Hydraulic Preload Module for Remote Multi-Wheel Damper Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shock absorbers require manual adjustments of coil springs, which can be difficult and dangerous, especially in multi-wheeled vehicles where adjustments need to be made at each wheel.
Innovation Solution
A hydraulically-adjustable preload and/or crossover system that can be modularly attached to existing dampers, allowing for remote and automated adjustments of preload and crossover settings, enhancing damper performance and preventing bottoming out.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual adjustments are made directly at the coil spring location, then the preload and crossover settings can be adjusted, but the adjustment process becomes difficult and dangerous
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary adjustment mechanism that allows preload and crossover settings to be modified remotely without direct manual intervention at the coil spring location. This intermediary system mediates between the user and the spring assembly, eliminating the need for dangerous hands-on adjustments near high-tension components.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the traditional mechanical manual adjustment system with an automated or remotely-controlled mechanism. This substitution eliminates the need for direct mechanical manipulation of the coil spring by the user, thereby removing the associated dangers while maintaining adjustment functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual adjustments are made at each wheel in a multi-wheeled vehicle, then the damper characteristics can be adjusted, but the time and effort required increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the adjustment functionality across multiple wheels into a single centralized control system. By combining the adjustment mechanisms, the user can control all damper characteristics from one location, eliminating the need to visit each wheel individually and significantly reducing the total adjustment time.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention creates a universal adjustment system that can control multiple dampers simultaneously from a single interface. This multi-functional capability allows one adjustment mechanism to serve multiple wheels, providing versatility in adjustment capability while minimizing the time and effort required.
3Device complexity
If fixed preload and crossover settings are used, then the damper structure remains simple, but the ride quality and performance cannot be optimized for different conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static, fixed preload and crossover settings into dynamic, adjustable parameters. This allows the damper to adapt its characteristics based on different operating conditions, terrain types, and load requirements, significantly improving performance optimization capability while maintaining a relatively simple underlying structure.
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 safe and efficient adjustment of damper characteristics across multiple wheels, improving ride quality and reducing the risk of component damage by allowing for precise control of preload and crossover settings.
Implementation Method 1
a hydraulically-adjustable preload and/or crossover system
Data Source
AI summary
A modular hydraulically-adjustable preload and/or cross-over system. The system includes a housing configured to couple with a main damper cylinder, the housing including a slave cylinder within a portion of a slave cylinder chamber, the slave cylinder telescopically movable with respect to the housing; a fluid chamber; and a fluid port configured to provide a fluid flow for the fluid chamber, wherein an increase in a fluid volume within the fluid chamber causes a portion of the slave cylinder to telescopically extend from the slave cylinder chamber. A preload flange coupled with the slave cylinder at an end of the housing such that a change in a location of the slave cylinder causes a change in a location of the preload flange.