Adjustable Shock Absorber Pivot Geometry for Variable Vehicle Loads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing suspension arrangements for vehicles require multiple adjustments to optimize damping and weight handling, which can be cumbersome and discourage operators from making necessary adjustments, especially in micromobility vehicles where load changes significantly impact performance and safety.
Innovation Solution
A suspension arrangement that allows for the adjustment of vehicle operating height, spring rate, and damping ratio through the relative positioning of a shock absorber and swing arm, enabling a single action to change the steady-state position of the shock absorber in response to load changes, using pivotable mounting members and a pivot point adjustment device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple suspension adjustments are provided to optimize damping and weight handling, then suspension performance can be optimized for different conditions, but the complexity of adjustment increases and discourages operators from making necessary adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple suspension adjustment functions (damping adjustment, spring rate adjustment, and operating height adjustment) into a single integrated mechanism. By merging these functions, the system achieves versatile suspension optimization for different loading conditions while maintaining simple operation through a single adjustment action.
Solution Approach 2:
The suspension arrangement employs a universal adjustment mechanism that simultaneously controls multiple parameters (damping, spring rate, and ride height). This multi-functional approach allows a single adjustment device to handle various suspension optimization needs, reducing the number of separate adjustments required and simplifying the overall adjustment process.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple individual adjustments are required to optimize suspension for different loads, then precise suspension control can be achieved, but the adjustment process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension system is designed with pre-configured adjustment positions that correspond to different loading conditions. The single adjustment mechanism can quickly transition between these pre-determined positions, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual tuning while maintaining precise suspension control for various loads.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic suspension adjustment system where a single mechanism can rapidly reconfigure multiple suspension parameters simultaneously. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to changing load conditions quickly, reducing adjustment time while maintaining precise control over suspension characteristics.
3Measurement precision
If professional expertise is required for optimal suspension adjustment, then accurate tuning can be achieved, but the accessibility and ease of use decreases for general operators
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension adjustment system is designed to be self-explanatory and self-adjusting through a single intuitive mechanism. The system eliminates the need for professional expertise by providing clear, straightforward adjustment controls that allow general operators to achieve optimal suspension settings independently, while maintaining tuning accuracy through engineered design features.
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
Facilitates easy and precise adjustment of suspension parameters, improving weight handling and damping characteristics, allowing vehicles to adapt to varying loads and conditions without requiring multiple adjustments, thus enhancing performance and safety.
Implementation Method 1
the shock absorber is pivotably arranged via a first mounting member and a second mounting member between a wheel assembly and a vehicle frame
Implementation Method 2
The first mounting member and the second mounting member are mutually displaceable by expansion and compression of the shock absorber
Implementation Method 3
shock absorber for improving damping characteristics
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a suspension arrangement (1) for a vehicle (100), said vehicle (100) comprising a wheel (130) arranged on a swing arm (120) adapted to be pivotable relative a vehicle part (110) about a swing arm pivot point (P0), the suspension arrangement (1) comprising: a shock absorber (2) adapted to be arranged relative the vehicle part (110) and the swing arm (120) so that a first mounting member (21) provides a first pivot point (P1) and a second mounting member (22) provides a second pivot point (P2), a pivot point adjustment device (3) adapted for enabling position adjustment of the first pivot point (P1) and/or the second pivot point (P2) relative the swing arm (120) to change a steady-state position of the shock absorber (2) relative the swing arm (120) in response to a load change. A vehicle and method of adjustment is also disclosed.