Adjustable Off-Road Suspension With Sensor-Based Damping Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Off-road vehicles require adjustable suspension systems for optimal performance, but existing systems often require manual adjustments at each shock absorber location, which is inconvenient and time-consuming, especially when using electronically controlled adjustable shocks with sensors for active ride control.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of electronically controlled shock absorbers with an electronic controller that adjusts damping characteristics based on vehicle conditions, using sensors like IMUs and GPS to determine roll and pitch angles, allowing for real-time adjustments of compression and rebound damping without the need for manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual adjustments are made at each shock absorber location, then suspension performance can be optimized, but the adjustment process becomes time-consuming and inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension system performs self-adjustment through electronic sensors and controllers that automatically modify shock absorber characteristics based on detected vehicle conditions, eliminating the need for manual operator intervention and enabling the system to serve itself
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical adjustment mechanisms are replaced with electronically controlled shock absorbers that use sensors, controllers, and electronic actuators to automatically adjust suspension parameters, substituting mechanical operation with electronic control systems
2Extent of automation
If electronically controlled shock absorbers with sensors are implemented, then automatic adjustment capability is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic controller serves multiple functions by managing both compression and rebound damping adjustments across multiple shock absorbers, while sensors perform multiple detection tasks including vehicle acceleration, deceleration, and terrain identification, allowing single components to handle various suspension control functions
3Adaptability or versatility
If real-time damping adjustments are made based on vehicle conditions, then ride comfort and handling are enhanced, but the control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension system dynamically adjusts damping characteristics in real-time based on continuously changing vehicle conditions detected by sensors, allowing the system to adapt its behavior to varying terrains and operating states rather than maintaining fixed parameters
Solution Approach 2:
The control system uses feedback from sensors that monitor vehicle acceleration, deceleration, and other dynamic parameters to continuously adjust shock absorber damping forces, creating a closed-loop control system that responds to actual vehicle conditions
Data Source
AI summary
Suspension systems for recreational vehicles are disclosed. The suspension systems may include at least one adjustable member coupling a sway bar to respective suspensions. The suspension systems may include a torque actuator associated with a sway bar.