Adjustable Suspension Damper With Sensor-Based Damping Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicle suspension systems lack the ability to dynamically adjust damping rates in response to varying terrain and vehicle conditions, leading to inadequate control over vehicle motion and rider comfort, especially in multi-wheeled vehicles.
Innovation Solution
An electronic valve system with a variable pressure valve and a control system that utilizes sensors to adjust damping forces in real-time based on acceleration, tilt, velocity, and other environmental factors, allowing for customizable damping modes and quick response to terrain changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional fixed damping rate mechanisms are used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to varying terrain and vehicle conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a variable pressure valve that dynamically adjusts damping rates based on real-time sensor feedback about vehicle motion and terrain conditions. The valve transitions from a static component to a dynamic one that continuously adapts its characteristics, allowing the suspension system to respond to changing conditions while maintaining manageable complexity through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors that monitor vehicle acceleration, tilt, and velocity, feeding this information to a control system that adjusts the variable pressure valve accordingly. This feedback loop enables the damping system to automatically adapt to terrain and vehicle conditions without requiring complex manual adjustment mechanisms.
2Stability of the object's composition
If conventional non-adjustable dampers are used, then device complexity is minimized, but vehicle stability and comfort deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The damping system performs self-adjustment through automated sensors and control algorithms that monitor vehicle conditions and modify damping rates without external intervention. This self-service capability improves vehicle stability by continuously optimizing damping characteristics while avoiding the complexity of manual adjustment interfaces or multiple pre-set modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical adjustment mechanisms with an electronic control system that uses sensors, microprocessors, and variable pressure valves. This substitution enables more precise and responsive control of vehicle stability while reducing mechanical complexity through integration of control functions into electronic domains.
3Ease of operation
If fixed damping rates are used, then manufacturing precision requirements are reduced, but rider comfort and motion control deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically changes damping parameters (pressure, flow rates) through the variable pressure valve based on real-time conditions rather than relying on fixed manufacturing specifications. This approach improves rider comfort by adapting to actual usage conditions while reducing the stringency of manufacturing precision requirements, as the system compensates for variations through active control.
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 provides improved vehicle stability and comfort by dynamically adjusting damping forces, reducing tilt and acceleration of the vehicle frame, and enhancing rider experience over varied terrain.
Implementation Method 1
an adjustable orifice positioned adjacent to the valve member and configured to adjust the flow of fluid through the valve member in response to a control signal
Implementation Method 2
a damping piston positioned within a damping cylinder and configured to move between a retracted position and an extended position
Data Source
AI summary
A method for controlling vehicle motion is described. The method includes accessing a set of control signals including a measured vehicle speed value associated with a movement of a vehicle. A control signal associated with user-induced input is also accessed. The method compares the measured vehicle speed value with a predetermined vehicle speed threshold value to achieve a speed value threshold approach status, and then compares the set of values to achieve a user-induced input threshold value approach status. The method monitors a state of a valve within the vehicle suspension damper, and determines a control mode for the vehicle suspension damper. The method also regulates damping forces within the vehicle suspension damper.