Multi-chamber Air Spring with Inverted Solenoid Valves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional air spring systems require continuous power supply to operate valves, leading to increased power consumption and inefficiency.
Innovation Solution
A multi-chamber air spring device with solenoid valves that can open and close independently in a powered-off state, allowing for opposite operational states without power supply, reducing power consumption by using different mounting positions and structures for the first and second valves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If power is supplied to the valve at all times for operation, then the valve can be controlled to open/close, but power consumption is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional valve operation logic by designing the valve to close automatically under power supply and open when power is cut off. This reversal allows the system to maintain reliability through automatic closing while reducing power consumption by eliminating the need for continuous power supply to maintain the closed state.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve incorporates a spring mechanism that automatically returns the valve to its closed position when power is supplied, and opens when power is cut off. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for continuous external actuation, thereby reducing power consumption while maintaining reliable valve control.
2Adaptability or versatility
If valves are mounted at different positions with different structures, then opposite opened/closed states can be achieved without power, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric mounting positions and structures for the first and second valves, where each valve is positioned and configured differently to achieve opposite operational states without power supply. This asymmetry enables the first valve to close while the second valve opens when power is cut off, providing adaptability in operational states.
Solution Approach 2:
Each valve is designed with local quality differences in its mounting structure and position, allowing the first valve to respond differently from the second valve to the same power supply condition. This localized differentiation enables opposite operational states while maintaining a manageable level of overall device complexity.
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
Enables the air spring device to maintain ride quality and stability even without power, reducing energy consumption and allowing for basic mode operation, thus enhancing system reliability and cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
the valves may be solenoid valves
Implementation Method 2
a first spring disposed in the first valve and configured to restore the first valve to an initial state
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-chamber type air spring device includes a chamber part and a valve part. The chamber part is partitioned into spaces. The valve part is configured to control movement of air through an internal boundary of the chamber part via valves. In a powered-off state of the valve part, the valves are in different opened/closed states from one another.