Damper Extension Assembly Deformed Section Flow Restriction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional shock absorbers have complex designs with numerous parts, leading to increased costs and complexity, particularly in achieving distinct damping forces during rebound and compression strokes.
Innovation Solution
The extension assembly for a damper includes a three-piece design comprising an extension post, a retaining member, and a sealing ring, with a deformed section securing the retaining member to the narrow portion of the extension post, allowing for axial movement control and fluid flow management during compression and rebound strokes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a second compression valve assembly is used to provide distinct damping forces during rebound and compression strokes, then damping performance is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential function of the second compression valve assembly (providing distinct damping forces) and implements it through a simplified extension assembly with a deformed section that acts as a flow restrictor. This removes the need for complex valve mechanisms while maintaining the core damping functionality through the deformed section's restricted flow path.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state of the extension post by deforming a section to create a flow restrictor. This deformation alters the flow characteristics of damping fluid through the extension assembly, providing distinct damping forces during rebound and compression strokes without requiring additional valve components.
2Reliability
If a second compression valve assembly with complicated design is used, then distinct damping forces are achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive, complex valve assemblies with a simple deformed section of the extension post that serves as a flow restrictor. This simplified component achieves the same functional outcome (distinct damping forces) at significantly lower manufacturing cost and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The deformation of the extension post section creates a flow restrictor that provides distinct damping characteristics. This parameter change in the extension post's geometry achieves the desired damping performance without requiring additional expensive valve components.
3Ease of manufacture
If the extension assembly uses a simple three-piece design, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but securing the retaining member becomes more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into the deformed section of the extension post: it serves as both a flow restrictor for damping control and as a securing mechanism for the retaining member. This merging of functions eliminates the need for separate securing components while maintaining assembly integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The deformed section of the extension post provides self-service by simultaneously performing flow restriction and mechanical securing of the retaining member. The deformation creates an interference fit or mechanical lock that secures the retaining member without requiring additional fastening components.
Data Source
AI summary
An extension assembly for a damper includes an extension post having an upper end and a lower end opposite to the upper end. The extension post includes a coupling portion, a narrow portion defining a deformed section, and a wide portion disposed between the coupling portion and the narrow portion. A diameter of the wide portion is greater than a diameter of the narrow portion. The extension assembly includes a retaining member having a sleeve portion received on the narrow portion of the extension post and a plurality of support portions extending from the sleeve portion. Further, the deformed section of the narrow portion secures the retaining member to the narrow portion. The extension assembly further includes a sealing ring disposed around the retaining member. The sealing ring is disposed between the wide portion of the extension post and the plurality of support portions of the retaining member.