MR Fluid Suspension Spring Assembly for Real-Time Rate Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle suspension systems with multi-rate suspensions face complexity and impracticality in switching between different spring rates for varying driving conditions.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle suspension control system utilizing a central suspension spring core surrounded by first and second suspension springs, with a spring seat containing magnetorheological fluid and energized electromagnets to selectively modify the viscosity of the fluid and control the spring rates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional multi-rate suspension systems use mechanical switching mechanisms to change spring rates, then different spring rates can be achieved for different driving conditions, but the system becomes complex and impractical to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical switching mechanisms with an electromagnetic field-based control system. Electromagnets are used to manipulate magnetorheological fluid properties, which in turn control the spring rate. This substitution eliminates complex mechanical linkages, moving parts, and switching mechanisms while achieving the same functional outcome of variable spring rates through electrical control signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and properties of the magnetorheological fluid through electromagnetic field application. By varying the electromagnetic field strength, the viscosity and stiffness of the MR fluid are dynamically adjusted, which directly controls the spring rate of the suspension. This parameter-based control allows continuous adjustment of suspension characteristics without mechanical reconfiguration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional multi-rate suspension systems use multiple physical springs and switching mechanisms, then different spring rates can be achieved, but the system becomes impractical for real-time adjustment during driving
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical switching operations with electronic control. A control system receives input signals and actuates electromagnets to adjust the magnetorheological fluid properties in real-time. This electronic control mechanism enables rapid, smooth, and programmable adjustment of spring rates without requiring manual intervention or complex mechanical switching sequences.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a dynamically adjustable suspension system where the spring rate can continuously change during operation. The magnetorheological fluid's properties are modified in real-time through electromagnetic field variation, allowing the suspension to adapt to changing driving conditions dynamically rather than requiring discrete switching between fixed spring rates.
3Device complexity
If a single spring is used in the suspension system, then the structure is simple, but the system cannot provide optimized performance for different driving conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating different stiffness characteristics within different regions of the same spring structure. The magnetorheological fluid is positioned in specific zones where electromagnetic fields are applied, creating localized variations in fluid viscosity and spring stiffness. This allows different portions of the suspension to have different effective spring rates, enabling adaptation to various driving conditions while maintaining a unified spring structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the spring system through electromagnetic field application to the magnetorheological fluid. By adjusting the electromagnetic field strength, the viscosity and elastic properties of the MR fluid are modified, which directly changes the spring rate parameter. This allows a single spring structure to provide multiple effective spring rates through parameter modulation rather than requiring multiple physical springs.
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 rapid and precise control over suspension spring rates, improving vehicle performance and ride comfort by allowing for fine-tuning of stiffness in response to different driving conditions.
Implementation Method 1
the spring seat including an outer sleeve and multiple seals for retaining magnetorheological fluid between the outer sleeve and the central suspension spring core, one or more electromagnets adjacent the spring seat
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle suspension control system includes a central suspension spring core, a first suspension spring surrounding an upper portion of the central suspension spring core, a second suspension spring surrounding a lower portion of the central suspension spring core, the first suspension spring and the second suspension spring coupled between a wheel and a fixed structure of a vehicle to inhibit movement of the wheel, a spring seat surrounding the central suspension spring core and coupled between the first and second suspension springs, the spring seat including an outer sleeve and multiple seals for retaining magnetorheological fluid between the outer sleeve and the central suspension spring core, one or more electromagnets adjacent the spring seat, and a suspension control module configured to energize the one or more electromagnets to selectively modify a viscosity of the magnetorheological fluid to inhibit movement of the first suspension spring or the second suspension spring.