Disc-Valve Damper Assembly for Tunable Suspension Force Response
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing damper systems for automotive suspension lack tunability in force response characteristics, leading to increased manufacturing costs and larger packaging sizes.
Innovation Solution
A damper assembly with a rod and body defining a passage, featuring a blow-off disc, spring disc, and check discs to control fluid flow and adjust resistance dynamically, thereby enhancing tunability and reducing size and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed opening size passages are used to control fluid flow, then manufacturing is simplified, but tunability of force response characteristics is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs movable discs (blow-off disc, check discs, flow discs) that can translate axially to dynamically adjust the opening size of passages. These discs respond to fluid pressure differentials and spring forces, automatically modifying flow characteristics based on operating conditions, thereby achieving tunable force response without complex external control systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and position of discs within the passage to modify flow parameters. By varying the axial position of discs through spring compression and fluid pressure effects, the effective opening area and flow resistance are continuously adjusted, enabling tunable force response characteristics across different operating ranges
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple discs and passages are added to increase tunability, then force response control is improved, but packaging size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent nests multiple functional discs (blow-off disc, check discs, flow discs) within a compact cylindrical housing, arranging them axially in sequence along the fluid passage. This nested configuration allows multiple flow control functions to be integrated in a compact space, achieving high tunability without proportionally increasing packaging volume
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the axial dimension of the cylindrical housing to arrange multiple discs and passages in series, effectively using the length dimension to pack multiple flow control stages. This dimensional arrangement allows complex flow control functionality to be achieved within a compact radial footprint, minimizing overall packaging size
3Adaptability or versatility
If complex disc mechanisms are implemented for flow control, then tuning flexibility is increased, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the flow control function into multiple independent discs (blow-off disc, check discs, flow discs), each responsible for a specific aspect of flow regulation. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured using simpler, more cost-effective processes while maintaining overall system flexibility through the combined action of multiple simple components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs spring-loaded discs that automatically respond to fluid pressure differentials without requiring external control systems or complex actuation mechanisms. The springs provide self-regulating force to maintain disc positions based on operating conditions, eliminating the need for expensive electronic controls or complex mechanical actuation systems
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 damper assembly provides increased tunability and flexibility in force response characteristics, reduces manufacturing costs, and minimizes packaging size while maintaining effective control of wheel movement.
Implementation Method 1
a spring disc supported by the rod and urging the blow off disc toward the body
Implementation Method 2
Discs may be used to control flow of fluid though the passages, e.g., by flexing or translating to increase or decrease a size of an opening at one end of the passage
Implementation Method 3
The check disc may selectively restrict fluid flow through the passage in a second direction opposite the first direction
Data Source
AI summary
A damper assembly includes a rod elongated along an axis. The damper assembly includes a body supported by the rod, the body having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface. The body and the rod define a passage between the body and the rod, the passage extending from the first surface of the body to the second surface of the body.