Adjustable Suspension Stiffness via Lever Arm Dynamics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Off-road vehicle suspension systems fail to provide adequate adjustability and stiffness variation to accommodate different operating conditions and user preferences, leading to suboptimal comfort and performance.
Innovation Solution
A support assembly with a scissor suspension mechanism and adjustable torsion springs, where a user-actuable control adjusts the angle of a lever, altering the deflection path of the biasing member to change the stiffness of the suspension, allowing for customizable ride quality between soft and stiff settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed suspension system is used, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the ride stiffness cannot be adjusted to suit different terrain conditions and user preferences
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the suspension system adjustable through a mechanism that allows the biasing member (torsion spring) to be repositioned along the lever arm. The adjustment assembly enables the biasing member to be moved between multiple positions, changing the moment arm length and thereby adjusting the ride stiffness dynamically according to different operating conditions and user preferences.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by varying the effective length of the moment arm through which the biasing member acts on the lever. By changing the position of the biasing member along the lever arm, the system alters the mechanical advantage and stiffness characteristics, providing a range of suspension firmness settings without changing the fundamental suspension structure.
2Ease of operation
If a softer suspension setting is used, then comfort is improved, but the resistance to bottoming out decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows dynamic adjustment of the suspension characteristics by repositioning the biasing member. When comfort is prioritized, the biasing member can be positioned to create a softer suspension. When resistance to bottoming out is needed, the biasing member position can be changed to increase the moment arm length, thereby increasing the restoring force and resistance to excessive suspension travel.
3Strength
If a stiffer suspension setting is used, then resistance to bottoming out is improved, but comfort and ride quality deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables parameter changes in the suspension system by allowing the biasing member position to be adjusted along the lever arm. This changes the effective moment arm length, thereby adjusting the stiffness parameter of the suspension. Users can select appropriate stiffness levels based on terrain conditions and comfort requirements.
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 adjustable ride stiffness to suit various terrain conditions and user preferences, enhancing comfort and performance by allowing the seat assembly to move appropriately with the vehicle over uneven ground while maintaining resistance to bottoming out.
Implementation Method 1
A biasing member having a first end and a second end is connected to the first support frame
Implementation Method 2
A support assembly with a scissor suspension mechanism and adjustable torsion springs
Implementation Method 3
A lever is connected to the second support frame at a lever first end, and pivots with respect to the second support frame
Implementation Method 4
A plurality of suspension arms connected at a first end to the first support frame and connected at a second end to the second support frame
Data Source
AI summary
A support assembly includes a first support frame having a first bearing surface, and a second support frame spaced a vertical distance from the first support frame. A biasing member is connected to the first support frame and includes a first end and a second end. The first end bears against the first bearing surface. An adjustment assembly is connected to the second support frame and is adjustable with respect to the second support frame. The second end of the biasing member bears against the adjustment assembly.