Electronically Adjustable Shock Assembly for Terrain-Adaptive Suspension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional shock assemblies provide a constant damping rate throughout the stroke, failing to adapt to varying performance characteristics needed by advanced recreational and sporting vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A plug and play suspension system with electronically adjustable components, including active valves and a dedicated communications network, allows for real-time adjustment of shock assembly characteristics based on user input, terrain conditions, and vehicle dynamics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional shock assemblies are used with constant damping rate, then the structure is simple and cost is low, but the performance cannot be adapted to varying terrain conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The shock assembly incorporates electronically controllable valves that dynamically adjust damping rates in real-time based on terrain conditions and vehicle motion, transforming a static system into an adaptive one that can optimize performance across varying operational conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The standalone communication network enables the shock assembly to perform multiple functions including receiving control signals, transmitting status information, and autonomously adjusting damping characteristics, eliminating the need for vehicle wiring harnesses and integrating multiple systems into a single modular unit
2Adaptability or versatility
If electronically adjustable components are added to shock assemblies, then performance characteristics can be varied, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic control system is segmented into modular components including controllable valves, sensors, and a standalone communication network, allowing each component to be independently optimized and replaced without affecting the entire system
Solution Approach 2:
A standalone communication network acts as an intermediary between the shock assembly and external control systems, enabling wireless or isolated communication that simplifies integration while maintaining full electronic control capabilities
3Ease of operation
If conventional wiring harnesses are used for communication, then vehicle integration is achieved, but installation complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The communication functionality is extracted from the vehicle's central wiring harness and embedded directly within the shock assembly as a standalone network, eliminating the need for complex vehicle integration while maintaining full communication capabilities
Data Source
AI summary
A plug and play suspension system is disclosed. The plug and play suspension system includes at least one electronically adjustable shock assembly, a controller, and a communications network to communicatively couple said controller with said at least one electronically adjustable shock assembly.