Suspension Lockout Mechanism for Adjustable Ride Height Stability
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional vehicle suspension systems face challenges in providing optimal ride comfort and stability on both paved and rough terrain, particularly in military and utility vehicles, as they struggle to effectively manage the forces transmitted to occupants during uneven terrain encounters.
Innovation Solution
The suspension element incorporates a main body with a tubular element and a flow control device, along with a locking member, to prevent movement of the tubular element relative to the main body, utilizing a combination of hydraulic and gas-based systems to provide both damping and spring functions, while a locking mechanism allows for adjustable ride height and enhanced stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional suspension systems are used, then the vehicle can operate on various terrains, but the forces transmitted to occupants during uneven terrain encounters are not effectively managed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a hydraulic damper system with a piston, fluid, and flow control elements to manage suspension forces. The hydraulic fluid flows through passages and restrictions during compression and rebound, providing controlled damping forces that reduce impulse transmission to occupants while maintaining reliability across diverse terrain conditions
2Stability of the object's composition
If a flow control element is added to prevent tubular element movement, then stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control element is integrated within the existing damper body structure, combining the stabilization function with the existing hydraulic system rather than adding a separate external mechanism. This merging approach provides the needed stability while minimizing additional structural complexity
3Adaptability or versatility
If a locking member is added to engage the barrier, then ride height adjustability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member is designed to automatically engage with the barrier at predetermined positions based on tubular element movement, providing self-service ride height adjustment without requiring external actuation systems. This self-actuating mechanism delivers adaptability while keeping the locking mechanism relatively simple in structure
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 configuration enhances ride comfort and stability by managing forces effectively, allowing for adjustable ride height and improved terrain handling, reducing impulse forces on occupants and facilitating operation on diverse terrains.
Implementation Method 1
a flow control element having at least two flow states. Advantageously, the flow control element is configured to prevent movement of the tubular element relative the main body in a direction
Implementation Method 2
The locking member may be configured to engage the barrier in response to the tubular element traversing a predetermined distance within the inner volume, thereby preventing further transversal of the tubular element
Data Source
AI summary
A suspension element includes a main body having an end cap defining an internal volume and a tubular element slidably engaged with the main body. The suspension element further includes a first piston and a flow control element. The flow control element is configured to prevent movement of the tubular element relative the main body in a direction. The suspension element may further include a locking member and a piston. The locking member may be configured to engage a barrier of the main body when the first piston traverses at least a predetermined distance towards the end cap. The locking member may be affixed to the tubular element and may fully surround the tubular element. Together the flow control element and the locking member are configured to prevent movement of the suspension element.