Gas Spring Shock Absorber with Automated Preload Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional shock absorbers face difficulties in accurately adjusting the preload of their spring mechanisms, often requiring a rider and a mechanic to set the correct preload, which can be imprecise and labor-intensive, especially in varying terrain and load conditions.
Innovation Solution
A gas spring shock absorber system with a movable piston and automated bleed valve that allows for easy adjustment of gas pressure, using a fill port and bleed port to set a predetermined sag position, facilitated by a mechanical actuator and sensor systems for precise preload setting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional shock absorbers use manual adjustment methods with rider and mechanic, then the preload can be set, but the adjustment process is labor-intensive and imprecise
Solution Approach 1:
The shock absorber system performs self-adjustment of preload through automated sensors and actuators that monitor suspension sag and automatically modify spring preload, eliminating the need for manual intervention by riders or mechanics while achieving precise adjustment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment methods with an automated system using sensors, electronic controllers, and actuators to precisely control spring preload, substituting human-operated mechanical systems with automated electromechanical systems for improved precision and ease of operation
2Manufacturing precision
If conventional shock absorbers require rider and mechanic for adjustment, then preload can be set, but the process is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The shock absorber system performs self-adjustment of preload through automated sensors and actuators that monitor suspension sag and automatically modify spring preload, eliminating the need for manual intervention by riders or mechanics while achieving precise adjustment
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors suspension conditions and proactively adjusts preload before performance degradation occurs, maintaining optimal settings without requiring periodic manual intervention and reducing overall adjustment time
3Adaptability or versatility
If shock absorbers are pre-adjusted for varying terrain and loads, then they can accommodate different conditions, but the adjustment is not adaptive to real-time conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The shock absorber system dynamically adjusts spring preload in real-time based on sensor feedback about current suspension conditions, terrain, and load variations, transitioning from static pre-adjustment to dynamic adaptive adjustment that responds to changing operating conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses sensors to continuously monitor suspension sag and performance parameters, feeds this information back to a controller, and automatically adjusts preload accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to real-time conditions and maintains optimal performance across varying terrain and loads
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 easy and accurate adjustment of preload, ensuring proper suspension sag and handling, enhancing traction and ride efficiency across different terrains by automating the process and using sensors for precise pressure calculations.
Implementation Method 1
a gas spring shock absorber including a gas spring cylinder containing a piston moveable between an extended position and a compressed position within the gas spring cylinder
Implementation Method 2
a bleed port to bleed a predetermined amount of gas from the cylinder
Data Source
AI summary
A shock absorber includes a gas spring cylinder containing a piston moveable between an extended position and a compressed position within the gas spring cylinder. A mechanical actuator is arranged whereby a bleed port is automatically closed when the gas spring is compressed to a predetermined position corresponding to a desired sag setting. In one embodiment, the position corresponds to a predetermined sag setting whereby the gas spring is partially compressed. In another embodiment, a proper sag setting is determined through the use of a processor and sensor that in one instance measure a position of shock absorber components to dictate a proper sag setting and in another instance calculate a pressure corresponding to a preferred sag setting.