Self-Pumping Spring Preload Assembly for Dynamic Ride Height
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle suspension systems face challenges in dynamically adjusting ride height and preload to accommodate changes in vehicle load, leading to issues such as lopsided ride height, steering problems, and loss of control due to unsuitable suspension settings.
Innovation Solution
An electronic self-pumping spring preload system that adjusts preload without external pumps, using a proportional or modal valve to control fluid flow and damping, allowing for real-time adjustment of ride height and damping characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional shock assemblies with fixed spring preload are used, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the ride height and suspension settings become unsuitable when vehicle load changes, leading to lopsided ride height and steering problems
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the shock assembly's own operation to pump fluid and adjust preload. The check valve allows fluid to be pumped into the preload chamber during compression strokes, automatically adjusting ride height without external pumps or complex control systems
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses hydraulic fluid and a check valve to create a self-pumping mechanism. Fluid is pumped into the preload chamber through the check valve during shock compression, using hydraulic pressure to adjust spring preload and ride height dynamically
2Ease of operation
If external pumps are used to adjust spring preload, then precise control of ride height is achieved, but the device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the pump function from external components and integrates it into the shock assembly itself. The shock assembly's compression and rebound strokes naturally pump fluid through the check valve into the preload chamber, eliminating the need for separate pump mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The shock assembly performs its own preload adjustment function by utilizing its operational cycles to pump fluid. The system is self-regulating, requiring no external power source or control system, thereby simplifying the overall device while maintaining adjustment capability
3Reliability
If fixed damping characteristics are used, then the system is simple and reliable, but vehicle performance and comfort are compromised under varying loads
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from fixed to dynamic damping characteristics by enabling real-time adjustment of spring preload. As vehicle load changes, the preload chamber pressure adjusts accordingly, automatically optimizing damping performance for current operating conditions while maintaining system reliability
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 ride height and damping to maintain optimal vehicle geometry and performance under varying loads, preventing issues like lopsided ride height and loss of control.
Implementation Method 1
using a proportional or modal valve to control fluid flow and damping
Implementation Method 2
a spring component or components and a damping component or components that work in conjunction
Implementation Method 3
a spring component or components and a damping component or components that work in conjunction to provide for a comfortable ride
Data Source
AI summary
A spring preload system comprising a cylinder with an outer diameter, a body to house at least the cylinder, a piston shaft, and a main damping piston. The main damping piston is coupled to the piston shaft and configured for operation within the cylinder. The main damping piston is further configured to divide the cylinder into a compression side and a rebound side. The spring preload system further comprises a preload cylinder and a valve that is fluidly disposed between the compression side and the preload cylinder.