Remotely-Operable Valve Suspension Damper for Dynamic Damping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle suspension systems lack an effective method for remotely adjusting dampening characteristics, which is essential for adapting to varying terrain and driving conditions, such as transitioning from off-road compliance to on-highway rigidity.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle damper system featuring a cylinder, piston, and a reservoir with a remotely-operable valve that allows for adjustable flow of working fluid between the cylinder and reservoir, utilizing shims and a solenoid-operated valve to alter dampening rates during compression and rebound strokes, and an adjustable pressure source to enhance damping force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed dampening system is used, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the system cannot adapt to varying terrain and driving conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a remotely-operable valve that allows the dampening characteristics to be dynamically adjusted between different modes (compliant for off-road, rigid for on-highway) based on driving conditions, transforming a static system into an adaptable one without requiring complex autonomous sensors or control systems
2Adaptability or versatility
If a remotely-operable valve is added to adjust dampening characteristics, then adaptability to different terrains is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a remotely-operable valve as an intermediary component that provides dampening adjustment capability while keeping the control mechanism external to the damper assembly, allowing adaptability without integrating complex control systems into the suspension mechanism itself
3Force
If the valve restricts fluid flow to increase dampening force, then vehicle control on highway is improved, but shock absorption compliance on off-road deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The remotely-operable valve enables dynamic switching between two dampening force levels: a restricted flow path for high dampening force on highway, and an open flow path for low dampening force and high compliance on off-road terrain, allowing the system to optimize performance for different operating conditions
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 dynamic adjustment of dampening characteristics, improving shock absorption and vehicle control by allowing the system to switch between compliant and rigid modes based on driving conditions, enhancing handling and stability on different terrains.
Implementation Method 1
the valve (220) is solenoid-operated and is open or closed by force of an electromagnetic solenoid (223)
Implementation Method 2
a dampening component or components. Typically, mechanical springs, like helical springs, are used with some type of viscous fluid-based dampening mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle damper comprising a cylinder and a piston; a working fluid within the cylinder; a reservoir in fluid communication with the working fluid to receive working fluid from the cylinder in a compression stroke; and a remotely-operable valve, the valve operable to permit and restrict flow of the working fluid between the cylinder and the reservoir.