Cross-Linked Shock Absorber Roll Circuit for Pressure-Balanced Damping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing roll control systems in vehicles lack functionality due to separate damping fluids and lack of integration in cross-linked systems, leading to inefficiencies in controlling vehicle roll.
Innovation Solution
An integrated roll control system with cross-linked shock absorbers that utilize a shared hydraulic fluid circuit to manage roll control, allowing equal volume fluid exchange between compression and rebound chambers to maintain pressure balance and prevent unnecessary roll.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate damping fluids are used in compression and rebound chambers, then the damper can independently control compression and rebound forces, but the system complexity increases and functionality is reduced due to lack of integration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the compression and rebound fluid circuits into a single integrated hydraulic system. The compression chamber and rebound chamber share a common fluid pathway, allowing the damper to function as both a shock absorber and a roll control device. This integration eliminates the need for separate fluid reservoirs and complex valve arrangements while maintaining independent control capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The damper is designed to perform multiple functions using a single fluid circuit. The same hydraulic fluid serves both compression damping and rebound damping functions, and also provides roll control through the cross-linked configuration. This multi-functionality reduces system complexity while enhancing adaptability for roll stabilization.
2Productivity
If cross-linked shock absorbers use separate accumulators for compression and rebound, then pressure control is improved, but the system becomes less efficient due to unequal fluid volume exchange during roll events
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the fluid exchange pathways of cross-linked shock absorbers into a unified system. The left and right shock absorbers share a common hydraulic circuit where fluid pushed during compression on one side is directly utilized during rebound on the opposite side, creating an efficient roll control mechanism without requiring separate accumulator systems for each chamber.
Solution Approach 2:
The cross-linked system is designed to be self-regulating through equal volume fluid exchange. When one shock absorber compresses, it pushes a specific volume of fluid that is automatically received by the opposing shock absorber during its rebound stroke. This self-balancing mechanism maintains pressure equilibrium without requiring external control systems or complex valve arrangements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a solid damping piston creates an annular area on the outside of roll chambers, then roll damping is provided, but the damping fluid and roll fluid must be separate reducing system functionality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the separation between damping fluid and roll fluid by using a single hydraulic fluid for both functions. The annular area around the piston rod serves dual purposes: it provides roll damping through fluid flow restrictions and simultaneously acts as part of the compression or rebound chamber depending on the stroke direction. This merging of fluid systems enhances adaptability while reducing the quantity of separate fluids required.
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
The system effectively stabilizes vehicle roll by equalizing fluid exchange, enhancing control and reducing pressure buildup, thereby improving vehicle stability and performance.
Implementation Method 1
compression of the first shock absorber and rebound of the second shock absorber will push a volume of hydraulic fluid in the roll control circuit building pressure in the roll circuit to prevent roll
Implementation Method 2
the first accumulator coupled between a compression side of the second shock absorber and the first rebound chamber of the first shock absorber and the second accumulator coupled between a compression side of the first shock absorber and the second rebound chamber of the second shock absorber
Implementation Method 3
a first shock absorber comprising: a first compression chamber; and a first rebound chamber; a second shock absorber comprising: a second compression chamber; and a second rebound chamber
Data Source
AI summary
A shock absorber used with an integrated roll control system is provided. Embodiments include a first shock absorber having a first main piston and a first rebound chamber. Embodiments include a second shock absorber having a second main piston; and a second rebound chamber. Embodiments further include a roll control circuit, wherein the first shock absorber and the second shock absorber are coupled to the roll control circuit in a cross-linked configuration. Compression of the first main piston of the first shock absorber pushes a volume of hydraulic fluid into the roll control circuit and increasing pressure in the roll control circuit. Rebound movement of the second main piston is damped in response to the increased pressure provided by the hydraulic fluid entering the roll circuit and coupled to the second rebound chamber.