Adjustable Shock Absorbers for Off-Road Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current off-road recreational vehicles require vehicles to be stopped for manual adjustments of shock absorbers, which can be inconvenient and inefficient, especially when using adjustable electric shocks with active ride control systems.
Innovation Solution
A tracked vehicle with electronically controlled adjustable shock absorbers that allow for real-time adjustment of damping characteristics using an electronic controller, responsive to operator inputs and vehicle characteristics such as speed, acceleration, and terrain conditions, enabling continuous control of compression and rebound damping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual adjustment of shock absorbers is used, then adjustment capability is provided, but vehicle operation is interrupted and efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment systems with electronic control systems. Sensors detect vehicle conditions (speed, acceleration, terrain) and an electronic controller automatically adjusts shock absorber damping characteristics, eliminating the need for manual intervention and maintaining continuous vehicle operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The suspension system becomes self-regulating through automatic electronic control. The system monitors its own operating conditions via sensors and autonomously adjusts shock absorber settings without external human input, enabling the vehicle to adapt to changing terrain and operational conditions in real-time.
2Adaptability or versatility
If electronic control systems are added, then real-time adjustment capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic control system is divided into modular functional components: sensors for detecting vehicle parameters, an electronic controller for processing data and making decisions, and actuators for executing adjustments. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic control system serves multiple functions: it monitors various vehicle parameters (speed, acceleration, terrain), processes this information, and controls shock absorber adjustments. This multi-functionality consolidates what could be multiple separate systems into a single integrated control unit, reducing overall complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A tracked vehicle may include a plurality of ground engaging members coupled to a frame through a plurality of suspensions, the plurality of suspensions including at least one adjustable shock absorber.