Adjustable Shock Absorbers for Real-Time Compression and Rebound Damping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle suspension systems lack effective methods for dynamically adjusting compression and rebound damping characteristics in response to various driving conditions, such as cornering, braking, and terrain changes, leading to suboptimal handling and comfort.
Innovation Solution
A recreational vehicle equipped with adjustable shock absorbers and sensors that communicate with a controller to dynamically adjust damping characteristics based on sensor inputs, including inertial measurements, steering, and braking information, allowing for real-time adjustments to improve handling and comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed damping characteristics are used in shock absorbers, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the handling and comfort are suboptimal under varying driving conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The shock absorber system transitions from fixed damping to dynamic damping by incorporating electronically controlled valves that can adjust compression and rebound damping characteristics in real-time based on sensor feedback and controller commands, allowing the system to adapt to varying driving conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The damping characteristics are changed by electronically controlling valve openings and closings in the shock absorber, which modifies the flow characteristics of the damping fluid through the valve assembly, thereby adjusting compression and rebound damping parameters dynamically
2Stability of the object's composition
If damping characteristics are adjusted during cornering, then handling stability is improved, but the control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses sensors to detect cornering conditions and provides feedback to the controller, which then adjusts the damping characteristics of the shock absorbers accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that maintains vehicle stability during cornering maneuvers
Solution Approach 2:
The control system segments the damping adjustment by shock absorber location (front left, front right, rear left, rear right), allowing independent adjustment of each shock absorber based on its specific role in vehicle dynamics during cornering
3Measurement precision
If real-time sensor monitoring is implemented, then damping adjustment accuracy is improved, but the system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system is designed to serve multiple functions: detecting cornering conditions, braking conditions, and terrain variations, allowing a single sensor suite to provide comprehensive input for various damping adjustment scenarios without requiring separate dedicated sensors for each function
Data Source
AI summary
A damping control system for a vehicle having a suspension located between a plurality of ground engaging members and a vehicle frame are disclosed. The vehicle including at least one adjustable shock absorber having an adjustable damping characteristic.