Adaptive Shock Absorber Control for Off-Road Terrain Response
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for off-road vehicles lack efficient and adaptive suspension systems that can adjust to changing driving conditions, particularly in vehicles with complex terrain and varying driving conditions.
Innovation Solution
Implementable suspension systems for vehicles with adaptive suspension systems that can adjust to varying driving conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual adjustment mechanisms are used for shock absorbers, then adjustment capability is provided, but adjustment speed and responsiveness to changing terrain conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The shock absorber system transitions from static manual adjustment to dynamic automatic adjustment. Sensors continuously monitor terrain conditions and vehicle state, while electronic controllers automatically adjust damping characteristics in real-time, enabling the suspension to adapt dynamically to changing conditions without manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment mechanisms with an automated electronic control system. Electronic actuators control the damping characteristics based on sensor feedback, substituting the mechanical hand-adjustment process with an electromechanical system that responds automatically to terrain changes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple adjustable parameters are provided for shock absorbers, then suspension performance is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic control system serves multiple functions: it monitors terrain conditions via sensors, processes vehicle state information, determines optimal damping parameters, and controls actuators for both compression and rebound damping adjustment. This multi-functional integration reduces overall system complexity compared to separate mechanical adjustment mechanisms for each parameter.
Solution Approach 2:
The suspension system performs self-adjustment through automated electronic control. Sensors detect terrain and vehicle state, the controller calculates optimal damping parameters, and actuators execute adjustments without operator intervention. This self-service capability manages multiple parameters simultaneously, reducing the complexity burden on the operator.
3Adaptability or versatility
If active ride control systems with sensors are implemented, then real-time suspension adjustment is achieved, but system cost and complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements closed-loop feedback control where sensors continuously monitor terrain conditions and vehicle response, the electronic controller processes this feedback information, and adjusts damping parameters accordingly. This feedback mechanism enables real-time adaptation while managing system complexity through coordinated sensor-controller-actuator integration.
Data Source
AI summary
A damping control system is provided for an off-road recreational vehicles having a suspension located between a ground engaging member and a vehicle frame and including at least one adjustable shock absorber having an adjustable damping characteristic based on an input from a sensor.