Remotely Operated Suspension Damper Bypass Valve
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle suspension systems lack an effective method for remotely adjusting dampening characteristics, which can lead to handling issues on varying road conditions, such as reduced control during cornering, braking, and acceleration due to compliance in long travel suspension.
Innovation Solution
A remotely operated bypass system for a suspension damper that includes a cylinder with a piston and piston rod, featuring a bypass valve that can be controlled from the passenger compartment, allowing for independent adjustment of dampening fluid flow based on variable parameters like vehicle speed and road conditions, using a needle-type check valve and throttle valve mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a long travel suspension system is used to improve shock absorption capability, then the ability to handle rough terrain is improved, but vehicle handling and stability deteriorate on smooth roads due to excessive compliance
Solution Approach 1:
The bypass valve is designed to dynamically change its flow characteristics based on operating conditions. The valve opens during compression strokes to allow fluid bypass and closes during rebound strokes to restrict flow, creating a dynamic dampening system that adapts to different suspension movements and road conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the dampening parameter by controlling the bypass valve opening. When the valve is open, fluid can bypass the piston, reducing dampening force for comfort on rough terrain. When closed, fluid flow is restricted through the piston, increasing dampening force for better handling on smooth roads
2Ease of manufacture
If dampening characteristics are fixed to maintain stable performance, then manufacturing complexity is reduced, but adaptability to varying road conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The bypass valve operates automatically based on the suspension's own motion. The valve mechanism responds to compression and rebound forces generated during normal suspension operation, opening or closing according to the direction and magnitude of the applied load without requiring external control systems
Solution Approach 2:
The single bypass valve mechanism serves multiple functions: it allows fluid bypass during compression to reduce harshness, restricts flow during rebound to control oscillation, and adapts to different road conditions without requiring multiple dampers or complex electronic controls
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 dynamic adjustment of dampening characteristics from a compliant to a stiffer setting, improving vehicle handling and stability by preventing bottoming out and maintaining control during high-speed driving on smooth roads, while maintaining shock absorption for rough terrain.
Implementation Method 1
a viscous fluid-based dampening mechanism
Implementation Method 2
limiting the flow rate of damping fluid as it passes from a first to a second portion of said cylinder
Data Source
AI summary
A damper assembly with a bypass for a vehicle comprises a pressure cylinder with a piston and piston rod for limiting the flow rate of damping fluid as passes from a first to a second side of said piston. A bypass provides fluid pathway between the first and second sides of the piston separately from the flow rare limitation. In one aspect, the bypass is remotely controllable from a passenger compartment of the vehicle. In another aspect, the bypass is remotely controllable based upon one or more variable parameters associated with the vehicle.