Active Torsion Bar System for Dynamic Ride Height Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Torsion bar suspensions in vehicles lack the ability to adjust ride height on-the-fly, leading to a fixed ride height during vehicle use, which can result in a harsh ride due to premature bump-stop engagement and inadequate load control.
Innovation Solution
An active torsion bar system that includes a torsion bar coupled with an actuator and an electronic control unit, allowing for real-time adjustment of the torsion bar's load and ride height based on sensor data, such as camera images, yaw, roll, and pitch, to maintain optimal ride comfort and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed torsion bar adjustment mechanism is used, then the ride height remains stable and simple to operate, but the ride quality deteriorates due to inability to adapt to changing road conditions and load
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a static torsion bar adjustment mechanism to a dynamic active control system. The torsion bar position is continuously adjusted based on real-time sensor feedback about road conditions and vehicle state, allowing the suspension to adapt dynamically rather than remaining fixed until manual re-adjustment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through sensors that continuously monitor road conditions, vehicle pitch, roll, and height. This feedback is processed by a controller that automatically adjusts the torsion bar position to optimize ride quality, eliminating the need for manual intervention while adapting to changing conditions
2Ease of operation
If manual torsion bar adjustment is used, then the system remains simple and reliable, but the ride quality worsens due to fixed pre-load that cannot respond to changing conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the suspension system to automatically adjust itself without user intervention. The active control system monitors vehicle conditions and autonomously modifies torsion bar positioning to maintain optimal ride quality, making the system self-regulating rather than requiring periodic manual adjustment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by proactively adjusting the torsion bar position in response to detected road conditions before they significantly impact ride quality. The system anticipates and prepares for changing conditions by continuously monitoring and pre-adjusting suspension parameters
3Length of stationary object
If the torsion bar is over-rotated for height adjustment, then the ride height can be changed, but the shock piston moves outside standard travel and causes harsh ride due to premature bump-stop engagement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical over-rotation adjustment method with an active control system that uses actuators to precisely position the torsion bar. This substitution eliminates the need for excessive rotation that causes bump-stop engagement, as the electronic control system can make fine adjustments without the mechanical limitations of manual rotation
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system enables dynamic adjustment of ride height, enhancing comfort by automatically responding to road conditions and vehicle parameters, providing independent control of each wheel's ride height and reducing the harshness of undulations and obstacles.
Implementation Method 1
The torsion bar suspensions allow for a soft ride due to their elasticity
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, devices and apparatuses for a torsion bar system. The torsion bar system includes a first torsion bar. The first torsion bar is configured to adjust a ride height of a first wheel of a vehicle. The torsion bar system includes a first actuator. The first actuator is coupled to the first torsion bar. The first actuator is configured to control a load on the first torsion bar. The torsion bar system includes an electronic control unit. The electronic control unit is coupled to the first actuator. The electronic control unit is configured to set a position of the first torsion bar using the first actuator and based on the load on the first torsion bar.