Coil-Over Shock Preload Adjustment Using a Lever-Arm Ring Tool
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for adjusting coil spring preload on coil-over shock absorbers are crude and inefficient, requiring tools like spanner wrenches, hammers, and slip-joint pliers, making it difficult to adjust the preload effectively while the spring is attached to the shock absorber.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable shock absorber system featuring a coil-over shock absorber with a dual-part adjustment ring assembly and a shock adjuster tool that includes a lever arm and tool grip portion, allowing for efficient rotation of the adjustment ring to adjust the preload, using a frictional grip mechanism for precise control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional tools (spanner wrench, hammer, slip-joint pliers) are used to adjust the adjustment ring, then the adjustment can be made, but the process becomes crude and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary tool with a lever arm and grip portion that connects to the adjustment ring assembly. This mediator tool enables precise rotational control of the adjustment ring without requiring crude methods like hammers or slip-joint pliers, thereby improving adjustment efficiency while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment ring assembly incorporates a dynamic frictional grip mechanism that allows controlled rotation when torque is applied through the tool. The frictional engagement provides progressive adjustment capability, enabling the user to make precise adjustments by controlling the rotational force applied through the lever arm
2Manufacturing precision
If the adjustment ring is rotated to adjust preload, then the spring preload can be changed, but consistent torque application is difficult with traditional methods
Solution Approach 1:
The tool grip portion is designed with predetermined geometric features (such as hexagonal or square interfaces) that engage with corresponding features on the adjustment ring assembly. This preliminary design of the engagement interface ensures that consistent torque can be applied during adjustment without requiring complex measurement or control mechanisms during the adjustment process itself
3Adaptability or versatility
If the adjustment ring assembly is made rotatable for preload adjustment, then the spring can be adjusted, but the adjustment ring may rotate unintentionally
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment ring assembly incorporates a locking mechanism that applies preliminary anti-action to prevent unintentional rotation. The lock ring can be engaged to counteract any rotational forces that might cause the adjustment ring to move from its set position, while still allowing intentional adjustment when the locking mechanism is disengaged and torque is applied through the tool
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
Enables efficient and precise adjustment of coil spring preload without the need for cumbersome tools, allowing for consistent torque application and controlled adjustment of the spring's preload while the shock absorber is installed.
Implementation Method 1
using a frictional grip mechanism for precise control
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable shock absorber system includes: a coil over shock absorber with a spring and an adjustment ring; an adjustment ring assembly, which detachably connects with the adjustment ring; and a shock adjuster tool with a lever arm and a tool grip portion, including a band assembly; such that the tool grip portion detachably connects to a peripheral mounting surface of the adjustment ring assembly; whereby the shock adjuster tool can be used to adjust a preload of the coil-over shock absorber.