SHOCK ABSORPTION DEVICE

Abstract

A shock-absorbing device according to the present disclosure can comprise a block with a through-hole that vertically penetrates the block, and a first flow path, a second flow path, and a third flow path; and a first tube that extends vertically through the through-hole and has a penetrating part that penetrates an inner circumferential surface and an outer circumferential surface of the first tube, such that the interior of the first tube is in fluid communication with the first flow path.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO A RELATED REGISTRATION

[0001] This application claims priority and benefit from Korean patent application No. 10-2024-0134191, which was filed on October 2, 2024, and the full disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. AREA OF TECHNOLOGY

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a shock-absorbing device and in particular to a shock-absorbing device attached to a vehicle to absorb shocks transmitted from a road surface to the vehicle. STATE OF THE ART

[0003] A shock absorber, also known as a damper, is mounted on a vehicle to suppress vibrations transmitted to the body during driving, thereby improving ride comfort. Furthermore, the shock absorber dampens rapid wheel vibrations while driving, thus increasing vehicle stability.

[0004] An electronically controlled shock absorber contains an electronically controlled valve. The damping force of the electronically controlled shock absorber can be adjusted by controlling the electronically controlled valve. However, adjusting the damping force via the electronically controlled valve has limitations in terms of fine-tuning performance to achieve optimal ride comfort. DEMOLITION

[0005] The present disclosure is intended to solve the problems described above, and the present disclosure aims to provide a shock-absorbing device with improved tuning performance with respect to the control of the damping force during a compression stroke.

[0006] The objectives of the present disclosure are not limited to those described above, and other objectives not mentioned will be clear to a person skilled in the art in the field to which the present disclosure belongs from the following description.

[0007] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a shock-absorbing device is provided, comprising a block with a through-hole vertically penetrating the block, and a first flow path, a second flow path, and a third flow path; a first tube extending vertically through the through-hole and having a penetrating portion that penetrates an inner circumferential surface and an outer circumferential surface of the first tube, such that an interior of the first tube is in fluid communication with the first flow path; a piston assembly arranged within the first tube and configured to perform a compression stroke or a compression stroke, the piston assembly comprising: a piston valve dividing the first tube into a compression chamber on the top and a compression chamber on the bottom, and a piston rod connected to the piston valve;a second tube arranged to surround a portion of the first tube extending below the block and forming a first intermediate chamber between the second tube and the first tube, the first intermediate chamber establishing a fluid connection between the pressure chamber and the second flow path; a first valve arranged at a lower end of the first tube, the first valve separating the pressure chamber and the first intermediate chamber and allowing the fluid in the pressure chamber to flow into the first intermediate chamber; a third tube arranged to surround a portion of the first tube extending above the block and forming a second intermediate chamber between the third tube and the first tube, the second intermediate chamber establishing a fluid connection between the tension chamber and the third flow path; and a reservoir in fluid communication with the first flow path and the second flow path.

[0008] In the shock-absorbing device according to one aspect of the present disclosure, during a pressure stroke of the piston arrangement, a fluid in the pressure chamber can flow through the piston valve to the tension chamber, or through the penetrating part and the first flow path to the reservoir, or through the first intermediate chamber and the second flow path to the reservoir.

[0009] The shock-absorbing device according to one aspect of the present disclosure may further comprise a fourth tube arranged to surround the third tube, and the reservoir may be formed in a space between an outer circumferential surface of the third tube and an inner circumferential surface of the fourth tube.

[0010] The shock-absorbing device according to one aspect of the present disclosure may further comprise a second valve arranged between the first flow path and the reservoir, wherein the second valve controls the fluid flow from the first flow path to the reservoir.

[0011] In the shock-absorbing device according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the second valve can be configured as an electronically controlled valve.

[0012] In the shock-absorbing device according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the third flow path can be in fluid communication with the pressure chamber, and the shock-absorbing device according to one aspect of the present disclosure can further comprise a third valve arranged between the third flow path and the pressure chamber, wherein the third valve controls the fluid flow from the third flow path to the pressure chamber.

[0013] In the shock-absorbing device according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the third valve can be configured as an electronically controlled valve.

[0014] In the shock-absorbing device according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the second valve and the third valve can be arranged next to each other and in a horizontal direction.

[0015] In the shock-absorbing device according to one aspect of the present disclosure, an inlet of the first flow path can be arranged on a part of an inner wall of the through-hole of the block, wherein the part is aligned with the penetrating part of the first tube.

[0016] In the shock-absorbing device according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the block may further comprise a first groove and a second groove formed along a circumferential direction on a top and a bottom, respectively, of a portion of an inner wall of the through-hole that is aligned with the penetrating portion of the first tube; and the shock-absorbing device according to one aspect of the present disclosure may further comprise a first sealing element arranged in the first groove to seal between the inner wall of the through-hole and an outer circumferential surface of the first tube; and a second sealing element arranged in the second groove to seal between the inner wall of the through-hole and the outer circumferential surface of the first tube.

[0017] In the shock-absorbing device according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the block may further comprise a first stage, wherein the first stage is formed by a portion of an inner wall of the through-hole which is set back above the first groove and supports a lower end of the third tube.

[0018] In the shock-absorbing device according to one aspect of the present disclosure, an inlet of the third flow path can be arranged such that a fluid connection is established between the first stage and the third flow path.

[0019] In the shock-absorbing device according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the block may further have a third groove formed along a circumferential direction on the inner wall of the through-hole above the first stage, and the shock-absorbing device according to one aspect of the present disclosure may further include a third sealing element arranged in the third groove to seal between the inner wall of the through-hole and an outer circumferential surface of the third tube.

[0020] In the shock-absorbing device according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the block may further have a second stage, wherein the second stage is formed by a portion of an upper inner wall of the through-hole which is set back radially outwards and supports a lower end of the fourth tube.

[0021] According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, a shock-absorbing device is provided, comprising a block with a through-hole vertically penetrating the block, and a first flow path, a second flow path, and a third flow path; a first tube extending vertically through the through-hole and having a penetrating portion that penetrates an inner circumferential surface and an outer circumferential surface of the first tube, such that an interior of the first tube is in fluid communication with the first flow path; a piston assembly arranged inside the first tube and configured to perform a compression stroke or a compression stroke, the piston assembly comprising: a piston valve dividing the first tube into a compression chamber on the top and a compression chamber on the bottom, and a piston rod coupled to the piston valve;a second tube arranged to surround a portion of the first tube extending below the block and forming a first intermediate chamber between the second tube and the first tube, the first intermediate chamber establishing a fluid connection between the pressure chamber and the second flow path; a first valve arranged at a lower end of the first tube, the first valve dividing the pressure chamber and the first intermediate chamber and allowing the fluid in the pressure chamber to flow into the first intermediate chamber; a third tube arranged to surround a portion of the first tube extending above the block and forming a second intermediate chamber between the third tube and the first tube, the second intermediate chamber establishing a fluid connection between the tension chamber and the third flow path; a reservoir in fluid communication with the first flow path and the second flow path;and a second valve arranged between the first flow path and the reservoir, wherein the second valve is electronically controlled and configured to control a fluid flow from the first flow path to the reservoir during a pressure stroke of the piston arrangement.

[0022] In the shock-absorbing device according to another aspect of the present disclosure, a damping force can be set during a pressure stroke of the piston valve depending on an opening degree of the second valve.

[0023] In the shock-absorbing device according to another aspect of the present disclosure, during a pressure stroke of the piston arrangement, a fluid in the pressure chamber can flow through the first flow path to the reservoir or through the first intermediate chamber and the second flow path to the reservoir or through the piston valve to the tension chamber.

[0024] In the shock-absorbing device according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the third flow path can be in fluid communication with the pressure chamber, and the shock-absorbing device according to another aspect of the present disclosure can further comprise a third valve arranged between the third flow path and the pressure chamber, wherein the third valve is electronically controlled and configured to control the fluid flow from the third flow path to the pressure chamber.

[0025] In the shock-absorbing device according to another aspect of the present disclosure, an inlet of the first flow path can be arranged on a part of an inner wall of the through-hole of the block, the part being aligned with the penetrating part of the first tube.

[0026] In the shock-absorbing device according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the block may further have a first groove and a second groove formed along a circumferential direction on a top and a bottom, respectively, of a portion of an inner wall of the through-hole that is aligned with the penetrating portion of the first tube, and the shock-absorbing device according to another aspect of the present disclosure may further have a first sealing element arranged in the first groove to seal between the inner wall of the through-hole and an outer circumferential surface of the first tube, and a second sealing element arranged in the second groove to seal between the inner wall of the through-hole and the outer circumferential surface of the first tube. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] The above and further objectives, features and advantages of the present disclosure will become clearer to the person skilled in the art by the description of its exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. Fig. Figure 1 is a perspective view of a shock-absorbing device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 2 is a perspective exploded view of the shock-absorbing device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 3 shows a part of the shock-absorbing device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure in a partially cutaway view. Fig. Figure 4 is a longitudinal sectional view of the shock-absorbing device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 5 is an enlarged view of part A in Fig. 4. Fig. Figure 6 is a view showing a block of the shock-absorbing device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, with a portion cut away. Fig. Figure 7 is a perspective longitudinal section view of the block of the shock-absorbing device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 8 is an enlarged view of Part B in Fig. 4. Fig. Figure 9 is a view showing the fluid flow through a first flow path and a second flow path during a pressure stroke of the shock-absorbing device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SAMPLE EXECUTION EXAMPLES

[0028] The following are detailed descriptions of embodiments of the present disclosure so that a person skilled in the art in the field to which the present disclosure belongs can easily implement them. The present disclosure can be implemented in many different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. To ensure clarity, parts not related to the description have been omitted from the accompanying drawings, and identical or similar components are designated by the same reference numerals throughout the description.

[0029] The words and terms used in the description and claims are not to be understood merely in their ordinary or dictionary meaning, but should be interpreted in their meaning and concept in accordance with the technical spirit of the present disclosure, according to the principle that the inventors may define terms and concepts to best describe their disclosure.

[0030] It should be noted that in the description, terms such as "include" or "have" are intended to specify the presence of features, a certain number of steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof described in the description, but are not intended to exclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, a different number of each, one or more other steps, operations or components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0031] Fig. Figure 1 is a perspective view of a shock-absorbing device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 2 is a perspective exploded view of the shock-absorbing device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 3 shows a part of the shock-absorbing device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure in a partially cutaway view. Fig. Figure 4 is a longitudinal sectional view of the shock-absorbing device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] A shock-absorbing device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure can be installed in a vehicle to absorb shocks transmitted from a road surface to the vehicle. More precisely, the shock-absorbing device 100 can be installed between a wheel and a vehicle body to dampen shocks acting on the vehicle body from the road surface.

[0033] The shock-absorbing device 100 can be configured to allow the control of a damping force. In particular, the shock-absorbing device 100 can allow the control of the damping force by an electronic control method. In other words, the shock-absorbing device 100 can be used in a semi-active suspension system or in an active suspension system in which the damping force is controllable.

[0034] The shock-absorbing device 100 can comprise a block 110, a first tube 120, a piston assembly 130, a second tube 140, a third tube 150, a fourth tube 160, a first valve 170, a second valve 180 and a third valve 190 (see Fig. 1 to 4).

[0035] Block 110 defines the mounting positions of the first pipe 120, the second pipe 140, the third pipe 150, and the fourth pipe 160. The first pipe 120, the second pipe 140, the third pipe 150, and the fourth pipe 160 can be attached to block 110. Furthermore, the second valve 180 and the third valve 190 can be mounted in block 110.

[0036] Fig. Figure 5 is an enlarged view of part A in Fig. 4. Fig. Figure 6 is a view showing a block of the shock-absorbing device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, with a portion cut away. Furthermore, Fig. 7 a perspective longitudinal section view of the block of the shock-absorbing device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 5 to 7, block 110 contains a through-hole 111a that penetrates the block vertically, as well as a first flow path 112, a second flow path 113, and a third flow path 114. More precisely, block 110 comprises a block body 111 with the through-hole 111a. Furthermore, the first flow path 112, the second flow path 113, and the third flow path 114 are formed within the block body 111.

[0038] The block body 111 is arranged such that it surrounds the outer circumferential surface of the first pipe 120, which is located in the through-hole 111a. Furthermore, the first flow path 112, the second flow path 113, and the third flow path 114 can be formed inside the block body 111.

[0039] The first tube 120 extends vertically through the through-hole 111a. The first tube 120 contains a penetrating part 121 that penetrates the inner circumferential surface and the outer circumferential surface of the same, so that the interior of the first tube 120 is in fluid communication with the first flow path 112.

[0040] The first penetrating part 121 can, for example, be configured as a circular hole. In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a plurality of first penetrating parts 121 can be formed along the circumferential direction of the first tube 120.

[0041] A shock-absorbing fluid is poured into the first tube 120. In other words, a working chamber is formed inside the first tube 120, into which the fluid is poured. In this case, the fluid can be oil.

[0042] With reference to the Fig. 3 to 7, the penetrating part 121 of the first pipe 120 can be arranged in alignment with an inlet 112a of the first flow path 112. More precisely, the inlet 112a of the first flow path 112 can be arranged on a part of the inner wall of the through-hole 111a of the block 110 that is aligned with the penetrating part 121 of the first pipe 120.

[0043] The fluid introduced into the first flow path 112 through the penetrating part 121 of the first tube 120 can flow towards a reservoir R. That is, the first flow path 112 is connected to the reservoir R, which will be described later.

[0044] With reference to the Fig. 5 to 7 the first flow path 112 can comprise a first-1 section 112b between the inlet 112a and the second valve 180 and a first-2 section 112c between the second valve 180 and the reservoir R, wherein the second valve 180 is arranged in the first flow path 112.

[0045] In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the first-1 section 112b can be arranged in a plane that is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the first tube 120. Furthermore, the first-2 section 112c can comprise a part that extends vertically and forms a predetermined angle with respect to the longitudinal direction of the first tube 120.

[0046] With regard to the placement of the first tube 120, the block 110 also includes a first groove 115 and a second groove 116, each formed along the circumferential direction on the upper and lower sides of the part of the inner wall of the through-hole 111a that is aligned with the penetrating part 121 of the first tube 120.

[0047] As in the Fig. 4 and Fig. As shown in Figure 5, a first sealing element S1 is arranged in the first groove 115 to seal between the inner wall of the through-hole 111a and the outer circumferential surface of the first tube 120. A second sealing element S2 is also arranged in the second groove 116 to seal between the inner wall of the through-hole 111a and the outer circumferential surface of the first tube 120. The first sealing element S1 and the second sealing element S2 can be O-rings.

[0048] The piston assembly 130 moves vertically within the first tube 120 and serves to dampen shocks. The piston assembly 130 comprises a piston valve 131 and a piston rod 132.

[0049] The piston valve 131 is arranged inside the first tube 120 to divide the first tube 120 into a tension chamber C1 on the top and a pressure chamber C2 on the bottom. The piston valve 131 can include one or more flow paths and valves that allow or block the fluid flow between the tension chamber C1 and the pressure chamber C2.

[0050] The piston rod 132 is connected to the piston valve 131. For example, the lower end of the piston rod 132 is connected to the piston valve 131, and the upper end of the piston rod 132 can be connected to the vehicle body.

[0051] The piston assembly 130 performs a compression stroke or a tension stroke within the first tube 120. Here, the compression stroke refers to the movement of the piston assembly 130 from the top to the bottom within the first tube 120, i.e., from the tension chamber C1 to the compression chamber C2. Furthermore, the tension stroke refers to the movement of the piston assembly 130 from the bottom to the top within the first tube 120, i.e., from the compression chamber C2 to the tension chamber C1.

[0052] During the compression or extension stroke of the piston assembly 130, fluid flow can occur through the piston valve 131. In particular, during the compression stroke, fluid in the compression chamber C2 can flow through the piston valve 131 into the extension chamber C1. Furthermore, during the extension stroke, fluid from the extension chamber C1 can flow through the piston valve 131 into the compression chamber C2.

[0053] In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a lower limit of the pressure stroke of the piston assembly 130 can be a setpoint located at or above the penetrating part 121 of the first tube 120. That is, during the pressure stroke, the piston assembly 130 moves from the top to the bottom of the penetrating part 121, but the piston valve 131 can move to a setpoint located at or above the penetrating part 121.

[0054] The second tube 140 is arranged such that it surrounds a portion of the first tube 120 that extends below the block 110. The second tube 140 forms a first intermediate chamber C3 between the second tube 140 and the first tube 120, the first intermediate chamber C3 establishing a fluid connection between the pressure chamber C2 and the second flow path 113.

[0055] The second tube 140 has a larger inner diameter than the first tube 120. Accordingly, the first intermediate chamber C3 can be formed between the inner circumferential surface of the second tube 140 and the outer circumferential surface of the first tube 120. Furthermore, the second tube 140 can be arranged concentrically to the first tube 120.

[0056] The fluid in the first intermediate chamber C3 can flow to the reservoir R via the second flow path 113. That is, the second flow path 113 is connected to the reservoir R. In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the second flow path 113 can comprise a portion that extends vertically and forms a predetermined angle with respect to the longitudinal direction of the first tube 120.

[0057] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the second flow path 113 is in fluid communication with the first-2 section 112c of the first flow path 112. Accordingly, the fluid in the first intermediate chamber C3 can flow to the reservoir R via the second flow path 113 and the first-2 section 112c of the first flow path 112.

[0058] As in the Fig. 4 and Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the second pipe 140 can have a closed lower end and an open upper end. The second pipe 140 can be attached to the lower end of the block 110. More precisely, the second pipe 140 can have a flange 141 that projects radially outward from its outer circumferential surface and can be connected to the block 110 by a fastener 145 that supports the flange 141 and is attached to the lower end of the block 110. The fastener 145 can, for example, be a nut.

[0059] The second tube 140 includes a portion extending above the flange 141, and this portion can be inserted into the through-hole 111a of the block 110. In this case, the flange 141 can be positioned to engage with the block body 111 around the lower end of the through-hole 111a of the block 110.

[0060] The second tube 140 can have a second groove 142 formed along the circumferential direction on the outer circumferential surface of the part extending over the flange 141. A third sealing element S3 is arranged in the second groove of the tube 142 to seal between the inner wall of the through-hole 111a and the outer circumferential surface of the second tube 140.

[0061] The third tube 150 is arranged such that it surrounds a portion of the first tube 120 that extends above the block 110. The third tube 150 forms a second intermediate chamber C4 between the third tube 150 and the first tube 120, the second intermediate chamber C4 establishing a fluid connection between the draft chamber C1 and the third flow path 114.

[0062] The third tube 150 has a larger inner diameter than the first tube 120. Accordingly, the second intermediate chamber C4 can be formed between the inner circumferential surface of the third tube 150 and the outer circumferential surface of the first tube 120. Furthermore, the third tube 150 can be arranged concentrically to the first tube 120.

[0063] Regarding the placement of the third pipe 150, block 110, according to the Fig. 3 to 7 a first stage 117, wherein the first stage is formed by a part of the inner wall of the through-hole 111a which is set back radially above the first groove 115 and supports a lower end of the third tube 150.

[0064] An inlet 114a of the third flow path 114 can be arranged such that it establishes a fluid connection between the first stage 117 and the third flow path 114. In other words, the inlet 114a of the third flow path 114 can be arranged on the first stage 117.

[0065] The third flow path 114 is connected to the pressure chamber C. Fluid introduced into the third flow path 114 through the inlet 114a of the third flow path 114 can flow to the pressure chamber C. More precisely, the third flow path 114 is in fluid communication with the first section 112b of the first flow path 112, and the fluid introduced into the third flow path 114 can flow through the third flow path 114, pass through the first section 112b of the first flow path 112, and then flow through the penetrating part 121 of the first tube 120 to the pressure chamber C.

[0066] With reference to the Fig. 3 to 7 the third flow path 114 can comprise a third-1 section 114b between the inlet 114a of the third flow path 114 and the third valve 190 and a third-2 section 114c between the third valve 190 and the first-1 section 112b of the first flow path 112, wherein the third valve 190 is arranged in the third flow path 114.

[0067] In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the third-1 section 114b can be arranged in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the first tube 120. The third-1 section 114b can be arranged parallel to the first-1 section 112b of the first flow path 112 in the same plane. Furthermore, the third-2 section 114c can be arranged at a predetermined angle with respect to the third-1 section 114b in the plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the first tube 120. For example, the third-2 section 114c can form a 90-degree angle with the third-1 section 114b.

[0068] With regard to the placement of the third pipe 150, the block 110 can also have a third groove 118, which is formed circumferentially on the inner wall of the through-hole 111a above the first stage 117. A fourth sealing element S4 is arranged in the third groove 118 to seal between the inner wall of the through-hole 111a and the outer circumferential surface of the third pipe 150.

[0069] The fourth pipe 160 is arranged so that it surrounds the third pipe 150. The fourth pipe 160, together with the third pipe 150, forms reservoir R. More precisely, a storage space of reservoir R can be formed between the third pipe 150 and the fourth pipe 160.

[0070] The fourth tube 160 has a larger inner diameter than the third tube 150. Accordingly, the reservoir R can be formed between the inner circumferential surface of the fourth tube 160 and the outer circumferential surface of the third tube 150. Furthermore, the fourth tube 160 can be arranged concentrically to the third tube 150.

[0071] Reservoir R is in fluid communication with the first flow path 112 and the second flow path 113. During the pressure stroke of the shock-absorbing device 100, reservoir R can receive fluid flowing from pressure chamber C into the first flow path 112 or the second flow path 113. More precisely, during the pressure stroke of the shock-absorbing device 100, fluid within pressure chamber C can flow to reservoir R through the first flow path 112 or through the second flow path 113 and the first section 112c of the first flow path 112 to reservoir R.

[0072] Regarding the placement of the fourth pipe 160, the block 110 can be positioned according to the Fig. 3 to 7 have a second stage 119, wherein the second stage is formed by a part of the upper inner wall of the through-hole 111a which is set back radially outwards and supports a lower end of the fourth tube 160.

[0073] A lower end of the fourth tube 160 is supported by the second stage 119, and the outer circumferential surface of the lower end of the fourth tube 160 can be supported by the inner wall of the through-hole 111a, which extends above the second stage 119.

[0074] The first valve 170 is located at a lower end of the first tube 120. The first valve 170 separates the pressure chamber C2 and the first intermediate chamber C3 from each other and allows fluid to flow from the pressure chamber C2 into the first intermediate chamber C3.

[0075] The first valve 170 can be in the shape of a disc and arranged to cover the lower end of the first pipe 120. The first valve 170 can include one or more flow paths and one or more control devices (e.g., disc valves) capable of controlling the flow within the flow paths.

[0076] When the piston assembly 130 performs a pressure stroke, the fluid in the pressure chamber C2 is forced downwards through the piston valve 131, and the fluid located at the lower end of the pressure chamber C2 can flow from the pressure chamber C2 through the first valve 170 into the first intermediate chamber C3.

[0077] The second valve 180 is arranged between the first flow path 112 and the reservoir R to control the fluid flow from the first flow path 112 to the reservoir R. With reference to the Fig. 3 and Fig. 6. The block 110 can comprise a first assembly part 112d with respect to the arrangement of the second valve 180. In particular, the first part 112d can form a boundary between the first-1 section 112b and the first-2 section 112c of the first flow path 112.

[0078] The second valve 180 can be designed as an electronically controlled valve. The second valve 180 can, for example, be a solenoid valve.

[0079] The damping force during the pressure stroke can be adjusted by controlling the second valve 180. More precisely, the fluid flow from the first-1 section 112b to the first-2 section 112c of the first flow path 112 can be controlled by controlling the second valve 180.

[0080] The third valve 190 is arranged between the third flow path 114 and the pressure chamber C2 to control the fluid flow from the third flow path 114 to the pressure chamber C2. With reference to the Fig. 3 and Fig. 6. Block 110 can include a second assembly part 114d with respect to the placement of the third valve 190. In particular, the second part 114d can form a boundary between the third-1 section 114b and the third-2 section 114c of the third flow path 114.

[0081] The third valve 190 can be designed as an electronically controlled valve. The third valve 190 can, for example, be a solenoid valve.

[0082] The damping force during the pull stroke can be adjusted by controlling the third valve 190. More precisely, the fluid flow from the third-1 section 114b to the third-2 section 114c of the third flow path 114 can be controlled by the third valve 190.

[0083] In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the second valve 180 and the third valve 190 can be arranged side by side and in a horizontal direction. By arranging the second valve 180 and the third valve 190 side by side in a horizontal direction, the interference between the shock-absorbing device 100 and other components in the vehicle can be reduced, and the space efficiency when installing the shock-absorbing device 100 in the vehicle can be improved.

[0084] Fig. Figure 8 is an enlarged view of Part B in Fig. 4.

[0085] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the shock-absorbing device 100 can have an upper cover 165 arranged to seal the upper ends of the first tube 120, the third tube 150, and the fourth tube 160. In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the upper cover 165 can comprise a first cover element 165a and a second cover element 165b.

[0086] The first cover element 165a seals the upper ends of the first tube 120 and the third tube 150 and is simultaneously arranged to establish a fluid connection between the draw chamber C1 and the second intermediate chamber C4. The piston rod 132 of the piston assembly 130 can be arranged to pass through the first cover element 165a.

[0087] The first cover element 165a can include a cover groove 165c, which is recessed along the circumferential direction on an outer peripheral part that comes into contact with the inner circumferential surface of the third tube 150. A fifth sealing element S5 is arranged in the cover groove 165c to seal between the first cover system 165a and the third tube 150. The fifth sealing element S5 can be an O-ring.

[0088] The first cover element 165a can have a cover flow path 165d that establishes a fluid connection between the tension chamber C1 and the second intermediate chamber C4. During the tensile stroke of the shock-absorbing device 100, some of the fluid in the tension chamber C1 can flow through the cover flow path 165d into the second intermediate chamber C4.

[0089] The second cover element 165b is arranged above the first cover element 165a to cover the upper end of the fourth tube 160. The piston rod 132 of the piston assembly 130 can be arranged to pass through the second cover element 165b.

[0090] The configuration of the shock-absorbing device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure has been described in detail above. The operation of the shock-absorbing device 100 is described below.

[0091] Fig. Figure 9 is a view showing the fluid flow through a first flow path and a second flow path during a pressure stroke of the shock-absorbing device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Piston arrangement 130 is not shown in figure 9.

[0092] As in Fig.As shown in Figure 9, during the pressure stroke of the shock-absorbing device 100, a portion of the fluid in the pressure chamber C2 can flow through the penetrating part 121 and the first flow path 112 to the reservoir R. More precisely, the fluid F1, which is introduced into the first flow path 112 through the inlet 112a of the first flow path 112, which is aligned with the penetrating part 121, flows via the first-1 section 112b and the second valve 180 to the first-2 section 112c.

[0093] At this point, the fluid flow from the first-1 section 112b to the first-2 section 112c can be controlled according to the control of the second valve 180. That is, the damping force during the pressure stroke can be adjusted via the control of the second valve 180.

[0094] Another portion of the fluid in pressure chamber C2 can flow to reservoir R via the first intermediate chamber C3 and the second flow path 113. More precisely, the fluid F2, which is introduced into the first intermediate chamber C3 through the first valve 170 located at the lower end of pressure chamber C2, can flow into reservoir R via the second flow path 113 and the first section 112c of the first flow path 112.

[0095] During the pressure stroke of the shock-absorbing device 100, a further portion of the fluid in the pressure chamber C2 can flow through the piston valve 131 into the tension chamber C1.

[0096] As described above, according to the present disclosure, parallel flow paths from the pressure chamber C2 to the reservoir R are provided during the pressure stroke of the shock-absorbing device 100. This enables improved tuning performance for the pressure stroke and optimal implementation of ride comfort in the vehicle.

[0097] During the tensile stroke of the shock-absorbing device 100, part of the fluid in the tensile chamber C1 can flow through the piston valve 131 of the piston arrangement 130 into the pressure chamber C2.

[0098] Furthermore, during the tensile stroke of the shock-absorbing device 100, another portion of the fluid in the tensile chamber C1 can be pressurized by the piston valve 131 and flow from the tensile chamber C1 into the second intermediate chamber C4. The fluid introduced into the second intermediate chamber C4 can then flow into the pressure chamber C2 via the third flow path 114.

[0099] More precisely, the fluid introduced from the second intermediate chamber C4 into the third flow path 114 through the inlet 114a of the third flow path 114, which is in fluid communication with the first stage 117, can flow via the third-1 section 114b, the third valve 190 and the third-2 section 114c of the third flow path 114 to the first-1 section 112b of the first flow path 112 and then flow through the penetrating part 121 into the pressure chamber C2.

[0100] At this point, the fluid flow from the third-1 section 114b to the third-2 section 114c can be controlled by the third valve 190. This means that the damping force during the pull stroke can be adjusted by controlling the third valve 190.

[0101] According to the above configuration, the shock-absorbing device, according to one aspect of the present disclosure, improves the tuning performance of the pressure stroke by providing an additional parallel flow path during the pressure stroke.

[0102] The beneficial effects of the present disclosure are not limited to the effects described above and should be understood to include all effects that can be derived from the configuration of the disclosure described in the detailed description or claims of the present disclosure.

[0103] It should be understood that the effects of the present disclosure are not limited to the effects described above and that they include all effects that can be derived from a configuration of the invention described in detailed descriptions or claims of the present disclosure.

[0104] Even though embodiments of the present disclosure have been described, the concept of the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments set forth in the description. A person skilled in the art who understands the concept of the present disclosure can easily propose other embodiments by supplementing, modifying, removing, or adding components within the scope of this concept, but these embodiments also fall within the scope of the concept of the present disclosure. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] KR 10-2024-0134191

[0001]

Claims

[1] Shock-absorbing device (100), comprising: a block (110) with a through hole (111a) that vertically penetrates the block (110), and a first flow path (112), a second flow path (113) and a third flow path (114); a first tube (120) extending vertically through the through-hole (111a) and having a penetrating part (121) that penetrates an inner circumferential surface and an outer circumferential surface of the first tube (120), so that an interior of the first tube is in fluid communication with the first flow path (112); a piston assembly (130) arranged and configured within the first tube (120) to perform a compression stroke or a compression stroke, the piston assembly (130) comprising: a piston valve (131) dividing the first tube (120) into a compression chamber (C1) on the top and a compression chamber (C2) on the bottom, and a piston rod (132) connected to the piston valve (131); a second tube (140) arranged to surround a part of the first tube (120) extending below the block (110) and forming a first intermediate chamber (C3) between the second tube (140) and the first tube (120), the first intermediate chamber (C3) providing a fluid connection between the pressure chamber (C2) and the second flow path (113); a first valve (170) arranged at a lower end of the first tube (120), wherein the first valve (170) separates the pressure chamber (C2) and the first intermediate chamber (C3) and allows the fluid in the pressure chamber (C2) to flow into the first intermediate chamber (C3); a third tube (150) arranged to surround a portion of the first tube (120) extending above the block (110), and forming a second intermediate chamber (C4) between the third tube (150) and the first tube (120), the second intermediate chamber (C4) providing a fluid connection between the draft chamber (C1) and the third flow path (114); and a reservoir (R) that is in fluid communication with the first flow path (112) and the second flow path (113). [2] Device according to claim 1, wherein during a pressure stroke of the piston arrangement (130) a fluid in the pressure chamber (C2) through the piston valve (131) into the draw chamber (C1), or to the reservoir (R) through the penetrating part (121) and the first flow path (112), or to the reservoir (R) through the first intermediate chamber (C3) and the second flow path (113) flows. [3] Device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a fourth tube (160) arranged to surround the third tube (150), wherein the reservoir (R) is formed in a space between an outer circumferential surface of the third tube (150) and an inner circumferential surface of the fourth tube (160). [4] Device according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a second valve (180) arranged between the first flow path (112) and the reservoir (R), wherein the second valve (180) controls the fluid flow from the first flow path (112) to the reservoir (R). [5] Device according to claim 4, wherein the second valve (180) is configured as an electronically controlled valve. [6] Device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the third flow path (114) is in fluid communication with the pressure chamber (C2), and wherein the device further comprises a third valve (190) which is arranged between the third flow path (114) and the pressure chamber (C2), wherein the third valve (190) controls the fluid flow from the third flow path (114) to the pressure chamber (C2). [7] Device according to claim 6, wherein the third valve (190) is configured as an electronically controlled valve. [8] Device according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the second valve (180) and the third valve (190) are arranged side by side and in a horizontal direction. [9] Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein an inlet (112a) of the first flow path (112) is arranged on a part of an inner wall of the through-hole (111a) of the block (110), wherein the part is aligned with the penetrating part (121) of the first tube (120). [10] Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the block (110) further comprises a first groove (115) and a second groove (116) formed along a circumferential direction on a top and a bottom of a part of an inner wall of the through-hole (111a) which is aligned with the penetrating part (121) of the first tube (120), and the device further comprises: a first sealing element (S1) arranged in the first groove (115) to seal between the inner wall of the through-hole (111a) and an outer circumferential surface of the first tube (120); and a second sealing element (S2) which is arranged in the second groove (116) to seal between the inner wall of the through-hole (111a) and the outer circumferential surface of the first pipe (120). [11] Device according to claim 10, wherein the block (110) further comprises a first stage (117), wherein the first stage (117) is formed by a part of an inner wall of the through-hole (111a) which is recessed above the first groove (115) and supports a lower end of the third tube (150). [12] Device according to claim 11, wherein an inlet (114a) of the third flow path (114) is arranged to establish a fluid connection between the first stage (117) and the third flow path (114). [13] Device according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the block (110) further comprises a third groove (118) which is formed along a circumferential direction on the inner wall of the through-hole (111a) above the first step (117), and wherein the device further comprises a third sealing element (S3) which is arranged in the third groove (142) to seal between the inner wall of the through-hole and an outer circumferential surface of the third tube (140). [14] Device according to claim 3 or according to any one of claims 4 to 13, insofar as they depend on claim 3, wherein the block (110) further comprises a second stage (119), wherein the second stage (119) is formed by a part of an upper inner wall of the through-hole (111a) which is recessed in a radial direction outwards and supports a lower end of the fourth tube (160). [15] Shock-absorbing device (100), comprising: a block (110) with a through hole (111a) that vertically penetrates the block (110), and a first flow path (112), a second flow path (113) and a third flow path (114); a first tube (120) extending vertically through the through-hole (111a) and having a penetrating part (121) that penetrates an inner circumferential surface and an outer circumferential surface of the first tube (120), so that an interior of the first tube (120) is in fluid communication with the first flow path (112); a piston assembly (130) arranged and configured within the first tube (120) to perform a compression stroke or a compression stroke, the piston assembly (130) comprising: a piston valve (131) dividing the first tube (120) into a compression chamber (C1) on the top and a compression chamber (C2) on the bottom, and a piston rod (132) connected to the piston valve (131); a second tube (140) arranged to surround a part of the first tube (120) extending below the block (110) and forming a first intermediate chamber (C3) between the second tube (140) and the first tube (120), the first intermediate chamber (C3) providing a fluid connection between the pressure chamber (C2) and the second flow path (113); a first valve (170) arranged at a lower end of the first tube (120), wherein the first valve (170) separates the pressure chamber (C2) and the first intermediate chamber (C3) and allows the fluid in the pressure chamber (C2) to flow into the first intermediate chamber (C3); a third tube (150) arranged to surround a part of the first tube (120) extending above the block (110) and forming a second intermediate chamber (C4) between the third tube (150) and the first tube (120), the second intermediate chamber (C4) providing a fluid connection between the draft chamber (C1) and the third flow path (114); a reservoir (R) that is in fluid communication with the first flow path (112) and the second flow path (113); and a second valve (180) arranged between the first flow path (112) and the reservoir (R), wherein the second valve (180) is electronically controlled and is configured to control the fluid flow from the first flow path (112) to the reservoir (R) during a pressure stroke of the piston arrangement (130). [16] Device according to claim 15, wherein a damping force is set during a pressure stroke of the piston valve (131) depending on an opening degree of the second valve (180). [17] Device according to claim 15 or 16, wherein during a pressure stroke of the piston arrangement (130) a fluid in the pressure chamber (C2) via the first flow path (112) to the reservoir (R), or through the first intermediate chamber (C3) and the second flow path (113) to the reservoir (R), or flows through the piston valve (131) into the draw chamber (C1). [18] Device according to any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the third flow path (114) is in fluid communication with the pressure chamber (C2), and wherein the device further comprises a third valve (190) which is arranged between the third flow path (114) and the pressure chamber (C2), wherein the third valve (190) is electronically controlled and is configured to control the fluid flow from the third flow path (114) to the pressure chamber (C2). [19] Device according to one of claims 15 to 18, wherein an inlet of the first flow path (112) is arranged on a part of an inner wall of the through-hole (111a) of the block (110), wherein the part is aligned with the penetrating part (121) of the first tube (120). [20] Device according to any one of claims 15 to 19, wherein the block (110) further comprises a first groove (115) and a second groove (116) formed along a circumferential direction on a top and a bottom of a part of an inner wall of the through-hole (111a) which is aligned with the penetrating part (121) of the first tube (120), and the device further comprises: a first sealing element (S1) arranged in the first groove (115) to seal between the inner wall of the through-hole (111a) and an outer circumferential surface of the first tube (120); and a second sealing element (S2) which is arranged in the second groove (116) to seal between the inner wall of the through-hole (111a) and the outer circumferential surface of the first pipe (120).

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