Selective Wheel Suspension with Threshold-Activated Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional suspension systems in vehicles often compromise between comfort and responsiveness, providing a plush ride that can lead to instability, especially when encountering obstacles or uneven terrain, which is undesirable for users preferring a rigid and responsive experience.
Innovation Solution
A wheel with a selectively formable support member that remains fixed in size and shape until stressed beyond a threshold value, using preloaded springs or gas springs to compress only under significant loads, and a controller to manage the suspension system's operation based on impact parameters, allowing for selective absorption and dissipation of kinetic energy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional suspension systems are implemented to provide comfort, then ride comfort is improved, but vehicle stability and responsiveness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension system transitions from a static, continuously active state to a dynamic, selectively active state. The support member remains rigid under normal conditions but becomes compliant when impact forces exceed the threshold, allowing the system to adapt its mechanical properties in real-time based on road conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes its mechanical parameter (rigidity vs. compliance) based on the magnitude of applied forces. By using a preloaded spring mechanism with a specific force threshold, the support member transitions between two distinct states: rigid for small forces and compliant for large forces, optimizing both stability and comfort
2Ease of operation
If suspension systems are made softer to improve comfort, then comfort is enhanced, but control and responsiveness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The support member dynamically adjusts its mechanical characteristics based on loading conditions. During normal operation with light loads, the member maintains full rigidity for optimal control and responsiveness. When subjected to heavy impacts exceeding the preload threshold, it transitions to a compliant state that absorbs energy while maintaining control
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism is preloaded during assembly to a specific force threshold that determines when suspension activation occurs. This preliminary setup ensures the system is ready to switch between rigid and compliant states without delay, maintaining control while preparing for comfort optimization when needed
3Object-generated harmful factors
If rigid wheel structure is used to maintain responsiveness, then control is improved, but comfort and impact absorption deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The support member's mechanical parameter (rigidity) is changed based on the magnitude of applied forces through the preloaded spring mechanism. The system maintains high rigidity for small forces to ensure responsiveness and control, then transitions to a compliant state for large forces to provide comfort and impact absorption
4Ease of operation
If continuous suspension activation is used to absorb vibrations, then comfort is improved, but energy loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous suspension activation, the system employs periodic or event-driven activation based on impact thresholds. The preloaded spring mechanism remains inactive during normal vibration and only engages when impact forces exceed the threshold, reducing unnecessary energy consumption while maintaining comfort during significant disturbances
Solution Approach 2:
The suspension system applies partial action by activating only when necessary (when impact exceeds threshold) rather than continuously. This selective engagement reduces energy loss from constant suspension operation while still providing comfort protection during significant impacts and obstacles
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
The solution provides a responsive ride by selectively engaging the suspension only when necessary, enhancing the vehicle's ability to handle various obstacles and terrain while maintaining stability and minimizing energy loss, thus offering improved control and comfort.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element, adapted to change in size and/or shape only when stressed over a threshold value
Implementation Method 2
selective suspension member, adapted to absorb and/or dissipate kinetic energy
Implementation Method 3
a gas spring element, adapted to change in volume only when stressed over a threshold value
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~3C
Figure 4A~4B
AI summary
A wheel connectable to a vehicle comprises a stationary member comprising an axis, a rotary member rotatable about said axis, and at least one support member ( 150 ) positioned between said stationary member and said rotary member thereby providing a normally fixed distance therebetween. Said support member ( 150 ) is adapted to retain said distance when stressed up to a threshold value and to recoverably alter said distance when stressed over said threshold value.