Electronic Shock Adjuster for Real-Time Damping Lockout
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional shock assemblies provide a constant damping rate throughout the entire stroke, failing to adapt to varying performance characteristics needed for advanced recreational and sporting vehicles.
Innovation Solution
An electronically adjustable shock assembly with an electronic valve that allows for manual or automatic adjustment of damping characteristics, enabling users to firm up or lockout specific shock assemblies, such as the rear track shock assembly, without affecting other shock assemblies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional shock assemblies use constant damping rate throughout the entire stroke, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the performance characteristics cannot be varied to adapt to different terrain conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The shock assembly incorporates an electronically controlled valve system that dynamically adjusts damping rates during operation. The valve can vary damping characteristics in real-time based on terrain conditions, rider input, or automated sensor data, transforming the static damping system into a dynamic one that adapts to changing requirements throughout the shock stroke and operating conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the damping parameter from a fixed constant to a variable parameter controlled by an electronic valve. By adjusting valve opening degree, flow resistance, and fluid passage area, the system can modify damping rates at different stages of compression and rebound, enabling performance variation while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an electronic valve is added to enable real-time adjustment of damping characteristics, then adaptability and performance control are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic valve system is designed to perform multiple functions: it can adjust damping rates, provide ride height control, and work with various control modes (manual, automated, hybrid). This multi-functionality consolidates what could be multiple separate systems into a single integrated valve unit, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic valve acts as an intermediary between the hydraulic damping system and the control system (sensors, processors, actuators). By placing the valve as a mediating component that translates electrical control signals into hydraulic flow adjustments, the system achieves electronic control capability without fundamentally redesigning the entire shock assembly architecture.
3Measurement precision
If shock assemblies are adjusted individually, then precise control over specific shock performance is achieved, but the operation becomes more complex compared to centralized control
Solution Approach 1:
The shock assembly incorporates self-contained electronic control systems with integrated sensors, processors, and actuators. Each shock can autonomously sense its own position, velocity, and load conditions, then automatically adjust its damping characteristics without requiring manual intervention or complex external control systems, achieving precise control while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system is segmented into independent modular units, with each shock assembly having its own electronic valve and control electronics. This segmentation allows individual shock adjustment while maintaining system simplicity, as each module operates independently with its own control logic, eliminating the need for complex centralized control wiring and programming.
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 precise control over shock assembly performance, improving vehicle stability and handling in diverse terrain conditions by allowing users to adjust damping characteristics in real-time, thereby enhancing ride comfort and control.
Implementation Method 1
an electronic valve positioned in the flow path between the chamber and the reservoir. The electronic valve controls the flow rate
Implementation Method 2
the electronic valve is a variable orifice valve, such as a rotary spool style valve, check shim style valve, or the like
Data Source
AI summary
An remote electronic shock adjuster is disclosed. The shock assembly with the electronic shock adjuster includes an electronic valve, the electronic valve configured to adjust a compression stiffness of the shock assembly. A switch is communicatively coupled with the electronic valve and configured to provide a signal to the electronic valve to lockout the shock assembly or return the shock assembly to a pre-lockout configuration.