Dual Fluid Circuit Valve Assembly for Adjustable Shock Damping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shock assemblies in vehicles lack the ability to dynamically adjust shock absorption based on terrain and riding conditions, leading to reduced comfort, performance, and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a secondary first fluid circuit shutoff valve coupled to a second fluid circuit adjuster, which allows for the adjustment of shock absorption by closing or adjusting the flow of the first fluid circuit, thereby providing firm low, mid, and high-speed compression damping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If shock assemblies use fixed damping characteristics, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the comfort and performance cannot be adjusted for different terrain conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid circuit is divided into multiple independent circuits (first fluid circuit and second fluid circuit), each with its own valve and adjuster. This segmentation allows independent control of different damping characteristics, enabling adaptability to various terrain conditions while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The shock assembly incorporates adjustable valves that can dynamically change the flow characteristics of fluid circuits based on riding conditions. The second fluid circuit adjuster can modify the opening of the first fluid circuit valve, transforming the fixed damping system into a dynamic one that adapts to different terrains and riding styles
2Ease of operation
If shock assemblies add adjustable valves and circuits, then comfort and performance improve, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The second fluid circuit adjuster serves multiple functions: it controls the second fluid circuit directly and simultaneously adjusts the opening of the first fluid circuit valve. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate controls, improving ease of operation while limiting the increase in device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple fluid circuits and valve controls into an integrated system where the second fluid circuit adjuster influences both circuits. This merging approach consolidates control mechanisms, making the system easier to operate despite the added complexity of multiple circuits
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
This solution enables dynamic adjustment of shock absorption, enhancing comfort and performance by reducing wheel spin and pedal bob, and improving drive efficiency across varying terrain and riding conditions.
Implementation Method 1
modifying the opening of a first fluid circuit valve with a second fluid circuit adjuster
Implementation Method 2
Shock assemblies (e.g., dampers, shock absorbers, etc.) are used in numerous different vehicles and configurations to absorb some or all of a movement
Data Source
AI summary
A valve assembly configured to control a first fluid circuit and a second fluid circuit. The valve assembly has a second fluid circuit valve assembly which includes a second fluid circuit valve adjustor configured to actuate an adjustor shaft and an adjustor circuit coupled with the adjustor shaft. An input to the second fluid circuit valve adjustor translates into a movement of the adjustor shaft. The adjustor circuit also includes a second fluid circuit valve and a secondary first fluid circuit valve which is located in a first fluid circuit flow path of a first fluid circuit valve. The secondary first fluid circuit valve adjusts flow through the first fluid circuit flow path when the second fluid circuit valve adjustor is in a closed position.