, connected to the wheels and control arms, experiences a downward force. The upper mounting seat 4, connected to the vehicle body, experiences an upward reaction force according to Newton's third law. This upward force counteracts the vehicle's weight, pushing the vehicle upward until the required height is reached, and the system reaches a new equilibrium.

[0031] Provide active damping force:

[0032] When the wheel rolls over a speed bump or similar obstacle, it begins to rebound. Sensors detect the suspension rapidly extending. The vehicle control system directs the vehicle's power supply to provide a reverse current to the coil assembly 2. The coil generates a reverse magnetic field, applying a downward electromagnetic resistance to the upward-moving actuator assembly 5. This downward electromagnetic resistance acts on the rebounding wheel through the linkage assembly 6 and the lower mounting bracket 7, suppressing the wheel's rebound and effectively slowing its return to the ground, resulting in greater vehicle stability. Conversely, when the wheel encounters a pothole and impacts downwards, the system can instruct a linear motor to provide an upward thrust, reducing the impact.

[0033] Of course, when the linear motor drive is not needed to provide force, it can also recover electrical energy and function as a generator. For example, when the wheels travel on a bumpy road, they generate up-and-down motion. This motion is transmitted to the lower mounting base 7 via the lower swing arm, causing the lower mounting base 7 to compress or extend rapidly relative to the upper mounting base 4. Since the lower mounting base 7 is connected to the mover assembly 5 via the linkage assembly 6, the rapid movement of the lower mounting base forces the mover assembly 5 to make rapid up-and-down linear motion in the magnetic field. At this time, the linear motor is no longer driven by electricity, and its role changes from a "motor" to a "generator". The mover assembly 5 usually contains a permanent magnet, and a strong fixed magnetic field exists around it. When the mover assembly is pushed by an external force to move at high speed relative to the fixed coil assembly 2, it is equivalent to each turn of the coil continuously cutting magnetic field lines. According to the law of electromagnetic induction, cutting magnetic field lines will generate an alternating induced electromotive force in the entire coil assembly 2.

[0034] In summary, this invention, through direct electromagnetic drive, significantly improves the response speed of the suspension system compared to the traditional slow pneumatic process. It transforms the air spring from a passive component into an active actuator, enabling it to output active damping force in real time and with precision. This not only suppresses impacts but also assists in rebound, significantly enhancing comfort and handling. Furthermore, it introduces a vibration energy recovery function, transforming the suspension system from a purely energy-consuming unit into a potential energy-generating unit, improving the overall vehicle energy efficiency. It integrates four major functions—support, vibration damping, active actuation, and power generation—into a single component, resulting in highly integrated functionality and a simplified system structure.

[0035] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, this embodiment provides a preferred solution.

[0036] The electrically driven air spring includes an air spring piston 410, a base 710, and a sliding piston 510 located between them. The air spring piston 410 serves as an upper mounting seat 4 connected to the vehicle frame, and the base 710 serves as a lower mounting seat 7 connected to the vehicle's control arm. The coil assembly 2 includes a magnet 220, a core seat 240, and a coil 210. The coil 210 is wound around the core seat 240 and connected to the vehicle control system via a wiring harness 230. The magnet 220 is disposed within the core seat 240 to form a magnetic field; the core seat 240 is installed inside the air spring piston 410. The actuator assembly 5 includes a piston sleeve 520 and an axially sliding sliding piston 510. The piston sleeve 520 is fitted around the outer periphery of the sliding piston 510; the magnet 220 is arranged around the outer periphery of the piston sleeve 520, and the sliding piston 510 is connected to the base 710 via a connecting rod 610.

[0037] By integrating the core components of the linear motor drive unit, such as the coil 210, magnet 220, and sliding piston 510, into the space between the air spring piston 410 and the base 710, a highly integrated unit is formed. The entire actuation system does not occupy additional vehicle layout space and can directly replace traditional air springs, facilitating vehicle layout and upgrades to existing models. The core components of the linear motor drive unit are encapsulated in a compact housing, providing high overall rigidity and the ability to withstand complex road loads.

[0038] Magnet 220 is arranged on the outer periphery of piston sleeve 520 to reduce magnetic energy loss, thereby generating a greater electromagnetic driving force under the same current. This is beneficial for achieving higher electromagnetic thrust within a limited space.

[0039] The piston sleeve 520 is fitted around the outer periphery of the sliding piston 510, making the piston sleeve 520 a guide sleeve for the sliding piston. This ensures that the mover assembly can only slide precisely axially without wobble or jamming, and reduces unnecessary friction and wear, thereby improving the reliability and durability of the product.

[0040] A first air chamber 110 is formed between the air spring piston 410 and the sliding piston 510, and a second air chamber 140 is formed between the sliding piston 510 and the base 710. The first air chamber 110 and the second air chamber 140 are connected by a connecting hole 130 on the sliding piston 510, forming a unified pressure chamber that can be inflated and deflated through the air inlet 120. This design ensures that the integrated component still possesses the elastic characteristics of a traditional air spring, providing flexible support and cushioning. It also eliminates air pressure interference, preventing the sliding piston 510 from experiencing additional resistance due to compressed gas during axial movement, making the electromagnetic drive more sensitive and efficient.

[0041] Preferably, the sliding piston 510 and the connecting rod 610 are hinged. This design allows the rod to swing within a certain angle, thus perfectly accommodating the arc-shaped motion trajectory of the upper and lower control arms during vehicle movement and avoiding structural interference.

[0042] The sliding piston 510 and the connecting rod 610 are connected by a bolt 630 and a first nut 640. Specifically, the sliding piston 510 has a slot at its bottom, and the connecting rod 610 has a mounting hole. The end of the connecting rod 610 with the mounting hole is inserted into the slot of the sliding piston 510. The bolt 630 passes through the sliding piston 510 and the connecting rod 610 and then engages with the first nut 640. It is worth noting that a movable part is fitted on the bolt 630, and this movable part is installed in the mounting hole of the connecting rod 610. The connecting rod 610 can rotate around the bolt 630 through this movable part. The movable part fitted on the bolt 630 is a spherical bearing 620 or a rubber bushing, etc.

[0043] A slot is provided on the outer periphery of the piston sleeve 520, and the magnet 220 is engaged in the slot. In this way, the slot limits the position of the magnet 220, making it less likely to fall off when it moves with the piston sleeve 520, thus ensuring the reliable installation of the magnet 220.

[0044] The core seat 240 is installed inside the air spring piston 410 by welding, threaded connection or retaining ring fixing.

[0045] An O-ring 650 is disposed between the base 710 and the connecting rod 610 to seal the gap formed between the mounting hole of the base 710 and the outer wall of the connecting rod 610, thereby sealing the second air chamber 140. After the connecting rod 610 passes through the base 710, the second nut 660 is screwed on to fix the connecting rod 610 and the base 710.

[0046] Figure 2 The illustrated embodiments and Figure 1 The illustrated embodiments work in a similar manner.

[0047] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the present invention, the scope of which is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An electrically driven air spring, comprising an upper mounting base (4), a lower mounting base (7), and a spring body (1) located between the two, wherein an air chamber is formed inside the spring body (1), characterized in that, It also includes a linear motor drive device, which includes a coil assembly (2) and a mover assembly (5). The mover assembly (5) and the coil assembly (2) are axially movable relative to each other. The coil assembly (2) is electrically connected to the vehicle control system, and the vehicle control system controls the vehicle power supply to power the coil assembly (2). The mover assembly (5) is connected between the lower mounting base (7) and the upper mounting base (4) through a connecting rod assembly (6).

2. The electrically driven air spring according to claim 1, characterized in that... The coil assembly (2) is fixedly installed on the upper mounting base (4), and the moving part assembly (5) is connected to the lower mounting base (7) through the connecting rod assembly (6).

3. The electrically driven air spring according to claim 2, characterized in that... The upper mounting base (4) is a spring piston (410), and the lower mounting base (7) is a base (710); the coil assembly (2) includes a magnet (220), a core seat (240) and a coil (210), the coil (210) is wound on the core seat (240), and the magnet (220) is disposed inside the core seat (240); the core seat (240) is installed inside the spring piston (410); the mover assembly (5) includes a piston sleeve (520) and an axially sliding piston (510), the piston sleeve (520) is fitted around the outer periphery of the sliding piston (510); the magnet (220) is installed around the outer periphery of the piston sleeve (520), and the sliding piston (510) is connected to the base (710) through a connecting rod (610).

4. The electrically driven air spring according to claim 3, characterized in that... A first air chamber (110) is formed between the air spring piston (410) and the sliding piston (510), and a second air chamber (140) is formed between the sliding piston (510) and the base (710). The first air chamber (110) and the second air chamber (140) are connected by a connecting hole (130) provided on the sliding piston (510).

5. The electrically driven air spring according to claim 4, characterized in that... The sliding piston (510) and the connecting rod (610) are connected by a hinge.

6. The electrically driven air spring according to claim 5, characterized in that... The sliding piston (510) and the connecting rod (610) are connected by bolts (630) and a first nut (640). The connecting rod (610) is provided with mounting holes. After the movable part is fitted on the bolt (630), it is placed in the mounting hole of the connecting rod (610).

7. The electrically driven air spring according to claim 6, characterized in that... The movable part fitted on the bolt (630) is a spherical bearing (620) or a rubber bushing.

8. The electrically driven air spring according to claim 3, characterized in that... A slot is provided on the outer periphery of the piston sleeve (520), and the magnet (220) is engaged in the slot.

9. The electrically driven air spring according to any one of claims 4 to 8, characterized in that... The core seat (240) is installed inside the air spring piston (410) by welding, threaded connection or retaining ring fixing.

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