Adaptive Ride Height Control for Off-Road Speed Transitions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing control systems for off-road vehicles require manual adjustment of ride height and revert to standard height at high speeds, leading to increased driver workload and potential confusion, especially when transitioning between different driving conditions.
Innovation Solution
A control system that automatically sets and adjusts the target off-road ride height based on vehicle operating parameters such as speed, transfer case range, and terrain, using suspension control signals to maintain optimal ground clearance by communicating with height sensors and valve assemblies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual adjustment of ride height is used, then driver control over suspension height is achieved, but driver workload increases and potential confusion occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically monitors vehicle operating conditions (speed, terrain, driving mode) and adjusts ride height without driver intervention. The control system serves itself by making intelligent decisions based on sensor inputs, eliminating the need for manual driver operation while maintaining optimal suspension height.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the ride height parameter based on varying operating conditions. When vehicle speed decreases below a threshold or when off-road mode is detected, the control system automatically increases the target ride height. This continuous parameter adjustment resolves the contradiction by automating the process while adapting to real-time conditions.
2Reliability
If ride height reverts to standard height when vehicle speed exceeds threshold, then high-speed stability is improved, but driver must repeatedly select increased ride height for off-road sections
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors vehicle speed and driving mode as feedback inputs. When off-road mode is activated or speed drops below the threshold, the control system receives feedback and automatically adjusts the target ride height upward. This feedback loop ensures the vehicle maintains appropriate ride height for off-road conditions without requiring repeated manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system proactively increases ride height when detecting off-road conditions or when speed falls below the threshold, before the driver would need to manually adjust. By anticipating the need for increased clearance based on operating parameters, the system performs the adjustment in advance, maintaining reliability while reducing driver workload.
3Ease of operation
If a single off-road ride height is selected, then driver operation is simplified, but adaptability to varying driving conditions is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static single ride height setting to a dynamic multi-level adjustment system. The control system automatically selects from multiple target ride heights (first off-road ride height, second off-road ride height, standard ride height) based on real-time monitoring of vehicle speed and driving mode. This dynamic adaptation maintains operational simplicity for the driver while providing versatility for varying conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system serves multiple functions by automatically adapting ride height to different operating scenarios. It can maintain a first off-road ride height for low-speed conditions, a second off-road ride height for higher speeds, and standard ride height for normal driving. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by providing both simplicity (automatic selection) and adaptability (multiple height levels).
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a control system (49) for controlling a target ride height of a vehicle (1). The control system (49) is configured to set a target off-road ride height (hOFF) in dependence on one or more vehicle operating parameters. The target off-road ride height (hOFF) is set upon receipt of a driving mode signal signalling that an off-road driving mode has been selected. Aspects of the present invention also relate to a vehicle and a method of controlling a target ride height of a vehicle.