Suspension system, vehicle and control method
By introducing a first bidirectional pump and a second bidirectional pump into the suspension system, and independently adjusting the channel state, active and passive mode adjustment can be achieved, solving the problem of slow suspension system response and improving vehicle stability and comfort.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- BYD CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-12-08
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-02
AI Technical Summary
The existing suspension system has a slow response and cannot guarantee vehicle stability, resulting in poor ride comfort during bumps and vibrations.
The suspension system, which includes a first bidirectional pump and a second bidirectional pump, enables rapid active and passive mode adjustment by independently adjusting the channel state and fluid flow path. Combined with the hydraulic energy recovery function, it improves vehicle stability and comfort.
This enables the suspension system to respond quickly under different driving conditions, improving vehicle handling stability and ride comfort while reducing system costs.
Smart Images

Figure CN2025140833_02072026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
Suspension system, vehicle and control methods
[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese patent application No. 202411956249.X, filed on December 25, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field
[0002] This disclosure relates to the field of vehicle technology, and more particularly to a suspension system, a vehicle, and a control method. Background Technology
[0003] The vehicle's suspension system is a crucial component for ensuring the vehicle's handling stability. The suspension system can actively or passively adjust according to different driving conditions to reduce bumps and vibrations during driving, providing passengers with a comfortable riding environment. Summary of the Invention
[0004] This disclosure provides a suspension system, a vehicle, and a control method.
[0005] In a first aspect, a suspension system is provided, the suspension system including a shock absorber, a first bidirectional pump and a second bidirectional pump, the shock absorber including a first chamber, the first bidirectional pump being connected to the first chamber through a first channel, and the second bidirectional pump being connected to the first chamber through a second channel; at least one of the first channel and the second channel can be adjusted to have an on / off state.
[0006] Secondly, a vehicle is provided, the vehicle including a first wheel and a first suspension system, the first suspension system including the aforementioned suspension system, the first suspension system corresponding to the first vehicle.
[0007] Thirdly, a control method is provided for application to a suspension system or vehicle, the control method comprising:
[0008] Obtain the vehicle's driving conditions;
[0009] The operating mode of the suspension system is controlled according to the driving conditions.
[0010] It should be noted that the technical effects of the implementation methods of the second and third aspects can be found in the technical effects of the corresponding implementation methods in the first aspect, and will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description
[0011] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of some embodiments of this disclosure, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this disclosure. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.
[0012] Figure 1 is a structural diagram of a suspension system according to some embodiments;
[0013] Figure 2 is a structural diagram of a vibration damper according to some embodiments;
[0014] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a self-circulating pump body according to some embodiments;
[0015] Figure 4 is one of the operating diagrams of a first bidirectional pump and a second bidirectional pump according to some embodiments;
[0016] Figure 5 is a second of the operating condition diagrams of the first bidirectional pump and the second bidirectional pump according to some embodiments;
[0017] Figure 6 is a third of the operating diagrams of the first bidirectional pump and the second bidirectional pump according to some embodiments;
[0018] Figure 7 is the fourth of several operating diagrams of the first bidirectional pump and the second bidirectional pump according to some embodiments;
[0019] Figure 8 is a structural diagram of a first bidirectional pump and a second bidirectional pump according to some embodiments;
[0020] Figure 9 is a second structural diagram of a first bidirectional pump and a second bidirectional pump according to some embodiments;
[0021] Figure 10 is the fifth of several operating diagrams of the first bidirectional pump and the second bidirectional pump according to some embodiments;
[0022] Figure 11 is a sixth of the operating diagrams of the first bidirectional pump and the second bidirectional pump according to some embodiments;
[0023] Figure 12 is a second structural diagram of a suspension system according to some embodiments;
[0024] Figure 13 is a third structural diagram of a suspension system according to some embodiments;
[0025] Figure 14 is a fourth structural diagram of a suspension system according to some embodiments;
[0026] Figure 15 is a fifth structural diagram of a suspension system according to some embodiments;
[0027] Figure 16 is a structural diagram of a first bidirectional pump and a second bidirectional pump according to some embodiments;
[0028] Figure 17 is a second structural diagram of a first bidirectional pump and a second bidirectional pump according to some embodiments;
[0029] Figure 18 is a third structural diagram of a first bidirectional pump and a second bidirectional pump according to some embodiments;
[0030] Figure 19 is a fourth structural diagram of a first bidirectional pump and a second bidirectional pump according to some embodiments;
[0031] Figure 20 is a schematic diagram of one of the operating modes of a suspension system according to some embodiments;
[0032] Figure 21 is a second schematic diagram of the operating mode of a suspension system according to some embodiments;
[0033] Figure 22 is a third schematic diagram of the operating mode of a suspension system according to some embodiments;
[0034] Figure 23 is a fourth schematic diagram of the operating mode of a suspension system according to some embodiments;
[0035] Figure 24 is a block diagram of a vehicle according to some embodiments. Detailed Implementation
[0036] The technical solutions of some embodiments of this disclosure will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this disclosure, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this disclosure, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this disclosure.
[0037] In the description of this disclosure, it should be understood that the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "front," "rear," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or relative positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing this disclosure and for simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this disclosure. Unless otherwise specified, the above-mentioned orientational descriptions can be flexibly set in practical applications, provided that the relative positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings are satisfied.
[0038] The terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this disclosure, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.
[0039] In the description of this disclosure, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "communication" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection. They can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or a connection within two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the meaning of the above terms in this disclosure based on the actual situation.
[0040] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, article, or apparatus. Without further limitation, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, article, or apparatus that includes that element.
[0041] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the words "exemplarily" or "for example" are used to indicate that they are examples, illustrations, or descriptions. Any embodiment or design described as "exemplarily" or "for example" in some embodiments of this disclosure should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or designs. Rather, the use of words such as "exemplarily" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts by way of example.
[0042] In the description of this specification, exemplary features, structures, materials, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.
[0043] During vehicle operation, the road surface is never perfectly smooth, and various bumps and impacts will be encountered. These impacts will be directly transmitted to the vehicle body and passengers, causing the vehicle body to shake.
[0044] The vehicle's suspension system is a crucial component for ensuring the vehicle's handling stability. The suspension system can make active or passive adjustments according to different driving conditions to reduce bumps and vibrations during driving. The suspension system is usually powered or absorbed by hydraulic devices. However, the passive response of the suspension system in related technologies is relatively slow, which cannot guarantee the vehicle's stability.
[0045] Therefore, as shown in FIG24, some embodiments of this disclosure provide a vehicle 2000, which includes a body 2001 and wheels 2002. The vehicle also includes a suspension system 1000, which is disposed between the body and the wheels, and adjusts the height of the wheels relative to the body to ensure the stability of the vehicle body when driving on bumpy roads, thereby enhancing the comfort and stability of the vehicle.
[0046] In some embodiments, the suspension system enhances vehicle stability during driving by damping vibrations and balancing the vehicle's posture.
[0047] In a vehicle, the number of suspension systems can be one or more. Furthermore, the number of suspension systems can be equal to, less than, or more than the number of wheels. The following embodiments are further descriptions based on the premise that the number of suspension systems is equal to the number of wheels, and that one suspension system adjusts the height of one wheel relative to the vehicle body. This should not be considered a limitation of this disclosure. In this way, the parameters corresponding to each wheel of the vehicle involved in some embodiments of this disclosure can be adjusted individually, enabling precise control of the vehicle's driving state and improving the vehicle's NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) performance.
[0048] In some embodiments, wheel 2002 may include a first wheel and a second wheel. The first wheel and the second wheel can be any two vehicles, and the first wheel and the second wheel can be arranged along the width direction of the vehicle or along the length direction of the vehicle. The following embodiments are further descriptions based on the arrangement of the first wheel and the second wheel along the width direction of the vehicle, and should not be considered as limiting the nature of this disclosure. Based on this, the first wheel and the second wheel can be coaxially arranged. Of course, in other embodiments, the first wheel and the second wheel may also be non-coaxial; the following embodiments are exemplified by the first wheel and the second wheel being coaxially arranged.
[0049] The suspension system includes a first suspension system and a second suspension system. The first suspension system is located between the vehicle body and the first wheel, and the second suspension system is located between the vehicle body and the second wheel. The height of the first wheel and the second wheel relative to the vehicle body can be adjusted separately using the first and second suspension systems.
[0050] The first and second suspension systems can be hydraulic suspension systems, which are suitable for adjusting the height of the wheels relative to the vehicle body by controlling the flow path and flow rate of liquid between different chambers.
[0051] The structure of the first suspension system will be introduced first.
[0052] Referring to Figure 1, the first suspension system 1000 may include a shock absorber 003, which is capable of adjusting the height of the first wheel relative to the vehicle body through the flow of fluid within it.
[0053] In some embodiments, the liquid can be hydraulic oil. Of course, the liquid can also be other liquids such as water.
[0054] Referring to Figure 2, the shock absorber 003 has a first chamber 007, which is a variable-volume chamber formed between the housing 000 and the movable member 006. One of the housing 000 and the movable member 006 is connected to the vehicle body, and the other is connected to the wheel. By adjusting the total amount of fluid in the first chamber 007, the movable member 006 can be moved relative to the housing 000, thereby adjusting the height of the first wheel relative to the vehicle body.
[0055] In some embodiments, please refer back to FIG1. The first suspension system 1000 may further include a first bidirectional pump 210 and a second bidirectional pump 310. The first bidirectional pump 210 is connected to the first chamber 007 through a first channel I, and the second bidirectional pump 310 is connected to the first chamber 007 through a second channel II. At least one of the first channel I and the second channel II can independently adjust its on / off state.
[0056] Based on this, the first suspension system 1000 can simultaneously deliver liquid to the first chamber 007 through the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310, so that the total amount of liquid in the first chamber 007 increases faster, thereby enabling the hydraulic pressure in the first chamber 007 to quickly respond to the needs of the first suspension system 1000.
[0057] Furthermore, the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 are pump bodies capable of bidirectional liquid transport. Therefore, in some embodiments of this disclosure, the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 can also realize the function of refluxing liquid from the first chamber 007, thereby reducing the total amount of liquid in the first chamber 007 and allowing the hydraulic pressure in the first chamber 007 to be discharged quickly.
[0058] In addition, at least one of the first channel I and the second channel II can be independently adjusted to change its on / off state. That is, when the first chamber 007 of the shock absorber 003 is receiving liquid from the outside or discharging liquid from the outside, compared to simply adjusting the working state of the pump body to control the first chamber 007 receiving liquid from the outside or discharging liquid from the outside, in some embodiments of this disclosure, the first chamber 007 can also be controlled to receive liquid from the outside or discharge liquid from the outside by adjusting the on / off state of the first channel I and the second channel II. This satisfies the hydraulic energy requirement of the first suspension system 1000 for the first chamber 007, and can promptly increase or decrease the amount of liquid entering or leaving the first chamber 007, thereby meeting the adjustment needs of the vehicle under different driving conditions.
[0059] In some embodiments, one end of the first bidirectional pump 210 and one end of the second bidirectional pump 310 are respectively connected to the first chamber 007, and the other end of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the other end of the second bidirectional pump 310 can be respectively connected to any liquid supply system in the vehicle. By bidirectionally driving the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310, liquid flow between the first chamber 007 and the liquid supply system can be realized, thereby changing the hydraulic energy in the first chamber 007 to drive the reciprocating drive of the moving part 006, thereby realizing the adjustment of the height of the first wheel relative to the vehicle body to decrease or increase.
[0060] In some other embodiments, referring to FIG2, the damper 003 is further provided with a second chamber 005. The second chamber 005 is formed between the housing 000 and the movable member 006, and is located on the side of the movable member 006 opposite to the first chamber 007.
[0061] In other words, the movable part 006 is slidably disposed within the housing 000, and the movable part 006 divides the inner cavity of the housing 000 into a first chamber 007 and a second chamber 005.
[0062] In this way, the volume of the first chamber 007 and the volume of the second chamber 005 are relatively adjustable, and the sum of the volumes of the first chamber 007 and the second chamber 005 is a constant value, which is the corresponding volume inside the shell 000.
[0063] Based on the above embodiments, the first bidirectional pump 210 in the first suspension system 1000 is connected to the second chamber 005 through the third channel III, and the second bidirectional pump 310 is connected to the second chamber 005 through the fourth channel IV.
[0064] The first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 drive each other in both directions, which can transfer the liquid in the second chamber 005 to the first chamber 007, or transfer the liquid in the first chamber 007 to the second chamber 005, so as to change the corresponding volume of the first chamber 007 and the second chamber 005, thereby realizing the reciprocating drive of the moving part 006, and thus realizing the adjustment of the height of the first wheel relative to the vehicle body to decrease or increase.
[0065] In some embodiments, when the movable member 006 moves along the X1 direction shown in FIG2, when the volume of the first chamber 007 decreases, the volume of the corresponding second chamber 005 increases, and the hydraulic energy of the second chamber 005 is greater than the hydraulic energy of the first chamber 007. Under the push of the liquid, the movable member 006 moves toward the first chamber 007.
[0066] The following embodiments are further descriptions based on the fact that the damper 003 also has a second chamber 005, and should not be considered as a limitation on the present disclosure.
[0067] The operating modes of the first suspension system in some embodiments of this disclosure may include an active mode and a passive mode.
[0068] In some embodiments, when the first suspension system is in active mode, the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 can actively deliver liquid to the first chamber 007 or the second chamber 005 of the shock absorber 003, thereby changing the relative volume between the first chamber 007 and the second chamber 005. The chamber with the larger volume will push the movable part 006 to move towards the chamber with the smaller volume, thereby driving the first wheel or body (or frame) to move to adapt to the road conditions, thereby effectively reducing the vibration felt by the occupants when the vehicle passes over bumpy roads and further improving ride comfort.
[0069] In other embodiments, when the first suspension system is in passive mode, when the first wheel is subjected to an impact force from the ground, the wheel transmits the impact force to the movable member 006, causing the movable member 006 to move relative to the housing 000. The movable member 006 exerts pressure on the fluid, causing the fluid to generate hydraulic energy. In this way, the fluid can flow out of the housing 000 and flow between the first chamber 007 or the second chamber 005 via the first bidirectional pump 210 or the second bidirectional pump 310. In this process, the impact force on the wheel is converted into the hydraulic energy of the fluid in the shock absorber 003. The fluid flows under the action of the hydraulic energy, converting the hydraulic energy into other forms of energy, thereby mitigating the vibration of the wheel. Furthermore, the first bidirectional pump 210 or the second bidirectional pump 310 operates under the drive of liquid. The first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 can work and can also recover energy to generate electricity during their operation (see the following for relevant implementation methods). That is, hydraulic energy is converted into mechanical energy of the rotation of the first bidirectional pump 210 or the second bidirectional pump 310. The mechanical energy can be used to generate electricity for motors and further converted into electrical energy for storage.
[0070] It can be seen that the power source in active mode comes from the vehicle itself, while the power source in passive mode comes from the external force acting on the vehicle.
[0071] Based on the above embodiments, in some embodiments of this disclosure, the active mode and passive mode of the first suspension system can achieve the following three states (i.e., the first state, the second state and the third state). By adjusting the flow rate and pressure of the liquid between the first bidirectional pump 210, the second bidirectional pump 310 and the shock absorber 003 through different states, the vibration of the first wheel can be alleviated and the energy recovery function can be realized.
[0072] First state: The first bidirectional pump 210 delivers liquid to the first chamber 007 alone or returns liquid from the first chamber 007;
[0073] Second state: The second bidirectional pump 310 delivers liquid to the first chamber 007 alone or returns liquid from the first chamber 007;
[0074] Third state: The first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 together deliver liquid to the first chamber 007.
[0075] In some embodiments, when the vehicle's first suspension system is in active mode (such as when the vehicle is traveling at high speed, fully loaded, on rough roads, or when heavy loads need to be towed), both the first channel I and the second channel II are in a conductive state. The first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 work together, with a large flow and pressure output capacity, thereby providing sufficient hydraulic power to the first suspension system. A large amount of liquid can be delivered to the shock absorber 003 at high pressure, so that the moving part 006 drives the first wheel to quickly adjust to the target position, thereby effectively controlling the vehicle's attitude and preventing excessive body roll, nose-diving, and other phenomena, so as to meet the vehicle's stability and passability requirements under high-speed driving and heavy load conditions.
[0076] In other embodiments, when the vehicle's first suspension system is in a passive state (such as slight road bumps, slow driving, etc.), only one of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 needs to work. That is, one of the first channel I or the second channel II is independently disconnected. The hydraulic circuit between the shock absorber 003 and the first bidirectional pump 210 or the second bidirectional pump 310 has a relatively small moment of inertia. As a result, after the moving part 006 transmits the force on the first wheel to the liquid in the housing 000, the liquid in the housing 000 can flow quickly, so that the first suspension system can quickly respond to small external changes or disturbances. This allows the first suspension system to respond quickly to road bumps, maintain the relative stability of the vehicle body, and ensure the comfort of the passengers.
[0077] In some embodiments, please continue to refer to FIG1, the first suspension system may further include a first on / off control element 401 disposed in the first channel I, the first on / off control element 401 being adapted to control the connection or disconnection between the first channel I and the first chamber 007.
[0078] In some embodiments, the first on / off control element 401 can be a switching solenoid valve. The switching solenoid valve can open and close at a relatively fast speed, and the on / off state between the first channel I and the first chamber 007 can be controlled very precisely.
[0079] Based on the above embodiments, please continue to refer to Figure 1. The second channel II can always be connected to the first chamber 007 without setting an on / off control device to switch between connection and disconnection.
[0080] Of course, in other embodiments, the first suspension system may also include an on / off control element disposed in the second channel II to control the connection or disconnection between the second channel II and the first chamber 007, and to keep the first channel I and the first chamber 007 always connected, without providing an on / off control element. Here, the on / off control element may be a solenoid valve.
[0081] In other words, in practical applications, on / off control components can be set only in the first channel I or the second channel II, depending on the system requirements, in order to simplify the system and reduce costs.
[0082] Alternatively, in other embodiments, the first suspension system may also provide an on / off control element 401 in the first channel I and an on / off control element in the second channel II, so as to control the connection or disconnection of the first channel I and the second channel II respectively.
[0083] It should be noted that Figure 1 is illustrated by way of the first on / off control element 401 being installed in the first channel I, and the second channel II being always connected to the first chamber 007. This should not be considered as a limitation of this disclosure.
[0084] In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, when the first on / off control element 401 is disconnected, the second bidirectional pump 310 independently supplies liquid to or returns liquid from the first chamber 007; when the first on / off control element 401 is connected, the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 together supply liquid to or return liquid from the first chamber 007. In this way, the first suspension system of this embodiment shown in Figure 1 can switch between the second and third states by independently adjusting the first channel I, improving the response speed of the first suspension system while flexibly meeting the flow and pressure output capacity requirements of the first suspension system. This configuration is simple and has a low cost.
[0085] In some embodiments, continuing to refer to FIG1, the first suspension system may further include a third on / off control element 402 disposed in the third channel III. The third on / off control element 402 is adapted to control the connection or disconnection between the third channel III and the second chamber 005. The first on / off control element 401 and the third on / off control element 402 can be connected or disconnected simultaneously to improve the reliability of the connection and disconnection between the first bidirectional pump 210 and the shock absorber 003, and also facilitate the self-circulation control of the first bidirectional pump 210 (see below for relevant control implementation methods). Of course, in other embodiments, the first suspension system may not include the third on / off control element 402 disposed in the third channel III. FIG1 is illustrated by way of example with the third on / off control element 402 disposed in the third channel III.
[0086] In some embodiments, the third on / off control element 402 may be a high-speed switching valve.
[0087] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 1, the first suspension system may further include a power component 101, through which both the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 can be driven. In some embodiments, the power component 101 is drive-connected to the first bidirectional pump 210 and also drive-connected to the second bidirectional pump 310, enabling the power component 101 to control the synchronous operation of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310. Thus, the first suspension system has a simple structure and low cost.
[0088] In some embodiments, the power component 101 can be a rotary drive component, which can be selected as a motor. This structure is simple and easy to implement.
[0089] In some embodiments, the power unit 101 may include a power output shaft that connects both the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310, so that the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 operate synchronously under the drive of the power unit 101. This structure is simple and easy to implement.
[0090] Of course, in other embodiments, the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 may also be driven by two independent power components. The following embodiments are further descriptions based on the premise that both the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 are driven by the power component 101, and this should not be considered as a limitation on the present disclosure.
[0091] Based on the above, please continue referring to Figure 1. When the first suspension system switches to the second state described above, that is, the second channel II is open and the first channel I is closed, so that liquid can flow back from or into the first chamber 007 via the second bidirectional pump 310. At this time, the power unit 101 drives the second bidirectional pump 310 to work while also driving the first bidirectional pump 210 to work, that is, the first bidirectional pump 210 is still performing the action of conveying liquid.
[0092] During this process, since both the first on / off control element 401 and the third on / off control element 402 are in the off state when the first channel I is disconnected. If the first bidirectional pump 210 continues to operate, it will cause the spatial pressure between the first bidirectional pump 210 and the first on / off control element 401 to continuously increase, and the spatial pressure between the first bidirectional pump 210 and the third on / off control element 402 to continuously decrease, or it will cause the spatial pressure between the first bidirectional pump 210 and the first on / off control element 401 to continuously decrease, and the spatial pressure between the first bidirectional pump 210 and the third on / off control element 402 to continuously increase, thereby damaging the first bidirectional pump 210.
[0093] Similarly, when the second channel II is disconnected and the first channel I is open, the second bidirectional pump 310 will still continue to pump liquid along with the first bidirectional pump 210. This can easily damage the second bidirectional pump 310.
[0094] In order to solve the above-mentioned technical problems and avoid damage to the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 when they work together, the first bidirectional pump 210 or the second bidirectional pump 310 in some embodiments of this disclosure can realize the self-circulation of liquid in its working chamber when working together with the other. Some embodiments of this disclosure take the first bidirectional pump 210 as an example to illustrate the first self-circulation method provided by this disclosure.
[0095] In some embodiments, the first bidirectional pump 210 includes a first high-pressure side, a first low-pressure side, and a first self-circulating flow channel. The two ends of the first self-circulating flow channel are respectively connected to the first high-pressure side and the first low-pressure side, and the first self-circulating flow channel can adjust its on / off state.
[0096] It should be noted that the terms "high pressure" and "low pressure" in the first high-pressure side and the first low-pressure side mentioned in some embodiments of this disclosure are relative concepts. As the flow direction of the first bidirectional pump 210 changes, the positions of the first high-pressure side and the first low-pressure side also change.
[0097] In other words, the first high-pressure side and the first low-pressure side are the liquid discharge side and liquid suction side of the first bidirectional pump 210. It is important to understand that for the hydraulic pump to pump liquid, there must be a pressure difference within the working chamber of the hydraulic pump. The first high-pressure side and the first low-pressure side are the two pressure difference ends of the first bidirectional pump 210. Liquid is drawn into the working chamber from the first low-pressure side and pumped out from the first high-pressure side to achieve liquid pumping. When the first bidirectional pump 210 is working, since it can deliver liquid bidirectionally, the first high-pressure side and the first low-pressure side are relatively variable.
[0098] In some embodiments, during the operation of the first bidirectional pump 210, the first high-pressure side is the liquid outlet side of the first bidirectional pump 210 during actual operation, and the first low-pressure side is the liquid inlet side of the first bidirectional pump 210 during actual operation.
[0099] In other embodiments, the first self-circulating structure mentioned above is also applicable to the second bidirectional pump 310. For example, the second bidirectional pump 310 may also include a second high-pressure side, a second low-pressure side, and a second self-circulating flow channel. The two ends of the second self-circulating flow channel are respectively connected to the second high-pressure side and the second low-pressure side. The second self-circulating flow channel can adjust its on / off state. For details, please refer to the above text. This disclosure will not repeat them here.
[0100] In the structure shown in Figure 1, by setting a first self-circulating flow channel at both ends of the first bidirectional pump 210, damage to the first bidirectional pump 210 can be avoided when the load output is interrupted (i.e., the first on / off control element 401 or the third on / off control element 402 is disconnected). The two ends of the first self-circulating flow channel are respectively connected to the first high-pressure side and the first low-pressure side. The liquid in the first bidirectional pump 210 can still flow back from the first high-pressure side to the first low-pressure side through the first self-circulating flow channel under the action of the pressure difference between the first high-pressure side and the first low-pressure side, maintaining the pressure balance inside the first bidirectional pump 210 and effectively protecting the first bidirectional pump 210.
[0101] Similarly, by setting a second self-circulating flow channel at both ends of the second bidirectional pump 310, the pressure balance inside the second bidirectional pump 310 can be maintained, effectively protecting the second bidirectional pump 310.
[0102] Taking the first bidirectional pump 210 as an example, in some embodiments of this disclosure, in the first self-circulation on / off adjustment method of the first bidirectional pump 210, please continue to refer to FIG1. The first suspension system may also include a second on / off control element 701 disposed in the first self-circulation flow channel to realize the on / off adjustment of the first self-circulation flow channel.
[0103] In some embodiments, the second on / off control element 701 is a switching solenoid valve.
[0104] Correspondingly, as shown in Figure 12, the first suspension system may also include a tenth on / off control element 702, which is disposed in the second self-circulating flow channel of the second bidirectional pump 310 to realize the on / off adjustment of the second self-circulating flow channel.
[0105] Please refer to Figure 1. When the first on / off control element 401 is disconnected, the connection between the first channel I and the first chamber 007 is interrupted. At the same time, the third on / off control element 402 is disconnected, the connection between the third channel III and the second chamber 005 is interrupted, the second on / off control element 701 is closed, and the first bidirectional pump 210 enters the self-circulation state through the corresponding first self-circulation flow channel.
[0106] This can be understood as follows: when the first self-circulating flow channel needs to enter the self-circulation state, the first on / off control element 401 and the third on / off control element 402 must be simultaneously in the off state. This means that the first channel I and the third channel III must also be simultaneously cut off to prevent either the first channel I or the third channel III from forming a connection with the first chamber 007 or the second chamber 005 of the shock absorber 003. Otherwise, if some of the fluid in the shock absorber 003 is introduced into the self-circulation, it is highly likely to cause fluctuations in system pressure or disrupt the working state of the entire system, thereby affecting the normal operation of the suspension system and the driving stability of the vehicle.
[0107] At this time, the second bidirectional pump 310 continues to work, that is, the second channel II continues to deliver liquid to the first chamber 007 or return liquid from the first chamber 007.
[0108] In some embodiments, referring to FIG3, in the second self-circulation control method for the first bidirectional pump 210 provided in some embodiments of this disclosure, the first bidirectional pump 210 has a first pressure zone L, a second pressure zone M and a third pressure zone S, and the pressure of the second pressure zone M is between the pressure of the first pressure zone L and the pressure of the third pressure zone S.
[0109] The first bidirectional pump 210 is provided with a first sub-flow channel Z1 and a second sub-flow channel Z2. The first sub-flow channel Z1 is adapted to connect the first pressure zone L and the second pressure zone M, and the second sub-flow channel Z2 is adapted to connect the second pressure zone M and the third pressure zone S.
[0110] A first check valve 703 is provided on the first sub-flow channel Z1, and a second check valve 704 is provided on the second sub-flow channel Z2. The first check valve 703 allows liquid to flow along the first sub-flow channel Z1 from the second pressure zone M to the first pressure zone L, and the second check valve 704 allows liquid to flow along the second sub-flow channel Z2 from the second pressure zone M to the third pressure zone S.
[0111] In some embodiments, the check valve may include a spring and a steel ball installed in the corresponding sub-flow channel mounting hole. On the one hand, the small size of the check valve reduces the space occupied by the first suspension system. On the other hand, compared to a solenoid valve, the simple structure of the check valve improves the reliability of the first suspension system, reduces the possibility of system failure, and its lower cost helps reduce the cost of the hydraulic device and the first suspension system.
[0112] In some embodiments, taking the first suspension system in FIG1 as an example in an active state, when the first bidirectional pump 210 delivers liquid to the shock absorber 003 along the Y1 direction in FIG3, the power source (e.g., motor) of the first bidirectional pump 210 rotates counterclockwise, the pressure of the third pressure zone S of the first bidirectional pump 210 is greater than the pressure of the second pressure zone M, and the liquid in the first bidirectional pump 210 can achieve self-circulation between the third pressure zone S and the second pressure zone M through the second sub-flow channel Z2, and the first sub-flow channel Z1 is disconnected.
[0113] When the first bidirectional pump 210 delivers liquid to the damper 003 in the opposite direction of Y1 in Figure 3, the power source (e.g., motor) of the first bidirectional pump 210 rotates counterclockwise. The pressure in the first pressure zone L of the first bidirectional pump 210 is greater than the pressure in the second pressure zone M. The liquid in the first bidirectional pump 210 can achieve self-circulation between the first pressure zone L and the second pressure zone M through the first sub-flow channel Z1, and the second sub-flow channel Z2 is disconnected.
[0114] Taking the first suspension system in Figure 1 as an example in a passive state, when the liquid in the shock absorber 003 flows back through the first bidirectional pump 210 in the opposite direction of Y1 in Figure 3, the liquid pushes the power source (e.g., motor) of the first bidirectional pump 210 to rotate clockwise. The pressure in the third pressure zone S is greater than the pressure in the second pressure zone M. The liquid in the first bidirectional pump 210 can achieve self-circulation between the third pressure zone S and the second pressure zone M through the second sub-flow channel Z2. The first sub-flow channel Z1 is disconnected.
[0115] When the liquid in the damper 003 flows back through the first bidirectional pump 210 in the opposite direction of Y1 in Figure 3, the liquid pushes the power source (e.g., motor) of the first bidirectional pump 210 to rotate counterclockwise. The pressure in the first pressure zone L is greater than the pressure in the second pressure zone M. The liquid in the first bidirectional pump 210 can achieve self-circulation between the first pressure zone L and the second pressure zone M through the first sub-flow channel Z1. The second sub-flow channel Z2 is disconnected.
[0116] Based on this, and through the aforementioned technical means, some embodiments of this disclosure provide two self-circulation methods for realizing the first bidirectional pump 210. Of course, the second bidirectional pump 310 can also utilize either of the above two self-circulation methods to realize its self-circulation.
[0117] It is understandable that the first on / off control element 401 and the third on / off control element 402 are located at both ends of the first bidirectional pump 210, which can quickly cut off the connection between the first bidirectional pump 210 and the shock absorber 003, so that the first bidirectional pump 210 can enter a complete self-circulation state.
[0118] In some embodiments, when the first channel I corresponding to the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second channel II corresponding to the second bidirectional pump 310 can both be adjusted to be open or closed, that is, when both the first channel I and the second channel II can be disconnected from and connected to the first chamber 007, the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 are both configured with corresponding self-circulation modes, and the self-circulation modes adopted by the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 can be the same or different.
[0119] It should be noted that in the two self-circulation methods mentioned above, in the first self-circulation method, when the first channel I and the third channel III are connected, the first self-circulation channel is closed. However, in the second self-circulation method, because the first sub-channel Z1 and the second sub-channel Z2 are equipped with check valves, which are mechanical components, the first sub-channel Z1 and the second sub-channel Z2 cannot actually be disconnected simultaneously. For example, when the first bidirectional pump 210 has a first sub-channel Z1 and a second sub-channel Z2, and the first sub-channel Z1 is equipped with… When the first one-way valve 703 and the second one-way valve 704 are provided on the second sub-flow channel Z2, and the first bidirectional pump 210 needs to actively deliver liquid to the damper 003, such as when delivering liquid along the Y1 direction in Figure 3, part of the liquid flowing from the second chamber 005 of the damper 003 to the third channel III will return to the first channel I through the first sub-flow channel Z1, and finally flow back to the first chamber 007 of the damper 003. The liquid passing through a sub-flow channel may cause a small amount of pressure loss, but it can be ignored in the actual process.
[0120] In some embodiments of this disclosure, under the second self-circulation mode, the first sub-channel Z1 and the second sub-channel Z2 can be formed on the fixed structure of the first bidirectional pump 310 itself (e.g., pump housing 010, see the structural description of the bidirectional pump below). In the above active mode, the liquid in the unclosed sub-channel can exchange heat with the power source (such as a motor) connected to the first bidirectional pump 310 (see below) to remove some heat and improve the working performance of the power source (such as a motor).
[0121] In some embodiments, continuing to refer to FIG1, in order to further adapt to the needs of the first suspension system, some embodiments of this disclosure distinguish the displacement of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310.
[0122] In some embodiments, the displacement of the first bidirectional pump 210 is greater than the displacement of the second bidirectional pump 310.
[0123] It should be noted that displacement usually refers to the volume of liquid discharged by a hydraulic pump per unit time. Here, displacement refers to the volume of liquid transported by the hydraulic pump per revolution at the same speed.
[0124] That is, when the rotational speeds of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 are the same, the displacement of the first bidirectional pump 210 is greater than that of the second bidirectional pump 310, which means that the geometric dimensions of the first bidirectional pump 210 are greater than those of the second bidirectional pump 310. In other words, the rotational radius and moment of inertia of the first bidirectional pump 210 are greater than those of the second bidirectional pump 310, respectively.
[0125] Taking the suspension system in active mode as an example, when the movement range of the moving part 006 requires a large hydraulic energy from either the first chamber 007 or the second chamber 005 of the shock absorber 003, the first channel I and the second channel II are controlled to simultaneously supply fluid to either the first chamber 007 or the second chamber 005 of the shock absorber 003. When the movement range of the moving part 006 requires a smaller hydraulic energy from either the first chamber 007 or the second chamber 005 of the shock absorber 003, the connection between the first channel I and the first chamber 007 is disconnected. When the movement range of the moving part 006 requires hydraulic energy from either the first chamber 007 or the second chamber 005 of the shock absorber 003 that is between the two aforementioned hydraulic energies, the connection between the second channel II and the first chamber 007 is disconnected.
[0126] Taking the suspension system in passive mode as an example, during vehicle operation, road conditions are complex and changeable, often encountering small bumps, potholes, and minor undulations. In passive mode, the connection between the first channel I and the first chamber 007 is severed, allowing the second channel II to connect with the first chamber 007, so that the small-displacement second bidirectional pump 310 can quickly respond to these minor road surface changes.
[0127] Because the smaller displacement second bidirectional pump 310 has a smaller size and lower moment of inertia, the fluid returning from the chamber of the damper 003 experiences less resistance when passing through it. Lower flow resistance in the hydraulic system results in a faster response speed. Therefore, compared to using a larger displacement first bidirectional pump 210 for fluid return, employing a smaller displacement second bidirectional pump 310 to return fluid from the first chamber 007 or the second chamber 005 of the damper 003 in some embodiments of this disclosure allows the damper 003 to adapt to road disturbances and excitations more quickly.
[0128] Please refer to Figures 4 and 5. Figure 4 shows the actual flow pulsation of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 when the first suspension system is in passive mode. Figure 5 shows the theoretical flow pulsation of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 when the first suspension system is in passive mode.
[0129] It should be noted that the dashed line a in Figure 4 represents the corresponding flow pulsation change line of the second bidirectional pump 310, and the solid line b in Figure 4 represents the corresponding flow pulsation change line of the first bidirectional pump 210.
[0130] In Figure 5, line a represents the corresponding flow pulsation curve of the second bidirectional pump 310, and line b represents the corresponding flow pulsation curve of the first bidirectional pump 210.
[0131] When the first suspension system is in passive mode, when an equal amount of excitation energy is transferred to the suspension system, this process can be equivalently viewed as a pump releasing energy by transporting flow within a complete cycle. During this process, the flow is not constant but exhibits pulsating characteristics.
[0132] In passive mode, the same amount of excitation energy is transferred, which can be equivalent to the first bidirectional pump 210 or the second bidirectional pump 310 delivering flow to release energy within one cycle. As shown in Figure 5, when the same excitation energy is transferred, assuming the first bidirectional pump 210 can release this energy within one cycle, the second bidirectional pump 310, due to its smaller displacement, requires multiple cycles to release this energy. Therefore, the flow pulsation amplitude generated when this excitation energy passes through the second bidirectional pump 310 is smaller, resulting in better NVH performance. This is illustrated here by taking the example of the first bidirectional pump 210 releasing energy in one cycle and the second bidirectional pump 310 releasing the same energy in four cycles.
[0133] As can be seen from the actual pulsation waveforms of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 in Figure 4, within one cycle, the pulsation amplitude of the first bidirectional pump 210 is larger than that of the second bidirectional pump 310. Under the same external excitation energy, the waveform amplitude of the second bidirectional pump is smaller, the flow pulsation is smaller, and the corresponding vehicle NVH performance is better.
[0134] Therefore, when the first suspension system needs to quickly adapt to road conditions (such as passive mode), some embodiments of this disclosure disconnect the first channel I from the first chamber 007, so that only the second bidirectional pump 310 can return liquid from the first chamber 007, thereby accelerating the response speed of the first suspension system.
[0135] That is, in passive mode, when the vehicle wheels suddenly encounter road bumps or potholes during driving, road excitation is generated instantly. Due to its small inertia, the small displacement second bidirectional pump 310 has low flow resistance when the road excitation passes through it. The second bidirectional pump 310 can start quickly and deliver liquid in a small flow pulsation to release the excitation energy, thereby improving the NVH performance of the whole vehicle and enhancing comfort.
[0136] Meanwhile, the smaller displacement second bidirectional pump 310 offers more flexible operating modes. For example, some road conditions require the first suspension system to quickly switch between active and passive modes, and the second bidirectional pump 310 can meet this requirement, reducing vehicle energy consumption while ensuring vehicle comfort.
[0137] For example, when the first suspension system switches from the active mode of the second bidirectional pump 310 delivering liquid to the passive mode of the second bidirectional pump 310 receiving liquid and passively adapting, the second bidirectional pump 310 can quickly switch its working state because of its small displacement and fast response speed. The second bidirectional pump 310 can quickly adjust its working state.
[0138] This ability to switch quickly helps prevent over-adjustment of the hydraulic system. It also offers the advantage of flexible switching when changing the operating modes of other components involving the small-displacement second bidirectional pump 310, which will not be elaborated upon here.
[0139] When the power unit 101 is working, it can transmit power simultaneously between the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310. By setting different displacements (i.e., different output power) for the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310, the speed range of the power unit can be optimized, thereby improving NVH performance. In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 6. Line A in Figure 6 shows the power change as the speed of the power unit 101 changes when the second bidirectional pump 310 works alone; line B in Figure 6 shows the power change as the speed of the power unit 101 changes when the first bidirectional pump 210 works alone; and line C in Figure 6 shows the power change as the speed of the power unit 101 changes when the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 work simultaneously.
[0140] First, it is important to understand that the larger the speed range of the power component 101 (such as the motor), the greater the probability of abnormal frequencies and NVH problems.
[0141] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the rotational speed range of the power unit 101 can be narrowed to between n2 and n3 by configuring the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310. This reduces the probability of abnormal frequencies, such as abnormal noises, optimizing the NVH performance of the power unit 101, and thus improving the NVH performance of the first suspension system.
[0142] Referring again to Figure 6, it can be understood that when the speed range is narrowed to between n2 and n3, the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310, whether operating individually or simultaneously, can cover the full power requirement range of P1 to P3 to be achieved by the entire system. In other words, some embodiments of this disclosure improve NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) by narrowing the speed range of the power component 101 without affecting the output power capability of the first suspension system. Furthermore, narrowing the speed range of the power component 101 can reduce the control complexity of the controller 002 in controlling the power component 101 or improve the control accuracy of the controller 002 in controlling the power component 101.
[0143] Referring to Figure 7, line B in Figure 7 represents the working state of the second bidirectional pump 310 when it is working alone, line A in Figure 7 represents the working state of the first bidirectional pump 210 when it is working alone, and line C in Figure 7 represents the working state of both the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 when they are working.
[0144] When the second bidirectional pump 310 operates alone, the maximum output power of the first suspension system is P2; when the first bidirectional pump 210 operates alone, the maximum output power of the first suspension system is P3; and when the second bidirectional pump 310 and the first bidirectional pump 210 operate together, the maximum output power of the first suspension system is P5. It can be seen that when the system's power demand is less than P2, the power component 101 is more efficient when the second bidirectional pump 310 operates alone. Therefore, when the system is in active operating mode, and the power demand is no greater than P2, the second bidirectional pump 310 can be controlled to supply hydraulic energy to the shock absorber alone. Compared to the first bidirectional pump 210 supplying energy alone or the second bidirectional pump 310 and the first bidirectional pump 210 supplying energy together, the power component 101 can operate in a higher efficiency range, improving the efficiency of the first suspension system and reducing vehicle energy consumption.
[0145] On the one hand, by setting up a first bidirectional pump 210 and a second bidirectional pump 310 with different displacements and output powers, some embodiments of this disclosure expand the power output range of the first suspension system: the maximum output power is increased from P2 or P3 when a single pump works independently to P5, which greatly expands the adjustment range of the first suspension system, making the vehicle more adaptable to extreme working conditions with extreme pressure requirements, such as high-speed cornering, jumping from a standstill, jumping off a high platform and other extreme usage scenarios.
[0146] On the other hand, by adjusting the connection state between the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 and the first chamber 007, the corresponding working state can be adjusted within the corresponding range, thereby improving the efficiency of the system in the corresponding power range and reducing energy consumption.
[0147] For example, when the power is less than P1, the second bidirectional pump 310 operates to increase the overall efficiency to maximum. The power demand is between P1 and P2. When the vehicle requires the first bidirectional pump 210 to operate, it can be seen that the first bidirectional pump 210 cannot quickly reach its highest efficiency operating state when operating alone. In this case, during the switching process, the first bidirectional pump 210 can be turned on without disconnecting the second bidirectional pump 310, allowing the system to adjust power according to line C. Compared to the first bidirectional pump 210 operating alone, both the first and second bidirectional pumps 210 and 310 can operate efficiently in the P1 to P2 region more quickly (i.e., when the first and second bidirectional pumps 210 and 310 operate simultaneously, the power can be advanced to point P4), and the energy consumption generated during the switching between the first and second bidirectional pumps 210 and 310 is reduced. Therefore, some embodiments of this disclosure expand the power range of the first suspension system in the high-efficiency region, which is beneficial for reducing vehicle energy consumption.
[0148] In some embodiments, at least one of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 is a gear pump.
[0149] In some embodiments, the first bidirectional pump 210 is a gear pump, and the second bidirectional pump 310 is a gear pump.
[0150] The gear pump has a compact structure. By setting both the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 as gear pumps, they can be easily installed and laid out in a limited space. This is especially helpful for the first suspension system of a vehicle, where space is usually limited. This compact design helps to save space and makes the whole system simpler and more efficient.
[0151] Furthermore, when the vehicle starts or the first suspension system switches quickly, the self-priming performance of the gear pump ensures that the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 can quickly build up pressure, enabling the first suspension system to respond promptly to changes in the vehicle's driving status.
[0152] In some embodiments, the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 are both internal gear pumps, which helps to further optimize the space occupied by the first suspension system and facilitates the arrangement of the first suspension system in a limited vehicle space.
[0153] Referring to Figures 8 and 9, some embodiments of this disclosure will be used as examples of the pump body structure of the first bidirectional pump 210 to illustrate the structure of the internal gear pump.
[0154] The pump body of the first bidirectional pump 210 includes a gear ring 011 and a gear 012 that mesh with each other. Some embodiments of this disclosure are illustrated by way of internal meshing of the gear ring 011 and the gear 012.
[0155] Referring to Figure 8 and Figure 9, the gear ring 011 and the gear 012 rotate in the same direction, and the side of the gear ring 011 and the gear 012 that is away from meshing is a transition zone. A crescent-shaped partition 013 is provided in the transition zone, and the crescent-shaped partition 013 does not rotate.
[0156] In some embodiments, when gear 012 rotates counterclockwise, due to the eccentricity between gear 012 and gear ring 011, the inter-tooth volume gradually increases on the side where gear 012 disengages from gear ring 011. As the teeth of gear 012 gradually move away from the teeth of gear ring 011, this region forms a gradually expanding low-pressure chamber. As the inter-tooth volume increases, the pressure in this region decreases, creating a local vacuum. External liquid is then drawn into the gradually expanding inter-tooth volume through the inlet, completing the liquid suction process.
[0157] As the teeth of gear 012 gradually mesh with the teeth of gear ring 011, the inter-tooth volume gradually decreases. The teeth of gear 012 gradually push the teeth of gear ring 011, causing the space occupied by the liquid in this area to become smaller and smaller. Due to the decrease in inter-tooth volume, the liquid is compressed, and the pressure increases. The high-pressure liquid is discharged from the pump through the outlet and delivered to the hydraulic system.
[0158] After the sucked-in liquid enters the transition zone, it can flow in a predetermined direction under the action of the crescent-shaped baffle 013. In the suction zone, the crescent-shaped baffle 013 ensures that the liquid can smoothly enter the gradually increasing volume; in the pressure zone, the crescent-shaped baffle 013 ensures that the liquid can be smoothly squeezed out of the pump body. At the same time, the crescent-shaped baffle 013 can prevent high-pressure liquid from flowing back into the suction zone during the pressure process.
[0159] Based on this, referring to Figure 8 and in conjunction with Figure 9, two semi-self-circulating flow channels can be opened on the housing of the first bidirectional pump 210, thereby saving space occupied by the first suspension system.
[0160] In some embodiments, the first liquid hole 014 is opened in the liquid suction region, the second liquid hole 015 is opened in the liquid pressure region, the third liquid hole 016 is opened in the medium pressure region, the first sub-channel Z1 is connected between the third liquid hole 016 and the first liquid hole 014, and the second sub-channel Z2 is connected between the third liquid hole 016 and the second liquid hole 015.
[0161] Correspondingly, taking the example that the pressure in the first pressure zone L is greater than that in the third pressure zone S, the first pressure zone L is the liquid-pressing zone mentioned above, the third pressure zone S is the liquid-absorbing zone mentioned above, and the second pressure zone M is the medium-pressure zone mentioned above.
[0162] In some embodiments, a first check valve 703 is disposed at a first liquid hole 014, and a second check valve 704 is disposed at a second liquid hole 015. Referring to Figures 8 and 9, when the bidirectional pump is operating, liquid can flow along the third liquid hole 016 towards the first liquid hole 014 or along the third liquid hole 016 towards the second liquid hole 015 within the pump body, depending on the pump's operating conditions. Under the action of the first check valve 703 and the second check valve 704, self-circulating liquid can move from the third liquid hole 016 towards the first liquid hole 014 or the second liquid hole 015.
[0163] In some embodiments, referring to FIG8 and in conjunction with FIG9, the first sub-channel Z1 and the second sub-channel Z2 in the second self-circulation mode can be disposed on the pump housing 010 of the entire bidirectional pump. The power member 101 is connected to the lower part of the pump housing 010 in FIG9. The outer shell of the power member 101 and the pump housing 010 form a chamber, which forms part of at least one of the first sub-channel Z1 and the second sub-channel Z2.
[0164] When the first suspension system is in active mode, the power unit 101 drives at least one of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 to work. The power unit 101 itself will inevitably generate heat. At this time, one of the first sub-flow channels Z1 and the second sub-flow channel Z2 is connected. In this connected loop, the liquid passing through the above-mentioned chamber can exchange heat with the power unit 101 below the chamber to cool the power unit 101, which is beneficial to improving the thermal management capability and efficiency of the motor and the first suspension system.
[0165] Correspondingly, when the displacement of the first bidirectional pump 210 is greater than the displacement of the second bidirectional pump 310, the number of teeth of the first bidirectional pump 210 is greater than that of the second bidirectional pump 310.
[0166] In some embodiments, the number of teeth of the first bidirectional pump 210 is either odd or even, and the number of teeth of the second bidirectional pump 310 is either odd or even.
[0167] Referring to Figures 10 and 11, in some embodiments, when the number of teeth of the first bidirectional pump 210 is set to an odd number and the number of teeth of the second bidirectional pump 310 is set to an even number, the flow pulsation period and waveform corresponding to the two are also completely different due to the difference in the oddness of the number of teeth.
[0168] In the coordinated operation of the system, the corresponding flow rate line a of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the corresponding flow rate line b of the second bidirectional pump 310 are superimposed and coordinated, and the peaks and troughs of their respective pulsations can intersect and complement each other. When the flow rate pulsation of the first bidirectional pump 210 is at a peak and about to output a large flow rate impact, the second bidirectional pump 310 is in a trough or a relatively flat stage.
[0169] Referring to Figures 10 and 11, when the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 work simultaneously, the overall corresponding flow output curve c is relatively gentle. Therefore, when the power component 101 drives the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 to work simultaneously, it can greatly reduce the violent fluctuations, making the working flow pulsation of the first suspension system much more stable, and greatly improving the NVH performance of the first suspension system.
[0170] In addition, after the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 are set in an odd-even number of teeth combination, the waveforms of the two pumps compensate each other to achieve a stable flow output, which can reduce the overall working noise of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 and improve the comfort of the driver and passengers.
[0171] In some embodiments, please refer back to FIG1, the first suspension system further includes a first accumulator 601, which is disposed on the fluid line connecting the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 to the first chamber 007 of the shock absorber 003.
[0172] The first accumulator 601 can store a certain amount of liquid. When the pressure in the hydraulic system changes, the first accumulator 601 can release or absorb the liquid, thereby stabilizing the system pressure.
[0173] In other embodiments, the first suspension system further includes a second accumulator 602, which is also disposed on the fluid line of at least one of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 connected to the second chamber 005 of the shock absorber 003.
[0174] For example, the first energy storage device 601 may be located on at least one of the first channel I or the second channel II, or the first energy storage device 601 may be located on the main branch after the first channel I and the second channel II are connected in parallel. This disclosure does not limit this.
[0175] The second accumulator 602 is located on at least one of the third channel III or the fourth channel IV, or the first accumulator 601 is located on the main branch after the third channel III and the fourth channel IV are connected in parallel. This disclosure does not limit this.
[0176] In some embodiments, referring to FIG1, the first suspension system further includes a damping adjustment element for adjusting the flow rate of the fluid path.
[0177] In some embodiments, the damping adjustment member includes a first damping adjustment member 801 (i.e., damping adjustment member 801), which satisfies at least one of the following: the first damping adjustment member 801 is adapted to communicate a first channel I between the shock absorber 003 and the first bidirectional pump 210; the first damping adjustment member 801 is adapted to communicate a second channel II between the shock absorber 003 and the second bidirectional pump 310.
[0178] Some embodiments of this disclosure are illustrated by providing a first damping adjustment element 801 on the total hydraulic line after the first channel I and the second channel II are connected in parallel.
[0179] In some embodiments, the first suspension system further includes a second damping adjuster 802, which may be located in the third channel III. Alternatively, the first damping adjuster 801 may also be located in the fourth channel IV.
[0180] Some embodiments of this disclosure are illustrated by providing a second damping adjustment element 802 on the total hydraulic line after the third channel III and the fourth channel IV are connected in parallel.
[0181] In some embodiments, the first damping adjustment member 801 and the second damping adjustment member 802 can be proportional solenoid valves. The proportional solenoid valves can accurately control the flow rate or pressure of the liquid passing through the proportional solenoid valves according to different working conditions and requirements, thereby accurately controlling the amount of liquid flowing into or out of the shock absorber 003 to accurately meet the adjustment requirements of the first suspension system.
[0182] In some embodiments, referring to FIG1, the first suspension system further includes a filter element for filtering liquids.
[0183] In some embodiments, the filter element includes a first filter element 111 (i.e. filter element 111), which satisfies at least one of the following: the first filter element 111 is connected between the shock absorber 003 and the first bidirectional pump 210; the first filter element 111 is connected between the shock absorber 003 and the second bidirectional pump 310.
[0184] For example, the first filter element 111 can be disposed in the first channel I, the first filter element 111 can also be disposed in the second channel II, or the first filter element 111 can be disposed in the total liquid path after the first channel I and the second channel II are connected in parallel. Some embodiments of this disclosure are illustrated by providing the first filter element 111 in the total liquid path after the first channel I and the second channel II are connected in parallel.
[0185] In other embodiments, the first suspension system further includes a second filter 112, which may be disposed in the third channel III, or in the fourth channel IV, or in the main hydraulic line after the third channel III and the fourth channel IV are connected in parallel. Some embodiments of this disclosure are illustrated by providing a second filter 112 in the main hydraulic line after the third channel III and the fourth channel IV are connected in parallel.
[0186] In this way, when the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 deliver or return liquid to the shock absorber 003, impurities in the liquid can be filtered out by the filter element to ensure the stable operation of the hydraulic circuit of the first suspension system.
[0187] In some embodiments, the damping adjustment element and the filter element can also cooperate with each other during fluid transport. Some embodiments of this disclosure are illustrated by way of example, with one first damping adjustment element 801 corresponding to one first filter element 111 and one second damping adjustment element 802 corresponding to one second filter element 112.
[0188] Taking the cooperation between the first damping adjustment component 801 and the first filter component 111 as an example, the first damping adjustment component 801 includes a first end and a second end, and the first filter component 111 includes a third end and a fourth end. Both the first end and the third end are connected to the first chamber 007, and both the second end and the fourth end are connected to the connection end of the first bidirectional pump 210 that is connected to the first chamber 007. Alternatively, both the first end and the third end are connected to the first chamber 007, and both the second end and the fourth end are connected to the connection end of the second bidirectional pump 310 that is connected to the first chamber 007. Either of these two scenarios may exist simultaneously.
[0189] On the one hand, by connecting the first damping adjustment component 801 and the first filter component 111 in parallel between the first bidirectional pump 210 and the first chamber 007, and by connecting one end of the first damping adjustment component 801 and one end of the first filter component 111 to the connection end connecting the first bidirectional pump 210 and the first chamber 007, the number of liquid inlets of the first bidirectional pump 210 can be reduced, and it is beneficial for two parallel hydraulic branches to share a flow path.
[0190] On the other hand, if the first damping adjustment element 801 and the first filter element 111 are connected in series between the first bidirectional pump and the first chamber 007, all the liquid flow passes through the filter element, resulting in a large pressure loss in the entire hydraulic circuit, which affects the response of the shock absorber and the energy conversion rate of the system. In contrast, it is more beneficial to the response of the shock absorber and the energy conversion rate of the system to set the first damping adjustment element 801 and the first filter element 111 in parallel.
[0191] In other embodiments, taking the cooperation between the second damping adjustment member 802 and the second filter member 112 as an example, the second damping adjustment member 802 includes a third end and a fourth end, and the second filter member 112 includes a fifth end and a sixth end. The third and fifth ends are both connected to the second chamber 005, and the fourth and sixth ends are both connected to the connection end of the first bidirectional pump 210 that is connected to the second chamber 005. Alternatively, the third and fifth ends are both connected to the second chamber 005, and the fourth and sixth ends are both connected to the connection end of the second bidirectional pump 310 that is connected to the second chamber 005. Either of these two scenarios may exist simultaneously.
[0192] In this way, the above settings reduce the flow rate of liquid flowing out of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310, as well as the flow rate of liquid flowing into the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310. The filter and the damping adjustment can work together to divert the flow and buffer the pressure changes of the liquid.
[0193] Here, the damping regulator can control the liquid flow rate to match the liquid flow rate passing through the filter. Alternatively, the damping regulator can also control the liquid flow rate to be higher or lower than the liquid flow rate passing through the filter, and through a limited number of cycles, the filter can also achieve liquid filtration.
[0194] In some embodiments, referring to FIG1, the suspension system further includes a protective check valve located in the same liquid branch as the filter element to prevent excessive liquid pressure at the filter element from damaging it.
[0195] In some embodiments, the protective check valve includes a first protective check valve 121 and a second protective check valve 122, wherein the first protective check valve 121 is connected in series with the first filter element 111, and the second protective check valve 122 is connected in series with the second filter element 112.
[0196] Taking the first chamber 007 of the shock absorber 003 as an example, the first chamber 007 of the shock absorber 003 is provided with a liquid flow port. The first filter element 111 is connected to a first protective check valve 121 on the side opposite to the shock absorber 003. The first protective check valve 121 only allows liquid to flow from the second chamber 005 of the shock absorber 003 to the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310. The setting of the second one-way protective valve is the same as that of the first protective check valve 121, and will not be described in detail here.
[0197] The first protective check valve 121 and the second protective check valve 122 only allow liquid to flow from the damper 003 to the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310.
[0198] When the first suspension system is in active mode, taking the example of fluid being pumped from the second chamber 005 to the first chamber 007 by at least one of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310, the fluid pressure flowing from at least one of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 to the first chamber 007 is relatively high. At this time, the protective check valve 121 is closed, blocking the high-pressure fluid from passing through the first filter element 111, thereby preventing damage to the first filter element 111. Conversely, the hydraulic pressure drawn from the second chamber 005 into at least one of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 is relatively low, and the second protective check valve 122 is opened, allowing the low-pressure fluid to pass through the first filter element 111. When the first suspension system is in active mode, the situation is exactly the opposite, with fluid being pumped from the first chamber 007 to the second chamber 005, which will not be described further here.
[0199] When the first suspension system is in passive mode, regardless of whether the liquid flows from the first chamber 007 to the second chamber 005 or from the second chamber 005 to the first chamber 007, one of the first protective check valve 121 and the second protective check valve 122 will open, allowing the liquid to pass through one of the filters for filtration. Since the liquid pressure is low in passive mode, there is no need to consider the pressure protection of the filters, and therefore no need to consider the setting direction of the first protective check valve 121 and the second protective check valve 122, or even to set up a protective check valve. However, without a protective check valve, the low-pressure liquid passes through both filters simultaneously, resulting in a significant pressure loss and affecting the response of the shock absorber 003. Therefore, in this embodiment, the setting of the first protective check valve 121 and the second protective check valve 122, as well as their directions, simultaneously considers the protection of the filters and the response of the shock absorber 003 in both active and passive modes of the first suspension system.
[0200] Furthermore, the protective check valve is located on the side of the filter element away from the shock absorber 003, which can further protect the filter element.
[0201] In some embodiments, the first suspension system further includes a pressure sensor disposed on the system fluid line, wherein the pressure sensor is disposed on the fluid line connecting the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 and the shock absorber 003.
[0202] Pressure sensors can monitor hydraulic pressure in the fluid circuit in real time. This allows the vehicle control system to understand the operating status of the primary suspension system at any time, so as to make timely adjustments.
[0203] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG1, the pressure sensor includes a first pressure sensor 501. The first pressure sensor 501 is disposed on the liquid line connecting the first bidirectional pump 210 or the second bidirectional pump 310 and the first chamber 007 of the vibration damper 003. That is, the first pressure sensor 501 can be disposed in the first channel I, the first pressure sensor 501 can also be disposed in the second channel II, or the first pressure sensor 501 can be disposed in both the first channel I and the second channel II.
[0204] In other embodiments, the pressure sensor includes a second pressure sensor 502, which is disposed on the liquid line connecting the first bidirectional pump 210 or the second bidirectional pump 310 and the second chamber 005 of the shock absorber 003. That is, the second pressure sensor 502 can be disposed in the third channel III, the second pressure sensor 502 can also be disposed in the fourth channel IV, or the second pressure sensor 502 can be disposed in both the third channel III and the fourth channel IV.
[0205] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 12, the second suspension system can work in conjunction with the first suspension system to improve the vehicle's NVH performance.
[0206] It should be noted that, referring to Figures 12 to 15, the components of the second suspension system will be described first. The second suspension system shown in Figures 12 to 15 includes a shock absorber 004, a power unit 102, a third bidirectional pump 220, a fourth bidirectional pump 320, a fourth on / off control unit 403, a fifth on / off control unit 404, an eighth on / off control unit 407, a ninth on / off control unit 408, a third accumulator 603, a fourth accumulator 604, a third damping adjuster 803, a fourth damping adjuster 804, a second filter 113, a fourth filter 114, a third protective check valve 123, a fourth protective check valve 124, a third pressure sensor 503, and a fourth pressure sensor 504, thereby realizing the functions mentioned in the first suspension system.
[0207] Here, the connection method between the shock absorber 004, power component 102, third bidirectional pump 220, fourth bidirectional pump 320, fourth on / off control component 403, fifth on / off control component 404, eighth on / off control component 407, ninth on / off control component 408, third accumulator 603, fourth accumulator 604, third damping adjuster 803, fourth damping adjuster 804, second filter 113, fourth filter 114, third protective check valve 123, fourth protective check valve 124, third pressure sensor 503, and fourth pressure sensor 504 in the second suspension system is the same as that in the first suspension system. The connection methods between the shock absorber 003, power component 101, first bidirectional pump 210, second bidirectional pump 310, first on / off control component 401, second on / off control component 701, third on / off control component 402, sixth on / off control component 405, seventh on / off control component 406, first accumulator 601, second accumulator 602, first damping adjustment component 801, second damping adjustment component 802, first filter component 111, second filter component 112, first protective check valve 121, second protective check valve 122, first pressure sensor 501, and second pressure sensor 502 are the same and will not be described in detail here.
[0208] In some embodiments, the suspension system includes a first controller (e.g., a microcontroller unit (MCU)) 001 and a second controller (e.g., a multimedia personal computer (MPC)) 002. The first controller 001 is used to control all components in the vehicle or suspension system, and the second controller 002 is used to control the power component 101 that provides power to the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310, as well as the on / off state of the first channel I, the second channel II, and the self-circulating flow channel.
[0209] In some embodiments, the second controller 002 is electrically connected to the power component 101, the first on / off control component 401, the second on / off control component 701, the third on / off control component 402, the first damping adjustment component 801, the second damping adjustment component 802, the first pressure sensor 501, and the second pressure sensor 502 of the first suspension system.
[0210] Correspondingly, the second controller 002 is electrically connected to the power component 102, the fourth on / off control component 403, the fifth on / off control component 404, the sixth on / off control component 405, the third damping adjustment component 803, the fourth damping adjustment component 804, the third pressure sensor 503, and the fourth pressure sensor 504 of the second suspension system.
[0211] Taking the first bidirectional pump 210 selecting the first self-circulation mode as an example, when it is necessary to disconnect the connection between the first channel I and the damper 003 and to turn on the self-circulation of the first bidirectional pump 210, the second controller 002 controls the first on / off control element 401 and the third on / off control element 402 to disconnect, while controlling the second on / off control element 701 to close, so that the first bidirectional pump 210 can quickly enter the self-circulation mode.
[0212] Correspondingly, the relevant settings of the third bidirectional pump 220 connected to the shock absorber 004 are the same as those of the first bidirectional pump 210 described above, and will not be repeated here.
[0213] Please refer to Figures 12 and 13. Figures 12 and 13 illustrate two possible implementation methods in the first and second suspension systems, where only the first channel I can be independently controlled. In Figure 12, the second bidirectional pump 310 is located between the first bidirectional pump 210 and the power unit 101, and the fourth bidirectional pump 320 is located between the third bidirectional pump 220 and the power unit 102. In Figure 12, the first bidirectional pump 210 is located between the second bidirectional pump 310 and the power unit 101, and the third bidirectional pump 220 is located between the fourth bidirectional pump 320 and the power unit 102.
[0214] Please refer to Figures 14 and 15. Figures 14 and 15 illustrate two possible implementation methods in the first suspension system and the second suspension system, where the first channel I and the second channel II can be independently controlled.
[0215] In Figure 14, the self-circulation mode of the first bidirectional pump 210 is different from that of the second bidirectional pump 310, and the self-circulation mode of the third bidirectional pump 220 is different from that of the fourth bidirectional pump 320.
[0216] In Figure 15, the self-circulation mode of the first bidirectional pump 210 is consistent with that of the second bidirectional pump 310, reducing structural complexity. The first and second bidirectional pumps 210 can operate synchronously, improving system stability. The self-circulation mode of the third bidirectional pump 220 is consistent with that of the fourth bidirectional pump 320. In the embodiment shown in Figure 15, both the self-circulation mode of the second bidirectional pump 310 and the first bidirectional pump 210 are the second type of self-circulation described above. Of course, in other embodiments, both the self-circulation mode of the second bidirectional pump 310 and the first bidirectional pump 210 can be the first type of self-circulation described above.
[0217] The following describes the mounting structure of the first bidirectional pump 210, the second bidirectional pump 310, the third bidirectional pump 220, and the fourth bidirectional pump 320, with the power unit 101 and the power unit 102 configured as motors, the motors including the motor output shaft 07.
[0218] In some embodiments, the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 are both connected to the power unit 101, and the third bidirectional pump 220 and the fourth bidirectional pump 320 are both connected to the power unit 102.
[0219] In some embodiments, referring to FIG16, the motor output shaft 07 is mounted on a first bearing 08, which is adapted to support the motor output shaft 07, thereby effectively reducing the friction of the power output shaft during rotation.
[0220] Here, Figure 16(a) shows the hydraulic transmission of the first pump assembly and the second pump assembly in the suspension system, and Figure 16(b) corresponds to the structure of the first pump assembly and the second pump assembly. The same applies to Figures 17, 18 and 19, which will not be described in detail in this disclosure.
[0221] In some embodiments, continuing to refer to FIG16, the first suspension system further includes a pump housing 010 connected to the power component 101. The pump housing 010 has a receiving cavity 05, in which the pump gears 012 of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 are both disposed. Correspondingly, the structure of the second suspension system is also configured in this way, which will not be described in detail in this disclosure. The receiving cavity 05 has a first hydraulic cavity 051 for accommodating the first bidirectional pump 210 and a second hydraulic cavity 052 for accommodating the second bidirectional pump 310.
[0222] In some embodiments, referring to FIG16, the first suspension system further includes a separator 06 disposed within the receiving cavity 05. The separator 06 divides the receiving cavity 05 into a first hydraulic cavity 051 and a second hydraulic cavity 052. The separator 06 is disposed between the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310. The separator 06 is sleeved on the motor output shaft 07. The separator 06 is adapted to divide the receiving cavity 05 into independent hydraulic cavities for the operation of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310, so that the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 can independently establish their own corresponding hydraulic differential when working, thereby enabling the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump to independently return or deliver liquid to the first chamber 007.
[0223] In some embodiments, the housing of the second controller 002 and the housing of the power component 102 are fixedly connected to each other, so as to improve the integration of the first suspension system and the second suspension system.
[0224] In some embodiments, the second controller 002 is located on the side of the power unit 101 opposite to the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310. The second controller 002 is located on the side of the power unit 102 opposite to the third bidirectional pump 220 and the fourth bidirectional pump 320.
[0225] The housing, power components 101 and 102, first bidirectional pump 210, second bidirectional pump 310, third bidirectional pump 220 and fourth bidirectional pump 320 of the second controller 002 have overlapping axes. For example, this axis is the axis of the motor output shaft 07. The overlapping axes make these components arranged in a straight line in space, which greatly reduces the space occupied by the first suspension system and the second suspension system, and makes the structure of the entire first suspension system and the second suspension system more compact.
[0226] It should be noted that the term "overlap" in some embodiments of this disclosure refers to "substantial overlap". Taking the first pump assembly and the second pump assembly as examples, substantial overlap means that: due to process tolerances and errors in the production and assembly of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310, the axes of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 may deviate in three-dimensional space. Therefore, if the distance between the axes of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 is within the normal tolerance or error range, the axes of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 can be considered to be substantially overlapped.
[0227] For example, if the distance between the axes of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 in any direction is less than or equal to 30 mm (some embodiments of this disclosure are only illustrated by example with 30 mm), it can be considered that the axes of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 are substantially coincident. The coincidence mentioned in this application refers to the "substantially coincident" mentioned above, and this disclosure will not elaborate on this.
[0228] It is understandable that, referring to Figure 16, in order to further improve the integration of the first suspension system and the second suspension system, taking the vehicle width direction as an example, the power components 101 and 102 of the suspension systems on the left and right sides of the vehicle are integrated with the first bidirectional pump 210, the second bidirectional pump 310, the third bidirectional pump 220 and the fourth bidirectional pump 320.
[0229] Referring to Figures 17 and 18, the arrangement order of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 connected to the power component 101 in Figure 17 is the opposite of the arrangement order of the third bidirectional pump 220 and the fourth bidirectional pump 320 connected to the power component 102 relative to the power component 102. In Figure 18, the arrangement order of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 connected to the power component 101 is the same as the arrangement order of the third bidirectional pump 220 and the fourth bidirectional pump 320 connected to the power component 102 relative to the power component 102. The two arrangement directions will be explained below.
[0230] In some embodiments, the arrangement direction of the power component 101, the first bidirectional pump 210, and the second bidirectional pump 310 along the axial direction of the power output shaft of the power component 101 can be the same as that of the power component 102, the third bidirectional pump 220, and the fourth bidirectional pump 320 along the axial direction of the power output shaft of the power component 102. Alternatively, the arrangement direction of the power component 101, the first bidirectional pump 210, and the second bidirectional pump 310 along the axial direction of the power output shaft of the power component 101 can be different from that of the power component 102, the third bidirectional pump 220, and the fourth bidirectional pump 320 along the axial direction of the power output shaft of the power component 102.
[0231] As shown in Figure 17, the second bidirectional pump 310 and the first bidirectional pump 210 on the right are arranged such that the second bidirectional pump 310 is located between the first bidirectional pump 210 and the power component 101. From the perspective of installing the pump body, the second bidirectional pump 310 can be installed first and then the first bidirectional pump 210 can be installed from the right side in the X2 direction. That is, there is no need to set an opening on the left side of the receiving cavity 05 to install the first bidirectional pump 210. In this way, it is only necessary to set the corresponding first sealing cover 09 on the right side to achieve the sealing of the receiving cavity 05, which can save the installation component of a sealing cover.
[0232] As shown in Figure 18, the third bidirectional pump 220 and the fourth bidirectional pump 320 are positioned between the fourth bidirectional pump 320 and the power component 102. During installation, the third bidirectional pump 220 and the fourth bidirectional pump 320 cannot be installed together through the opening on the left. The third bidirectional pump 220 is installed through the opening on the right side in the X2 direction, and the fourth bidirectional pump 320 is installed through the opening on the left side. In this installation method, a first sealing cover 09 needs to be installed from the right side to seal the hydraulic chamber of the third bidirectional pump 220, and a second sealing cover 04 needs to be installed from the left side to seal the hydraulic chamber of the fourth bidirectional pump 320. The shape of the receiving cavity 05 corresponds to the shape of the pump gear and other structures inside the fourth bidirectional pump 320. Furthermore, the shaft diameter of the part connecting the power output shaft to the fourth bidirectional pump 320 can be set smaller than the shaft diameter of the part connecting the power output shaft to the third bidirectional pump 220. This stepped shaft design better meets process requirements.
[0233] To further ensure stability and load-bearing capacity, the first suspension system is also equipped with multiple bearings. Taking the installation method of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 as an example, the motor includes the housing of the power component 101, the first bearing 08 is disposed between the motor output shaft 07 and the housing of the power component 101, the first bearing 08 and the second bearing (not shown in the figure) are spaced apart, and both the second bearing and the second bearing (not shown in the figure) are disposed between the motor output shaft 07 and the housing.
[0234] In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides an exemplary description of a suspension system.
[0235] Referring to Figures 16 to 19, it can be understood that, under the integrated structure, after the power component 101 and the power component 102 are integrated with the second controller 002, there are four structures shown in Figures 16 to 19.
[0236] The power unit 101 and its corresponding first bidirectional pump 210 and second bidirectional pump 310 form a first motor pump assembly, and the power unit 102 and its corresponding first bidirectional pump 210 and second bidirectional pump 310 form a second motor pump assembly.
[0237] In some embodiments, the first motor pump assembly and the second motor pump assembly are located on both sides of the second controller 002 along the X2 direction. The power output shaft of the power component 101 and its corresponding first bidirectional pump 210 and second bidirectional pump 310, and the power output shaft of the power component 102 and its corresponding third bidirectional pump 220 and fourth bidirectional pump 320, all have their axes coincided. The integration of the entire system is higher, and the space utilization of the first suspension system and the second suspension system in the vehicle is higher.
[0238] In some embodiments, the first motor pump assembly is connected to the vibration damper 003, and the second motor pump assembly is connected to the vibration damper 004.
[0239] In some embodiments, taking the first suspension system as an example, the following describes two self-circulation methods in this disclosure in conjunction with the structure of the bidirectional pump. The bidirectional pump can be either the first bidirectional pump 210 or the second bidirectional pump 310, and this disclosure does not limit it.
[0240] In some embodiments, the power unit 101 has a driving state and a power generation state. When the power unit 101 is in the driving state, the power unit 101 drives at least one of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 to deliver liquid to the first chamber 007.
[0241] When the power unit 101 is in the power generation state, the first bidirectional pump 210 or the second bidirectional pump 310 will return the liquid in the first chamber 007 through the first bidirectional pump 210 or the second bidirectional pump 310, and the first bidirectional pump 210 or the second bidirectional pump 310 will drive the power unit 101 to generate electricity.
[0242] Understandably, when the suspension system is in active mode, the power unit 101 is in a driven state, and the power unit 101 drives at least one of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 to deliver liquid to the first chamber 007.
[0243] When the suspension system is in passive mode, the power unit 101 can be in the power generation state. The first bidirectional pump 210 or the second bidirectional pump 310 causes the liquid in the first chamber 007 to flow back through the first bidirectional pump 210 or the second bidirectional pump 310, and the first bidirectional pump 210 or the second bidirectional pump 310 drives the power unit 101 to generate electricity.
[0244] That is, when the suspension system is in a passive state, the fluid pressure in the first chamber 007 is generated by external excitation, causing the moving part 006 to move under the external pressure, changing the relative volume between the first chamber 007 and the second chamber 005. The first bidirectional pump 210 or the second bidirectional pump 310 is adapted to return fluid from the first chamber 007. Under the action of fluid pressure, the first bidirectional pump 210 or the second bidirectional pump 310 drives the power component 101 to generate electricity, converting the energy of the fluid flow into the rotational energy of the power component 101. This not only absorbs the external excitation energy but can also further utilize the absorbed excitation energy to generate electricity. This power generation function can recover and reuse energy that might otherwise be wasted, such as powering other electronic devices in the vehicle, thus improving the energy utilization efficiency of the entire system.
[0245] Of course, in other embodiments, the second suspension system can also achieve the above-mentioned functions.
[0246] This disclosure also provides a control method for controlling the suspension system or the vehicle described above, the method comprising:
[0247] Obtain the vehicle's driving conditions;
[0248] The operating mode of the suspension system is controlled according to the driving conditions.
[0249] In some embodiments, the driving condition includes a first operating state, and the operating mode of the suspension system is controlled according to the driving condition, including:
[0250] When the vehicle is operating in its first operating state, the suspension system is controlled to operate in active mode.
[0251] When the suspension system is in active mode, it adjusts in real time based on parameters such as vehicle speed and steering angle when the vehicle is turning. For example, when the vehicle is turning at high speed, the outer suspension can automatically increase stiffness to reduce body roll.
[0252] This allows the vehicle's tires to better contact the ground, enabling the vehicle to travel more precisely along the intended path when the driver turns the steering wheel, thus improving steering sensitivity and accuracy.
[0253] In some embodiments, when the vehicle is operating in a first operating state, controlling the suspension system to operate in an active mode includes:
[0254] When the vehicle is running in the first operating state, the vehicle's operating parameters are acquired to determine the vehicle's load state.
[0255] The on / off states of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 are controlled according to the load status.
[0256] In some embodiments, the vehicle's operating parameters may be the position of the suspension sensed by a displacement sensor, the vehicle body tilt angle identified by a gyroscope, the throttle opening sensed by a displacement sensor, the braking state sensed by a brake sensor, or the steering wheel position sensed by an angle sensor.
[0257] Understandably, different load conditions require different stiffness and damping from the suspension. By controlling the on / off state of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 according to the vehicle's load condition, precise adjustment of the suspension system can be achieved.
[0258] In some embodiments, the load states include a first load state, a second load state, and a third load state, wherein the hydraulic energy required by the vehicle in the first load state is greater than the hydraulic energy required by the vehicle in the second load state, and the hydraulic energy required by the vehicle in the second load state is greater than the hydraulic energy required by the vehicle in the third load state.
[0259] It is understandable that the first load state is a high load state, the second load state is a medium load state, and the third load state is a low load state.
[0260] In some embodiments, the load state includes a high load state, and controlling the on / off state of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 according to the load state includes:
[0261] When the vehicle is operating under high load conditions (e.g., stand-up, three-wheel driving mode), that is, when the vehicle is operating under the first load conditions, the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 are connected to the first chamber 007.
[0262] In some embodiments, the load state includes a low load state, that is, when the vehicle is in a third load state, one of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 is controlled to communicate with the first chamber 007, and the other of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 is controlled to disconnect from the first chamber 007. Correspondingly, when the vehicle is in a low load state, one of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 is controlled to communicate with the first chamber 007, and the other of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 is controlled to disconnect from the first chamber 007.
[0263] In this way, the total amount of fluid delivered to the first chamber 007 by the entire suspension system is reduced, and the pressure is reduced, in order to adapt to the low load conditions of the vehicle (such as lane change mode).
[0264] In some embodiments, when the vehicle is in a third load state, the pump with the larger displacement of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 is disconnected from the first chamber 007, and the pump with the smaller displacement of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 is connected to the first chamber 007.
[0265] It is understood that some embodiments of this disclosure distinguish the displacement of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310, with the displacement of the first bidirectional pump 210 being greater than that of the second bidirectional pump 310. The method includes:
[0266] When the vehicle is under low load, the second bidirectional pump 310 is connected to the first chamber 007, and the first bidirectional pump 210 is disconnected from the first chamber 007.
[0267] The small-displacement second bidirectional pump 310 has a fast response and can respond to the vehicle's low-load needs more promptly.
[0268] When the vehicle is in the second load state, the pump with the larger displacement of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 is connected to the first chamber 007, and the pump with the smaller displacement of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 is disconnected from the first chamber 007.
[0269] In some embodiments, the displacement of the first bidirectional pump 210 is greater than the displacement of the second bidirectional pump 310.
[0270] When the vehicle is under medium load (such as entertainment mode or cornering support mode), the first bidirectional pump 210 is connected to the first chamber 007, and the second bidirectional pump 310 is disconnected from the first chamber 007.
[0271] In some embodiments, the vehicle's driving conditions include a second operating state, and the operating mode of the suspension system is controlled according to the driving conditions, including:
[0272] When the vehicle is operating in the second operating state, the control suspension system operates in passive mode.
[0273] When the vehicle is traveling under different road conditions, the suspension system in some embodiments of this disclosure simultaneously possesses active and passive modes. In low-speed, smooth road conditions, the passive mode can be used, where the simple structure of the suspension system is sufficient to provide stable support and basic comfort. When encountering complex road conditions, such as rugged mountain roads or potholed surfaces, the system switches to active mode. The suspension system can then adjust parameters in real time to actively filter road bumps and improve ride comfort.
[0274] In active mode, the suspension system requires additional energy to drive various sensors, controllers, and actuators to make real-time adjustments. Passive mode, on the other hand, has a simpler structure and does not require additional energy input for active adjustment. During vehicle operation, when the suspension system's adjustment needs are low or the vehicle is in a relatively stable driving state, using passive mode can avoid unnecessary energy consumption and improve the vehicle's energy efficiency.
[0275] In some embodiments, the operating mode of the control suspension system is a passive mode, including:
[0276] When the suspension system is in passive mode, one of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 is connected to the first chamber 007, and the other of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 is disconnected from the first chamber 007.
[0277] Understandably, for the passive mode, a timely response is required. Compared to the case where both the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 are working, some embodiments of this disclosure only require disconnecting the connection between one of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 and the first chamber 007.
[0278] In some embodiments, the displacement of the first bidirectional pump 210 is greater than that of the second bidirectional pump 310. When the suspension system is in passive mode, the pump with the larger displacement of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 is disconnected from the first chamber 007, and the pump with the smaller displacement of the first bidirectional pump 210 and the second bidirectional pump 310 is connected to the first chamber 007.
[0279] Understandably, the smaller displacement second bidirectional pump 310 responds faster and can meet the response requirements of the suspension system in passive mode.
[0280] Referring to Figures 20 to 23, some embodiments of this disclosure describe the liquid delivery process. The following process can be in active or passive mode. The arrows shown in Figures 20 to 23 indicate the liquid flow direction in some embodiments of this disclosure.
[0281] Referring to Figure 20, the wheels or frames connected to shock absorbers 003 and 004 have the same displacement direction, and both sides are in a downward state.
[0282] Referring to Figure 21, the displacement directions of the wheels or frames connected to the shock absorbers 003 and 004 are not the same. The connection end corresponding to the shock absorber 004 rises, and the connection end corresponding to the shock absorber 003 falls.
[0283] Referring to Figure 22, the displacement directions of the wheels or frames connected to the shock absorbers 003 and 004 are not the same. The connection end corresponding to the shock absorber 004 descends, while the connection end corresponding to the shock absorber 003 ascends.
[0284] Referring to Figure 23, the wheels or frames connected to shock absorbers 003 and 004 have the same displacement direction, and both sides are in an upward state.
[0285] The above are merely specific embodiments of this disclosure, but the scope of protection of this disclosure is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this disclosure should be included within the scope of protection of this disclosure. Therefore, the scope of protection of this disclosure should be determined by the scope of the claims.
Claims
1. A suspension system (1000), comprising: The shock absorber (003) includes a first chamber (007); A first bidirectional pump (210) is connected to the first chamber (007) via a first channel (Ⅰ); The second bidirectional pump (310) is connected to the first chamber (007) through the second channel (II); At least one of the first channel (Ⅰ) and the second channel (Ⅱ) can adjust its on / off state.
2. The suspension system (1000) according to claim 1 further includes: A first on / off control element (401) is disposed in the first channel (I), and the first on / off control element (401) is adapted to control the connection or disconnection between the first channel (I) and the first chamber (007).
3. The suspension system (1000) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The displacement of the first bidirectional pump (210) is greater than that of the second bidirectional pump (310).
4. The suspension system (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, At least one of the first bidirectional pump (210) and the second bidirectional pump (310) is a gear pump.
5. The suspension system (1000) according to claim 4, wherein, Both the first bidirectional pump (210) and the second bidirectional pump (310) are gear pumps. The number of teeth in the first bidirectional pump (210) is either odd or even, and the number of teeth in the second bidirectional pump (310) is either odd or even.
6. The suspension system (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising: A power unit (101) is connected to the first bidirectional pump (210) and to the second bidirectional pump (310).
7. The suspension system (1000) according to claim 6, wherein, The power unit (101) has a driving state and a power generation state; When the power unit (101) is in the driving state, the power unit (101) drives at least one of the first bidirectional pump (210) and the second bidirectional pump (310) to deliver liquid to the first chamber (007); When the power unit (101) is in the power generation state, the first bidirectional pump (210) or the second bidirectional pump (310) returns the liquid in the first chamber (007) through the first bidirectional pump (210) or the second bidirectional pump (310), and the first bidirectional pump (210) or the second bidirectional pump (310) drives the power unit (101) to generate electricity.
8. The suspension system (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The first bidirectional pump (210) includes: The first high-voltage side and the first low-voltage side; The first self-circulating flow channel has its two ends connected to the first high-pressure side and the first low-pressure side, respectively, and its on / off state can be adjusted independently.
9. The suspension system (1000) according to claim 8, wherein the first self-circulating flow channel is provided with a second on / off control element (701) to realize the on / off adjustment of the first self-circulating flow channel.
10. The suspension system (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The first bidirectional pump (210) has a first pressure zone (L), a second pressure zone (M) and a third pressure zone (S), wherein the pressure in the second pressure zone (M) is between the pressure in the first pressure zone (L) and the pressure in the third pressure zone (S); The first bidirectional pump (210) includes: A first sub-flow channel (Z1) and a second sub-flow channel (Z2), wherein the first sub-flow channel (Z1) is adapted to connect the first pressure region (L) and the second pressure region (M), and the second sub-flow channel (Z2) is adapted to connect the second pressure region (M) and the third pressure region (S); and A first check valve (703) and a second check valve (704); the first check valve (703) is disposed in the first sub-flow channel (Z1), and the first check valve (703) allows liquid to flow along the first sub-flow channel (Z1) from the second pressure zone (M) to the first pressure zone (L); the second check valve (704) is disposed in the second sub-flow channel (Z2), and the second check valve (704) allows liquid to flow along the second sub-flow channel (Z2) from the second pressure zone (M) to the third pressure zone (S).
11. The suspension system (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising: A damping adjustment element (801) that satisfies at least one of the following: The damping adjustment element (801) is adapted to be connected between the shock absorber (003) and the first bidirectional pump (210); and The damping adjustment element (801) is adapted to be connected between the shock absorber (003) and the second bidirectional pump (310).
12. The suspension system (1000) according to claim 11, further comprising: A filter element (111) that satisfies at least one of the following: The filter element (111) is adapted to be connected between the shock absorber (003) and the first bidirectional pump (210); and The filter element (111) is adapted to be connected between the damper (003) and the second bidirectional pump (310).
13. The suspension system (1000) according to claim 12, wherein, The damping adjustment component (801) includes a first end and a second end, and the filter component (111) includes a third end and a fourth end. The first end and the third end are both connected to the first chamber (007). The second end and the fourth end satisfy at least one of the following: Both the second end and the fourth end are connected to the connection end of the first bidirectional pump (210) that communicates with the first chamber (007); and, Both the second end and the fourth end are connected to the connection end of the second bidirectional pump (310) that is connected to the first chamber (007).
14. The suspension system (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein, The shock absorber (003) further includes a second chamber (005), the volume of the first chamber (007) and the volume of the second chamber (005) are relatively adjustable, and the sum of the volumes of the first chamber (007) and the second chamber (005) is a constant. The first bidirectional pump (210) is connected to the second chamber (005) through the third channel (Ⅲ), and the second bidirectional pump (310) is connected to the second chamber (005) through the fourth channel (Ⅳ).
15. A vehicle (2000), comprising: First wheel; The first suspension system includes the suspension system (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 14; The first suspension system corresponds to the first wheel.
16. A control method applied to a suspension system (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 14 or a vehicle (2000) according to claim 15, wherein, The method includes: Obtain the driving conditions of the vehicle (2000); The operating mode of the suspension system (1000) is controlled according to the driving conditions.
17. The control method according to claim 16, wherein, The driving conditions include a first operating state, and the step of controlling the operating mode of the suspension system (1000) according to the driving conditions includes: If it is determined that the vehicle (2000) is operating in the first operating state, the suspension system (1000) is controlled to operate in active mode.
18. The control method according to claim 17, wherein, When the vehicle (2000) is operating in the first operating state, controlling the suspension system (1000) to operate in active mode includes: When the vehicle (2000) is running in the first operating state, the operating parameters of the vehicle (2000) are acquired to determine the load state of the vehicle (2000); The on / off states of the first bidirectional pump (210) and the second bidirectional pump (310) are controlled according to the load state.
19. The control method according to claim 18, wherein, The load states include a first load state, a second load state, and a third load state; the hydraulic energy required by the vehicle (2000) in the first load state is greater than the hydraulic energy required by the vehicle (2000) in the second load state, and the hydraulic energy required by the vehicle (2000) in the second load state is greater than the hydraulic energy required by the vehicle (2000) in the third load state.
20. The control method according to claim 19, wherein, If it is determined that the vehicle (2000) is operating in the first load state, then the first bidirectional pump (210) and the second bidirectional pump (310) are controlled to communicate with the first chamber (007).
21. The control method according to claim 19 or 20, wherein, If it is determined that the vehicle (2000) is in the third load state, then one of the first bidirectional pump (210) and the second bidirectional pump (310) is controlled to communicate with the first chamber (007), and the other of the first bidirectional pump (210) and the second bidirectional pump (310) is controlled to disconnect from the first chamber (007).
22. The control method according to any one of claims 19 to 21, wherein, If it is determined that the vehicle (2000) is in the third load state, then the pump with the larger displacement of the first bidirectional pump (210) and the second bidirectional pump (310) is disconnected from the first chamber (007), and the pump with the smaller displacement of the first bidirectional pump (210) and the second bidirectional pump (310) is connected to the first chamber (007).
23. The control method according to any one of claims 19 to 22, wherein, If it is determined that the vehicle (2000) is in the second load state, then the pump with the larger displacement of the first bidirectional pump (210) and the second bidirectional pump (310) is connected to the first chamber (007), and the pump with the smaller displacement of the first bidirectional pump (210) and the second bidirectional pump (310) is disconnected from the first chamber (007).
24. The control method according to any one of claims 16 to 23, wherein, The driving conditions of the vehicle (2000) include a second operating state, and the step of controlling the operating mode of the suspension system (1000) according to the driving conditions includes: If it is determined that the vehicle (2000) is operating in the second operating state, the suspension system (1000) is controlled to operate in passive mode.
25. The control method according to claim 24, wherein, When the suspension system (1000) is in the passive mode, one of the first bidirectional pump (210) and the second bidirectional pump (310) is controlled to communicate with the first chamber (007), and the other of the first bidirectional pump (210) and the second bidirectional pump (310) is controlled to disconnect from the first chamber (007).
26. The control method according to claim 24 or 25, wherein, When the suspension system (1000) is in the passive mode, the pump with the larger displacement of the first bidirectional pump (210) and the second bidirectional pump (310) is disconnected from the first chamber (007), and the pump with the smaller displacement of the first bidirectional pump (210) and the second bidirectional pump (310) is connected to the first chamber (007).