Electric Bicycle Integrated Air Supply System for Suspension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Pneumatic suspension systems in wheeled vehicles are prone to leakages and require frequent maintenance, and existing systems lack automated solutions for adjusting suspension and tire pressure based on load mass and riding conditions.
Innovation Solution
An integrated air supply system with a battery-powered electric compressor, sensors, and a controller that automatically adjusts pneumatic suspension and tire pressure by supplying or releasing air based on measured pressure levels, ensuring optimal suspension and tire pressure regardless of load mass or riding conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If pneumatic suspension systems are used in wheeled vehicles, then ride quality is improved, but the system becomes prone to leakages and requires frequent maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic maintenance through self-diagnosis and self-correction. Sensors detect pressure changes indicating leaks, and the controller automatically activates the air compressor to replenish air to the suspension system and tires, eliminating the need for manual intervention and frequent maintenance visits
Solution Approach 2:
Pressure sensors continuously monitor the air pressure in the suspension system and tires, providing real-time feedback to the controller. The controller processes this information and automatically activates the air compressor when pressure drops below threshold values, creating a closed-loop control system that maintains optimal pressure levels
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual adjustment of suspension and tire pressure is performed, then pressure levels can be changed, but it requires user intervention and time
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically adjusts suspension and tire pressure without user intervention. The controller monitors pressure sensor data and autonomously activates the air compressor to inflate or activates release valves to deflate components, eliminating the time users would spend on manual adjustments
Solution Approach 2:
The system proactively monitors pressure levels and initiates air supply or release actions before pressure becomes suboptimal. By continuously monitoring and acting in advance, the system prevents pressure deviations rather than reacting to them, ensuring consistent optimal performance
3Strength
If pneumatic components are used for suspension, then suspension performance is improved, but leakage and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Pressure sensors provide continuous feedback on the air pressure in suspension components. When pressure drops indicating a leak or loss, the controller receives this information and automatically activates the air compressor to replenish air, maintaining suspension performance without requiring component replacement or manual maintenance
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically detects and compensates for air loss in suspension components through self-diagnosis using pressure sensors and self-correction using the air compressor. This extends the operational life of pneumatic components by maintaining their performance without requiring frequent maintenance or replacement
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 provides automatic maintenance and adjustment of pneumatic components, enhancing ride quality and reducing maintenance needs by maintaining optimal suspension and tire pressure levels, thus improving the overall performance and reliability of wheeled vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
an electric air compressor having one or more outlet valves configured to supply pressurized air
Implementation Method 2
a battery
Implementation Method 3
one or more sensors configured to measure an amount of suspension and/or pressure
Data Source
AI summary
A self-adjusting suspension system according to the present disclosure may be incorporated into an electric vehicle design by way of an integrated air supply system. The integrated air supply system measures and adjusts amounts of pressurized air within pneumatic components of the electric vehicle to provide a predetermined desired amount of suspension. The integrated air supply system also may be used to provide air to pneumatic tires of the vehicle, without the need for an external pump.