Shock-Mounted Suspension Height Sensor With Linear FPC and Accelerometer
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing suspension systems face inefficiencies in accurately and quickly measuring wheel position and rate of change of suspension velocity, often requiring complex designs that are not linear and lack reliability.
Innovation Solution
A sensor assembly is integrated into the suspension system, comprising a linear flexible printed circuit and a single-axis accelerometer, which measures displacement and velocity data along the shock absorber's longitudinal axis, using a target magnet to determine ride height and suspension velocity changes without altering piston dynamics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If complex sensor designs are used to measure wheel position and suspension velocity, then measurement precision may improve, but device complexity increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor assembly is divided into separate functional components: a linear flexible printed circuit for position sensing and a distinct accelerometer for velocity measurement. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while simplifying the overall system architecture and improving reliability through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it measures both wheel position (via the linear flexible printed circuit) and suspension velocity (via the accelerometer). This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate sensing systems, reducing device complexity while maintaining high measurement precision for both parameters.
2Measurement precision
If complex sensor designs are used to measure wheel position and suspension velocity, then measurement precision may improve, but reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the sensor assembly into independent functional modules (position sensor and velocity sensor), the system achieves higher reliability. Each module can be independently tested, calibrated, and replaced if needed, reducing the risk of system-wide failure while maintaining precise measurements from both sensors.
3Adaptability or versatility
If non-linear sensor designs are used, then adaptability to various suspension geometries may improve, but measurement precision and accuracy decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The solution transitions from complex non-linear geometric adaptations to a simplified linear measurement approach. By using a linear flexible printed circuit and a single-axis accelerometer oriented along the longitudinal axis, the system measures motion in a standardized dimension that can be universally applied across different suspension geometries without sacrificing precision.
4Measurement precision
If shock absorber dynamics are altered to accommodate sensors, then measurement capability may improve, but shock absorber performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor assembly is coupled to the external body of the shock absorber rather than being integrated into the piston dynamics. This intermediary mounting approach allows the sensors to accurately measure shock absorber motion without directly interfering with the piston dynamics, maintaining both measurement capability and shock absorber performance.
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
Provides quick and accurate real-time measurements of ride height and suspension velocity changes, enabling efficient adjustment of damping forces and preventing shock absorber overcompression, thus enhancing suspension performance.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor for detecting displacement data of a target magnet
Implementation Method 2
a single axis accelerometer measuring rate of change of suspension velocity data in a direction along the longitudinal axis of the shock absorber
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor assembly for a suspension assembly of a vehicle may include a sensor for detecting displacement data of a target magnet and a sensor casing operably coupled to an external body of a shock absorber of the suspension assembly and the sensor. The sensor may include a linear flexible printed circuit that may be disposed along a longitudinal axis of the shock absorber to measure displacement data of the target magnet relative to the shock absorber to determine the suspension assembly position. The sensor assembly may further include a single axis accelerometer measuring rate of change of suspension velocity data in a direction along the longitudinal axis of the shock absorber, and the target magnet operably coupled to the suspension assembly via a suspension assembly component other than the external body of the shock absorber.