Shock Absorber Interface Element for Compact Multi-Chamber Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Twin-tube shock absorbers face challenges with improper sealing, leading to hydraulic fluid leakage between chambers and valves, which results in pressure drops and impaired damping effects, affecting vehicle comfort, stability, and safety.
Innovation Solution
An interface element with two intermediate tubes/central cylinders is introduced, merging the sealing functions between the compression, rebound, and reserve chambers with the sealing of the valves, reducing the number of sealing components and enhancing the shock absorber's flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two independent central cylinders are used to seal the chambers and valves separately, then the sealing reliability is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two independent central cylinders into a single intermediate tube that integrates multiple sealing functions. The intermediate tube combines the sealing between compression chamber, rebound chamber and reserve chamber with the sealing of one or more valves into one unified component, reducing the total number of sealing components while maintaining sealing reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The intermediate tube serves multiple sealing functions simultaneously: it seals between the compression chamber, rebound chamber and reserve chamber, and also seals one or more valves. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate central cylinders for each sealing task, simplifying the overall structure
2Reliability
If two independent central cylinders with separate sealing components are used, then the sealing coverage is improved, but the radial dimension and overall size increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the sealing functions of two central cylinders into one intermediate tube, the radial space required is reduced. The integrated design allows all sealing surfaces to be arranged within a smaller radial envelope, decreasing the overall size of the shock absorber
3Reliability
If two independent intermediate tubes are used, then the sealing of multiple valves is improved, but the minimum distance between valves is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate tube is designed to seal one or more valves within its structure, allowing flexible positioning of valves without being constrained by the presence of separate central cylinders. This multi-functional approach enables better adaptability in valve arrangement and spacing
4Reliability
If more sealing components are installed to properly seal all chambers and valves, then the sealing reliability is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate tube combines multiple sealing functions into a single component, reducing the total number of sealing components that need to be manufactured, procured, and assembled. This integration lowers manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining comprehensive sealing effectiveness across all chambers and valves
Data Source
AI summary
The present application relates to an interface element adapted for use in a shock absorber, the interface element comprising a cylindrical shape coaxially arranged around an axis A, wherein the interface element further comprises a first engaging end, a second engaging end, an engaging part, and at least one valve slot. The interface element forms a sealing interface between a first central cylinder, a second central cylinder, an inner cylinder and at least one valve in a shock absorber. The disclosure further relates to a shock absorber and a method for installing an interface element into a shock absorber.