Shock Absorber Mechanical Bypass for Blow-Off Damping Relief
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle suspension systems face challenges in optimizing damping characteristics for varying terrain and driving conditions, often requiring compromises that lead to suboptimal performance in terms of comfort, traction, and control.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an active valve system within the shock absorber, which includes a solenoid-operated active valve that automatically adjusts the flow rate of fluid between the bottom out cup and the compression portion of the chamber, allowing for real-time adjustment of damping characteristics based on terrain, vehicle speed, and user input, thereby enhancing damping control and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed damping system is used, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the suspension performance cannot be optimized for varying terrain and driving conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic damping system where the damping rate is continuously adjustable based on operating conditions. The active valve system modifies fluid flow resistance in real-time, allowing the suspension to adapt between soft (comfort) and hard (performance) modes, transforming a static system into a dynamic one that responds to terrain and driving requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the damping parameter by controlling the active valve opening degree, which directly alters the fluid flow resistance through the valve. By varying the valve opening from fully closed to fully open positions, the damping rate can be continuously adjusted, enabling the suspension to optimize performance for different driving conditions without changing the physical structure
2Ease of operation
If an active valve system is implemented, then real-time damping adjustment is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical linkage systems with an active valve controlled by a solenoid actuator. Instead of using mechanical levers, cables, and linkages to adjust damping, the system uses an electronically controlled valve that responds to signals from the control unit, simplifying the mechanical structure while enabling precise damping control
Solution Approach 2:
The active valve system operates autonomously based on feedback from sensors and control logic. The control unit automatically adjusts the valve opening degree according to detected driving conditions (terrain, vehicle speed, acceleration), eliminating the need for manual intervention and enabling the system to self-optimize damping characteristics in real-time
3Force
If fluid flow restriction is increased for better control, then damping force increases, but the risk of bottoming out increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the damping force by varying the active valve opening degree in real-time. During normal operation, the valve can be partially closed to increase damping force and control suspension movement. When approaching bottoming out conditions, the control unit automatically opens the valve to reduce damping force, preventing bottoming out while maintaining control during regular operation
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 enables dynamic adjustment of damping rates to improve vehicle handling and control across different terrains, enhancing both comfort and performance by optimizing damping characteristics in real-time, reducing the risk of bottoming out and maintaining stability during various driving conditions.
Implementation Method 1
an active valve system within the shock absorber, which includes a solenoid-operated active valve that automatically adjusts the flow rate of fluid
Data Source
AI summary
A mechanical bypass for a shock assembly is disclosed herein. The assembly has a damper chamber having a compression portion and a rebound portion. There is further an external reservoir in fluid communication with the rebound portion of the damper chamber via a flow path. A valve is coupled with the flow path, the valve to meter a flow of the working fluid through the flow path. A bypass port to the external reservoir is provided in the flow path and bypasses the valve. A mechanical relief valve is provided in the bypass port to block a fluid flow though the bypass port until a blow-off pressure that is higher than a normal operating pressure and less than a burst pressure of the damping chamber is provided thereon.