Shock Absorber with Integrated Magnetic Position Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current suspension systems face complexity, increased weight, and operator error due to mechanical linkages for ride height adjustment, and higher costs from additional components like accelerometers and transducers in adaptive and active suspensions.
Innovation Solution
A shock absorber with an integrated position sensor using a module that determines the position of a dust tube relative to a shock body through magnetic interaction, communicating this information wirelessly to adjust suspension ride height, eliminating the need for accelerometers and transducers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If mechanical linkage is used to adjust ride height, then ride height can be adjusted, but the system becomes more complex and heavier
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical linkage system with a magnetic sensing system. Magnets are mounted on the dust tube and interact with a coil in the control module to generate electrical signals that indicate position, eliminating the need for mechanical linkages while providing automated ride height adjustment capability
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic sensing system enables the shock absorber to automatically determine its own position relative to the dust tube. The system self-monitors ride height through the interaction between magnets and the coil, eliminating the need for external mechanical adjustment linkages
2Extent of automation
If accelerometers and displacement transducers are added to determine wheel position, then ride height can be adjusted automatically, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the position sensing function directly into the existing shock absorber structure. The magnets are mounted on the dust tube and the coil is integrated into the control module, merging the sensing function with the shock absorber itself rather than adding separate accelerometers and displacement transducers
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic sensing system serves multiple functions: it determines wheel position, provides ride height information, and enables automated control all through a single integrated system within the shock absorber, replacing the need for multiple separate sensing components
3Ease of operation
If mechanical linkage is used for ride height adjustment, then adjustment is possible, but operator error increases and labor intensity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment with automated electronic control. The magnetic sensing system continuously monitors position and communicates with the suspension control, which automatically adjusts ride height without requiring manual intervention, thereby eliminating operator error
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates continuous feedback through the magnetic sensing mechanism that monitors dust tube position relative to the shock body and communicates this information to the suspension control, enabling automated closed-loop control that eliminates the need for manual operator judgment and adjustment
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
This solution simplifies ride height adjustment, reduces costs, and minimizes operator error by providing accurate positional information for suspension control without additional components, thus enhancing the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of suspension systems.
Implementation Method 1
A plurality of magnets is mounted to one of the dust tube and shock body, and a module is mounted to the other of the dust tube and shock body. The module determines a position of the dust tube relative to a position of the shock body based on interaction between the plurality of magnets and the module.
Implementation Method 2
The control module includes a coil that interacts with the plurality of magnets to generate power for the position sensing circuit and the communication circuit. In one example, the control module also includes a power storage device, such as a capacitor, that stores power generated by relative movement between the coil and the plurality of magnets.
Data Source
AI summary
A shock absorber includes a dust tube that surrounds a shock body. The shock body is movable relative to the dust tube in response to road load inputs. A plurality of magnets is mounted to one of the dust tube and shock body, and a module is mounted to the other of the dust tube and shock body. The module interacts with the plurality of magnets to determine a position of the dust tube relative to a position of the shock body. This position information can be used to adjust suspension ride height as needed.