Shock absorber solenoid valve with hydraulic load adjusting means

The axially fitted solenoid valve in the shock absorber provides infinite damping laws and enhanced force without hydraulic amplification, addressing compactness and cost issues in existing designs.

JP2026508283APending Publication Date: 2026-03-10KYB EUROPE GMBH SUCURSAL EN NAVARRA
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-02-08
Publication Date
2026-03-10

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing shock absorbers face challenges in achieving compactness, cost-effectiveness, and the ability to provide infinite damping laws between maximum and minimum values, while avoiding the need for hydraulic load amplification mechanisms and overcoming space constraints imposed by miniature solenoid valves.

Method used

A solenoid valve is axially fitted to the shock absorber body, allowing for infinite control of damping laws through a movable part regulated by a combination of electronic means and a resilient element, eliminating the need for lateral connections and hydraulic amplification, and incorporating a low-friction bushing to guide the rod.

Benefits of technology

The solution enables a compact, easy-to-manufacture shock absorber with greater force capability and unlimited damping laws, eliminating the need for hydraulic amplification and simplifying assembly by utilizing available space efficiently.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The present invention relates to a solenoid valve (1) that can be axially and gas-tightly fitted to a first end of a body (2) of a shock absorber (9) to adjust the hydraulic load of the shock absorber (9) and guide the movement of the rod (3) in the longitudinal direction. The solenoid valve comprises a movable part (13) that is movable between an open fluid-flow position and another closed fluid-flow position (8), a regulating chamber (14) that generates a pressure to move the movable part (13) to open, and an elastic element (15) that generates a closing force. The solenoid valve (1) comprises electronic means for applying a force, preferably by magnetic force, to the movable part (13) to move it in the direction of movement. The present invention also comprises a shock absorber (9) with hydraulic load adjusting means, comprising a solenoid valve (1) gas-tightly fitted to the first end of the body (2) of the shock absorber (9) as described above.
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Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The object of the invention consists in a solenoid valve for a shock absorber, in particular adapted to regulate the load so that the damping load in the hydraulic system is determined by the control current supplied to the solenoid valve and the speed of extension and retraction of the suspension.

[0002] The present invention is in the field of industry involving hydraulic systems with variable damping loads, and in particular variable load shock absorbers specially designed for vehicles. [Background technology]

[0003] Shock absorbers are devices intended to reduce suspension oscillations, such as those that occur when a vehicle travels over rough or steep roads, until the vehicle returns to an equilibrium position by dissipating kinetic energy.

[0004] Shock absorbers have a decisive influence on both the stability and comfort of a vehicle. In fact, adjusting the hydraulic loads generated by the shock absorbers represents a compromise between both stability and comfort. -Stability: The vehicle is dynamically controlled at low suspension extension / retraction speeds. This operating range requires high levels of damping, i.e. high hydraulic loads. Comfort: This is mainly related to the medium and high speed of the suspension. Thus, a higher level of comfort in a vehicle is affected by a reduced level of damping (i.e. a lower hydraulic load), which allows to decouple the wheel movement from the chassis vibrations.

[0005] It is therefore desirable for the shock absorber to be able to adjust its load level to suit the different characteristics of the oscillations that must be damped. - Adaptation of damping according to the suspension oscillation speed: Commercially available shock absorbers are usually internally configured to generate a higher damping coefficient at low speeds than at medium and high speeds. The function relating the shock absorber load to its oscillation speed is a key characteristic of the shock absorber, a curve that acts to optimize the compromise between stability and comfort. - Adaptation of damping according to control current: Shock absorbers are available on the market that can adapt the hydraulic load applied in both extension and compression according to the control current supplied by a control device such as a switchboard. This control constantly determines the optimum hydraulic load of the shock absorber based on several parameters and sends the appropriate set current to the shock absorber. In this way, the compromise between vehicle comfort and stability is significantly improved, providing both comfortable operation and high hydraulic loads when the vehicle's stability situation requires it.

[0006] Electronically controlled shock absorbers available on the market today typically consist of a solenoid valve that is actuated by a solenoid or coil. This valve is usually located on one side of the shock absorber. However, this arrangement complicates the manufacture of the shock absorber housing and its internal components that circulate oil through the valve.

[0007] In order to simplify the construction of shock absorbers, some designs have been developed to incorporate the solenoid valve within the shock absorber body, eliminating the need for an external connection. Thus, designs have been devised to incorporate the actuator into the shock absorber piston itself. This typically requires the power cable to be routed through the rod, which requires the rod to be hollow (weakening its structural capacity). Furthermore, the wired connection of the solenoid valve through the rod typically makes it difficult to assemble the shock absorber to the rest of the machine in which it is installed.

[0008] Other designs, such as the one developed in this invention, attempt to solve the same problem by including a solenoid valve in the guide area of ​​the shock absorber, thereby eliminating the need to route the cable through the rod and providing more available space to include the necessary structural elements.

[0009] To achieve full shock absorber operation, it is desirable to be able to adjust the load in both extension and compression. Therefore, if only one solenoid valve is available for this purpose, the shock absorber may be equipped with valve adjustment means on both the piston and valve support to force oil through the solenoid valve when the shock absorber is in both extension and compression motion.

[0010] The solenoid valve allows this flow to be impeded to some extent, effectively adjusting the hydraulic load on the aforementioned extension and compression strokes.

[0011] After passing through the solenoid valve, the fluid (usually oil) from the shock absorber, whether electronically controlled or not, passes to a reserve chamber, similar to the operation of any "twin-tube" shock absorber.

[0012] The construction of the solenoid valve can vary from design to design and determines the hydraulic force characteristics that the shock absorber can exert.

[0013] Likewise, this design affects the manufacturing of the product and therefore has a large impact on the final cost of the shock absorber.

[0014] The shock absorber configuration described in Patent No. 0626546 can generate two damping laws: high load and low load. Controlled by a solenoid, hydraulic passages in the guide area are opened and closed, through which damping fluid flows. These passages are large enough to provide low hydraulic loads. However, when these passages are closed by the solenoid, oil cannot pass through them, meaning it must pass through the piston during extension or the valve support during compression. Both components have multiple valves adjusted to provide the desired high hydraulic load. Thus, the shock absorber offers two operating modes: one for comfort at low loads and one for stability at high loads. However, it is not possible to obtain intermediate damping laws that may be desired at a given time.

[0015] An improvement on such devices is found in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014262654 A1, which discloses miniature solenoid valves located in the guide area around the rod. Each solenoid can open or close a hydraulic flow path for the fluid. The more flow paths that are open, the greater the total area of ​​the fluid flow path and, therefore, the lower the shock absorber force. However, this design has the disadvantage of only being able to adjust each hydraulic flow path to a single level: "open" and / or "closed." Therefore, the shock absorber will have as many damping laws as the number of solenoid valves or the total flow paths that can be achieved by combining these areas. If the optimal damping law does not match any of the available laws, it cannot be achieved.

[0016] Similarly, the introduction of more of these miniature solenoid valves imposes physical space constraints on the shock absorber body, limiting the number of damping laws that can be achieved by the available space. The fact that these are miniature solenoid valves also limits the force that can be exerted to counteract pressures attempting to open or close them.

[0017] This constraint forces the use of pressure application areas and small oil flow areas that limit either the range or minimum damping load that can be obtained for a given speed, thus creating a penalty in achieving optimum damping. It also leads to designs that are prone to hydraulic load distribution and increase manufacturing complexity due to the need to manufacture such small flow passages.

[0018] Other designs exist, such as that described in Spanish Patent No. 2046898T3, which uses a rotary solenoid actuator to open and close multiple hydraulic channels arranged concentrically around a rod. However, this design also faces the same problem as the existing designs: it is possible to provide "N" damping laws by opening and closing multiple "N" independent channels.

[0019] Other commercially available designs involve shock absorbers that provide infinite adjustment of hydraulic load. One example is the device described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20220128115A1, which provides infinite damping between a maximum and minimum value. This device consists of a solenoid valve connected to the side of the shock absorber. This solenoid valve adjusts the hydraulic mechanism. However, this configuration has several problems: -The lateral location of the solenoid valve reduces the compactness of the system, which is a drawback when integrating the shock absorber into the suspension assembly, and this limits the size of the solenoid that can be used. -The size of the solenoid in a solenoid valve limits its force, so a hydraulic amplification mechanism is required to adjust the load on the shock absorber. This mechanism opposes the force of the solenoid and the force due to the pressure over a very small area, so the force generated by the pressure is also small and can be handled by the solenoid. This pressure adjustment is then transmitted to a larger area, amplifying the load on the shock absorber. This amplification mechanism requires high precision components that are difficult to manufacture and install. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0020] The solenoid valve for a shock absorber of the present invention aims to offer important advantages in terms of the compactness of the components involved, at a lower cost than the systems described in the background art. This solenoid valve can provide infinite control with an unlimited number of damping laws between maximum and minimum values, in other words, it is not limited to a specific number of operating curves as in the previously described shock absorbers. [Effects of the Invention]

[0021] The space utilization of the system described in this application makes it possible to achieve an electromagnetic system capable of providing greater force than systems incorporating side valves, such as those described in the background art. Therefore, it is possible to omit the hydraulic load amplification stage mentioned in shock absorbers existing in the field. In this way, a system that is simple, compact, and easy to manufacture can be obtained. The absence of a load amplification stage differs from existing systems that provide an unlimited number of damping laws. Other systems exist that do not require such an amplification stage but have a limited number of damping laws. [Means for solving the problem]

[0022] The present invention relates to a solenoid valve specially configured for use in shock absorbers with hydraulic load modulating means.

[0023] Thus, the solenoid valve is axially fitted to the first end of the shock absorber body in an airtight or sealed manner and is configured to adjust the hydraulic load of the fluid flowing inside the shock absorber.

[0024] The term "body of the shock absorber" is to be understood as its central tubular part, which may comprise one or more tubes through which a damping fluid flows and which is under pressure, the fluid being preferably oil since it is an incompressible fluid suitable for the described application.

[0025] The solenoid valve has a longitudinal bore adapted to guide and seal a rod provided in the shock absorber in its longitudinal movement, the rod and the bore being matched, in other words the rod has a smaller cross section than the longitudinal bore and can move longitudinally inside the longitudinal bore of the solenoid valve due to a certain clearance between the two parts.

[0026] In this way, the solenoid valve performs the two aforementioned functions of regulating the fluid flow path through the shock absorber and compactly guiding and retaining the rod movement, restricting lateral movement and allowing only axial movement, thereby avoiding the incorporation of elements in a lateral arrangement that would make it difficult to mount the shock absorber on the machine or device being damped, such as a vehicle.

[0027] To achieve this goal, solenoid valves: a movable part that is preferably longitudinally movable between a closed end position and an open end position; - an adjustment chamber configured to receive / discharge fluid from the body of the shock absorber; and a resilient element configured to move the movable part in a direction of movement of the movable part from its open end position towards its closed end position; Equipped with Here, the adjusting chamber is configured to increase its internal pressure when it receives fluid from the shock absorber body and transmit this pressure to the movable part, and the movable part is configured to receive a specific pressure from the adjusting chamber when the internal pressure increases and move from the closed end position to the open end position, and therefore the adjusting chamber is configured to release fluid when the movable part moves from the closed end position to the open end position.

[0028] As noted above, the movable part preferably moves longitudinally, i.e., in the same direction as the rod, to allow fluid to pass through the solenoid valve and act as a gate for fluid flow through the solenoid valve. Nevertheless, the elements of the solenoid valve can be arranged so that their movement is not longitudinal, but rather lateral, rotational, or a combination thereof, depending on the mechanism of the elements that make up the device. In other words, the direction of movement of the movable part need not be the same as that of the rod.

[0029] In addition to the above components, the solenoid valve comprises electronic means adapted to exert a force on the moving part in order to move it in the direction of actuation, in the same direction as that exerted by the elastic element. In other words, the electronic means generate an actuation load on the moving part in addition to the load of the elastic element. Preferably, this load is a magnetic force, generated by inputting a control current, which can be adjusted to generate a greater or lesser thrust on the moving part depending on the hydraulic load requirements of the shock absorber.

[0030] This is the most basic configuration of a solenoid valve in which the moving part directly closes the regulating chamber, with a resilient element biasing the moving part towards the closed position and electronic means similarly generating a load to move the moving part.

[0031] The stiffness of the elastic element can be configured in relation to its deformation state so that it can provide a specific defined hydraulic behavior for the shock absorber based on the configuration of its properties.

[0032] Since the attractive force generated by the electronic means may decrease as the moving part slides, this elastic element can be used to compensate for the decrease in the force generated by the electronic means, preferably magnetic force. Thus, the resultant force acting on the moving part is the sum of the force experienced by the moving part by the electronic means and the force experienced by the elastic element, making it possible to obtain the desired properties such as stiffness and preload in both means to achieve proper hydraulic operation of the shock absorber.

[0033] The infinitely variable control of the hydraulic load is achieved by electronic means, which differs from the stepped control described in the background art. Furthermore, since the aforementioned means are located in the solenoid valve, and the valve can be axially fitted to the first end of the shock absorber body in a gas-tight or sealed manner, it is possible to advantageously use the available space in the solenoid valve, and as a result it is possible to obtain a load by electronic means, preferably magnetic, that is large enough that an amplification stage is not required.

[0034] The hydraulic pressure reaching the adjusting chamber from the shock absorber body (when the solenoid valve is connected to the body and the rod is compressed or extended) is applied to the part of the moving part being controlled. This pressure creates a force that tends to move the moving part so that oil can escape from the adjusting chamber and relieve the hydraulic pressure. In other words, the movement of the moving part opens the solenoid valve, which allows fluid to escape from the adjusting chamber, changing the load on the shock absorber.

[0035] The opening pressure of the solenoid valve is controlled by adjusting the force generated by electronic means on the moving part which throttles and closes the flow path of oil from the regulating chamber. This force, preferably a magnetic force, is variable based on a control current supplied to the electronic means.

[0036] In one embodiment, the movable part comprises one or more hydraulic ducts or channels configured to provide a flow path for the fluid released by the adjustment chamber, through the expansion chamber of the shock absorber body towards the reserve chamber, and allowing the fluid that reaches the adjustment chamber to return to the hydraulic circuit provided in the shock absorber body.

[0037] Furthermore, the solenoid valve may have a controlled leak passage connecting the regulating chamber with a low pressure area (expansion chamber) of the body, which may be desirable to have a specific hydraulic behavior at a specific operating speed of the rod. Preferably, the controlled leak passage is included in the main valve of the solenoid valve.

[0038] In one embodiment, the solenoid valve includes a low-friction bushing disposed within the solenoid valve that is adaptable to provide clearance for the shock absorber rod, the low-friction bushing configured to guide longitudinal movement of the rod, and the bushing is adapted to support the rod when it is subjected to lateral forces, and is preferably adapted relative to other components of the solenoid valve to prevent movement in either direction.

[0039] It is also possible to provide controlled lubrication channels to ensure precise lubrication of the moving elements usually provided in the solenoid valve, as well as the discharge of any gas that may flow in this area towards the expansion chamber of the shock absorber body.

[0040] In one embodiment, the solenoid valve includes a hydraulic seal disposed within the solenoid valve that is adaptable to the shock absorber rod and configured to hermetically seal the shock absorber and prevent oil spillage or loss to the outside. The hydraulic sealing function for the shock absorber rod is typically performed by a retainer in commercially available shock absorbers.

[0041] In one embodiment, the solenoid valve is configured to be assembled to the longitudinal inner tube of the damping body and comprises a connecting bushing adapted to provide clearance for the rod of the shock absorber, the adaptation providing clearance between the connecting bushing and the rod comprising a duct for fluid communication from the inner tube of the solenoid valve to the adjusting chamber, thereby allowing fluid to move to the adjusting chamber. In view of this description, it will be understood that the rod moves longitudinally in the inner tube and the tube contains the shock absorber fluid therein, and therefore, as the rod moves longitudinally, some of the fluid in the inner tube passes through the adjusting chamber of the solenoid valve.

[0042] In one embodiment, the solenoid valve comprises a sealing member arranged between the moving part and the connecting bushing and configured to prevent fluid leakage from the regulating chamber, which can be a circular gasket that fits into a slot in the bushing and / or the moving part.

[0043] In one embodiment, the solenoid valve comprises a disc that is adaptable to provide clearance for the rod of the shock absorber, the disc being assembled to the connecting bush, and the disc acting as a stop for the moving part in the closed end position, in other words, the disc prevents movement of the moving part beyond the closed end position, regardless of the load applied by the electronic means and the elastic element.

[0044] In one embodiment, the adjusting chamber has an annular geometry concentric with the rod of the shock absorber to which the solenoid valve can be connected. The annular geometry of the adjusting chamber is preferably defined by the moving part, the connecting bush and the disc. In other embodiments, the adjusting chamber can have a different geometry. For example, a suitable geometry would be the geometry of a hole or window provided in the disc part in addition to or instead of the annular geometry.

[0045] The moving part is under a higher pressure in the area adjacent to the adjustment chamber than in the rest of its surroundings bordering the low pressure zone, and so a pressure differential acts on the moving part through this adjustment chamber, because in one embodiment where the solenoid valve is connected to the body of the shock absorber, the moving part is positioned to define the expansion chamber of the shock absorber in an area or region opposite that in contact with the adjustment chamber.

[0046] In one embodiment, the solenoid valve comprises a main valve arranged adjacent to the regulating chamber and configured to transmit a force generated by the pressure in the regulating chamber to the movable part, the main valve comprising an adjustable part that is subjected to the pressure in the regulating chamber.

[0047] The main valve can be configured with a diameter, thickness, pressure application area, and support points, and can also be configured to prevent the moving part from being directly pushed by the oil flow, to avoid sudden openings and vibrations in the system, and the main valve has a diameter that covers the entire moving part that is subjected to the pressure of the regulating chamber.

[0048] The addition of a main valve to the solenoid valve changes the balance of forces in the system, which can be used in an advantageous configuration. The application of the magnetic force generated by electronic means to the main valve via the moving part is performed with a predetermined controlled diameter, thereby creating a lever arm that opposes the force generated by the pressure. By using this lever arm, a larger shock absorber load range can be obtained for a given magnetic force compared to systems that apply hydraulic pressure directly to the moving part from the adjustment chamber.

[0049] In this way, the main valve can be positioned to maximize the force of the moving part by utilizing its lever arm, or to prevent the moving part from being pushed by the fluid flow more than desired, or to perform both functions simultaneously.

[0050] Similarly, the main valve can be configured with a controlled pre-strain if desired, either for minimum load or closure quality.

[0051] In one embodiment, the electronic means comprises a coil configured to generate a magnetomotive force that creates a magnetic flux when a control current is input to the coil, the magnetic flux being configured to generate a load or force that causes the movable part to move in a direction from an open position to a closed position, preferably in a longitudinal direction; and the movable part comprises a ferromagnetic material. In this way, it is possible to precisely control the opening of the solenoid valve, and therefore the load of the shock absorber to which it is connected.

[0052] In a more particular embodiment, the solenoid valve comprises a rod guide having a bore (possibly with a second, larger cross section at the end of the bore) with a cross section slightly larger than the cross section of the shock absorber rod to which the solenoid valve is connectable, where the bore is concentric with the longitudinal path of the rod when the solenoid valve is connected to the shock absorber body. Naturally, the fit between the rod and the bore is one of play or clearance between the two, which allows longitudinal movement. Preferably, both the rod and the bore in the rod guide are cylindrical.

[0053] The rod guide function is performed by a rod guide and a low friction bushing that are suitably positioned within the solenoid valve, with both elements working together to guide and support the rod when subjected to lateral forces.

[0054] In one embodiment, the rod guide, the moving part, and the disk each comprise a ferromagnetic material, and the solenoid valve comprises a functional magnetic circuit comprising an assembly consisting of a coil, the rod guide, the moving part, and the disk, which is configured to apply a force to the moving part and control its movement in the vertical direction, preferably from bottom to top, between a closed end position and an open end position. It is clear that the magnetic circuit may comprise other structural elements of the system included in the solenoid valve. This embodiment is not incompatible with any of the above. The path of magnetic flux between the disk and the moving part creates an attractive magnetic force between both parts to close and / or restrict the oil flow path in the regulating chamber.

[0055] When the main valve is arranged in the described embodiment, the magnetic force generated in the moving part is applied to the main valve since it is the upper support of the moving part, this force can be applied to the outer diameter of the valve, but also to any other diameter depending on its configuration.

[0056] When the force generated by the functional magnetic circuit, together with the force generated by the elastic element, is greater than the force that opens the solenoid valve, generated by the pressure in the regulating chamber applied against the corresponding surface, the solenoid valve is closed. Thus, fluid (oil) does not flow through the solenoid valve, but is forced through a controlled leak path formed by the piston of the rod, the solenoid valve, or both, when the rod moves longitudinally.

[0057] In this way, the solenoid valve can be configured so that at low longitudinal speeds of movement of the rod in extension or compression, the pressure generated in the regulating chamber is lower than the opening pressure of the solenoid valve. This type of control at low rod speeds is usually desired in automotive suspensions, as it allows for better control of the vehicle's dynamic characteristics.

[0058] For faster movement speeds of the rod, the pressure in the regulating chamber becomes higher and is sufficient to reach the opening pressure of the solenoid valve, in other words, the pressure present in the regulating chamber is high enough to overcome the force that closes the moving part in the regulating chamber.

[0059] The opening pressure of the solenoid valve can be adjusted by the magnetic force generated by the moving part, thereby controlling the pressure level at which fluid begins to flow through the open solenoid valve, and therefore the pressure in the inner tube of the shock absorber body. This pressure, applied to the corresponding surface of the rod piston, creates the damping force.

[0060] In one embodiment, the elastic element has two or more different elastic stages, a first low stiffness elastic stage and a second high stiffness elastic stage. In this way, the stiffness may be low for small openings of the moving part, but the stiffness increases for larger openings. Therefore, when the system has a large opening, a larger force is applied to close the solenoid valve, which may be desirable to prevent vibrations from occurring due to the constant operating speed of the shock absorber resulting in a large opening of the solenoid valve.

[0061] In one embodiment, the resilient element comprises an element selected from a disc valve, multiple stacked disc valves, helical springs, wave springs, disc springs, combinations thereof, or any other element capable of performing the function of a resilient element. Through these embodiments, variable stiffness can be achieved that is compatible with the previously described embodiments. To have variable stiffness, it is also possible to limit the opening of the disc valve by providing an additional valve that abuts against it as the system opens.

[0062] In one embodiment, the solenoid valve comprises a modular element comprising a cover connected to an electronic means such as a coil, where the modular element can be assembled to the rest of the assembled components included in the solenoid valve by a removable mechanical joint. This modular embodiment allows the shock absorber to be manufactured conventionally while remaining closed and sealed, and the cover with the coil (or solenoid) inserted.

[0063] In one embodiment, the modular element comprises a wired connection connected to an electronic means, wherein the wired connection is configured to be electronically connected to a control means of the solenoid valve. This configuration simplifies the manufacture of the solenoid valve, thus eliminating the need to handle connecting cables required for control on the manufacturing line. Furthermore, in this configuration, the coil (or solenoid) is not exposed to high-pressure, high-temperature fluids, and therefore the gas-tightness requirements for the coil are significantly lower, making it simpler and cheaper.

[0064] The present invention also includes a shock absorber comprising a hydraulic load adjusting means comprising a solenoid valve as described in any of the previous embodiments, hermetically fitted to a first end of a body provided in the shock absorber, wherein the shock absorber comprises a rod movable longitudinally within the body, the rod passing through a longitudinal bore in the solenoid valve.

[0065] In one embodiment of the shock absorber, the rod is connected to a lower end portion of the rod and is positioned within the body and includes a piston subassembly that moves longitudinally with the rod, wherein the piston subassembly includes one or more assembled piston valves having configurable stiffness and pre-strain.

[0066] The piston subassembly can be similar to that used in the previously described state-of-the-art shock absorbers. This subassembly can incorporate multiple piston valves that define characteristic motions with configurable stiffness and pre-strain. A controlled fixed leak path may or may not be incorporated by these piston valves. This configuration is oriented to force fluid (preferably oil) through the solenoid valve upon rod extension.

[0067] In one embodiment of the shock absorber, the body of the shock absorber comprises: an inner tube assembled to a solenoid valve by an upper end portion of the inner tube, the inner tube being configured to accommodate a rod in longitudinal movement; and - an outer tube, the outer tube being assembled to a solenoid valve by an upper end portion of the outer tube, and an inner tube being disposed therein; Equipped with.

[0068] Preferably, both tubes have a cylindrical shape and are arranged concentrically.

[0069] The inner tube includes a lower chamber located between a lower end portion of the inner tube and the rod piston subassembly; and an upper chamber located between the rod piston subassembly and the solenoid valve.

[0070] Similarly, the shock absorber includes a reserve chamber and an expansion chamber located between the inner tube and the outer tube, both chambers being in contact with each other, the expansion chamber containing air therein and the reserve chamber containing fluid, and thus the solenoid valve is shown to be configured to restrict the passage of fluid through the shock absorber between the chamber in the inner tube and the chamber in the outer tube.

[0071] In one embodiment, the shock absorber includes an intermediate tube positioned between the inner tube and the outer tube and configured to direct shock absorber fluid from the solenoid valve to a lower portion of the reserve chamber.

[0072] The use of this third tube is appropriate to prevent undesirable mixing of gas and oil or foaming that may occur in the reserve chamber when the chamber receives fluid from the solenoid valve, especially at high speeds of rod movement.

[0073] In one embodiment, the shock absorber includes a valve support subassembly hermetically fitted to a second end of the shock absorber body (opposite the end to which the solenoid valve is fitted), wherein the valve support subassembly includes one or more prefabricated valves having configurable stiffness and pre-strain.

[0074] The valve support subassembly, like the piston subassembly, can be similar to those described in the state of the art. Thus, the valve support subassembly can have multiple support valves that define its characteristic operation, and the support valves may or may not incorporate a controlled fixed leak passage to have configurable stiffness and pre-strain. As with the piston, this configuration can be oriented so that upon compression of the rod, fluid (oil) is forced through the solenoid valve.

[0075] In one embodiment, the shock absorber includes an auxiliary solenoid valve sealingly fitted to a second end of a body provided on the shock absorber.

[0076] The operation and components of this auxiliary solenoid valve would be the same as the solenoid valve described in the previous embodiment.

[0077] In this embodiment, the shock absorber loads in extension and retraction are controlled independently, allowing a better compromise between comfort and vehicle dynamic behavior to be achieved.

[0078] In order to supplement the following description and to aid in a better understanding of the mechanism of the present invention, a set of drawings are attached hereto, in which the most characteristic details of the invention are shown by way of illustration and not by way of limitation. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0079] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1A shows an elevational view in half section of a shock absorber in its simplest configuration with a solenoid valve connected to a first end of the shock absorber body, a rod piston subassembly positioned longitudinally midway within the inner tube, and a valve support subassembly connected to a second end of the body by the lower end portions of the inner tube and outer tube. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B shows a view similar to that shown in FIG. 1A, in which the shock absorber includes two solenoid valves, with an auxiliary solenoid valve connected to the second end of the body replacing the valve support subassembly of FIG. 1A. [Figure 1C] FIG. 1C shows a detailed view of the solenoid valve of FIG. 1A clearly showing each of the components of the solenoid valve and their arrangement. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2A shows the same view of the shock absorber shown in FIG. 1A, but with the solenoid valve in the open state, i.e., with the movable part of the shock absorber moving vertically from the closed end position, the flow of fluid in the shock absorber can be observed during the rod extension movement. [Figure 2B]FIG. 2B shows the same view of the shock absorber shown in FIG. 1A, but with the solenoid valve in the open state, i.e., with the movable part of the shock absorber body moving vertically from the closed end position, the fluid flow in the shock absorber can be observed during the compression of the rod. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 shows a detailed view of the solenoid valve shown in FIG. 1C, with a sealing member arranged between the moving part and the connecting bush. [Figure 4A] FIG. 4A shows a detailed view of the solenoid valve shown in FIG. 1C with the main valve between the moving part and the regulating chamber and with the solenoid valve closed, i.e. the moving part in the closed end position. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B shows a detailed view of the solenoid valve shown in FIG. 1C with the main valve and the solenoid valve open, i.e. the moving part has moved from the closed position to the open position, and the main valve is exerting a lever effect due to the pressure load generated in the regulating chamber. [Figure 4C] FIG. 4C shows a detailed view of the solenoid valve shown in FIG. 4A, i.e., here the solenoid valve is closed, the main valve has a large outer diameter, and the main valve prevents direct contact between the moving part and the oil exiting the regulating chamber when the moving part moves from the closed end position. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 shows a detailed view of the solenoid valve shown in FIG. 1C, where the elastic element has variable stiffness due to the inclusion of a valve stack with limited valve travel. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 shows the same view of the shock absorber shown in FIG. 1A, with an intermediate tube between the inner and outer tubes, which makes it possible to direct the shock absorber fluid from the regulating chamber of the solenoid valve to the lower part of the reserve chamber. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 shows a diagram of a shock absorber in which the modular element comprising the cover with the electronic means comprising the coil is partially assembled to the rest of the components of the solenoid valve, demonstrating its modularity. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows a view of a shock absorber similar to that shown in Figure 7, where the modular element is fully inserted relative to the rest of the components of the solenoid valve, but instead of a wired connection it has a connector fixed to the cover and connected to the coil of the electronic means. [Figure 9A] 9A shows a diagram relating the hydraulic load (CH) of the shock absorber on the Y axis to the speed of movement (VDV) of the rod on the X axis. The positive part of the hydraulic load (CH) (Y axis) shows the different damping loads for the extension (E) of the rod, while the negative part shows the load for the compression (C), making it possible to have an infinite load or damping law due to the infinite different levels of force that can be applied to the moving part in movements made possible by the effect of the coil of the electronic element. [Figure 9B] Figure 9B shows a diagram representing the longitudinal movement (D) of the moving part on the X axis and the force (F) applied to this moving part on the Y axis, showing three lines: a curve showing how the magnetic force (FM) decreases as the moving part moves away from the electronic element, a straight line showing how the force of the elastic element (FEE) increases linearly as the moving part moves away from the closed end position, and a line showing the total force (FT) which is the sum of both lines. [Figure 9C] FIG. 9C shows a similar view to that shown in FIG. 9B, where the elastic element has two different elastic stages: a first, low stiffness elastic stage and a second, high stiffness elastic stage. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0080] FIG. 1A shows a shock absorber (9) that is the subject of the invention, comprising a body (2), a rod (3), and a solenoid valve (1) that is also the subject of the invention and that is hermetically fitted or assembled to a first end of the body (2).

[0081] This Figure 1A also shows that the body (2) of the shock absorber (9) comprises two tubes, both cylindrical and concentrically arranged: an outer tube (21) and an inner tube (20) positioned in the inner space of the outer tube (21).

[0082] The shock absorber 9 has a conventional shock absorber arrangement, such as existing ones available on the market, including a rod 3 that is vertically movable within a body 2, specifically an inner tube 20 (both the body 2 and the inner tube 20 are concentrically arranged), the rod 3 having a cylindrical rod shape with two ends, a lower end portion of the rod 3 connected to a piston subassembly 5 that is always inside the inner tube 20, while the other upper end is external and configured to be connected to an element to be damped, such as the vehicle structure.

[0083] The piston subassembly 5 of the rod 3 divides the interior space of the inner tube 20 into two portions, a lower chamber 22 and an upper chamber 23, such that as the rod 3 moves longitudinally relative to the body 2, fluid 8, preferably oil, contained within the chambers 22 and 23 can pass in a controlled manner from one side to the other through a piston valve 51 located in the piston subassembly 5, creating a pressure differential between the two sides of the piston and resulting in a specific load. In other words, the hydraulic load of the shock absorber is determined in part based on the allowed flow of fluid 8 through the piston valve 51.

[0084] This piston subassembly (5) is similar to those existing in the state of the art, where multiple piston valves (51) define its characteristic behavior, and may or may not incorporate a controlled fixed leak passage, and the assembled valve has a configurable stiffness and pre-strain.

[0085] Between the inner tube 20 and the outer tube 21, a reserve chamber 24 is formed, which is connected to the lower chamber 22 of the inner tube 20 by a valve support subassembly 6, which in one embodiment includes a support valve 61, and which contains a fluid 8. The valve support subassembly 6 is assembled or fitted in an airtight manner to both tubes 20, 21 at the second end of the body 2.

[0086] When the rod (3) moves longitudinally relative to the body (2) as an extension, the fluid (8) contained in the reserve chamber (24) is able to pass through the support valve (61) towards the interior of the lower chamber (22) in a regulated flow state.

[0087] This valve support subassembly (6) is similar to those already in the state of the art, as is the support valve (61) that defines its operation, which may or may not incorporate a controlled fixed leak passage, and the assembled support valve (61) has a configurable stiffness and pre-strain.

[0088] The piston and valve support configuration is oriented so that oil is forced through the solenoid valve (1) as the rod (3) extends and retracts, thereby reducing the hydraulic load (C H ) can be adapted at each moment.

[0089] Since the reserve chamber (24) is not completely filled with fluid (8), the upper portion of the space between the inner tube (20) and the outer tube (21) is occupied by an expansion chamber (25) configured to accommodate gas from inside the shock absorber (9).

[0090] The object of the present invention is to provide a shock absorber (9) with adjustable hydraulic load (C H), the shock absorber (9) is equipped with at least one solenoid valve (1), as shown in Figures 1A, 1B and 1C (detailed view).

[0091] These diagrams determine the desired fluid (8) flow between the upper chamber (23) and the reserve chamber (24) through the expansion chamber (25), thereby determining the hydraulic load (C) at each instant in time, taking into account the configuration of the remaining elements of the shock absorber (9), such as the support valve (61) and the piston valve (51). H 1 shows how the solenoid valve (1) is equipped with a wired connection (4) that allows a control current to be transmitted to the solenoid valve (1) from the outside, making it possible to precisely determine the

[0092] In addition to achieving regulated fluid 8 flow, solenoid valve 1, which is axially and gas-tightly connected to the first end of body 2 of shock absorber 9, also guides and seals the longitudinal movement of rod 3 relative to body 2, a feature not present in laterally connected solenoid valves. Similarly, by advantageously utilizing available space and thereby achieving greater magnetic force, the axial connection at body 2 allows solenoid valve 1 to eliminate the need for hydraulic amplification mechanisms required to provide differential hydraulic loads to shock absorber 9, as is the case with laterally connected solenoid valves.

[0093] FIG. 1C shows that there is a low-friction bushing (16) inside the solenoid valve (1), which acts as a guide for the rod (3) and also as a support when the rod is subjected to lateral forces.

[0094] In addition to the low-friction bushing 16, the solenoid valve 1 also includes a rod guide 19 having a bore with a constant cross-section slightly larger than the cross-section of the rod 3. The bore is arranged concentrically with the longitudinal path of the rod 3 and allows the rod guide 19 to determine the extent of that path. Thus, the low-friction bushing 16 attached to the rod guide 19 determines the extent of the path of the rod 3 together with or independently of the rod guide 19.

[0095] The hydraulic sealing function of the rod (3) relative to the body (2) of the shock absorber (9), which is usually achieved by a gasket, is achieved by a hydraulic seal (18) provided inside the solenoid valve (1).

[0096] To adjust the hydraulic load of the shock absorber 9, the solenoid valve 1 primarily comprises a movable portion 13, which is movable vertically in the illustrated embodiment and acts as a flow gate for the fluid 8 within the solenoid valve 1. The movable portion 13 is movable between a closed end position and an open end position, and can be positioned in any intermediate position between the two ends. For example, the movable portion 13 is in the closed end position in FIG. 1C, and in FIG. 4B, it is moved from this position to the open end position to form a flow path for the fluid 8 through the solenoid valve 1.

[0097] The solenoid valve (1) also comprises a number of elements or devices configured to move the moving part (13): an adjusting chamber (14) configured to receive / discharge fluid (8) from the body (2) of the shock absorber (9), specifically from the upper chamber (23) through the expansion chamber (25) towards the reserve chamber (24) (depending on the position of the moving part); an elastic element (15) configured to move the moving part (13) in the direction of movement of the moving part (13), from an open end position towards a closed end position; and a magnetic force (F) applied to the moving part (13), for example when a control current is input to the coil (12). M), preferably electronic means configured to generate an induced load to move the movable part (13) in the same direction as the elastic element (15), also in the direction of action.

[0098] 2A and 2B, the operation of the solenoid valve (1) consists of the following: when the rod (3) moves longitudinally relative to the body (2) of the shock absorber (9), the regulating chamber (14) receives fluid from the upper chamber (23), which causes an increase in internal pressure, which is transmitted to the moving part (13), which starts to move from the closed end position to the open end position when the pressure exerted by the regulating chamber (14) exceeds a certain pressure.

[0099] The specific pressure is defined by the configuration and electronic means of the elastic element (15) which exerts a force in the opposite direction to the force exerted on the moving part (13) by the hydraulic pressure in the regulating chamber (14).

[0100] Thus, when the rod (3) moves at a speed fast enough to move the fluid (8) from the upper chamber (23) towards the solenoid valve (1) at high pressure, this fluid (8) is directed towards the regulating chamber (14) at this high pressure, until it reaches a pressure limit higher than that imposed by the elastic element (15) and electronic means, causing the moving part (13) to move towards the open end position.

[0101] When the moving part (13) moves from the closed end position, as shown in Figures 2A and 2B, the adjustment chamber (14) releases the fluid (8) through one or more hydraulic ducts (131) of the moving part (13), and after passing through the expansion chamber (25), directs the fluid (8) towards the reserve chamber (24) provided in the body (2) of the shock absorber (9).

[0102] As shown in Figure 1C, the solenoid valve (1) is connected to a first end of the body (2) of the shock absorber (9), specifically to the inner tube (20), by a connecting bushing (28) adapted to provide clearance for the rod (3). The clearance-providing adaptation includes a duct for the communication of the fluid (8) from the inner tube (20) to the adjusting chamber (14), which connects the upper end of the oil-filled upper chamber (23) to the adjusting chamber (14).

[0103] As also shown in FIG. 1C, to avoid loss of fluid (8) in the shock absorber, the solenoid valve (1) is provided with a hydraulic seal (18) fitted to the rod (3) that tightly seals the upper chamber (23), this seal (18) being attached to the rod guide (19).

[0104] As shown in FIG. 3, the solenoid valve (1) may also be provided with a sealing member (27) between the moving part (13) and the connecting bush (28) to prevent uncontrolled leakage of oil from the regulating chamber (14).

[0105] This adjusting chamber (14) can have different geometries depending on the configuration of the shock absorber (9). For example, a suitable geometry is an annular geometry or the geometry of a hole or window formed through the disc portion (10).

[0106] The disk portion 10 is included in the solenoid valve 1 and can be adapted to provide clearance for the rod 3 of the shock absorber 9. The disk 10 is assembled to the connecting bush 28 and acts as a stop for the movable part 13 in the closed end position. In other words, the disk portion 10 prevents the movable part 13 from moving beyond the closed end position, regardless of the loads applied by the electronic means and the elastic element 15. Because the disk portion 10 is a part close to the movable part 13, it is possible to form an opening or window that serves as the adjustment chamber 14.

[0107] 1C also shows that the annular geometric shape of the adjusting chamber (14) is defined by the movable part (13), the connecting bush (28) and the disc (10). It can thus be seen that the movable part (13) can move longitudinally from a closed end position to an open end position due to the difference in pressure to which it is subjected. On the other hand, the movable part (13) is in contact with the adjusting chamber (14) and is arranged on the opposite surface to define the expansion chamber (25) of the shock absorber (9).

[0108] Instead of directly closing the regulating chamber (14) with the movable part (13), the solenoid valve (1) may also include a main valve (17) located adjacent to the regulating chamber (14) and configured to transmit the force generated by the pressure in the regulating chamber (14) to the movable part (13), as shown in Figures 4A-4C. The main valve (17) has an adjustable part that receives the pressure in the regulating chamber (14). This pressure generates a downward force that is transmitted to the movable part (13) during the opening operation. The pressure-receiving part of the main valve (17) is adjustable to achieve different operating ranges of the shock absorber (9) load.

[0109] Similarly, different outer diameters and thicknesses of the main valve 17 can be selected, which influence the force transmission from the regulating chamber 14 to the movable part 13. This main valve 17 can also be configured with a controlled pre-deformation, if desired, for minimum load or closing quality. In practice, there can be a controlled leak passage connecting the regulating chamber 14 to the expansion chamber 25.

[0110] As mentioned above, the pressure reaching the regulating chamber (14) is applied to the movable part (13). This pressure creates a force that moves the movable part (13) and tries to force the fluid (8) out of the regulating chamber (14) and relieve the hydraulic pressure. However, as also mentioned above, several forces also act on the movable part (13) to close it and make it difficult to open. These forces are generated by the elastic element (15) and electronic means, the latter of which includes magnetic forces (F M ) is the hydraulic load (C H ) determines the regulation of

[0111] As shown in FIG. 1C, the movable part (13) is pressed on its underside by one or more elastic elements (15) so that the applied force is transmitted to ensure that the solenoid valve (1) is closed without any other force.

[0112] Similarly, the electronic means of the solenoid valve (1) comprises a coil or solenoid that, when a control current is input to the coil (12), can generate a magnetomotive force that creates a magnetic flux in some parts of the solenoid valve (1). This flow causes the moving part (13) to generate a magnetic force (F) that attracts the moving part (13) since it contains a ferromagnetic material. M ) is generated, and the magnetic field (F) can be moved from the open end position to the closed end position. M ) tries to push the moving part (13) so that it closes the adjustment chamber (14) by attracting elements such as the rod guide (19) and the disk (10), which are also made of ferromagnetic material.

[0113] Therefore, the opening pressure of the solenoid valve is determined by this magnetic force (F) formed against the moving part (13) which throttles and closes the flow path of the fluid (8) in the regulating chamber (14). M ) is controlled by adjusting the magnetic force (F M ) is variable according to the control current supplied to the coil (12), so that a stepless hydraulic load (C H ) is available.

[0114] As shown in Figures 9B and 9C, a magnetic force (F M ) decreases as the moving part (13) moves from the closed end position to the open end position, because the attractive force decreases as the attracted parts move apart. However, this decrease is due to the elastic element (F EE ) is offset by an increase in the force of

[0115] When the main valve (17) is placed in the regulating chamber (14), the magnetic force (F) formed on the moving part (13) is due to the fact that the main valve (17) is the upper support of the moving part (13). M ) is applied to this main valve (17). This force can be applied to the outer diameter of the valve, but can also be applied to any other diameter if desired.

[0116] If necessary, controlled channels can be provided to ensure correct lubrication of the moving elements present in the shock absorber (9) as well as the evacuation towards the expansion chamber (25) of any gases that may flow in this area.

[0117] As shown in Figure 5, unlike Figures 4A-4C, the elastic element (15) can have two or more different elastic stages: a first low-stiffness elastic stage and a second high-stiffness elastic stage. Given this configuration, a low stiffness is available for small openings, but the stiffness can be increased for larger openings. In this way, when the system has a large opening, a larger force is applied to close the solenoid valve (1), which can be advantageous for preventing vibrations resulting from the constant operating speed of the shock absorber (9), which would cause the solenoid valve (1) to open to an undesirable large opening.

[0118] Figure 7 shows that the solenoid valve (1) can have a modular construction, where the cover (11) together with the electronic means constitutes a module that can be assembled to the body (2) of the shock absorber (9), with the remaining components of the solenoid valve (1) already assembled. This construction facilitates the construction of the solenoid valve (1) which prevents contact between the electronic means and damping or lubricating fluids that may damage its condition or interfere with its operation.

[0119] As illustrated and shown in Figure 7, the cover (11) is connected to a wired connection (4) connected to electronic means, which is adapted to be electronically connected to the control means of the solenoid valve (1). However, in a different embodiment, as shown in Figure 8, the cover (11) may comprise, instead of the wired connection (4), a connector (7) fixed to the cover (11) and also connected to the coil (12) of the electronic means. This connector (7) allows a wireless connection to the control system of the shock absorber (9).

[0120] In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, the shock absorber (9) may include an intermediate tube (26) disposed between the inner tube (20) and the outer tube (21), which directs the fluid (8) into the reserve chamber (24) to prevent it from circulating into the expansion chamber (25) (which is filled with gas), preventing undesirable mixing of air and oil, which can cause foaming.

[0121] In another non-preferred embodiment, the shock absorber (9) may be provided with, in addition to the solenoid valve (1) connected to the first end, an auxiliary solenoid valve (29) hermetically fitted to the second end of the body (2) of the shock absorber (9), as shown in Figure 1B, so that the passage of the fluid (8) through both ends of the fluid is constantly regulated.

[0122] Operation of shock absorbers with solenoid valves: When the shock absorber (9) begins to extend (E), the fluid (8) (oil) in the upper chamber (23) is compressed, increasing its pressure. As the volume of the upper chamber (23) decreases, the fluid (8) must be evacuated from this chamber. When the pressure is lower than the opening pressure of the solenoid valve (1), the valve closes, and the fluid (8) flows through the piston subassembly (5) and through a controlled leak passage configured in the piston subassembly (5), a controlled leak passage configured in the solenoid valve (1), or both.

[0123] Thus, due to the fixed configuration of the leak passages of the piston subassembly 5 and / or the solenoid valve 1, the fluid 8 passing through these hydraulic ducts creates a series of pressure drops in the upper chamber 23. The pressures created by the fluid 8 in the chambers are different from the pressure in the lower chamber 22 and act on the corresponding faces of the piston, respectively, creating the shock absorber load.

[0124] In this way, the hydraulic load of the shock absorber (9) is defined at a low operating speed in the extension (E) of the rod (3) because at low speeds a pressure lower than the opening pressure of the solenoid valve (1) is generated. This type of control of the rod (3) at low speeds is used to improve the stability of the vehicle.

[0125] For higher operating speeds of the rod (3), the pressure continues to build up until it reaches the opening pressure of the solenoid valve (1). If the pressure present in the regulating chamber (14) is high enough to overcome the force closing the moving part (13) in the chamber, this moving part (13) moves in such a way that the solenoid valve (1) remains open and a flow of fluid (8) is established starting from the upper chamber (23), passing through the expansion chamber (25) and ending in the reserve chamber (24).

[0126] The opening pressure of the solenoid valve (1) is determined by the magnetic force (F M ), the pressure level at which fluid (8) begins to flow through the open solenoid valve (1) is controlled, thus controlling the pressure in the upper chamber (23) and therefore the load on the shock absorber.

[0127] By advantageously using an existing spatial system, such as the coil (12) located in the region of the shock absorber guide, a magnetic force large enough to be able to directly counteract the pressure present in the adjustment chamber (14) is obtained, without the need for an amplification stage, as is common in other types of systems that provide stepless hydraulic load adjustment.

[0128] When the solenoid valve (1) is opened, the moving part (13) slides and the distance to the disk (10) increases, and therefore, according to the law of magnetism, the magnetic force (F M This decrease in force is offset by the elastic element (15) located on the underside of the movable part (13), so that when the movable part (13) moves downward, the elastic element (15) is pressed, generating a force that stabilizes the movable part (13).

[0129] FIG. 9B shows an example of the total force that the movable part (13) receives depending on the opening degree. Here, the total force (F T ) is the magnetic force (F M ) and elastic element (F EE ) and the resulting total force (F T The curve of (1) can be constructed from the other two forces to have a desired shape, which is important for determining the hydraulic behavior of the shock absorber (9).

[0130] An advantageous arrangement shown in FIG. 9C can be a two-stage stiffness of the elastic element (15), so that for small openings the stiffness is small but for larger openings the stiffness is increased, so that when the system has a large opening a larger force is applied to close the solenoid valve (1), which can be preferable to prevent the generation of vibrations resulting from a constant operating speed of the shock absorber resulting in a large opening of the solenoid valve.

[0131] In the compression action of the shock absorber (9), which is very similar to that of the opening or extension action, the fluid (8) passes through the piston subassembly (5) and the valve support subassembly (6). Thus, when moving at low speeds, the solenoid valve (1) does not open, but at higher speeds, a sufficiently high pressure is generated in the regulating chamber (14) to move the moving part (13) towards the open end position. [Explanation of symbols]

[0132] 1 solenoid valve 2 Main unit 3 rods 4. Wired connection 5 Piston subassembly 51 Piston valve 6 Valve Support Subassembly 61 Support valve 7 Connectors 8 fluid 9. Shock absorbers 10 discs 11 Cover 12 coils 13 Moving parts 131 Hydraulic Duct 14. Conditioning chamber 15 Elastic Elements 16 Low friction bushing 17 Main valve 18 Hydraulic seal 19 Rod guide 20 inner tube 21 outer tube 22 Lower Chamber 23 Upper Chamber 24 Reserve Chamber 25 Expansion Chamber 26 Intermediate tube 27 Sealing material 28 Connecting bush 29 Auxiliary solenoid valve (C H ) Hydraulic load (V DV ) Rod movement speed in the vertical direction (E) Rod elongation (C) Rod compression (D) Operation of moving parts (F) Force applied to moving parts (F M ) Magnetic force applied by electronic means (F EE ) Elastic element force (F T ) (F M ) and (F EE ) sum of the forces (C ME ) Maximum load in extension (C mE ) Minimum load in extension (C mC ) Minimum load in compression (C MC ) Maximum load in compression

Claims

1. 1. A solenoid valve for a shock absorber having a hydraulic load adjusting means, the solenoid valve comprising: Axially and gas-tightly fittable to the first end of the shock absorber body; and Adjusting the hydraulic load of the fluid flowing inside the shock absorber It is configured as follows: the solenoid valve having a longitudinal bore configured to guide and seal a rod provided in the shock absorber during longitudinal movement; The solenoid valve: a movable part that is preferably movable longitudinally between a closed end position and an open end position; a regulation chamber configured to receive / discharge fluid from the body of the shock absorber; a resilient element configured to apply a load in the direction of movement of the movable part to move the movable part in the direction from the open end position towards the closed end position Provided with: the regulating chamber is configured to increase an internal pressure when receiving fluid from the body and to transmit a force generated by the internal pressure to the movable part; the movable part is configured to receive a specific pressure from the regulating chamber when the regulating chamber increases the internal pressure and move from the closed end position to the open end position; the regulating chamber is configured to release fluid when the movable part moves from the closed end position to the open end position; and The solenoid valve comprises electronic means configured to apply a force to move the movable part in the direction of operation when a control current is input, preferably by generating a magnetic load on the movable part.

2. 2. The solenoid valve of claim 1, wherein the movable part comprises one or more hydraulic ducts configured to direct the flow of fluid released by the regulating chamber through an expansion chamber toward a reserve chamber of the body of the shock absorber.

3. 3. The solenoid valve of claim 2, wherein the solenoid valve includes a control fluid leak passage connecting the regulating chamber to the expansion chamber.

4. 2. The solenoid valve of claim 1, further comprising a low-friction bushing disposed within the solenoid valve that is adaptable to provide clearance with respect to the rod of the shock absorber, the low-friction bushing configured to guide the longitudinal movement of the rod.

5. 10. The solenoid valve of claim 1, further comprising a hydraulic seal disposed within the solenoid valve that is adapted to fit against the rod of the shock absorber and to hermetically seal the shock absorber.

6. 2. A solenoid valve according to claim 1, comprising a connecting bush configured to be assembled to the longitudinal inner tube of the damping body and adapted to form a clearance with respect to the rod of the shock absorber, the adaptation forming a clearance between the connecting bush and the rod including a duct for the communication of fluid from the inner tube to the regulating chamber.

7. 7. The solenoid valve of claim 6, further comprising a sealing member between the movable part and the connecting bushing, the sealing member being configured to prevent leakage of fluid from the regulating chamber.

8. 7. The solenoid valve according to claim 6, further comprising a disc that is adaptable to provide clearance for the rod of the shock absorber, the disc being assembled to the connecting bush, and the disc acting as a stop for the movable part in the closed end position.

9. 2. The solenoid valve of claim 1, wherein the regulating chamber has an annular geometric shape concentric with the rod of the shock absorber to which the solenoid valve is compatible.

10. 10. A solenoid valve according to claims 8 and 9, wherein the annular geometric shape of the regulating chamber is defined by the movable part, the connecting bush and the disc.

11. 2. The solenoid valve of claim 1, wherein the solenoid valve is connected to the body of the shock absorber, and the movable part is positioned to define the expansion chamber of the shock absorber on a surface opposite to a surface that contacts the adjustment chamber.

12. 2. The solenoid valve according to claim 1, further comprising a main valve disposed adjacent to the regulating chamber and configured to transmit a force generated by the pressure in the regulating chamber to the movable part, the main valve having an adjustable part that receives the pressure in the regulating chamber.

13. 2. The solenoid valve (1) according to claim 1, wherein the electronic means comprises a coil configured to generate a magnetomotive force that forms a magnetic flux when a control current is input to the coil; the magnetic flux is configured to generate a load that moves the movable part between the open end position and the closed end position; and the movable part includes a ferromagnetic material.

14. 2. The solenoid valve of claim 1, further comprising a rod guide having a hole with a cross section larger than a cross section of the rod of the shock absorber to which the solenoid valve can be connected, the hole being positioned concentric with the longitudinal path of the rod when the solenoid valve is connected to the body of the shock absorber.

15. 15. A solenoid valve according to any one of claims 8, 13 and 14, wherein the rod guide, the movable part and the disk each comprise a ferromagnetic material, and the solenoid valve comprises a functional magnetic circuit comprising an assembly formed by the coil, the rod guide, the movable part and the disk, the functional magnetic circuit being configured to apply a force to the movable part and to control movement of the movable part, preferably in the longitudinal direction, between the closed end position and the open end position.

16. 2. The solenoid valve of claim 1, wherein the elastic element has two or more different elastic stages: a first low stiffness elastic stage and a second high stiffness elastic stage.

17. 10. The solenoid valve of claim 1, wherein the resilient element comprises an element selected from: a disc valve, a multiple stacked disc valve, a helical spring, a wave spring, a disc spring, or a combination thereof.

18. 2. The solenoid valve of claim 1, further comprising a modular element having a cover connected to the electronic means, the modular element being assembleable to the rest of the assembled components included in the solenoid valve by a removable mechanical joint.

19. 2. The solenoid valve of claim 1, wherein the modular element includes a wired connection connected to the coil, the wired connection configured to be electronically connected to the control means of the solenoid valve.

20. 10. A shock absorber having hydraulic load adjusting means, the shock absorber comprising a solenoid valve according to claim 1 fitted axially and airtightly to a first end of a body provided in the shock absorber, the shock absorber comprising a rod movable longitudinally within the body, the rod passing through a longitudinal bore of the solenoid valve.

21. 21. The shock absorber of claim 20, wherein the rod comprises a piston subassembly connected to a lower end portion of the rod and positioned within the body for longitudinal movement with the rod, the piston subassembly comprising one or more modular piston valves having configurable stiffness and pre-strain.

22. 22. The shock absorber of claim 21, wherein the piston subassembly comprises a controlled fixed leak passage.

23. 23. The shock absorber of claim 21 or 22, wherein the body of the shock absorber comprises: an inner tube assembled to the solenoid valve by its upper end portion, the inner tube being adapted to accommodate the rod during its longitudinal movement; an outer tube assembled to the solenoid valve by its upper end portion, the outer tube having the inner tube disposed therein; Equipped with the inner tube includes a lower chamber located between a lower end portion of the inner tube and the piston subassembly of the rod; and an upper chamber located between the piston subassembly of the rod and the solenoid valve; and the shock absorber includes a reserve chamber and an expansion chamber located between the inner tube and the outer tube; and The solenoid valve is configured to restrict the flow path of the shock absorber fluid between the chamber of the inner tube and the chamber of the outer tube.

24. 24. The shock absorber of claim 23, further comprising an intermediate tube positioned between the inner tube and the outer tube and configured to direct the fluid in the shock absorber from the solenoid valve to a lower portion of the reservoir chamber.

25. 25. A shock absorber according to any one of claims 20 to 24, comprising a valve support subassembly hermetically fitted to the second end of the body, the valve support subassembly comprising one or more prefabricated support valves having configurable stiffness and pre-strain.

26. 25. A shock absorber according to any one of claims 20 to 24, comprising an auxiliary solenoid valve according to any one of claims 1 to 18, fitted in an airtight manner to the second end of the body provided in the shock absorber.