HYDRAULIC SHOCK ABSORBER WITH A COMPRESSIBLE CAP

Dans cet amortisseur hydraulique comportant une première chambre (2) et une deuxième chambre (3), ces première et deuxième chambres (2, 3) contiennent un fluide incompressible et sont séparées l'une de l'autre par une paroi (4). Cette paroi (4) est munie d'au moins un orifice (5) permettant de faire circuler ce fluide entre ces chambres (2,3) lors de la compression de l'une de ces chambres (2, 3). Au moins une capsule (10) est disposée en suspension dans ce fluide et la capsule (10) comporte plusieurs formes en creux sur sa surface extérieure.

HYDRAULIC SHOCK ABSORBER WITH COMPRESSIBLE CAPSULE

SHOCK ABSORBER

SHOCK ABSORBER, PISTON AND VALVE STRUCTURE

DAMPING COMPONENT WITH NON-NEWTONIAN INSERT

A damping component, which is suitable for vehicle applications, includes at least one body portion made of a first material, and at least one insert portion made of a second material at least partially disposed or embedded within the at least one body portion. The second material may include a non-Newtonian material.

Federungssteuervorrichtung und elektro-rheologischer Dämpfer

Bereitgestellt wird eine Federungssteuervorrichtung, die einen elektro-rheologischen Dämpfer, eine Hochspannungsausgangsschaltung, einen Verbindungsbereich und eine Steuereinheit beinhaltet. Der elektro-rheologische Dämpfer beinhaltet einen Zylinder, der abdichtend elektro-rheologisches Fluid enthält, einen Kolben, einen Kolbenstab und eine Positivelektrode, die in einem Bereich vorgesehen ist, durch welchen ein Fluss des elektro-rheologischen Fluids durch eine Verschiebung des Kolbens im Zylinder erzeugt wird, und konfiguriert ist, eine Spannung an das elektro-rheologische Fluid anzulegen. Der Verbindungsbereich beinhaltet einen Elektroden-Verbindungsbereich, der konfiguriert ist, die Hochspannungsausgangsschaltung und die Positivelektrode miteinander zu verbinden, und einen Erdungsverbindungsbereich, der konfiguriert ist, den Zylinder und eine Erdung miteinander zu verbinden. Ein Widerstandsbauteil, das einen Widerstandswert aufweist, der auf einen Last-Widerstandswert des elektro-rheologischen ...

SUSPENSION CONTROL DEVICE AND ELECTROVISCOUS DAMPER

This suspension control device is characterized by having: an electroviscous damper; a high voltage output circuit; a connection part; and a control unit. The electroviscous damper is provided with a cylinder in which an electroviscous fluid is sealed, a piston, a piston rod, and a positive electrode that is provided to a part where flowing of the electroviscous fluid is generated through sliding of the piston in the cylinder and that applies a voltage to the electroviscous fluid. The connection part is provided with an electrode connection section for connecting the high voltage output circuit and the positive electrode, and a ground connection section for connecting the cylinder and ground. A resistance member which provides a load resistance value of the electroviscous fluid within the normal temperature range of the electroviscous damper is provided between the electrode connection section and the ground connection section.

DAMPER ATTENUATION FORCE VARIABLE DEVICE, DAMPER SYSTEM EQUIPPED WITH SAID DEVICE, AND VEHICLE EQUIPPED WITH SAID DAMPER SYSTEM

In order to address an overheating problem in an onboard ECU including a boosting control circuit, the purpose of the present invention is to provide a damper attenuation force variable device which includes a mechanism with which, even in a state in which a boosting transformer is covered with an electromagnetic shield, heat from the boosting transformer can be efficiently discharged, a damper system equipped with the device, and a vehicle equipped with the damper system. The damper attenuation force variable device according to the present invention is a device for controlling the attenuation force of a damper in which an electric viscous fluid is used, and is provided with: a boosting control circuit substrate on which a boosting transformer and a microprocessor for controlling the boosting transformer are mounted; and an airtight case in which the boosting control circuit substrate is housed. The damper attenuation force variable device is characterized in that: the boosting transformer ...

Powertrain proactive damping system using magneto rheological materials

A vehicle powertrain proactive damping system includes a plurality of proactive damping structures mounted on a powertrain structure with each proactive damping structure includes a magneto rheological elastomer (MRE). An electromagnet is associated with each proactive damping structure. A control unit includes a processor circuit. A sensor obtains vibration data regarding the powertrain structure. A LIDAR sensor is mounted on the vehicle and is electrically connected with the control unit. The LIDAR sensor provides data to the control unit indicative of upcoming road surface conditions to be experienced by the vehicle. Based on data from at the sensor and the LIDAR sensor, the processor circuit is constructed and arranged to control voltage to the electromagnets to selectively adjust a rigidity of the associated proactive damping structure so as to control vibrational effects on the powertrain structure.

COLLOIDAL DAMPER

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a colloidal damper which has two kinds of damping characteristics and has high practicality. SOLUTION: The colloidal damper is configured such that relative movement between a vehicle body 32 and a wheel retention member 26 is damped by causing operation liquid 84 to flow in and out to/from fine pores of a porous body 82 and is damped also by applying resistance for passage of the operation liquid 84 between two chambers 60, 62 on communication paths 120, 122 that a cylinder device 40 has. Thereby, according to two kinds of damping characteristics, the damping characteristic of the colloidal damper can be made appropriate, the damping characteristic suitable for relative movement of two objects is provided and, thereby, the relative movement of them can be effectively damped. COPYRIGHT: (C)2012,JPO&INPIT ...

SHOCK ABSORBER

A shock absorber for absorbing shocks incident to high velocity impact including a cylindrical housing having a tapered bore formed axially therein. A metering rod is slidably positioned longitudinally within the housing having end portions extending therebeyond with one of the end portions connectable to the movable object. An enlarged piston is formed on that portion of the metering rod which is contained within the housing bore. A high viscosity fluid medium, such as Duxseal, fills the chamber defined by the housing bore.

SHOCK ABSORBER

SUSPENSION CONTROL DEVICE AND ELECTRORHEOLOGICAL DAMPER

A suspension control device including an electrorheological damper, a high voltage output circuit, a connection portion, and a control unit. The electrorheological damper includes a cylinder sealingly containing electrorheological fluid, a piston, a piston rod, and a positive electrode provided in a portion through which a flow of the electrorheological fluid is generated by a slide of the piston in the cylinder, and configured to apply a voltage to the electrorheological fluid. The connection portion includes an electrode connection portion configured to connect the high voltage output circuit and the positive electrode to each other, and a ground connection portion configured to connect the cylinder and a ground to each other. A resistor member, which has a resistance value set to a load resistance value of the electrorheological fluid in a regular-use temperature range of the electrorheological damper, is provided between the electrode connection portion and the ground connection portion ...

Vehicle shock absorber

POWERTRAIN PROACTIVE DAMPING SYSTEM USING MAGNETO RHEOLOGICAL MATERIALS

A vehicle powertrain proactive damping system includes a plurality of proactive damping structures mounted on a powertrain structure with each proactive damping structure includes a magneto rheological elastomer (MRE). An electromagnet is associated with each proactive damping structure. A control unit includes a processor circuit. A sensor obtains vibration data regarding the powertrain structure. A LIDAR sensor is mounted on the vehicle and is electrically connected with the control unit. The LIDAR sensor provides data to the control unit indicative of upcoming road surface conditions to be experienced by the vehicle. Based on data from at the sensor and the LIDAR sensor, the processor circuit is constructed and arranged to control voltage to the electromagnets to selectively adjust a rigidity of the associated proactive damping structure so as to control vibrational effects on the powertrain structure. 1. A vehicle powertrain proactive damping system , comprising:a plurality of proactive damping structures mounted on a powertrain structure of the vehicle, each proactive damping structure comprising a magneto rheological elastomer (MRE),an electromagnet associated with each proactive damping structure,a control unit including a processor circuit,at least one sensor constructed and arranged to obtain vibration data regarding the powertrain structure, the at least one sensor being electrically connected with the control unit, anda LIDAR sensor mounted on the vehicle and electrically connected with the control unit, the LIDAR sensor being constructed arid arranged to provide data to the control unit indicative of upcoming road surface conditions to be experienced by the vehicle,wherein, based on data from at the least one sensor and the LIDAR sensor, the processor circuit is constructed and arranged to proactively control voltage to the electromagnets to selectively adjust a rigidity of the associated proactive damping structure so as to control vibrational effects ...

SHOCK ABSORBER, PISTON AND VALVE STRUCTURE

Height adjustable damping device

A damping device includes a housing defining a pressure chamber, containing a magnetorheological fluid. A rod is slideably coupled to the housing to adjust a length of the housing. A piston is attached to the rod and disposed within the pressure chamber. The piston is immersed within the magnetorheological fluid, and separates the pressure chamber into a first half and a second half. An electromagnet is disposed in magnetic contact with the magnetorheological fluid, and is operable to apply a magnetic field to the magnetorheological fluid to increase viscosity of the magnetorheological fluid to prevent movement of the rod relative to the housing. The magnetorheological fluid is free to flow through a fluid port in the piston, between a first half and a second half of the pressure chamber, in the absence of the magnetic field from the magnetic source to allow adjustment of the length.

SHOCK ABSORBER

A shock absorber having a pressure cylinder defining a chamber, in which a piston assembly connected to a piston rod is movable, and which is incompletely occupied by a compressible solid so that air space is present. The piston assembly is movable in the chamber to the extent of the air space unresisted by the compressible solid during short strokes of the piston rod, but is resisted by the compressible solid during long strokes of the piston rod.

Клапан демпфирования

Полезная модель относится к машиностроению и может использоваться в гидропневматической рессоре транспортного средства.Клапан демпфирования, содержит корпус (1), подвижный элемент (2), седло (3) подвижного элемента, затвор (4). Корпус (1) и седло (3) соединены между собой посредством резьбы и установлены относительно друг друга с кольцевым зазором (5). Корпус (1) и седло (3) выполнены с радиальными отверстиями (6) и (7) соответственно. Подвижный элемент (2) выполнен с радиальными отверстиями (9). Затвор (4) установлен с возможностью продольного перемещения. С обоих концов затвора (4) выполнены осевые глухие отверстия (10) и (11), которые соединены с радиальными отверстиями (12) и (13) соответственно. В полости между седлом (3) и затвором (4) установлена пружина (15), один конец которой упирается в ступень (8) подвижного элемента (2), а другой конец упирается в кольцевой выступ (14) затвора (4). Между корпусом (1) и подвижным элементом (2) в торцевой части клапана образован дросселирующий канал (16). В седле (3) установлена крышка (17), соединенная с седлом (3) резьбовым соединением, обеспечивающим ее регулировку. Технический результат заключается в изменении гидравлического сопротивления клапана в зависимости от расхода рабочей жидкости как в прямом, так и в обратном направлении, что позволяет повысить эксплуатационные качества клапана демпфирования. 3 з.п. ф-лы; 1 ил. РОССИЙСКАЯ ФЕДЕРАЦИЯ (19) RU (11) (13) 188 475 U1 (51) МПК B60G 17/08 (2006.01) ФЕДЕРАЛЬНАЯ СЛУЖБА ПО ИНТЕЛЛЕКТУАЛЬНОЙ СОБСТВЕННОСТИ (12) ОПИСАНИЕ ПОЛЕЗНОЙ МОДЕЛИ К ПАТЕНТУ (52) СПК B60G 17/08 (2018.08) (21) (22) Заявка: 2018143373, 07.12.2018 (24) Дата начала отсчета срока действия патента: 07.12.2018 Приоритет(ы): (22) Дата подачи заявки: 07.12.2018 (56) Список документов, цитированных в отчете о поиске: WO 2015185550 A1, 10.12.2015. EP (45) Опубликовано: 15.04.2019 Бюл. № 11 1 8 8 4 7 5 R U (54) КЛАПАН ДЕМПФИРОВАНИЯ (57) Реферат: Полезная модель относится к машиностроению и может использоваться в ...

Damping force control apparatus

A control mode for a damping force characteristic is set to be a variable control when a product of the sum x b ′ of sprung member speeds and a sprung-member-unsprung-member-relative-speed x s ″ is positive. Accordingly, when the vibration in a middle/high frequency range is not being input to a suspension apparatus, an operation of a variable throttle mechanism is controlled so that a step number representing the damping force characteristic of a damper varies with a vibration state of a sprung member HA based on a Nonlinear H ∞ control theory. When the product of x b ′ and x s ′ is negative, the control mode is set to be an operation prohibiting control. When the vibration in the middle/high frequency range is input to the suspension apparatus, operation of the variable throttle mechanism is prohibited, and suppresses an increase in the operation frequency or in the operation amount of the variable throttle mechanism.

Methods and apparatus for sag adjustment

A method and apparatus for adjusting the sag setting of a vehicle suspension are disclosed. An integrated damper/gas spring shock absorber includes a bleed port located at a position on a gas spring cylinder corresponding to a desired sag setting. The gas spring may be over pressurized to a pressure above the expected operating pressure of the gas spring. The vehicle may then be loaded with the normal operating load, partially compressing the shock absorber. Opening the bleed port allows gas to vent from the gas spring, further compressing the shock absorber until a piston in the gas spring closes the bleed port from the inner surface of the gas spring cylinder. A sleeve may be inserted over the gas spring cylinder, the sleeve including one or more sealing elements that seal the bleed port from the outer surface of the gas spring cylinder during normal operation.

Electrically controlable transmission for controlling the stiffness of a vehicle shock absorber

A transmission mechanism for electrically controlling the stiffness of a vehicle shock absorber comprises an actuator assembly, a transmission assembly, and an electronic controller. The transmission assembly comprises a step motor, a steel wire assembly, and a transmission control component. The transmission control component comprises a fixing nut, an outer casing body, a secondary bevel gear, and a main bevel gear. The outer casing body holds the main bevel gear and the secondary bevel gear, which are installed inside the outer casing body in the manner that they are engaged with each other and can freely rotate relative to the outer casing body. Inside the fixing nut are disposed spiral threads to be screw locked to the top of the shock absorber. The flexible steel wire is connected on one end with the step motor and on the other end with the secondary bevel gear to transmit the rotation of the motor. The design of this transmission mechanism allows the step motor to adjust the stiffness of the shock absorber without having to be installed on top of it. It reduces the volume and height of the shock absorber, decreases the required installation space, and enhances the applicability and efficiency of the shock absorber.

Suspension system for a bicycle and damper device

A suspension system for a muscle-powered two-wheeled vehicle having a damper device with a first damper chamber and a second damper chamber coupled with one another via a controllable damping valve. A sensor captures data about at least one current state. An electronic control device and a storage device are provided for controlling the damper device. At least one damping characteristic of the damper device can be influenced by a signal from the control device. The damping valve has a field generating device assigned to it which serves to generate and control a field strength in a damping channel of the damping valve. A field-sensitive rheological medium is provided in the damping channel for controlling the damping characteristic of the damper device in dependence on the sensor data.

DEVICE FOR ADJUSTING THE HEIGHT OF A VEHICLE

The present invention is a system for adjusting the height of vehicles that have coil spring suspensions. The invention may be added to existing vehicle suspensions without the need to remove and replace the existing vehicle suspension components. The invention includes cylinders, pistons, seals, dust shields, pressure pump(s) and storage tank(s). It also may optionally include electronic hardware, such as, an electronic controller and software, to control the functions of the system and sensor(s) which detect ground clearance and speed. The invention may be operated manually by a vehicle driver through push buttons, which may operate through the vehicle's existing cruise control buttons. Alternatively, the system can be automated through an electronic control unit (ECU) to avoid collision with obstacles in the vehicle's path. 1. A device for lifting a vehicle with a suspension system having a coil spring and shock absorber with a shock absorber shaft and a shock absorber body , wherein said coil spring has a coil spring diameter and is coaxially coiled around said shock absorber shaft , and said shock absorber body has a body diameter smaller than said coil spring diameter , comprising:a hollow cylinder having a cylinder outer diameter larger than said coil spring diameter, formed by a circular cylinder top with a cylinder top rim, a central cylinder-shaft aperture, and cylindrical cylinder side walls connected to and extending downwardly from said cylinder top rim to a cylinder bottom, wherein said cylinder top and said cylinder side walls define an inner cylinder bore having a cylinder inner diameter greater than said body diameter, an inlet port extending inwardly from said cylinder top rim into said cylinder bore, an inner circumferential retaining ring groove at said cylinder bottom, and wherein said cylinder is sealingly coaxially mounted onto said shock absorber shaft through said cylinder-shaft aperture;a piston having a piston diameter less than said ...

SHOCK ABSORBER FOR VEHICLE

A shock absorber apparatus for a vehicle may include a piston installed within a cylinder to be moved along a lengthwise direction of the cylinder and separating the cylinder into an upper chamber and a lower chamber, a piston rod installed to pass through the cylinder and connected to the piston, wherein the piston rod has an oil flow space therein, and a valve mechanism installed on the piston rod and operated to be opened and closed to selectively connect the upper chamber of the cylinder and the oil flow space of the piston rod. 1. (canceled)2. The shock absorber apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the cylinder is a monotube-type cylinder.3. A shock absorber apparatus for a vehicle claim 3 , further comprising:a piston installed within a cylinder to be moved along a lengthwise direction of the cylinder and separating the cylinder into an upper chamber and a lower chamber;a piston rod installed to pass through the cylinder and connected to the piston, wherein the piston rod has an oil flow space therein;a valve mechanism installed on the piston rod and operated to be opened and closed to selectively connect the upper chamber of the cylinder and the oil flow space of the piston rod;a support chamber formed under the lower chamber of the cylinder by a partition wall and fluid-connected to the lower chamber through an oil passage formed to the partition wall;a high-pressure gas chamber formed within the support chamber and partitioned from the support chamber by a diaphragm; anda pipe member passing through the piston and installed to fluid-connect the oil flow space of the piston rod and the support chamber.4. The shock absorber apparatus of claim 3 , further comprising:an oil pump for generating a hydraulic pressure;an accumulator storing an oil and installed to be connected to the oil pump via a connecting pipe line;a solenoid valve including a spool selectively slid in accordance with a controller;a supply pipe line connecting the oil pump and the solenoid valve;a ...

LEVEL CONTROL FOR VEHICLES HAVING AT LEAST ONE AIR SPRING

The invention relates to a level control arrangement for vehicles with at least one air spring by which a vehicle body is cushioned with regard to at least one vehicle axle, having the following characteristics: a compressed air generator, which can be connected to the air spring by means of an air dryer, the compressed air generator can be connected to the atmosphere by a check valve, which opens in the intake direction of the compressed air generator, the air spring, which can be connected to the atmosphere for discharge purposes via the air dryer or a pneumatically controllable directional valve, wherein the pressure of the air spring is applied to a pneumatic control input of the first directional valve via a second controllable directional valve against the force of a reset force that acts on the pneumatic control input, the pneumatic control input of the first directional valve can be connected to the atmosphere, for the purpose of ending a discharge process of the spring, a line with a compressed air accumulator branches off from the supply line of the air spring via a first changeover valve, wherein the compressed air accumulator is connected to the intake side of the compressed air generator via a second changeover valve and a line that is connected to the compressed air path between the check valve and the compressed air generator, and wherein preferably a pneumatically operating pressure controller is contained in this line. 2. The level control arrangement according to claim 1 ,characterized in that{'b': '36', 'the pressure controller () is permanently adjusted to a preset value.'}3. The level control arrangement according to claim 1 ,characterized in that{'b': 36', '16', '11, 'the pressure controller () is readjusted in relation to the system pressure in the supply line () of the air spring ().'}4. The level control arrangement according to claim 3 ,characterized in that{'b': 36', '37', '16', '11, 'the pressure controller () is connected for ...

Shock absorber for a bicycle

Shock absorber for an at least partially muscle-powered bicycle having a damper device having a first and a second damper chamber assigned thereto which are hydraulically coupled with one another through a damping valve. In the damping valve a flow duct with a field-sensitive, rheological medium is provided. The damping valve has a field generating device assigned to it which serves for generating and controlling a field intensity in the flow duct of the damping valve. The flow duct comprises in the damping valve a collection chamber which is hydraulically connected with the first damper chamber through a plurality of flow apertures, wherein at least one flow aperture is configured as a through hole and at least one flow aperture, as a closable valve opening provided with a one-way valve. The collection chamber is hydraulically connected hydraulically with the second damper chamber via a plurality of fan-type damping ducts each separated from one another by a fan wall.

Control Arrangement For A Hydropneumatic Suspension System And Hydropneumatic Suspension System Comprising Such A Control Arrangement

A control arrangement for a hydropneumatic suspension system and a hydropneumatic suspension system are provided. The control arrangement has a pressure supply connection, a return connection, a piston chamber connection adapted to be connected to the piston chamber of a suspension cylinder of the hydropneumatic suspension system, an annular chamber connection adapted to be connected to the annular chamber of the suspension cylinder, and at least one controllable valve arrangement comprising a plurality of switch positions via which the pressure supply connection and the return connection are connectable to the piston chamber connection and the annular chamber connection. The annular chamber connection is in flow connection with the return connection via a pressure-limiting line having a hydraulically controllable pressure-limiting element. The pressure-limiting element has a control input adapted to be acted upon via a control line by a control pressure which is limitable to a predefinable pressure limit. 1. A control arrangement for a hydropneumatic suspension system , the control arrangement comprising a pressure supply connection for connecting to a pressure supply , a return connection , a piston chamber connection adapted to be connected to the piston chamber of a suspension cylinder of the hydropneumatic suspension system and adapted to be acted upon by a piston chamber pressure , an annular chamber connection adapted to be connected to the annular chamber of the suspension cylinder of the hydropneumatic suspension system and adapted to be acted upon by an annular chamber pressure , and at least one controllable valve arrangement that comprises a plurality of switch positions via which the pressure supply connection and the return connection are connectable to the piston chamber connection and the annular chamber connection , the annular chamber connection being in flow connection with the return connection via a first pressure-limiting line , and a ...

VEHICLE-HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT APPARATUS OF MOTORCYCLE

In a vehicle-height adjustment apparatus of a motorcycle having the hydraulic jack attached to the damper, damping force characteristics of a damper are stabilized, the influence of the charged gas pressure of an oil reservoir chamber is eliminated, and the sealing performance of a hydraulic jack is reduced. In the vehicle-height adjustment apparatus of a motorcycle, a back pressure chamber is provided on a side opposite to a jack chamber, with a plunger being interposed therebetween inside a hydraulic jack, and this back pressure chamber is communicated with a hydraulic chamber inside a damper tube. 1. A vehicle-height adjustment apparatus of a motorcycle including a damper in which a piston rod slides in a hydraulic chamber inside a damper tube , and a suspension spring ,the vehicle-height adjustment apparatus comprising:a hydraulic jack provided on one of the damper tube and the piston rod;a jack chamber provided inside the hydraulic jack;a plunger inserted in the jack chamber;a spring bearing supported by the plunger, wherein the suspension spring is interposed between the spring bearing and a spring bearing provided on the other one of the damper tube; anda hydraulic pump that is caused to perform a pumping operation by extension and compression movements of the piston rod relative to the damper tube and supplies and drains oil of the hydraulic chamber inside the damper tube to and from the jack chamber of the hydraulic jack, whereby adjusting a vehicle height,wherein the vehicle-height adjustment apparatus further comprises a back pressure chamber that is provided on a side opposite to the jack chamber, with the plunger being interposed therebetween inside the hydraulic jack, and that is communicated with the hydraulic chamber inside the damper tube.2. The vehicle-height adjustment apparatus of the motorcycle according to claim 1 , wherein a pressure receiving area of the plunger on a side of the jack chamber is made different from a pressure receiving area of ...

ADJUSTABLE HYSTERESIS CIRCUIT FOR CONTROL OF AIR SUSPENSION

This disclosure, and the exemplary embodiments described herein, provides vehicle suspension systems and methods including a plurality of gas springs and an associated height control system. The height control system includes height sensors associated with the gas springs, a valve arrangement, a pressurized gas service and a control circuit which includes a variable hysteresis circuit to dynamically control the response of the suspension. 1. A suspension system for an associated vehicle including an associated unsprung mass and an associated sprung mass , the suspension system comprising:a plurality of gas springs operatively connected between the associated unsprung mass of the associated vehicle; a sensor operative to generate a signal having a relation to the height of the sprung mass relative to the unsprung mass;', 'a valve arrangement in fluid communication with each of the plurality of gas springs, the valve arrangement configured to be selectively operable between a first condition that permits gas transfer out of a spring chamber associated with each of the gas springs, a second condition that permits gas transfer into the spring chamber associated with each of the gas springs and a third condition in which the spring chamber associated with each of the gas springs is fluidically isolated;', 'a pressurized gas source in fluid communication with the valve arrangement via fluid communication with the plurality of gas springs and operative to supply gas to the plurality of gas springs; and', 'a control circuit including an input section and an output section, the input section adapted to receive the signal from the sensor, the output section operative to compare the signal from the sensor to a first threshold voltage and a second threshold voltage, the output section configured to switch the valve arrangement to the first condition if the signal from the sensor is greater than the first threshold voltage and subsequently switch the valve arrangement to the ...

Damper With Volume Reducing Insert

A shock absorber including a pressure tube, a piston assembly slidably disposed within the pressure tube, and a fluid transfer tube that extends about the pressure tube is provided. The piston assembly divides an inner volume of the pressure tube into first and second working chambers. An intermediate chamber between the pressure tube and the fluid transfer tube is arranged in fluid communication with the first working chamber. A valve assembly is disposed in fluid communication with the intermediate chamber and the second working chamber. The valve assembly controls fluid flow between the intermediate chamber and the second working chamber. At least part of the intermediate chamber is formed by a fluid transfer channel that extends longitudinally within the fluid transfer tube to provide a fluid flow path extending between the first working chamber and the valve assembly. 1. A shock absorber comprising:a pressure tube extending about a longitudinal axis and defining an inner volume;a piston assembly attached to a piston rod and slidably disposed within the pressure tube, the piston assembly dividing the inner volume of the pressure tube into a first working chamber and a second working chamber;a fluid transfer tube extending about the pressure tube such that an intermediate chamber is defined between the pressure tube and the fluid transfer tube, the intermediate chamber disposed in fluid communication with the first working chamber; anda valve assembly disposed in fluid communication with and controlling fluid flow between the intermediate chamber and the second working chamber,wherein at least part of the intermediate chamber is formed by a fluid transfer channel that extends longitudinally within the fluid transfer tube to provide a fluid flow path extending between the first working chamber and the valve assembly.2. The shock absorber of claim 1 , further comprising:an insert positioned in the intermediate chamber that reduces the volume of the intermediate ...

ASSEMBLY FOR ABSORBING ENERGY IN THE EVENT OF AN OVERLOAD

An energy absorber reduces an excessive load between an object and an assembly in an overload event. The energy absorber includes an absorber cylinder and a piston device with an absorber piston and a piston rod. A first chamber of an absorber chamber is filled with a field-sensitive absorber fluid. The piston has an absorber valve with an absorber duct extending in an axial direction and being subject to a selective field of a field generating device. A ratio of the outer diameter of the piston rod to an outer diameter of the absorber piston is greater than 0.6 and the first chamber extends in a space around the piston rod. During the relative motion of the fastener and the holding device the field-sensitive absorber fluid is urged through the damping duct of the absorber piston. 121-. (canceled)22. An assembly for energy absorption in an overload event to reduce a resulting load on an object coupled with the assembly , the assembly comprising:an energy absorber configured, in a single overload event involving energy input that is so great that, absent such an energy absorber, damage to the object is highly probable, to absorb energy so as to avoid excessive load on the object in the overload event by way of energy absorption of the energy absorber;said energy absorber having a fastener and a holding device and being configured to absorb energy in a relative motion between said fastener and said holding device;said energy absorber having an absorber cylinder and a piston device with an absorber piston and a piston rod connected therewith, said absorber piston defining at least one first chamber of an absorber chamber in said absorber cylinder;a field-sensitive absorber fluid at least partially filling said first chamber;an absorber valve disposed on said piston device with at least one absorber duct extending in an axial direction and being disposed for exposure to a field of a field generating device;{'b': 3', '5, 'wherein a ratio of an outer diameter of said ...

Damper With Side Collector And External Control Valves

A damper with inner and outer tubes and a piston slidably disposed within the inner tube to define first and second working chambers. A fluid transport chamber is positioned between the inner and outer tubes. A collector chamber is positioned outside the outer tube. An intake valve assembly, abutting one end of the inner tube, includes first and second intake valve bodies and a divider body, which define first and second intermediate chambers in the intake valve assembly. An accumulation chamber is positioned between the intake valve assembly and a closed end of the outer tube. The first intermediate chamber and accumulation chamber are arranged in fluid communication with the collector chamber. A first intake valve controls fluid flow between the second working chamber and the collector chamber. A second intake valve controls fluid flow between the second intermediate chamber and the collector chamber. 1. A damper comprising:an inner tube extending longitudinally between a first inner tube end and a second inner tube end;a piston slidably disposed within the inner tube defining a first working chamber and a second working chamber;an outer tube disposed around the inner tube, the first working chamber arranged in fluid communication with a fluid transport chamber disposed between the inner tube and the outer tube;a collector chamber positioned outside of the outer tube;an intake valve assembly positioned within the outer tube to define an accumulation chamber arranged in fluid communication with the collector chamber, the intake valve assembly including a first intermediate chamber disposed in fluid communication with the collector chamber and the accumulation chamber, a second intermediate chamber disposed in fluid communication with the second working chamber, and a first intake valve that controls fluid flow through the intake valve assembly between the first intermediate chamber and the fluid transport chamber;a first control valve externally mounted to the ...

AXIAL CLUTCH ASSEMBLY AS WELL AS GAS SPRING AND GAS DAMPER ASSEMBLY AND METHOD INCLUDING SAME

A gas spring and gas damper assembly can include a gas spring and a gas damper. The gas spring can include a first end member, a second end member and a flexible wall that at least partially form a spring chamber. The gas damper can include first, second and third damper elements that are telescopically interconnected with one another. The first and third damper elements can be operatively connected to respective ones of the first and second end members. The third damper element includes damper piston having an axial clutch. The second damper element is suspended between the first and third damper elements by biasing elements that engaging the damper piston. 1. A gas spring and gas damper assembly comprising:a gas spring assembly having a longitudinal axis and including:a first end member;a second end member spaced longitudinally from said first end member; and,a flexible wall extending circumferentially about said longitudinal axis and being operatively connected between said first and second end members such that a spring chamber is at least partially defined therebetween; and,a gas damper assembly disposed within said spring chamber and operatively connected between said first and second end members, said gas damper assembly including:a first damper element operatively connected to said first end member and including a first side wall and a first end wall that at least partially define a first damping chamber;a second damper element extending longitudinally between a first end and a second end opposite said first end, said second damper element including a second end wall and a second side wall at least partially defining a second damping chamber, said second end wall disposed transverse to said second side wall and at least partially forming a second element piston, said second damper element being oriented such that said second element piston and at least a portion of said second side wall are disposed within said first damping chamber, said second damper ...

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR AN ADJUSTABLE DAMPER

A method for controlling vehicle motion is described. The method includes accessing a set of control signals including a measured vehicle speed value associated with a movement of a vehicle. A control signal associated with user-induced input is also accessed. The method compares the measured vehicle speed value with a predetermined vehicle speed threshold value to achieve a speed value threshold approach status, and then compares the set of values to achieve a user-induced input threshold value approach status. The method monitors a state of a valve within the vehicle suspension damper, and determines a control mode for the vehicle suspension damper. The method also regulates damping forces within the vehicle suspension damper. 1. A non-transitory computer readable storage medium having stored thereon , computer-executable instructions that , when executed by a computer , cause the computer to perform a method for controlling vehicle motion , said method comprising:accessing a set of control signals, wherein a first control signal of said set of control signals comprises a measured vehicle speed value associated with a movement of a vehicle, and wherein a second control signal of said set of control signals comprises a set of values associated with at least one user-induced input, wherein a vehicle suspension damper is coupled with a frame of said vehicle;comparing said measured vehicle speed value with a predetermined vehicle speed threshold value that corresponds to said vehicle, to achieve an speed value threshold approach status;comparing said set of values associated with said at least one user-induced input with a predetermined user-induced input threshold value, to achieve a user-induced input threshold value approach status;monitoring a state of a valve within said vehicle suspension damper, wherein said state controls a damping force within said vehicle suspension damper;based on at least one of said vehicle speed value threshold approach status and said ...

Rotary damper for a vehicle

A rotary damper, for a vehicle, for damping relative movements between vehicle wheels and the vehicle body. The at least one gear assembly has several gearwheels in functional connection by virtue of rotational movement of which hydraulic medium can be displaced for the purpose of hydraulic damping for the vehicle.

DAMPER DEVICE

A damper device that suppresses arc discharge between electrodes generated by bubbles in an electro-rheological fluid, includes an inner tube housed in an outer tube forming an outer shell of a damper device. An electrode tube is arranged between the outer tube and the inner tube. An electro-rheological fluid is sealed in the outer tube. The inner tube and the electrode tube constitute a cathode and an anode, respectively, and apply a voltage to the electro-rheological fluid located between the inner tube and the electrode tube. An insulating layer is provided on a surface of the electrode tube on a side facing the inner tube or on a surface of the inner tube on a side facing the electrode tube. When a maximum voltage applied to the electro-rheological fluid is Vmax (V), a thickness t (m) of the insulating layer is set to satisfy Formula (). 1. A damper device comprising:a piston rod;an outer tube housing the piston rod;an electro-rheological fluid provided between the outer tube and the piston rod; anda voltage applying mechanism that is provided between the outer tube and the piston rod and applies a voltage to the electro-rheological fluid,whereinthe voltage applying mechanism includes an anode and a cathode,the electro-rheological fluid is located between the anode and the cathode,an insulating layer is provided on a surface of the anode on a side facing the cathode or on a surface of the cathode on a side facing the anode, and {'br': None, 'i': t≥', '×V, 'sup': '−8', '2.5×10max \u2003\u2003Formula (1)'}, 'a thickness t (m) of the insulating layer satisfies following Formula (1) when a maximum voltage applied to the electro-rheological fluid is Vmax (V).'}2. The damper device according to claim 1 , whereina distance between the anode and the cathode is set to 0.4 mm to 1.6 mm.3. The damper device according to claim 1 , whereinthe thickness of the insulating layer is 0.5 or less when a distance between the anode and the cathode is 1.4. The damper device according ...

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING VEHICLE SUSPENSION

An apparatus and a method for controlling vehicle suspension, which controls a variable damper in consideration of virtual tire damping, may include a variable damper which is installed between a vehicle body and a wheel, a first acceleration sensor which is installed at each corner of the vehicle body to measure a vehicle body corner vertical acceleration, a second acceleration sensor which is installed to each wheel to measure a wheel vertical acceleration, and a controller that estimates a road surface roughness based on the vehicle body corner vertical acceleration and the wheel vertical acceleration, determines a virtual tire damping required damping force based on the estimated road surface roughness, and adjusts a damping force of the variable damper based on the determined virtual tire damping required damping force. 1. An apparatus of controlling vehicle suspension , the apparatus comprising:a variable damper mounted between a vehicle body and a wheel of a vehicle;a first acceleration sensor mounted at each corner of the vehicle body and configured to measure a vehicle body corner vertical acceleration;a second acceleration sensor mounted to each wheel of the vehicle and configured to measure a wheel vertical acceleration; anda controller engaged to the first acceleration sensor and the second acceleration sensor and configured to estimate a road surface roughness according to the vehicle body corner vertical acceleration and the wheel vertical acceleration, to determine a virtual tire damping required damping force according to the estimated road surface roughness, and to adjust a damping force of the variable damper according to the determined virtual tire damping required damping force.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the controller is configured to remove noise from measured signals output from the first acceleration sensor and the second acceleration sensor through filtering the noise from the measured signals and to obtain a vehicle body corner ...

SUSPENSION CONTROL APPARATUS

Provided a suspension control appratus including a vehicle behavior detection unit (acceleration sensors), an electrorheological damper provided between a vehicle body () and each wheel (), and a controller configured to execute control so that a damping force of each electrorheological damper is adjusted based on a detection result obtained by the vehicle behavior detection unit. The controller includes a target voltage value setting unit (damping force command calculation unit) configured to obtain a target voltage value to be applied to an electrode tube based on the detection result obtained by the vehicle behavior detection unit, a temperature estimation unit configured to detect or estimate temperature of ERF, and a target voltage value correction unit (output limiting unit) configured to change the target voltage value so that a piston speed (V) is adjusted based on a value obtained by the temperature estimation unit. 1. A suspension control apparatus , comprising:a vehicle behavior detection unit configured to detect a behavior of a vehicle;a damping force adjustable shock absorber provided between two members of the vehicle, the two members being configured to move relative to each other; anda controller configured to execute control so that a damping force of the damping force adjustable shock absorber is adjusted based on a detection result obtained by the vehicle behavior detection unit, a cylinder which sealingly contains functional fluid having a fluid property to be changed by an electric field or a magnetic field;', 'a piston which is inserted into the cylinder to be slidable;', 'a piston rod which is coupled to the piston, and extends to an outside of the cylinder; and', 'an electrode which is provided in a portion at which a flow of the functional fluid is generated by the slide of the piston in the cylinder, and is configured to apply the electric field or the magnetic field to the functional fluid, and, 'wherein the damping force adjustable shock ...

DAMPER ASSEMBLY AND A METHOD OF FORMING THE DAMPER ASSEMBLY

A damper assembly includes a housing. A method of forming a damper assembly includes extruding the housing formed of aluminum. The housing defines a first chamber and a first passage spaced from each other, with a first inlet fluidly connecting the first chamber and the first passage. A piston is disposed in the first chamber and is movable in a first direction and a second direction opposite the first direction. A first restrictor valve is disposed in the first passage. The first restrictor valve is configured to restrict a flow of liquid into the first passage from the first chamber and the first inlet as the piston moves in one of the first and second directions which causes the liquid in the first chamber to increase a pressure applied to a first side of the piston to dampen movement of the piston. 1. A damper assembly comprising:a housing defining a first chamber and a first passage spaced from each other, wherein the housing defines a first inlet that fluidly connects the first chamber and the first passage, with the first chamber, the first passage and the first inlet each configured to contain a liquid;a piston disposed in the first chamber and movable in a first direction and a second direction opposite the first direction, with the piston configured to displace the liquid during movement in the first and second directions; anda first restrictor valve disposed in the first passage and configured to restrict a flow of the liquid into the first passage from the first chamber and the first inlet as the piston moves in one of the first and second directions which causes the liquid in the first chamber to increase a pressure applied to a first side of the piston to dampen movement of the piston.2. The assembly as set forth in wherein the first chamber and the first passage are substantially parallel to each other in a non-concentric orientation.3. The assembly as set forth in :wherein the housing defines a first outlet that fluidly connects the first chamber and ...

THROUGH TUBE ACTIVE SUSPENSION ACTUATOR

Disclosed herein are active hydraulic cylinders for use in active vehicle suspension systems, and methods for assembling active hydraulic cylinders for use in an active vehicle suspension system. In particular, in certain embodiments a manifold may encircle a portion of an outer tube of a twin tube assembly. The manifold may mechanically and fluidly couple a pump assembly to the twin tube assembly. In certain embodiments, the manifold may be welded onto the outer tube. 1. A method for assembling a component for an active hydraulic cylinder , the method comprising:(a) inserting a first end of an outer tube through a substantially circular opening of a manifold;(b) aligning a first plurality of apertures in a surface of the circular opening with a second plurality of apertures in a wall of the outer tube; and(c) affixing the manifold to the outer tube.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the outer tube is constructed of a first material of construction and the manifold is constructed of a second material of construction claim 1 , wherein the first material of construction has a tensile strength claim 1 , compressive strength claim 1 , yield strength claim 1 , and/or density that is greater than that of the second material of construction.3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:inserting a piston into a pressure tube, wherein the piston is attached to a piston rod; andinserting the pressure tube into the outer tube, such that an annular volume is defined between at least a portion of the outer tube and at least a portion of the pressure tube.4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:attaching a pump assembly to a first mounting section of the manifold, wherein the pump assembly includes a pump and a pump housing.5. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:plugging one end of the outer tube with a body cap that includes an eyelet.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein (c) comprises welding the manifold to the outer tube.7. The method of claim 1 , wherein (c) ...

HYDRAULICALLY-ADJUSTABLE PRELOAD AND/OR CROSS-OVER

A modular hydraulically-adjustable preload and/or cross-over system is disclosed. The system includes a housing configured to couple with a main damper cylinder, the housing including a slave cylinder within a portion of a slave cylinder chamber, the slave cylinder telescopically movable with respect to the housing; a fluid chamber; and a fluid port configured to provide a fluid flow for the fluid chamber, wherein an increase in a fluid volume within the fluid chamber causes a portion of the slave cylinder to telescopically extend from the slave cylinder chamber. A preload flange coupled with the slave cylinder at an end of the housing such that a change in a location of the slave cylinder causes a change in a location of the preload flange. 1. A hydraulically-adjustable preload system comprising: a slave cylinder chamber;', 'a slave cylinder within a portion of said slave cylinder chamber, said slave cylinder telescopically movable with respect to said housing in a direction along an axis of said main damper cylinder;', 'a fluid chamber within a portion of said slave cylinder chamber; and', 'a fluid port configured to provide a fluid flow for said fluid chamber, wherein an increase in a fluid volume within said fluid chamber causes a portion of said slave cylinder to telescopically extend from said slave cylinder chamber in an axial direction along said main damper cylinder; and, 'a housing configured to couple with a main damper cylinder, said housing comprisinga preload flange coupled with said slave cylinder at an end of said housing, said preload flange disposed such that a change in a location of said slave cylinder causes a change in a location of said preload flange.2. The hydraulically-adjustable preload system of claim 1 , further comprising:an adjustable crossover coupled with said preload flange, said adjustable crossover disposed such that said change in said location of said preload flange causes a change in a location of said adjustable crossover.3. ...

SHOCK ABSORBER-EQUIPPED VEHICLE

A suspension system, which is used together with a vehicle including a vehicle body, a front wheel, and a rear wheel, includes a mechanical damping force variable shock absorber disposed between the vehicle body and the front wheel and configured to mechanically change a damping force, and a damping force adjustable shock absorber disposed between the vehicle body and the rear wheel and configured to adjust a damping force by an actuator. 1. A shock absorber-equipped vehicle comprising:a vehicle body self-propelled and provided with a front wheel and a rear wheel;a mechanical damping force variable chock absorber disposed between the vehicle body and the front wheel, and configured to mechanically change a damping force; anda damping force adjustable shock absorber disposed between the vehicle body and the rear wheel, and configured to adjust a damping force by an actuator.2. The shock absorber-equipped vehicle according to claim 1 , wherein the mechanical damping force variable shock absorber is a stroke-sensitive shock absorber configured to change the damping force according to a stroke claim 1 , andwherein the stroke-sensitive shock absorber sets a stiffness of the vehicle body in a roll direction to a low value on a front wheel side, and the damping force adjustable shock absorber variably sets the stiffness of the vehicle body on a rear wheel side by electronic control.3. The shock absorber-equipped vehicle according to claim 1 , wherein the damping force adjustable shock absorber is configured to variably adjust the damping force on a rear wheel side by the actuator in such a manner that claim 1 , as a roll angle of the vehicle body increases claim 1 , a pitch angle toward a front side of the vehicle increases to orient the vehicle body into a nosedive-like posture claim 1 , andwherein the mechanical damping force variable shock absorber is configured to permit the vehicle body to be oriented into the nosedive-like posture on a front wheel side at this time.4 ...

DAMPER CONTROL APPARATUS

A damper control apparatus damps vibration of an unsprung member by controlling a damping force of a damper in a vehicle, the damper being interposed between a sprung member and the unsprung member. The damper control apparatus includes a vibration level detecting unit that detects a vibration level serving as a magnitude of the vibration of the unsprung member, and a stroke speed detecting unit that detects a stroke speed of the damper. The damper control apparatus further includes a command value calculating unit that determines a control command value, the control command value is a command value for controlling the damping force of the damper on the basis of the vibration level of the unsprung member and the stroke speed of the damper. 1. A damper control apparatus for damping vibration of an unsprung member by controlling a damping force of a damper in a vehicle , the damper being interposed between a sprung member and the unsprung member , the damper control apparatus comprising:a vibration level detecting unit configured to detect a vibration level, the vibration level serving as a magnitude of vibration of the unsprung member;a stroke speed detecting unit configured to detect a stroke speed of the damper; anda command value calculating unit configured to determine a control command value on the basis of the vibration level of the unsprung member and the stroke speed of the damper, the control command value being a command value for controlling the damping force of the damper.2. The damper control apparatus as defined in claim 1 , wherein the command value calculating unit determines the control command value so that an incline of a characteristic line between the control command value and the stroke speed of the damper increases as the vibration level of the unsprung member increases.3. The damper control apparatus as defined in claim 1 , wherein the damper control apparatus is configured to hold a plurality of maps each representing a relationship between ...

Recuperating passive and active suspension

A hydraulic actuator assembly includes an actuator, a first sink subsystem in fluid communication with an upper working chamber of the actuator, a second sink subsystem in fluid communication with a lower working chamber of the actuator and a source subsystem in fluid communication with both the upper and lower working chambers of the actuator. A low pressure accumulator is in fluid communication with the upper and lower working chambers, the first and second sink subsystems and source subsystem. A high pressure accumulator is in fluid communication with the first and second sink subsystems and the source subsystem. The hydraulic actuator assembly can generate passive or active forces with or without energy recuperation.

Continuously Variable Damper Device

The present invention is related to a damper device ( 1 ). More in particular, the present invention is related to a damper device for which the damping force can be varied using a magnetically actuated closing member ( 33 ) with which a bypass channel ( 15 ) can be closed or opened. According to the present invention, the magnetic reluctance of the magnetic loop for guiding the magnetic field ( 8 ) is configured such that a too strong of an upward bending of the magnetic force versus closing member displacement curve is prevented. This prevents the system from obtaining multiple settling points for the closing member for a given current value. Consequently, the damper device is more stable and the damping force offered by it can be controlled more accurately.

DAMPING FORCE VARIABLE VALVE

A damping force variable valve includes: a case that accommodates a working fluid therein; and a housing that divides an inside of the case into a first fluid chamber and a second fluid chamber. The housing includes first and second housings, which are adjacent to each other along a direction of an axis of the case. Inside the first housing, a control mechanism that controls an operation speed of the housing by adjusting a flow rate of the working fluid circulating through the first fluid chamber and the second fluid chamber is provided. The control mechanism includes: a first pilot chamber that communicates with the first fluid chamber through a first orifice; a second pilot chamber that communicates with the second fluid chamber through a second orifice; and a valve body that changes a posture while separating the first pilot chamber and the second pilot chamber from each other. 1. A damping force variable valve comprising:a case that accommodates a working fluid therein; anda housing that divides an inside of the case into a first fluid chamber and a second fluid chamber,wherein the housing includes a first housing and a second housing, which are adjacent to each other along a direction of an axis of the case,inside the first housing, a control mechanism that controls an operation speed of the housing by adjusting a flow rate of the working fluid circulating through the first fluid chamber and the second fluid chamber is provided, a first pilot chamber that communicates with the first fluid chamber through a first orifice;', 'a second pilot chamber that communicates with the second fluid chamber through a second orifice; and', 'a valve body that changes a posture while separating the first pilot chamber and the second pilot chamber from each other, and, 'the control mechanism includesinside the second housing, an adjustment mechanism which adjusts a degree of change in the posture of the valve body so as to set an amount of circulation of the working fluid ...

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR QUANTIFYING DYNAMIC RESPONSE CHARACTERISTICS OF A REAL-TIME DAMPER

A method for quantifying dynamic response characteristics of a real-time damper includes positioning the damper between a stationary member and a moveable member of a shock press having a force transducer, and transmitting motion control signals to the shock press, via a test controller, to stroke the moveable member and cause the damper to move with a constant velocity between extremes of stroke. A test drive signal is transmitted to the damper for a calibrated test duration. The test drive signal has a calibrated discrete frequency, frequencies, or a frequency sweep range. The method includes measuring, via the force transducer, a force component of the damper while transmitting the test drive signal, and quantifying the response characteristics of the damper over the test duration, including recording the response characteristics in a memory device. A test system includes a shock press, force transducer, and test controller. 1. A method for quantifying dynamic response characteristics of a real-time damper , the method comprising:positioning the real-time damper between a stationary member and a moveable member of a shock press having a force transducer;transmitting motion control signals to the shock press, via a test controller, to thereby stroke the moveable member and the real-time damper with a constant velocity between consecutive extremes of stroke;transmitting a test drive signal to the real-time damper for a calibrated test duration, via the test controller, wherein the test drive signal has a calibrated test frequency, dwell points at multiple calibrated frequencies, or a swept range of test frequencies;measuring, via the force transducer, a force component along a longitudinal axis of the real-time damper while transmitting the test drive signal; andquantifying the dynamic response characteristics of the real-time damper over the calibrated test duration, as a quantified dynamic response, including recording the dynamic response characteristics in a ...

HYDRO-MECHANICAL SUSPENSION FOR VEHICLE

The suspension comprises a mechanical spring interposed between an unsprung mass (UM) and a sprung mass (SM) of the vehicle, a shock-absorber interposed between the unsprung mass (UM) and the sprung mass (SM), in parallel with the mechanical spring, a hydraulic linear actuator, an accumulator, a tank (T) containing an incompressible working fluid and a hydraulic circuit for hydraulically connecting, the hydraulic linear actuator, the accumulator and the tank (T) with each other. A single reversible pump (P) is arranged along the third hydraulic line. A reversible electric motor (M) drives the pump (P) in either direction, and a plurality of valves (V, V, V, V, V, V) control the flow of the working fluid between the accumulator, the tank (T) and the hydraulic linear actuator. 1. A hydro-mechanical suspension for a vehicle , comprising a mechanical spring interposed between an unsprung mass (UM) of the vehicle and a sprung mass (SM) of the vehicle , a shock-absorber interposed between said unsprung mass (UM) and sprung mass (SM) , in parallel with the mechanical spring , a hydraulic linear actuator arranged in series with the mechanical spring , an accumulator , a tank (T) containing an incompressible working fluid and a hydraulic circuit for hydraulically connecting with each other , according to predetermined operating modes , the hydraulic linear actuator , the accumulator and the tank (T) , a first hydraulic line through which the accumulator is hydraulically connected with the tank (T),', 'a second hydraulic line through which the hydraulic linear actuator is hydraulically connected with the tank (T),', 'a third hydraulic line connecting the first and second hydraulic lines with each other,', 'a single pump (P), which is made as a reversible pump and is arranged along the third hydraulic line,', 'a reversible electric motor (M) coupled to the pump (P) to drive the pump in either direction, and', {'sub': 1', '2', '3', '4', '5', 'S', '1', '2', '3', '4', '5', 'S', ' ...

REGULABLE VIBRATION DAMPER

A regulable vibration damper may comprise a cylinder barrel that contains hydraulic fluid in a sealed manner, a piston that can be moved axially within the cylinder barrel along a cylinder barrel axis and that subdivides the cylinder barrel into two working chambers, a piston rod that is oriented parallel to the cylinder barrel axis and is connected to the piston, a valve assembly arranged at a fluid feed through to damp piston movement in an actuating direction, and a bypass duct between the two working chambers. The bypass duct may comprise a first throughflow cross section for a first throughflow direction, wherein the first throughflow cross section differs from a second throughflow cross section for a second throughflow direction. Further, the bypass duct may be formed, at least in part, by an outflow passage that is arranged on an exit side of a pilot valve for adjusting pilot pressure. 15.-. (canceled)6. A regulable vibration damper comprising:a cylinder barrel that contains hydraulic fluid in a sealed manner;a piston that is movable axially within the cylinder barrel along a cylinder-barrel axis and that subdivides the cylinder barrel into two working chambers;a piston rod that is oriented parallel to the cylinder-barrel axis and that is connected to the piston;a valve assembly disposed at a fluid feed-through of the piston to damp piston movement in an actuating direction; anda bypass duct disposed between the two working chambers, the bypass duct comprising a first throughflow cross section for a first throughflow direction, wherein the first throughflow cross section differs from a second throughflow cross section for a second throughflow direction, wherein the bypass duct comprises an outflow passage that is disposed on an exit side of a pilot valve for adjusting a pilot pressure.7. The regulable vibration damper of further comprising a valve arrangement disposed in the outflow passage claim 6 , wherein the valve arrangement comprises an outflow-passage ...

Compensation of the Thermal Effect in a Vehicle Suspension System

A method for controlling the damping characteristic of a shock absorber of a vehicle, particularly for compensating the variation of the operating temperature of the shock absorber, in an active or semi-active suspension system. The compensation of the variation of the operating temperature of the shock absorber takes place by: estimating a mechanical power dissipated in heat by the shock absorber; estimating a thermal power exchanged by the shock absorber with the environment; evaluating the current operating temperature of the shock absorber as a function of the dissipated mechanical power and of the thermal power exchanged with the environment; and controlling the driving current of the control valve of the shock absorber according to a shock absorber reference model indicating a relationship between the damping force of the shock absorber, the operating temperature of the shock absorber and the driving current of the control valve.

Switchable Mount System For A Vehicle And Methods For Controlling The System

A switchable mount system includes a switchable mount and an electronic control unit for switching the switchable mount between a first damping mode and a second damping mode. A method for controlling the switchable mount includes controlling the mount according to vehicle speed information, engine torque information, variable cylinder management information, and brake information. At least one of the damping modes may be tuned to damp vibrations approximately in the range approximately between 30 Hz and 60 Hz. 1. A method for controlling a switchable mount in a motor vehicle , comprising:receiving a vehicle speed;receiving an engine torque;receiving a brake status;receiving a variable cylinder management operating mode;retrieving a predetermined engine torque;retrieving a predetermined vehicle speed;comparing the vehicle speed with the predetermined engine speed;comparing the engine torque with the predetermined engine torque;switching the switchable mount between a first damping mode and a second damping mode according to the brake status, the variable cylinder management operating mode, the comparison of the vehicle speed with the predetermined engine speed, and the comparison of the engine toque with the predetermined engine torque; andwherein the first damping mode and the second damping mode are configured to damp substantially different ranges of frequencies.2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the first damping mode is configured to damp lower frequencies than the second damping mode.3. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the first damping mode is associated with frequencies approximately in the range between 0 Hz and 30 Hz.4. The method according to claim 3 , wherein the first damping mode is associated with frequencies approximately in the range between 10 Hz and 20 Hz.5. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the second damping mode is associated with frequencies approximately in the range between 30 Hz and 60 Hz.6. The method according ...

Vibration Damper of a Vehicle Wheel

A vibration damper of a vehicle wheel is supported on a vehicle body by a damper mount having an elastic body. The vibration damper includes a fluid-filled cylinder, a piston guided in the cylinder, and a piston rod. A wherein a damper chamber is formed in the cylinder on each side of the piston. The damper mount includes a hydraulic pressure chamber connected via a fluid-conducting connection to the damper chambers, whose volumes are respectively reduced when the vehicle wheel is deflected in relation to the vehicle body. In addition, a throttle valve is provided in the fluid-conducting connection, wherein the throttle value comprises a valve body that is displaceable in relation to a valve seat counter to a spring force, and a throttle bore. 1. A vibration damper of a vehicle wheel supported on a vehicle body by a damper mount having an elastic body , the vibration damper comprising:a fluid-filled cylinder;a piston guided in the cylinder; anda piston rod,wherein a damper chamber is formed in the cylinder on each side of the piston,wherein the damper mount comprises a hydraulic pressure chamber connected via a fluid-conducting connection to the damper chambers, whose volumes are respectively reduced when the vehicle wheel is deflected in relation to the vehicle body, andwherein a throttle valve is provided in the fluid-conducting connection, wherein the throttle value comprises a valve body that is displaceable in relation to a valve seat counter to a spring force, and a throttle bore.2. The vibration damper as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the damper chambers formed on each side of the piston in the damper cylinder are hydraulically connected to one another via a hydraulic pump driven by an electric motor.3. The vibration damper as claimed in claim 1 , wherein an end of the piston rod which projects out of the damper cylinder is connected to the elastic body of the damper mount claim 1 , and wherein the fluid-conducting connection runs through the piston rod.4. The ...

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR AN ADJUSTABLE DAMPER

A vehicle suspension damper is described. The vehicle suspension damper includes: a pilot valve assembly; a primary valve; and an adjuster, wherein the pilot valve assembly meters fluid to the primary valve, and the adjuster moves the primary valve. 1. A vehicle suspension damper comprising:a pilot valve assembly;a primary valve; andan adjuster, wherein said pilot valve assembly meters fluid to said primary valve, and said adjuster moves said primary valve.2. The vehicle suspension damper of claim 1 , wherein said pilot valve assembly comprises:an adjustable pilot spool configured for controlling a pressure inside said primary valve.3. The vehicle suspension damper of claim 2 , further comprising:a set of shims coupled to said primary valve, wherein a position of said adjustable pilot spool corresponds to an increase of pressure inside said primary valve and an increase of an axially force on said set of shims.4. The vehicle suspension damper of claim 1 , wherein said adjuster moves said primary valve in response to a current delivered from a power source.5. The vehicle suspension damper of claim 1 , further comprising:an armature coupled with said adjuster and said pilot valve assembly; anda coil, wherein said coil electromagnetically interacts with said armature in response to a current delivered from a power source, wherein when said armature moves, an adjustable pilot spool of said pilot valve assembly moves in corresponding axial positions relative to said coil.6. The vehicle suspension damper of claim 5 , wherein an amount of said current to be delivered by said power source is predetermined.7. The vehicle suspension damper of claim 5 , wherein said power source comprises:a solenoid.8. The vehicle suspension damper of claim 1 , further comprising:a damper cylinder;a base valve assembly;an elastic bladder; anda first fluid flow path configured for providing a first fluid pathway for a movement of a first portion of said fluid through and between said damper ...

Vehicles, Systems For Vehicles, And Methods For Vehicles All To Improve Cornering Capability

A land vehicle, according to various aspects of the present invention allows the driver to lean with a frame that supports the driver and that pivots on a base. Motion of the frame is coupled to the wheels to adjust a camber of the wheels. The wheels are coupled to the base that provides a reference for independent wheel suspension mechanisms. As a result, banking of the vehicle does not affect the suspension of the wheels. Hydraulic assistance to counteract the forces of the suspension systems is unnecessary. 1. A vehicle for following a curve in a path on a way , the vehicle comprising:a. a frame for supporting a driver;b. a base that supports the frame and permits movement of the frame with respect to the base;c. a plurality of vehicle supports that each contribute to supporting the base, each vehicle support biasing the base against the way; andd. a camber controller that adjusts a camber of at least one vehicle support of the plurality of vehicle supports in accordance with a position of the frame with respect to the base, movement toward the position being promoted by a shifting of the driver's mass by the driver toward a center of curvature of the curve in the path; whereine. on a level way with movement of the frame with respect to the base, biasing is a function of frame mass, driver mass, and frame-driver center of mass; and is otherwise independent of position of the frame.2. A method performed by a vehicle following a curve in a path on a way , the method comprising:supporting a driver with a frame of the vehicle;supporting the frame with a base of the vehicle;supporting the base with a plurality of vehicle supports that each contribute to supporting the base, each vehicle support biasing the base against the way;responding to the driver's mass being shifted by the driver toward a center of curvature of the curve in the path by moving the frame with respect to the base toward a position; andadjusting a camber of at least one vehicle support of the ...

ADJUSTABLE HYDRAULIC SUSPENSION DAMPER

A hydraulic damper with one end connected to the body of a vehicle and a second end connected to a suspension system of a vehicle. The mechanism allows for multiple hydraulic-fluid metering valve positions to control piston resistance based on a variable pressure input using pressurized gas. The use of compressed gas to mechanically control a valve position allows changes to the piston resistance to be made quickly and to be increased or decreased as desired. The hydraulic damper features a control piston which in turn mechanically controls a valve needle within a hydraulic suspension piston. The position of the valve needle controls the damping characteristics of the suspension piston. When the control piston moves, the position of the valve needle is proportionally adjusted.

Vibration Damper, Method For Operating A Vibration Damper, Control Device And Motor Vehicle

A vibration damper with a damping force adjusting device and a height adjusting device for changing the axial position of a piston of the vibration damper, characterized in that the damping force adjusting device is adjusted depending on at least one operating parameter of the height adjusting device, and when there is a change in the at least one operating parameter there is also a change in at least one operating parameter of the damping force adjusting device. A method of operating a vibration damper with a controller and a motor vehicle including such vibration damper and controller is also disclosed. 116-. (canceled)17. A vibration damper comprising:a damping force adjusting device and a height adjusting device for changing the axial position of a piston of the vibration damper, the damping force adjusting device and the height adjusting device constructed to be operated by at last one operating parameter;the damping force adjusting device constructed to be adjusted depending on the at least one operating parameter of the height adjusting device, and wherein, when there is a change in the at least one operating parameter of the height adjusted device, there is also a change in the at least one operating parameter of the damping force adjusting device.18. The vibration damper according to claim 17 , wherein the damping force adjusting device comprises at least one valve with a variable flow resistance.19. The vibration damper according to claim 17 , additionally comprising a working cylinder claim 17 , and wherein the height adjusting device comprises a hydraulic pump which is hydraulically connected to the working cylinder of the vibration damper.20. The vibration damper according to claim 17 , wherein the at least one operating parameter of the height adjusting device is a pressure generated by the height adjusting device.21. The vibration damper according to claim 20 , wherein the at least one operating parameter of the damping force adjusting device is an ...

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR ADJUSTING HEIGHT OF VEHICLE

An apparatus for adjusting a height of a vehicle including a vehicle height adjustment unit configured to adjust a height of the vehicle; a hydraulic pressure supply unit configured to supply a hydraulic pressure supplied to a caliper from a braking device for braking of the vehicle to the vehicle height adjustment unit; and a control unit configured to control a hydraulic pressure supplied to the vehicle height adjustment unit from the braking device, by controlling the hydraulic pressure supply unit depending on whether a predetermined vehicle height adjustment condition is satisfied. 1. An apparatus for adjusting a height of a vehicle , comprising:a vehicle height adjustment unit configured to adjust a height of the vehicle;a hydraulic pressure supply unit configured to supply a hydraulic pressure supplied to a caliper from a braking device for braking of the vehicle, to the vehicle height adjustment unit; anda control unit configured to control a hydraulic pressure supplied to the vehicle height adjustment unit from the braking device, by controlling the hydraulic pressure supply unit depending on whether a predetermined vehicle height adjustment condition is satisfied.2. The apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising:a vehicle height detection unit configured to detect a vehicle height,wherein the control unit controls the hydraulic pressure supply unit depending on a comparison result by comparing the vehicle height detected by the vehicle height detection unit with a predetermined target vehicle height.3. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the hydraulic pressure supply unit comprises:a hydraulic pressure supply valve installed in the braking device, and configured to regulate a hydraulic pressure supplied from the braking device; anda hydraulic pressure line having one end connected to the hydraulic pressure supply valve and the other end connected to the vehicle height adjustment unit, and configured to supply a hydraulic pressure from the ...

Remotely operated bypass for a suspension damper

A damper assembly with a bypass for a vehicle comprises a pressure cylinder with a piston and piston rod for limiting the flow rate of damping fluid as it passes from a first to a second side of said piston. A bypass provides fluid pathway between the first and second sides of the piston separately from the flow rate limitation. In one aspect, the bypass is remotely controllable from a passenger compartment of the vehicle. In another aspect, the bypass is remotely controllable based upon one or more variable parameters associated with the vehicle.

VEHICLE SUSPENSION SYSTEMS

A suspension system for a vehicle includes a damper and a jack assembly. The damper includes a first tube defining a first cavity and having a longitudinal axis, a second tube disposed within the first cavity and defining a second cavity, wherein the second tube is spaced apart from the first tube to define a reservoir chamber, and a piston translatable within the second cavity along the axis, wherein the piston abuts the second tube to define a rebound chamber and a compression chamber. The system includes a jack assembly attached to the damper and configured for raising and lowering the body with respect to the wheel. The assembly includes a jack piston abutting the first tube, and a jack cylinder also abutting the first tube and translatable with respect to the jack piston to thereby raise and lower the body. A vehicle including the suspension system is also disclosed. 1. A suspension system for a vehicle , the suspension system comprising: a first end attached to a body of the vehicle;', 'a second end spaced apart from the first end and attached to a wheel of the vehicle;', 'a first tube defining a first cavity therein and having a central longitudinal axis;', 'a second tube disposed within the first cavity and defining a second cavity therein, wherein the second tube is spaced apart from the first tube to define a reservoir chamber therebetween; and', 'a piston translatable within the second cavity along the central longitudinal axis, wherein the piston sealingly abuts the second tube to define a rebound chamber at the first end and a compression chamber at the second end; and, 'a damper including a jack piston abutting the first tube; and', 'a jack cylinder abutting the first tube and translatable with respect to the jack piston to thereby raise and lower the body of the vehicle., 'a jack assembly attached to the damper and configured for raising and lowering the body of the vehicle with respect to the wheel, wherein the jack assembly includes2. The suspension ...

Vibration Damper

The invention relates to a vibration damper for damping spring retraction and/or spring extension forces on motor vehicles, which includes an inner pressure medium cylinder (), in which a piston () with a piston rod () is axially slidably arranged, which divides the inner pressure medium cylinder () into a retraction chamber () and an extension chamber (), in which an electrorheological fluid as a pressure medium is contained, wherein the retraction chamber () and the extension chamber () is connected through at least one throttle gap () between the inner cylinder tube () and an electrode tube () arranged coaxially thereto, and that the electrode tube () is surrounded coaxially by a spaced-apart further outer tube (), which together with the electrode tube () forms a gas pressure chamber (), which is connected through a bottom valve () with the retraction chamber (). The invention is characterized in that at least two axially linear or helically shaped seal means () are arranged between the inner cylinder tube () and the electrode tube (), wherein the seal means divide the throttle gap () into at least two similar valve partial gaps (), and that a first throttled non-return valve () which opens toward the gas pressure chamber () is arranged between the extension chamber () and the gas pressure chamber (). 112314545617787910411176121314959. Vibration damper for damping spring retraction and/or spring extension forces on motor vehicles , which includes an inner pressure medium cylinder () , in which a piston () with a piston rod () is axially slidably arranged , which divides the inner pressure medium cylinder () into a retraction chamber () and an extension chamber () , in which an electrorheological fluid as a pressure medium is contained , wherein the retraction chamber () and the extension chamber () is connected through at least one throttle gap () between the inner cylinder tube () and an electrode tube () arranged coaxially thereto , and that the electrode tube ...

SHOCK ABSORBER

A shock absorber includes a suction passage allowing flow only from a reservoir towards a pressure side chamber, a rectifying passage allowing flow only from the pressure side chamber towards an expansion side chamber, and a damping force variable valve allowing flow only from the expansion side chamber towards the reservoir. Large, and small and outer peripheral chambers in a bottom housing sandwich a free piston. The small chamber communicates the outer peripheral chamber with the expansion side chamber. The large chamber communicates with the pressure side chamber through first and second valves. During a contraction in which a piston moves downward, even in a uniflow-type shock absorber in which pressure in the expansion side chamber and the pressure side chamber become equal, the free piston can move downward due to a difference in pressure-receiving areas. Even if a stretching speed reaches a high range, the first and second valves are opened, and damping force is reduced. 1. A shock absorber , comprising:a cylinder;a piston slidably inserted into the cylinder, the piston defining an expansion side chamber and an pressure side chamber inside the cylinder;a reservoir;a suction passage that allows only a flow of liquid from the reservoir toward the pressure side chamber;a rectifying passage that allows only a flow of liquid from the pressure side chamber toward the expansion side chamber;a damping force adjusting unit that allows only a flow of liquid from the expansion side chamber toward the reservoir, the damping force adjusting unit being configured to change resistance provided to the flow of liquid;a housing that includes a pressure chamber including a small-cross-sectional-area portion and a large-cross-sectional-area portion;a free piston that includes: a small-piston portion slidably inserted into the small-cross-sectional-area portion of the pressure chamber; and a large-piston portion slidably inserted into the large-cross-sectional-area portion of ...

ACTIVE SUSPENSION WITH STRUCTURAL ACTUATOR

An active suspension system is configured in a strut arrangement. The active suspension system comprises a hydraulic actuator and a hydraulic pump/electric motor assembly, wherein the actuator movement is preferably in lockstep with the hydraulic motor-pump and electric motor-generator combination. Torque in the electric motor is instantaneously controlled by a controller to create an immediate force change on the hydraulic actuator. The hydraulic actuator is configured so that it can be used as a strut whereby the actuator has sufficient structural rigidity to carry the applied suspension loads while capable of supplying damper forces in at least three quadrants of the force velocity graph of the suspension actuator operation. Embodiments disclosed include low cost active suspension systems for a MacPherson strut application. 1. An active suspension system comprising:a hydraulic motor-pump with a first port and a second port;an actuator assembly comprising a first end, a second end, an internal volume which comprises a rebound volume and a compression volume, and a hollow piston rod with a first end attached to said piston, and a second end; anda reservoir at least partially filled with a compressible medium;wherein said rebound volume is separated from said compression volume by said piston, and said piston rod comprises a first conduit with a first end in fluid communication with said compression volume and a second end in fluid communication with said first port of said hydraulic motor-pump, and a second conduit with a first end in fluid communication with said rebound volume and a second end in fluid communication with said second port of said hydraulic motor-pump.2. The system of wherein said first end of said first conduit is in fluid communication with said compression volume through an opening in said piston.3. The system of wherein said first conduit is substantially cylindrical with a circular cross-section and located along the axis of said piston rod.4. ...

RIDE HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT SYSTEM FOR A MOTORCYCLE

An on-board mountable power unit, for ride-height adjustment of a “Softail” type of motorcycle, includes a pair of hydraulic actuators, each adapted to be mounted on the forward end of the rod of a piston and cylinder arrangement of a respective shock absorber of the rear suspension assembly of the motorcycle, after removal of the stub shaft extension of each rod. Each actuator is an hydraulic actuator ram having a housing, with longitudinally spaced forward and trailing ends between which is defined a chamber containing a piston movable between the ends. The piston has an elongate piston-rod that projects through an end plate at the trailing end of the housing, with a trailing end of he piston rod adapted for engagement with the forward end of the rod of the piston and cylinder arrangement of the respective shock absorber. The forward end of the housing has a forward extension, with a forward end of the extension engageable with the transverse bracket connecting the lower side members of the main frame of the motorcycle. Each actuator is able to connect the rod of the piston and cylinder arrangement of a respective shock absorber to the transverse bracket, similar to connection otherwise provided by the stub shaft extensions of the shock absorbers in the usual mounting arrangement for the rear shock absorbers of the motorcycle. 1. An on-board mountable power unit for ride-height adjustment of a “Softail” type of motorcycle , wherein the unit includes a pair of hydraulic actuators , each adapted to be mounted on the forward end of the rod of a piston and cylinder arrangement of a respective shock absorber of the rear suspension assembly of the “Softail” type of motorcycle , after removal of the stub shaft extension of each rod; each of the actuators is an hydraulic actuator ram that has a housing with longitudinally spaced forward and trailing ends and that defines a chamber containing a piston movable between those ends and the piston has an elongate piston-rod ...

Active Damper System for a Vehicle

An active damper system is provided for a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle. It includes a damper unit with a cylinder, a piston which is guided in the cylinder, and a piston rod which is connected to the piston. The piston divides the cylinder into a first chamber and a second chamber, and the damper unit is designed to be arranged between a body and a wheel of the vehicle. The damper system also has a pump for changing the pressure in the two chambers and for moving the piston, a first valve, a second valve, which is connected to the first valve in series, a third valve, and a fourth valve, which is connected to the third valve in series. The first and second valve are connected in parallel to the third and fourth valve. A fluid-conductive first line leads to the first chamber between the first valve and the second valve, and a fluid-conductive second line leads to the second chamber between the third valve and the fourth valve. A low-pressure side of the pump is connected between the first valve and the fourth valve, and a pressure side of the pump is connected between the second valve and the third valve. The first valve, the second valve, the third valve, and the fourth valve can be switched in order to selectively block and release the flow of fluid. A control unit is provided for switching the four valves such that the pump rotates in the same direction when compressing and rebounding during an electromotor operation and a generator operation. 1. An active damper system for a vehicle , comprising:a damper unit having a cylinder, a piston which is guided in the cylinder, and a piston rod which is connected to the piston, the piston dividing the cylinder into a first chamber and a second chamber, and the damper unit being configured for arranging between a vehicle body and a wheel of the vehicle;a pump for changing pressures in the first and second chambers and for moving the piston;a first valve and a second valve which is connected in series with the ...

DAMPER WITH VARIABLE DAMPING FORCE

A variable damping force member is used in a vehicle suspension device and the damping force of which can be changed. The variable damping force member is equipped with a piston which is slidably housed in a cylinder filled with a fluid and which divides the cylinder into a first fluid chamber and a second fluid chamber, and has fluid passages connecting the first and second fluid passages. A valve member is provided in the piston for blocking the fluid passages, and for opening the fluid passages when the piston slides. A piezoelectric body is connected to the valve member, and pushes the valve member towards the fluid passages when voltage is applied. A bellows is arranged on the valve member so as to seal the piezoelectric body from the fluid, and the bellows biases the piston in the direction in which the piezoelectric body is constricted. 1. A damping force variable damper for use in a suspension system of a vehicle , the damper providing a variable damping force and comprising:a cylinder filled with a fluid and having a first fluid chamber and a second fluid chamber;a piston slidably disposed within the cylinder, the piston separating the first fluid chamber and the second fluid chamber from each other and having a fluid passage through which the first fluid chamber communicates with the second fluid chamber;a valve member disposed in the piston for closing the fluid passage, the valve member opening the fluid passage when the piston slides;a piezoelectric body connected to the valve member for pressing the valve member toward the fluid passage when a voltage is applied to the piezoelectric body; anda bellows disposed at the valve member for sealingly separating the piezoelectric body from the fluid, the bellows urging a piston in a direction to contract the piezoelectric body.2. The damper of claim 1 , wherein the fluid passage is an elongated hole and has a cross-section taken perpendicular to an axial direction of the cylinder claim 1 , the cross-section ...

Pressure Reducing Valve

A pressure reducing valve of an air damping system of motor vehicle chassis makes available a constant output pressure when the input pressure varies. The pressure reducing valve has a housing with a general longitudinal axis, at least one fluid input opening and at least one axial fluid passage opening. In the housing a valve piston with a valve body is mounted displaceably which forms a seat valve with the axial fluid passage opening. An elastic diaphragm arranged stationarily in the housing is coupled to the valve piston and forms two axially active differential pressure areas. A pressure return passage penetrates the valve piston and guides an output pressure present downstream of the seat valve onto the elastic diaphragm. 2. The pressure reducing valve according to claim 1 , wherein at the other one of the two differential pressure areas of the elastic diaphragm atmospheric pressure is present.3. The pressure reducing valve according to claim 1 , wherein the pressure return passage penetrates the valve piston.4. The pressure reducing valve according to claim 3 , wherein active areas of the valve piston and the diaphragm claim 3 , on which the output pressure present downstream of the seat valve acts claim 3 , are configured such that axial pressure forces present at these active areas add up.5. The pressure reducing valve according to claim 1 , wherein the at least one fluid input opening is a radial passage opening with reference to the general longitudinal axis of the housing.6. The pressure reducing valve according to claim 1 , wherein the at least one valve body of the valve piston closes the at least one axial fluid passage opening on the output side claim 1 , and a maximal radial cross section area of the valve piston in a region of the valve piston in which the input pressure present at the at least one fluid input opening acts in a closing direction of the valve piston corresponds to the output-side cross section area of the at least one axial fluid ...

SHOCK ABSORBER

A shock absorber is provided, including a base, a first axial tube, a second axial tube, a buffering structure and an abutting assembly. The base defines an axial direction, and the base has a through hole radially. An exterior circumferential wall of the first axial tube has a recess formed radially and near a first end of the base, and the first axial tube is screwed with the base. The abutting assembly includes an abutting member and an elastic abutting member, the abutting member is disposed within the through hole, the elastic abutting member is disposed on the base and at least partly located in the through hole so as to abut the abutting member to move toward the base normally. 1. A shock absorber , including:a base, defining an axial direction, the base having a through hole radially;a first axial tube, an exterior circumferential wall of the first axial tube having a recess formed radially and near a first end of the base, the first axial tube screwed with the base;a second axial tube, disposed through the first axial tube along the axial direction and slidable relative to the first axial tube, the second axial tube having an assembling portion;a buffering structure, including an elastic member and an adjusting ring, the adjusting ring being sleeved on the first axial tube and movable relative to the first axial tube, the elastic member abutting against and between the assembling portion and the adjusting ring;an abutting assembly, including an abutting member and an elastic abutting member, the abutting member being disposed within the through hole, the elastic abutting member being disposed on the base and at least partly located in the through hole so as to abut the abutting member to move toward the base normally;wherein the recess intercrosses with only one single thread of the first axial tube, along a rotation direction of the first axial tube two ends of the recess face crest and root of the one single thread of the first axial tube respectively;one ...

VEHICLE DAMPING SYSTEM AND VEHICLE

An oil channel that connects, a right damper and a left damper includes a switching valve arranged between a right oil channel ER and a left oil channel EL. The switching valve includes a valve main body in which a first switching channel is formed for connecting the right oil channel ER and the left oil channel EL. The valve main body is rotatable to a first position where the first switching channel connects the right oil channel ER and the left oil channel EL to each other and to a second position different from the first position. According to this damping system, it is possible to adjust oil flow in the oil channel by performing a simple operation for the switching valve. 1. A vehicle damping system , comprising:a first damper comprising a first cylinder filled with oil and a first piston separating an inside of the first cylinder into two oil chambers, the first piston comprising an orifice for communication between the two oil chambers, the first piston being configured to move in the first cylinder in accordance with a vertical movement of a first vehicle body support member that supports a vehicle body;a second damper comprising a second cylinder filled with oil and a second piston separating an inside of the second cylinder into two oil chambers, the second piston comprising an orifice for communication between the two oil chambers, the second piston being configured to move in the second cylinder in accordance with a vertical movement of a second vehicle body support member that supports the vehicle body; andan oil channel that connects the first cylinder and the second cylinder and allows oil to move between the first cylinder and the second cylinder,whereinthe oil channel comprises a first oil channel connected to the first cylinder, a second oil channel connected to the second cylinder, and a switching valve arranged between the first oil channel and the second oil channel,the switching valve comprises a valve main body having a first switching channel ...

DAMPER CONTROL DEVICE

A damper control device feeds back a pressure within an extension-side chamber to control an extension-side solenoid valve that adjusts the pressure within the extension-side chamber, and feeds back a pressure within a compression-side chamber to control a compression-side solenoid valve that adjusts the pressure within the compression-side chamber. The damper control device performs a compression-side reduction correction which reduces a compression-side current supplied to the compression-side solenoid valve during extension of a damper, and performs an extension-side reduction correction which reduces an extension-side current supplied to the extension-side solenoid valve during contraction of the damper. 1. A damper control device for controlling a damping force of a damper having an extension-side chamber and a compression-side chamber which are filled with a working fluid , whereinthe damper control device feeds back a pressure within the extension-side chamber to control an extension-side solenoid valve that adjusts the pressure within the extension-side chamber, and feeds back a pressure within the compression-side chamber to control a compression-side solenoid valve that adjusts the pressure within the compression-side chamber,the damper control device performs a compression-side reduction correction which reduces a compression-side current supplied to the compression-side solenoid valve during extension of the damper, andthe damper control device performs an extension-side reduction correction which reduces an extension-side current supplied to the extension-side solenoid valve during contraction of the damper.2. The damper control device according to claim 1 , whereinthe extension-side reduction correction is a correction that subtracts an extension-side reduction amount calculated based on an extension/contraction speed of the damper from the extension-side current, andthe compression-side reduction correction is a correction that subtracts a compression ...

Control Device For Controlling At Least One Adjustable Vibration Damper

A control device for controlling at least one adjustable vibration damper, having a sensor arrangement inside of a housing of the control device that senses the movement of a vehicle body. A damper adjustment is determined using further parameters. The further parameters are determined from the signals of the sensor arrangement by a filter system. 1. A control device for controlling at least one adjustable vibration damper of a vehicle , comprising:a housing of the control device;a sensor arrangement inside the housing configured to sense movement of a vehicle body; anda filter system configured to determine parameters from signals of the sensor arrangement,wherein a damper adjustment is determined using the parameters.2. The control device according to claim 1 , wherein the filter system has a filter configured to determine a signal corresponding to a road excitation on a vehicle axle from a vertical body acceleration of the vehicle.3. The control device according to claim 1 , wherein the control device is configured to receive a load state of the vehicle via a selector switch.4. The control device according to claim 1 , wherein the control device has a connection for a signal line to a wheel speed sensor.5. The control device according to claim 1 , wherein the control device has a power plug for a power supply.6. The control device according to claim 1 , wherein only a portion of utilized vibration dampers are connected to the control device.7. A method for operation of a control device according to claim 1 , comprising:providing a sensor arrangement; anddetermining a case differentiation between stationary cornering and dynamic cornering from a ratio of a rotation rate signal of the sensor arrangement and a derivation of a transverse acceleration signal with respect to time.8. The method according to claim 7 , wherein a higher weighting factor is applied when determining a damping force adjustment with respect to a pitch movement of a vehicle body around a ...

LIQUID DISPENSING EQUIPMENT WITH ACTIVE SUSPENSION SYSTEM

Self-propelled liquid dispensing equipment having ground engaging wheels and an active trailing link suspension system in which either suspension struts or air struts control suspension travel. A liquid pressure transducer is connected to a liquid reservoir to provide a control input that varies the assist given by the suspension struts or air strut in direct proportion to the quantity of liquid. A given suspension travel is maintained regardless of the quantity of liquid carried by the equipment. 1. A suspension system for self-propelled liquid application equipment having a reservoir for liquid and ground engaging wheels , said suspension system comprising:articulated suspension links for each wheel enabling up and down travel;a spring connected to each of said suspension links to urge the suspension system to an extended travel;a suspension strut connected to said suspension links and responsive to pressurized fluid inputs to vary the travel of said suspension system;a controller receiving control inputs and providing said pressurized fluid input to said suspension strut; and,a liquid pressure transducer fluidly connected to the liquid reservoir and providing a control input to said hydraulic pressurization unit proportional to the amount of liquid in the reservoir, whereby the suspension strut maintains the travel of said suspension system at a given length, irrespective of the amount of liquid in said reservoir.2. The suspension system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said suspension links are trailing links.3. The suspension system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the spring is a coil spring.4. The suspension system as claimed in claim 3 , wherein the suspension strut is positioned within the coil spring.5. The suspension system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the signal from said pressure transducer is one of multiple inputs to said controller.6. The suspension system as claimed in claim 5 , further comprising an operator input to said controller.7. The ...

VALVE SWITCHING CONTROLS FOR ADJUSTABLE DAMPER

A damper system and method for a vehicle includes a shock absorber and a damper module. The shock absorber includes a plurality of digital valves. The shock absorber is operable at one of multiple damping states based on a valve state of the digital valves. The damper module is coupled to each of the digital valves and controls each of the digital valves to a desired state based on a damper setting. The damper module determines a target damping state, where the target state is one of the multiple damping states. The damper module performs a switch operation to control the valve state of the plurality of digital valves to a given desired state when the target damping state is different from a present damping state. 1. A method for damping motion of a body of a vehicle during travel of the vehicle , wherein at least one shock absorber is coupled between a sprung portion and an unsprung portion of the vehicle , and wherein the shock absorber has a plurality of independently controllable digital valves , each said digital valve being movable between a first position permitting a flow of fluid therethrough , and a second position which does not permit a flow of fluid therethrough , the method comprising:generating a target damping state for the shock absorber;transmitting the target damping state to a damper module associated with the shock absorber; andusing the damper module to compare the target damping state to a present damping state of the shock absorber, and to generate a control operation that selectively controls one or more selected valves of the plurality of digital valves to achieve the target damping state.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the damper module actuates selected ones of the plurality of digital valves in a predetermined order to achieve the target damping state.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the damper module selects one of a predetermined plurality of available damping states claim 1 , and controls switching of the plurality of digital ...

DAMPER

There is provided a damper that can reduce a shock when a piston speed reaches a high speed range from a low speed range without deteriorating a ride comfort while the piston speed is in the low speed range. In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, in a damper D of the present invention, since a orifice () and an opening/closing valve () are arranged in parallel with a bypass passage (B) bypassing a damping passage (), and a valve opening pressure of an opening/closing valve () is made lower than a valve opening pressure of a damping valve (), a sudden change in an inclination of a damping force characteristic can be moderated at an inflection point of the damping force characteristic even if the damping force is increased while the piston speed is in the low speed range. 1. A damper comprising:a damper body having a cylinder, a piston slidably inserted into the cylinder, and one chamber and another chamber between which liquid moves with movement of the piston with respect to the cylinder;a damping passage that communicates the one chamber with the another chamber;a bypass passage that is arranged in parallel with the damping passage and communicates the one chamber with the another chamber;a damping valve that opens and closes the damping passage; andan orifice and an opening/closing valve that are provided in parallel with the bypass passage, whereina valve opening pressure of an opening/closing valve is lower than the valve opening pressure of the damping valve.2. The damper according to claim 1 , whereinthe damping passage has one damping passage and another damping passage,the damping valve has one damping valve that opens and closes the one damping passage, and another damping valve that opens and closes the another damping passage,the orifice has one orifice and another orifice provided to the bypass passage,the opening/closing valve has one opening/closing valve provided in parallel with the one orifice, and another opening/closing valve provided in ...

DAMPER CONTROL DEVICE

The damper control device includes a three axis rate sensor that detects a pitching angular velocity of a vehicle body of a two-wheeled vehicle, a pressure sensor that detects a pressure of a contraction-side chamber in a front-wheel side damper, a pressure sensor that detects a pressure of a contraction-side chamber of a rear-wheel side damper, and a correction unit that corrects the pitching angular velocity. The damper control device controls the pressure of the contraction-side chamber in the front-wheel side damper and the pressure of the contraction-side chamber of the rear-wheel side damper on the basis of the corrected pitching angular velocity, the pressure of the contraction-side chamber in the front-wheel side damper and the pressure of the contraction-side chamber of the rear-wheel side damper. 1. A damper control device comprising:a pitching angular velocity detection unit configured to detect a pitching angular velocity of a vehicle body of a two-wheeled vehicle;a roll angle detection unit configured to detect a roll angle of the vehicle body;a yaw angular velocity detection unit configured to detect a yaw angular velocity of the vehicle body;a front-wheel side pressure detection unit configured to detect a pressure of a contraction-side chamber in a front-wheel side damper, the front-wheel side damper being interposed between the vehicle body and a front-wheel of the two-wheeled vehicle;a rear-wheel side pressure detection unit configured to detect a pressure of a contraction-side chamber in a rear-wheel side damper, the rear-wheel side damper being interposed between the vehicle body and a rear-wheel of the two-wheeled vehicle; anda correction unit configured to correct the pitching angular velocity on the basis of the roll angle and the yaw angular velocity, the correction unit being configured to remove a component based on the roll angle and the yaw angular velocity from the detected pitching angular velocity during turning of the two-wheeled ...

Self-Pumping Hydropneumatic Suspension Strut

A self-pumping hydropneumatic suspension strut includes a high pressure area and a low pressure area, wherein pressurized medium is exchanged between the high pressure area and the low pressure area via a passive pump device. At least two separate channel systems with connection orifices which determine level position and are controlled depending on the position of a piston rod are provided between the high pressure area and the low pressure area. One of the channel systems can be blocked by a valve device, and wherein the suspension strut has a displacing device with a spring seat for a supporting spring. The displacing device is operated via the working movement of the piston rod. 11. A self-pumping hydropneumatic suspension strut () comprising:{'b': 11', '39, 'a high pressure area (; );'}{'b': '30', 'a low pressure area ();'}{'b': '7', 'a piston rod ();'}{'b': 21', '23', '11', '39', '30, 'a pump device (; ) for exchanging pressurized medium between said high pressure area (; ) and said low pressure area ();'}{'b': 47', '49', '11', '39', '30', '43', '45', '7, 'at least two separate channel systems (; ) between said high pressure area (; ) and said low pressure area (), said at last two channel systems comprising level position determining connection orifices (; ) which are controlled depending on the position of a said piston rod ();'}{'b': 51', '49, 'a valve device () for blocking one of said at last two channel systems ();'}{'b': 55', '57', '59', '55', '7, 'a displacing device () comprising a spring seat () for a supporting spring (); said displacing device () operated by a working movement of said piston rod ().'}2551139. The suspension strut according to claim 1 , wherein said displacing device () is connected to said high pressure area (; ).36755. The suspension strut according to claim 1 , additionally comprising a first stop () for limiting a maximum extended position of said displacing device ().467. The suspension strut according to claim 3 , wherein said ...

ACTIVE-PASSIVE DUAL MODE SWITCHABLE VEHICLE SUSPENSION SYSTEM AND SWITCHING METHOD THEREFOR

An active-passive dual mode switchable vehicle suspension system is provided. The suspension system includes a filter, a hydraulic pump, a one-way valve, a power takeoff, a servo valve, a suspension cylinder, an overflow valve, an energy accumulator, a reversing valve, a first pressure sensor, a second pressure sensor, a controller, an oil tank and a displacement sensor. Further related is a switching method for the active-passive dual mode switchable vehicle suspension system. When the active and passive dual-mode switchable vehicle suspension system is switched between modes, an oil pressure in the rodless cavity of the suspension cylinder and an oil pressure in the energy accumulator are adjusted to be equal in advance, so that the stable switching of the active-passive suspension system can be realized, and the vibration of the vehicle body is eliminated when the existing active-passive suspension system is switched. Moreover, the accumulator and overflow valve can be shared in the active and passive suspension mode, thereby effectively reducing the use number of accumulators and overflow valves, greatly saving the layout space of the vehicle body, effectively reducing the total weight of the vehicle body, which is favorable to the lightweight of the vehicle chassis. 1. An active-passive dual mode switchable vehicle suspension system , comprising a filter , a hydraulic pump , a one-way valve , a power take-off , a servo valve , a suspension cylinder , an overflow valve , an energy accumulator , a reversing valve , a first pressure sensor , a second pressure sensor , a controller , an oil tank and a displacement sensor; wherein the filter has an oil inlet communicated with the oil tank through an oil pipe , and has an oil outlet communicated with an oil inlet of the hydraulic pump through an oil pipe; the hydraulic pump has an oil outlet communicated with an oil inlet of the one-way valve through an oil pipe , the one-way valve has an oil outlet communicated with ...

BASE VALVE ASSEMBLY FOR DAMPER

A damper includes a pressure tube, a piston assembly, a piston rod, a reserve tube, and a reserve chamber. The damper also includes a base valve assembly having a valve body and a compression disc assembly. The compression disc assembly engages a first end face of the valve body to restrict flow through at least one compression passage. The base valve assembly also includes a rebound disc assembly. The rebound disc assembly engages a second end face of the valve body to restrict flow through at least one rebound passage. The rebound disc assembly includes at least one rebound bending disc that directly engages the second end face to close the at least one rebound passage. The rebound bending disc bends in response to pressure within the at least one rebound passage to permit flow through the at least one rebound passage. 1. A damper comprising:a pressure tube forming a working chamber;a piston assembly disposed within the working chamber, the piston assembly dividing the working chamber into an upper working chamber and a lower working chamber;a piston rod attached to the piston assembly;a reserve tube disposed around the pressure tube and defining a reserve chamber between the pressure tube and the reserve tube; and a valve body defining at least one compression passage and at least one rebound passage;', 'a compression disc assembly engaging a first end face of the valve body to restrict flow through the at least one compression passage; and', 'a rebound disc assembly engaging a second end face of the valve body to restrict flow through the at least one rebound passage, the rebound disc assembly including at least one rebound bending disc that directly engages the second end face to close the at least one rebound passage,', 'wherein the rebound bending disc bends in response to pressure within the at least one rebound passage to permit flow through the at least one rebound passage., 'a base valve assembly fluidly disposed between the lower working chamber and the ...

VEHICLE HEIGHT CONTROL DEVICE FOR MOTORCYCLE

A vehicle height control device comprises a vehicle height control unit including a jack housing of a hydraulic jack provided at an upper end portion of an inner tube, a suspension spring provided between an upper end of a hollow pipe and a plunger of the hydraulic jack, a pump housing provided at the plunger of the hydraulic jack and forming a pump chamber of a hydraulic pump, and a pump pipe communicating with an oil reservoir chamber on an inner periphery of the hollow pipe and slidably inserted into the pump chamber in the pump housing, and a selector valve controlling the vehicle height by adjusting the amount of hydraulic oil fed to a jack chamber in the hydraulic jack by the hydraulic pump that performs the pumping operation in conjunction with extending and contracting motion of the hollow pipe with respect to the inner tube. 1. A vehicle height control device for a motorcycle with a pair of dampers disposed on laterally opposite sides of a vehicle body , the vehicle height control device comprising:a vehicle height control unit provided in at least one of the left and right dampers,wherein the damper provided with the vehicle height control unit includes:a wheel-side outer tube;a vehicle body-side inner tube slidably inserted into the wheel-side outer tube;a hollow pipe installed upright in an inner bottom portion of the outer tube and including a partition wall portion that is in sliding contact with an inner periphery of the inner tube;a piston provided on an inner periphery of a leading end portion of the inner tube;an oil chamber provided on an outer periphery of the hollow pipe in such a manner that the piston advances into and retracts from the oil chamber, the oil chamber being partitioned by the piston into an upper oil chamber above the piston and a lower oil chamber below the piston; andan oil reservoir chamber defined by an inner periphery of the hollow pipe and spanning to an upper portion of the inner tube, the oil reservoir chamber having an ...

HYDRAULIC SHOCK ABSORBER

A hydraulic shock absorber includes a damping force generator configured to, when a current is supplied, generate a current-dependent damping force as a damping force relating to a magnitude of the current supplied and configured to, when no current is supplied, generate a current-non-supply-state set damping force as a damping force with a preset magnitude. This hydraulic shock absorber is configured to inhibit a supply of the current to the damping force generator when the current to be supplied to the damping force generator is greater than a threshold value. When a current to be received by the damping force generator is to increase to a value larger than the threshold value, the supply of the current to the damping force generator is inhibited, and the current-non-supply-state set damping force is generated, making it possible to reliably achieve a damping capacity while reducing power consumption. 1. A hydraulic shock absorber , comprising:a cylinder comprising: a housing configured to store working fluid; a piston provided slidably in the housing; and a rod comprising one end portion coupled to the piston and another end portion protruding from the housing, the cylinder being provided so as to connect between a sprung portion and an unsprung portion of a vehicle, the cylinder being extended and compressed by relative movement between the sprung portion and the unsprung portion;a damping force generator configured to provide a resistance to a flow of the working fluid with at least one of extension and compression of the cylinder to generate a damping force for the at least one of the extension and the compression of the cylinder, the damping force generator being configured to, when a current is supplied to the damping force generator, generate a current-dependent damping force as a damping force having a magnitude related to a magnitude of the supplied current, the damping force generator being configured to, when no current is supplied to the damping force ...

Actuator system

An actuator system for a vehicle suspension system includes: an actuator having a piston and a first fluid chamber separated from a second fluid chamber by the piston; a hydraulic pump having a first port connected by a first hydraulic circuit to the first chamber via a first valve, the first valve being a damper valve operable to variably restrict flow of hydraulic fluid out of the first chamber; a first hydraulic accumulator connected to the first hydraulic circuit between the first port and the first valve; and a second hydraulic accumulator connected to the first port by a second valve, the second valve being a variable pressure relief valve operable to variably restrict flow of hydraulic fluid from the first port to the second hydraulic accumulator. 1. An actuator system for a vehicle suspension system comprising:an actuator having a piston and a first fluid chamber separated from a second fluid chamber by the piston;a hydraulic pump having a first port connected by a first hydraulic circuit to the first chamber via a first valve, the first valve being a damper valve operable to variably restrict flow of hydraulic fluid out of the first chamber;a first hydraulic accumulator connected to the first hydraulic circuit between the first port and the first valve;a second hydraulic accumulator connected to a second gallery, the hydraulic pump having a second port connected by a second hydraulic circuit to the second chamber via a third valve, the third valve being a damper valve operable to variably restrict flow of hydraulic fluid out of the second chamber; anda third hydraulic accumulator connected to the second hydraulic circuit between the second port and the third valve;wherein the first hydraulic circuit has a first gallery being connected to the second accumulator by a second valve, the second valve being a variable pressure relief valve operable to variably restrict flow of hydraulic fluid from the first gallery to the second gallery, the second hydraulic ...

ACTUATOR SYSTEM

An actuator system for a vehicle suspension system includes: an actuator having a piston and a first fluid chamber separated from a second fluid chamber by the piston; a hydraulic pump having a first port connected by a first hydraulic circuit to the first chamber via a first valve, the first valve being a damper valve operable to variably restrict flow of hydraulic fluid out of the first chamber; a first hydraulic accumulator connected to the first hydraulic circuit between the first port and the first valve; and a second hydraulic accumulator connected to the first port by a second valve, the second valve being a variable pressure relief valve operable to variably restrict flow of hydraulic fluid from the first port to the second hydraulic accumulator. 1. An actuator system for a vehicle suspension system comprising:an actuator having a piston and a first fluid chamber separated from a second fluid chamber by the piston;a hydraulic pump having a first port connected by a first hydraulic circuit to the first chamber via a first valve, the first valve being a damper valve operable to variably restrict flow of hydraulic fluid out of the first chamber;a first hydraulic accumulator connected to the first hydraulic circuit between the first port and the first valve; anda second hydraulic accumulator connected to the first port by a second valve, the second valve being a variable pressure relief valve operable to variably restrict flow of hydraulic fluid from the first port to the second hydraulic accumulator.2. The actuator system of claim 1 , wherein the hydraulic pump has a second port connected by a second hydraulic circuit to the second chamber via a third valve claim 1 , the third valve being a damper valve operable to variably restrict flow of hydraulic fluid out of the second chamber claim 1 ,the actuator system further comprising:a third hydraulic accumulator connected to the second hydraulic circuit between the second port and the third valve; anda fourth ...

SELF-CONTAINED AIRSHOCK ASSEMBLY

An airshock assembly is disclosed. The airshock assembly includes a shock absorber an airspring, and an air compressor assembly. The airspring is axially coupled with a portion of the shock absorber and used to modify a ride height of the shock absorber. The air compressor assembly is coupled with a portion of the shock absorber. The air compressor assembly is used to modify an air pressure in the airspring without requiring the airshock assembly to utilize an air reservoir.

SUSPENSION APPARATUS AND RECORDING MEDIUM

A suspension apparatus includes: a damping device; an operating section; and a determination section. The determination section uses a base damping force determined based on a change velocity and an extension occasion adjustment value, or the base damping force, the extension occasion adjustment value and a zero occasion adjustment value to determine a target value of an extension occasion damping force. The determination section uses the base damping force, a compression occasion adjustment value and the zero occasion adjustment value, or the base damping force and the compression occasion adjustment value to determine a target value of an compression occasion damping force. The determination section uses the base damping force and the zero occasion adjustment value to determine a target value of a zero occasion damping force. 2. The suspension apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein:to determining the target value of the extension occasion damping force, the determination section uses the base damping force and the extension occasion adjustment value when the change velocity is equal to or higher than an extension occasion predetermined velocity which is set in advance, and uses the base damping force, the extension occasion adjustment value and the zero occasion adjustment value when the change velocity is lower than the extension occasion predetermined velocity.3. The suspension apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein:to determine the target value of the compression occasion damping force, the determination section uses the base damping force and the compression occasion adjustment value when the change velocity is equal to or lower than a compression occasion predetermined velocity which is set in advance, and uses the base damping force, the compression occasion adjustment value and the zero occasion adjustment value when the change velocity is higher than the compression occasion predetermined speed.4. The suspension apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein ...

SUSPENSION ASSEMBLY AND METHOD OF MAKING AND USING THE SAME

An assembly including a hollow outer tube, and a hollow inner tube fitted within the outer tube and adapted to be slidably engageable with the outer tube, and a sensor-less measurement system adapted to measure the capacitance between the inner tube and the outer tube, where relative movement between the inner tube and the outer tube is derived from the change in measured capacitance between the inner tube and the outer tube. 1. A suspension assembly comprising: a hollow outer tube, and', 'a hollow inner tube fitted within the outer tube and adapted to be slidably engageable with the outer tube, wherein the tube assembly is adapted to contain at least one of (i) a damping element to control relative movement between the inner tube and the outer tube, and (ii) a spring element adapted to resist a force applied to the tube assembly; and, 'a tube assembly comprisinga sensor-less measurement system adapted to measure the capacitance between the inner tube and the outer tube, wherein relative movement between the inner tube and the outer tube is derived from the change in measured capacitance between the inner tube and the outer tube.2. A method comprising: [ a hollow outer tube, and', 'a hollow inner tube fitted within the outer tube and adapted to be slidably engageable with the outer tube, wherein the tube assembly is adapted to contain at least one of (i) a damping element to control relative movement between the inner tube and the outer tube, and (ii) a spring element adapted to resist a force applied to the tube assembly; and, 'a tube assembly comprising, 'a sensor-less measurement system adapted to measure the capacitance between the inner tube and the outer tube, wherein relative movement between the inner tube and the outer tube is derived from the change in measured capacitance between the inner tube and the outer tube;, 'providing a suspension assembly comprisingmeasuring the capacitance between the inner tube and the outer tube over time; andderiving the ...

SHOCK ABSORBER, VEHICLE, AND SNOWMOBILE

A shock absorber includes a cylinder and a piston. The piston is configured to partition an internal space of the cylinder into two oil chambers and is capable of sliding in an axial direction of the cylinder. The piston having formed therethrough a communication path configured to bring the two oil chambers into communication with each other. The shock absorber also includes a first rod and a second rod. The first rod extends in a first direction of the axial direction with respect to the piston. The second rod has a diameter larger than a diameter of the first rod, and extends in a second direction of the axial direction, which is opposite to the first direction, with respect to the piston. The shock absorber further includes a rod mounting member, which is provided on the first rod, and a cylinder mounting member, which is provided on the cylinder and arranged as offset from an axis of the cylinder. 1. A shock absorber , comprising:a cylinder having an axis in axial direction;a piston, wherein the piston is configured to partition an internal space of the cylinder into two oil chambers and is capable of sliding in the axial direction of the cylinder, the piston further having formed therethrough a communication path configured to bring the two oil chambers into communication with each other;a first rod, which extends in a first direction of the axial direction of the cylinder with respect to the piston;a first rod guide, which is provided on the cylinder, and through which the first rod passes;a second rod, which has a diameter larger than a diameter of the first rod, and extends in a second direction of the axial direction of the cylinder, which is opposite to the first direction, with respect to the piston;a second rod guide, which is provided on the cylinder, and through which the second rod passes;a pressurizing mechanism, which is configured to pressurize oil filling the internal space of the cylinder;a rod mounting member, which is provided on the first rod ...

DAMPER CONTROL DEVICE

A damper control device includes a rate sensor that detects a pitching angular velocity of a vehicle body, a vehicle speed sensor, a steering angle sensor and a calculation unit that detect a roll angle and a yaw angular velocity of the vehicle body, a pressure sensor that detects a pressure of a contraction-side chamber in a front-wheel side damper, a pressure sensor that detects a pressure of a contraction-side chamber in a rear-wheel side damper, and a correction unit that corrects the pitching angular velocity. The pressures are controlled on the basis of the corrected pitching angular velocity and the pressures. The vehicle speed sensor, the steering angle sensor and the calculation unit detect the roll angle and the yaw angular velocity on the basis of a traveling speed and a steering angle. 1. A damper control device , comprising:a pitching angular velocity detection unit configured to detect a pitching angular velocity of a vehicle body in a two-wheeled vehicle;a roll angle detection unit configured to detect a roll angle of the vehicle body;a yaw angular velocity detection unit configured to detect a yaw angular velocity of the vehicle body;a front-wheel side pressure detection unit configured to detect a pressure of a contraction-side chamber in a front-wheel side damper, the front-wheel side damper being interposed between the vehicle body and a front-wheel of the two-wheeled vehicle;a rear-wheel side pressure detection unit configured to detect a pressure of a contraction-side chamber in a rear-wheel side damper, the rear-wheel side damper being interposed between the vehicle body and a rear wheel of the two-wheeled vehicle; anda correction unit configured to correct the pitching angular velocity on the basis of the roll angle and the yaw angular velocity,wherein:the pressure of the contraction-side chamber in the front-wheel side damper and the pressure of the contraction-side chamber in the rear-wheel side damper are controlled on the basis of the ...

SPRING ASSEMBLY FOR A VEHICLE SUSPENSION

The disclosure concerns a spring assembly with a leaf spring. The leaf spring extends in a vehicle longitudinal axis, supports a vehicle axle and is connected at least indirectly to a vehicle superstructure at a front end and at a rear end. In order to provide a wheel suspension with advantageous springing and damping behavior that is optimized with regard to weight and complexity, according to the disclosure it is provided that at least one damping region, which is at least partially fluid-filled, is integrated in the leaf spring. 1. A spring assembly comprising:a leaf spring that extends in a vehicle longitudinal axis, supports a vehicle axle and is connected at least indirectly to a vehicle superstructure at a front end and at a rear end, wherein at least one damping region is at least partially fluid-filled and integrated in the leaf spring.2. The spring assembly as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the leaf spring has a spring portion that is concave at least in portions and adjoined by a connecting arm running at an angle thereto claim 1 , and the connecting arm is connected pivotably to the vehicle superstructure.3. The spring assembly as claimed in claim 2 , wherein the connecting arm is formed by a connecting portion configured integrally with the spring portion.4. The spring assembly as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the at least one damping region includes an electro-rheological fluid.5. The spring assembly as claimed in claim 4 , wherein the at least one damping region is arranged between two layers that are at least partially conductive and charged electrically to influence the fluid in the damping region.6. The spring assembly as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the damping region includes a plurality of at least partially fluid-filled recesses that follow each other in an extension direction of the leaf spring.7. The spring assembly as claimed in claim 6 , wherein at least some of the plurality of at least partially fluid-filled recesses are formed elongate and ...

Damping System of a Two-Track Vehicle

A damping system of a two-track vehicle includes a passive stabilizer having a torsion bar which runs in a vehicle transverse direction and having lever elements which adjoin the torsion bar at the end sides and which are connected to mutually oppositely situated wheel suspension arrangements of an axle of the vehicle. Two actuators are assigned to respective wheels of the wheel suspension arrangements and are mounted on the vehicle body. Each actuator has a drive by way of which a torque can be exerted on that section of the stabilizer which faces toward the respective wheel. Here, the actuators are in the form of electric motors and are designed to dampen vertical vibrations of the respective wheel or of the so-called unsprung mass, and/or vibrations of the vehicle body in a frequency range between 0 Hertz and at least 20 Hertz, through suitable regulation of the drive of the actuators and thus also through active introduction of forces into the system. 1. A damping system of a two-track vehicle , comprising:a passive anti-roll bar having a torsion bar extending in a vehicle transverse direction and having lever elements adjoining said torsion bar on end sides thereof, the lever elements being connected to mutually opposite wheel suspension systems of an axle of the vehicle; 'the two actuators are electric motors and are configured, by way of suitable regulation of their respective drives and therefore also by way of active introduction of forces, to damp vertical vibrations of the respective wheel and/or vibrations of the vehicle body in a frequency range between 0 Hz and at least 20 Hz.', 'two actuators mounted on a body of the vehicle, each actuator being assigned to a respective wheel of a wheel suspension system and having in each case one drive via which a torque is appliable to a section of the anti-roll bar facing the respective wheel, wherein'}2. The damping system as claimed in claim 1 , further comprising: 'the actuators are designed, by way of suitable ...

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MITIGATING STATIC LOADS IN COMPONENTS CONNECTING MULTIPLE STRUCTURES

An apparatus and method are described where one or more pre-stressed spring elements are disposed between two structures to mitigate or cancel the effect of static loads applied to an component connecting the structures. The apparatus and methods may be used, for example, to reduce the adverse impact of static loads on the performance of top-mounts in a suspension system of a vehicle. 1. A top-mount assembly for attaching a suspension component to a vehicle body , comprising:a strike plate configured to attach to a rod of the suspension component;a first set of one or more first spring elements in contact with the strike plate, wherein each first spring element applies a first force to the strike plate in a first direction;a second set of one or more second spring elements in contact with the strike plate, wherein each second spring element applies a second force to the strike plate in a second direction that is opposite the first direction.21. The top mount assembly of , wherein the first set of one or more first spring elements is characterized by a first combined spring constant , and the second set of one or more second spring elements is characterized by a second combined spring constant that is less than the first combined spring constant.31. The top mount assembly of , wherein the first set of one or more first spring elements is characterized by a first combined compliance and the second set of one or more second spring elements is characterized by a second combined compliance that is greater than the first combined compliance.43. The top mount assembly of , wherein the second combined compliance is greater than the first combined compliance by a factor of at least 2.52. The top mount assembly of , wherein the second combined compliance is greater than the first combined compliance by a factor of at least 5.6. The top mount assembly of claim 1 , wherein the first direction is substantially upwards and the second direction is substantially downwards.7. The ...

METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING A FLUID DAMPER

A spring for a suspension is described. The spring includes: a spring chamber divided into at least a primary portion and a secondary portion, and a fluid flow path coupled with and between the primary portion and the secondary portion. The fluid flow path includes a bypass mechanism, wherein the bypass mechanism is configured for automatically providing resistance within the fluid flow path in response to a compressed condition of the suspension. 1a first chamber comprising a first end and a second end and defined by a wall coupling the first end with the second end, wherein the wall comprises an inner diameter, and wherein the first chamber is divided into a compression portion having a first fluid therein and a gas-filled compressible portion, the compression portion including a piston and a rod disposed therein and movable in a compression and rebound stroke within the first chamber;a second chamber disposed within a portion less than a whole of the first chamber and between the first end and the second end, the second chamber comprising a portion of the wall having the inner diameter of the first chamber, the second chamber having a variable rheology fluid therein and dividing the compression portion and gas-filled compressible portion , wherein the second chamber is at least partially displaceable by and isolated from the first fluid and wherein movement of the second chamber causes a volume change in the gas-filled compressible portion; anda magnet disposed adjacent to the second chamber, wherein an outer surface of the magnet is positioned proximate an inner surface of the wall, the inner surface comprising an orifice, wherein the variable rheology fluid has accessibility to a substantial entirety of the orifice for movement therein, and wherein an increase of a current flowing in a wire of the magnet, and hence an increase in a magnetic field, enables flux lines created by the magnetic field to reach toward a center of the orifice into the variable rheology ...

METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING A FLUID DAMPER

A spring for a suspension is described. The spring includes: a spring chamber divided into at least a primary portion and a secondary portion, and a fluid flow path coupled with and between the primary portion and the secondary portion. The fluid flow path includes a bypass mechanism, wherein the bypass mechanism is configured for automatically providing resistance within the fluid flow path in response to a compressed condition of the suspension. 1. A fluid damper comprising:a first chamber comprising a first end and a second end and defined by a wall coupling the first end with the second end, wherein the wall comprises an inner diameter, and wherein the first chamber is divided into a compression portion having a first fluid therein and a gas-filled compressible portion, the compression portion including a piston and a rod disposed therein and movable in a compression and rebound stroke within the first chamber;a second chamber disposed within a portion less than a whole of the first chamber and between the first end and the second end, the second chamber comprising a portion of the wall having the inner diameter of the first chamber, the second chamber having a variable rheology fluid therein and dividing the compression portion and gas-filled compressible portion, wherein the second chamber is at least partially displaceable by and isolated from the first fluid and wherein movement of the second chamber causes a volume change in the gas-filled compressible portion; anda magnet disposed adjacent to the second chamber, wherein an outer surface of the magnet is positioned proximate an inner surface of the wall, the inner surface comprising an orifice, wherein the variable rheology fluid has accessibility to a substantial entirety of the orifice for movement therein, and wherein an increase of a current flowing in a wire of the magnet, and hence an increase in a magnetic field, enables flux lines created by the magnetic field to reach toward a center of the orifice ...

CYLINDER APPARATUS

Electrorheological fluid is loaded in a shock absorber () as hydraulic fluid (). The shock absorber () controls a generated damping force by causing a potential difference to be generated in an electrode passage () and controlling a viscosity of the electrorheological fluid passing through this electrode passage (). A plurality of partition walls () is provided between an inner cylinder () and an electrode cylinder (). By being configured in this manner, the shock absorber () forms a plurality of helical flow passages () between the inner cylinder () and the electrode cylinder (). In this case, an inclination angle of each of the partition walls () is not constant, and each of the partition walls () includes a sharply inclined portion (A) inclined at a large angle on at least an entrance side of an extension-side flow passage (). 1. A cylinder apparatus sealingly containing functional fluid having a fluid property changing according to an electric field , the cylinder apparatus including a rod inserted therein , the cylinder apparatus comprising:an inner cylinder electrode and an outer cylinder electrode provided outside this inner cylinder electrode, the inner cylinder electrode and the outer cylinder electrode serving as electrodes of potentials different from each other; andone or a plurality of flow passage formation unit(s) provided between the inner cylinder electrode and the outer cylinder electrode, the one or plurality of flow passage formation unit(s) forming a plurality of flow passages through which the functional fluid flows at least according to an extension-side movement of the rod from one end side toward an opposite end side in an axial direction,wherein the flow passages formed by the one or plurality of flow passage formation unit(s) are each a helical or serpentine flow passage having a circumferentially extending portion, and provided in such a manner that an effective cross-sectional area of the flow passage on at least one of an entrance and ...

Damping force control apparatus for suspension

A damping force control apparatus for a suspension is applied to a damper whose damping force can be set based on a damping force control value and controls the damping force control value. The damper is attached to a support portion with a buffer member interposed between the support portion of a vehicle body and a cylinder of the damper. The apparatus includes: a displacement related quantity estimation device estimating relative displacement of a vehicle wheel and a relative speed of the vehicle wheel with respect to the vehicle body as estimated relative displacement and an estimated relative speed; and a damping force control value calculation device determining the damping force control value so as to suppress vibration of the vehicle body based on state variables provided from the vehicle body and the estimated relative speed.

DAMPING DEVICE WITH ADJUSTABLE SPRING RATE

A spring and damping device for a wheel suspension in motor vehicles includes an upper region, a lower region, and a damping element arranged between the upper region and the lower region. The device further includes a coil spring element and a rubber spring element. The coil spring element and the rubber spring element are arranged one behind the other along a center axis of the damping element such that the coil spring element is positioned to exert a force on the rubber spring element. The device allows a spring rate to be adjusted based either on sensed conditions, or by driver input. The spring rate may be adjustable between discrete settings or continuously variable. 1. A spring and damping device for a wheel suspension in motor vehicles , the device comprising:an upper region;a lower region;a damping element arranged between the upper region and the lower region, the damping element having a center axis;a coil spring element; anda rubber spring element, the coil spring element and rubber spring element arranged one behind the other along the center axis of the damping element such that the coil spring element is positioned to exert a force on the rubber spring element.2. The spring and damping device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the rubber spring element is arranged inside a first volume that is filled with a first fluid.3. The spring and damping device as claimed in claim 2 , further comprising a second volume fluidically connected to the first volume claim 2 , wherein at least a portion of the first fluid can flow into and out of the second volume.4. The spring and damping device as claimed in claim 3 , wherein the second volume is at least partially filled with a second fluid.5. The spring and damping device as claimed in claim 4 , further comprising a device for setting the pressure of the first fluid and/or a device for setting the pressure of the second fluid.6. The spring and damping device as claimed in claim 4 , wherein at least one of the first ...

SUSPENSION STRUT FOR A VEHICLE

A hydraulic strut system that damps vehicle vibration and includes a compressible fluid, a strut, and a valve plate. The strut includes three concentric tubes defining an inner cavity, an intermediary cavity, and an outer reservoir cavity, the inner cavity and intermediary cavity being fluidly coupled, wherein the inner cavity receives a piston that divides the inner cavity into a first volume and a second volume, the piston having an aperture that allows one way flow from the first volume to the second volume. The valve plate is removably coupled to the strut, and includes a first fluid path that allows one-way fluid flow from the intermediary cavity to the reservoir cavity, the first fluid path including a damping valve that damps fluid flowing therethrough; and a second fluid path that allows one-way fluid flow from the reservoir cavity to the inner cavity, the second fluid path further including a replenishment valve. 1. (canceled)2. A strut system comprising:a fluid; an inner tube defining an inner cavity, the inner cavity containing a portion of the fluid;', 'a secondary tube encircling at least a portion of the inner tube, the secondary tube cooperatively defining an intermediary cavity with the inner tube, the intermediary cavity containing a second portion of the fluid;', 'a housing tube encircling at least a portion of the secondary tube, the housing tube cooperatively defining a reservoir cavity with the secondary tube, the reservoir cavity containing a third portion of the fluid;', 'a piston disposed within the inner tube and separating the inner cavity into a first volume and a second volume, the piston comprising an aperture through a piston thickness, the aperture fluidly connecting the first volume and the second volume;', 'a one-way aperture valve within the aperture that allows fluid flow from the first volume to the second volume;, 'a strut comprising a damping flow path fluidly coupling the intermediary cavity to the reservoir cavity;', 'a ...

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR AN ADJUSTABLE DAMPER

A vehicle suspension damper is described. The vehicle suspension damper includes: a pilot valve assembly; a primary valve; and an adjuster, wherein the pilot valve assembly meters fluid to the primary valve, and the adjuster moves the primary valve. 1a primary valve; 'an adjustable pilot spool configured for controlling a pressure inside said primary valve;', 'a pilot valve assembly, said pilot valve assembly comprisingan externally-adjustable adjuster, wherein said pilot valve assembly meters fluid to said primary valve, and movement of said externally-adjustable adjuster varies an effective orifice size of said adjustable pilot spool, said externally-adjustable adjuster disposed at a top cap of said vehicle suspension damper; anda set of shims coupled to said primary valve, wherein a position of said adjustable pilot spool corresponds to an increase of pressure inside said primary valve and an increase of an axial force on said set of shims by said primary valve.. A vehicle suspension damper comprising: This application is a continuation application of and claims the benefit of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/599,469 filed on May 19, 2017, entitled “METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR AN ADJUSTABLE DAMPER”, having Attorney Docket No. FOX-P10-02-12-US.DIV.CON, and assigned to the assignee of the present application, and is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety herein.The U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/599,469 is a continuation application of and claims the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/690,267 filed on Apr. 17, 2015, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,663,181, entitled “METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR AN ADJUSTABLE DAMPER”, having Attorney Docket No. FOX-P10-02-12-US.DIV, and assigned to the assignee of the present application, and is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety herein.The U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/843,704 is a divisional application of and claims the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/843,704 filed on Mar. ...

MAGNETIC RHEOLOGICAL FLUID SHOCK ABSORBER

A piston of a magnetic rheological fluid shock absorber comprises a piston core that is formed from a magnetic material and is provided with a coil on the outer periphery thereof, and a ring body that is formed from a magnetic material, surrounds the outer periphery of the piston core. A flow path of the magnetic rheological fluid is formed between the ring body and the piston core. The flow path of the magnetic rheological fluid comprises a first flow path part having a predetermined cross-sectional flow area, and a second flow path part having a larger cross-sectional flow area than the predetermined cross-sectional flow area and a longer axial length than the coil to cover the outer periphery of the coil. 1. A magnetic rheological fluid shock absorber utilizing a magnetic rheological fluid that changes a viscosity according to a magnetic field applied , comprising:a cylinder in which a magnetic rheological fluid is enclosed;a piston disposed within the cylinder to slide therein and defining a pair of fluid chambers within the cylinder; anda piston rod connected to the piston and extending to an outside of the cylinder, a piston core formed from a magnetic material and provided with a coil on an outer periphery thereof; and', 'a ring body formed from a magnetic material and surrounding an outer periphery of the piston core, the ring body and the piston core forming a flow path of the magnetic rheological fluid there-between, and wherein the flow path comprises:', 'a first flow path part having a predetermined cross-sectional flow area; and', 'a second flow path part formed to have a larger cross-sectional flow area than the predetermined cross-sectional flow area and a longer axial length than the coil to cover an outer periphery of the coil., 'wherein the piston comprises2. The magnetic rheological fluid shock absorber according to claim 1 , wherein the second flow path part is formed to face the outer periphery of the coil and the outer periphery of the piston ...

Stationary vibration isolation system and method for controlling a vibration isolation system

The invention relates to a stationary vibration isolation system and to a method for controlling such a system which comprises a damper effective in a horizontal direction which includes a fluid of variable viscosity. 1. A stationary vibration isolation system , comprising a load that is anti-vibration mounted in a horizontal direction and vertical direction on a base and which comprises a moving mass;wherein the vibration-isolated load is coupled to the base via a damper which is effective in the horizontal direction and which comprises a fluid of variable viscosity.2. The stationary vibration isolation system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the fluid is a non-Newtonian fluid.3. The stationary vibration isolation system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the fluid is an electrorheological or magnetorheological fluid.4. The stationary vibration isolation system as claimed in claim 3 , wherein the vibration isolation system includes an active control which detects motion of the mass and controls the viscosity of the electrorheological or magnetorheological fluid based thereon.5. The stationary vibration isolation system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the vibration isolation system which is an active vibration isolation system comprises at least one sensor for detecting vibrations of the anti-vibration mounted load and/or of the ground claim 1 , and at least one actuator for actively reducing vibrations.6. The stationary vibration isolation system as claimed in claim 5 , wherein the actuator is a magnetic actuator.7. The stationary vibration isolation system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the vibration-isolated load is coupled to the base via a damper which is effective in the vertical direction and which comprises a fluid of variable viscosity.8. The stationary vibration isolation system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the fluid of variable viscosity is arranged in a vibration isolator.9. The stationary vibration isolation system as claimed in claim 8 , wherein the ...

SUSPENSION SYSTEM FOR A VEHICLE AXLE

A suspension system for a vehicle axle including at least one hydraulic suspension cylinder, which has at least one work space, with the work space being connected to a hydraulic accumulator and allowing a connection via switching arrangement as well as to a pressure source and a pressure release. A shut-off valve is arranged between the work space and the accumulator, by which the suspension can be blocked. In order to avoid during the unblocking process that any sudden compensating motion of the axle suspension develops, here the suspension system includes at least one detection device connected to the work space of the suspension cylinder and the accumulator, which is embodied to detect the pressure difference between the work space and the accumulator. This way a pressure difference can be reliably detected at both sides of the shut-off valve, thus between the work space of the suspension cylinder and the accumulator, and can be compensated in a targeted fashion during or before the opening of the shut-off valve for unblocking the suspension. 11011112070754011205011205040111020112035402011. A suspension system for a vehicle axle , comprising: at least one hydraulic suspension cylinder () having at least one work space () , with the work space () being connected to a hydraulic accumulator () and bring connectable to a pressure source () and a pressure release () , a shut-off valve () arranged between the work space () and the accumulator () , a detection device () for detecting a pressure difference between the work space () and the accumulator () , the detection device () is constantly connected via a parallel connection to the shut-off valve () to the work space () of the suspension cylinder () and the accumulator () in order to detect a pressure difference between the work space () and the accumulator , () and the detection device provides a signal that controls a switching arrangement() , before opening the shut-off valve () , to adjust a pressure in the ...

SUSPENSION DAMPER WITH BY-PASS VALVES

A vehicle damper is described. The vehicle damper includes: a cylinder; a piston within the cylinder; a working fluid within the cylinder; a reservoir in fluid communication with the cylinder via the working fluid, the reservoir operable to receive the working fluid from the cylinder in a compression stroke; a valve in a flow path between the cylinder and the reservoir; and a remotely-operable valve having a position allowing the working fluid to significantly by-pass the valve. 1. A vehicle damper comprising:a cylinder;a piston within said cylinder;a working fluid within said cylinder;a reservoir in fluid communication with said cylinder via said working fluid, said reservoir operable to receive said working fluid from said cylinder in a compression stroke;a flow path starting in said cylinder and ending in said reservoir; anda reservoir valve assembly disposed in said flow path, said reservoir valve assembly being configured for monitoring a flow of said working fluid into a reservoir fluid portion of said reservoir, wherein said reservoir valve assembly comprises at least a base valve, a remotely-operable valve, and a third reservoir valve that is not said base valve and said remotely operable valve, said third reservoir valve disposed in a first chamber, wherein said third reservoir valve is positioned upstream of said remotely operable valve during said compression stroke, wherein said base valve provides a positive damping resistance regardless of a compliant damping or a rigid damping pressure being applied separate from said positive damping resistance such that said flow of said working fluid through said base valve occurs under all circumstances, said remotely operable valve disposed in a second chamber adjacent said third reservoir valve, said remotely operable valve configured to control flow of said working fluid through said second chamber,wherein said remotely-operable valve has an open position and a closed position, wherein said open position allows ...

Electro-Rheological Fluid Composition and Cylinder Device

A task of the present invention is to provide an electro-rheological fluid composition and a cylinder device which allow a large ER effect to be obtained, while reducing a current density. An electro-rheological fluid composition () of the present invention includes a fluid () and a particle () having an ion conductivity, the particle () having the ion conductivity has a first layer () forming a surface of the particle () and a second layer () forming a part of the particle () interior to the first layer (), and an ion conductivity of the first layer () is lower than an ion conductivity of the second layer (). 1. An electro-rheological fluid composition comprising:a fluid; anda particle having an ion conductivity, whereinthe particle having the ion conductivity has a first layer forming a surface of the particle and a second layer forming a part of the particle interior to the first layer, andan ion conductivity of the first layer is lower than an ion conductivity of the second layer.2. The electro-rheological fluid composition according to claim 1 , wherein a glass transition temperature of the first layer is higher than a glass transition temperature of the second layer.3. The electro-rheological fluid composition according to claim 1 , wherein the particle having the ion conductivity is made of an organic material including an aromatic component claim 1 , and a concentration of the aromatic component in the first layer is higher than a concentration of the aromatic component in the second layer.4. The electro-rheological fluid composition according to claim 3 , wherein the organic material is polyurethane having polyether-based polyol or polycarbonate-based polyol serving as a monomer.5. The electro-rheological fluid composition according to claim 4 , wherein isocyanate serving as the monomer of the polyurethane in the first layer is at least one selected from the group consisting of diphenylmethane diisocyanate claim 4 , dimethylbiphenyl diisocyanate claim 4 , ...

ELECTRONIC DAMPER CONTROL

Generally described, aspects of the disclosed subject matter are directed to electronically controlled dampers having shimmed pistons. In accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, the dampers generally include a shaft having a piston with compression and rebound valves extending therethrough. For further damper tuning and adjustment, a fluid bypass assembly permits damping fluid to bypass the piston during operation. The fluid bypass assembly may include a metering pin for manual adjustment of the fluid bypass, and a control valve for electronic adjustment of the fluid bypass. In this regard, the control valve may be controlled automatically, manually, or a combination thereof. 1. An electronically controlled damper , comprising:a damper body defining a chamber for housing a damping fluid and having a first mounting portion at a distal end and a shaft aperture at a proximal end;an elongate shaft slidingly extending through the shaft aperture, the elongate shaft having a distal portion within the chamber and a proximal portion external to the chamber;a piston disposed at a distal end of the elongate shaft, the piston defining a first chamber portion at the distal end of the chamber and a second chamber portion at the proximal end of the chamber, the piston having a damping valve and configured to sealingly translate along the chamber; and a second mounting portion;', 'a first reservoir for the damping fluid in fluid communication with the first chamber portion;', 'a second reservoir for the damping fluid in fluid communication with the second chamber portion; and', 'a control valve having a plunger positioned between the first and second reservoirs and configured to selectively reciprocate from a closed position when de-energized, where damping fluid is prevented from flowing between the first and second reservoirs, to an open position when energized, where damping fluid is permitted to flow from the second reservoir to the first reservoir during a rebound ...

A DYNAMICALLY ADJUSTABLE SUSPENSION DEVICE

The present invention discloses a dynamically adjustable suspension device including one or more springs having similar or different spring rates, where said one or more springs are arranged in a pre-defined configuration, and a dynamically adjustable damper. The dynamically adjustable damper, includes a rotatable knob coupled to the dynamically adjustable damper to change the damping coefficient dynamically in real-time, means to rotate the knob so as to adjust damping coefficient in real-time while the dynamically adjustable suspension device being used, means to identify compression of the one or more springs by sensing one or more positions of the springs, between a fully elongated state and a fully compressed state in real-time. 120-. (canceled)21. A dynamically adjustable suspension device , comprising:one or more springs having at least one spring rate, said one or more springs being arranged in a pre-defined configuration; and a rotatable knob coupled to the dynamically adjustable damper to change an orifice diameter of the dynamically adjustable damper thereby changing a damping coefficient dynamically in real-time;', 'an actuator configured to rotate the knob so as to adjust the damping coefficient in real-time while the dynamically adjustable suspension device is being used; and', 'a sensor configured to identify a compression of the one or more springs by sensing one or more positions, between a fully elongated state and a fully compressed state, in real-time, wherein the damping coefficient is dependent on the compression of the one or more springs, and wherein the one or more springs and the dynamically adjustable damper work in tandem to provide adjustments to a suspension;, 'a dynamically adjustable damper, comprisingwherein both the one or more springs and the dynamically adjustable damper are critically damped at all points.22. The dynamically adjustable suspension device of claim 21 , wherein the dynamically adjustable suspension device is ...

SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING VARIABLE LOAD IN A HYDRAULIC DEVICE

The invention relates to a hydraulic device comprising a tubular housing containing a rod to which a plunger is rigidly secured that separates an upper chamber and a lower chamber both filled with a hydraulic fluid, such that, as the plunger and the rod move, they move together in a relative manner axially inside the tubular housing, moving the hydraulic fluid from one chamber to the other and varying the volumes thereof. The invention also comprises a spring that operates under compression resisting the movement of the plunger in one direction when it moves toward a maximum extension position of the hydraulic device. The device also comprises an open elastic ring, the ends of which define an adjustable intermediate passage for the hydraulic fluid in order to adjust damping at the end of the maximum extension of the hydraulic device and in other relative positions. 110-. (canceled)12101064a. System for controlling variable load in a hydraulic device claim 11 , according to claim 11 , wherein a minimum passing section () of the intermediate passage () of the open elastic ring () coincides with a maximum compression of the spring ().134610. System for controlling variable load in a hydraulic device claim 11 , according to claim 11 , wherein during the maximum compression of the spring () claim 11 , the ends of the open elastic ring () are in contact one to each other claim 11 , completely blocking the intermediate passage ().144. System for controlling variable load in a hydraulic device claim 12 , according to claim 12 , wherein the maximum compression of the spring () in the maximum extension position of the hydraulic device comprises a block wherein coils are in contact with each other.153336ba. System for controlling variable load in a hydraulic device claim 11 , according to claim 11 , wherein the plunger () comprises a lower section () of greater diameter and an upper section () of smaller diameter around which the open elastic ring () is loosely attached. ...

SUSPENSION CONTROL APPARATUS

A voltage converter of a high voltage driver generates a high voltage applied to an electrorheological damper. The voltage converter and the electrorheological damper are electrically connected together through a connecting portion. The connecting portion comprises an electrode pin that connects the voltage converter and an electrode cylinder of the electrorheological damper; a ground pin that connects an external cylinder of the electrorheological damper and ground, and a ground detection pin disposed separately from the ground pin and connected to the ground through the external cylinder and the ground pin. When the ground detection pin and the ground are disconnected, the voltage converter discontinues the voltage generation with or without a command (control signal) of a sub-controller. 1. A suspension control apparatus comprising:an electrorheological damper sealingly containing an electrorheological fluid that is varied in properties by electric field, the electrorheological damper being configured to adjust a damping force when a voltage is applied to the electrorheological fluid;a voltage generating portion configured to generate a voltage applied to the electrorheological damper;a connecting portion configured to connect the voltage generating portion and the electrorheological damper; anda controller configured to control the voltage generating portion,wherein the electrorheological damper includes:a cylinder sealingly containing the electrorheological fluid;a piston slidably inserted in the cylinder;a piston rod coupled to the piston and extending out of the cylinder, andan electrode disposed in a portion through which the electrorheological fluid flows due to a sliding motion of the piston in the cylinder, the electrode being configured to apply a voltage to the electrorheological fluid,wherein the connecting portion includes:an electrode connecting portion that connects the voltage generating portion and the electrode;a ground connecting portion that ...

SUSPENSION CONTROL SYSTEM FOR VEHICLE

A suspension control system includes: a pitch moment computation unit configured to compute a target pitch moment; a distribution ratio computation unit configured to compute a front and rear distribution ratio based on a roll rate and a vehicle speed, to compute a front distribution ratio based on the roll rate and the vehicle speed, and to compute a rear distribution ratio based on the roll rate and the vehicle speed; and a damping force computation unit configured to compute target damping forces of the dampers corresponding to respective front wheels based on the target pitch moment, the front and rear distribution ratio, and the front distribution ratio, and to compute target damping forces of the dampers corresponding to respective rear wheels based on the target pitch moment, the front and rear distribution ratio, and the rear distribution ratio. 1. A suspension control system for a vehicle having left and right front wheels and left and right rear wheels , comprising:four variable damping force dampers provided between a vehicle body and the front wheels and between the vehicle body and the rear wheels;a roll rate sensor configured to detect a roll rate;a pitch moment computation unit configured to compute a target pitch moment of the vehicle body based on the roll rate;a distribution ratio computation unit configured to compute a front and rear distribution ratio of the target pitch moment between the front wheels and the rear wheels based on the roll rate and a vehicle speed, to compute a front distribution ratio of the target pitch moment between the left front wheel and the right front wheel based on the roll rate and the vehicle speed, and to compute a rear distribution ratio of the target pitch moment between the left rear wheel and the right rear wheel based on the roll rate and the vehicle speed; anda damping force computation unit configured to compute target damping forces of the dampers corresponding to the respective front wheels based on the ...

SUSPENSION SYSTEM FOR A VEHICLE

A suspension system for a vehicle includes a shock absorber unit operably coupled between a vehicle body and a wheel carrier. The shock absorber unit includes a first damper unit having a first cylinder chamber, a second damper unit having a second cylinder chamber, a first piston connected to a first piston rod, a second piston connected to a second piston rod, and an adjusting unit. The first and second cylinder chambers may each be filled with a fluid. The first and second cylinder chambers may be formed in a common cylinder unit and sealed off from one another. The first and second piston rods may be arranged axially displaceable in the first and second cylinder chambers, respectively. The first piston rod is operably coupled to the vehicle body and the second piston rod is operably coupled to the wheel carrier. Damping actions of the first and second damper units are changed independently of one another by the adjusting unit. 1. A suspension system for a vehicle , the suspension system comprising a shock absorber unit operably coupled between a vehicle body and a wheel carrier , the shock absorber unit comprising:a first damper unit having a first cylinder chamber;a second damper unit having a second cylinder chamber, the first and second cylinder chambers each being filled with a fluid, the first and second cylinder chambers being formed in a common cylinder unit and sealed off from one another;a first piston connected to a first piston rod;a second piston connected to a second piston rod; andan adjusting unit,wherein the first and second piston rods are arranged axially displaceable in the first and second cylinder chambers, respectively,wherein the first piston rod is operably coupled to the vehicle body and the second piston rod is operably coupled to the wheel carrier, andwherein damping actions of the first and second damper units are changed independently of one another by the adjusting unit.2. The suspension system of claim 1 , wherein the first and ...

ADJUSTABLE DAMPING CURVE SHOCK ABSORBER

An adjustment control for adjusting the damping of a shock absorber includes an aperture seat to be secured to a bore of the shock absorber; a needle nut including a needle; an adjustment nut shaft stud including a threaded portion configured to engage with a threaded portion of the needle nut; an adjustment nut to be secured to the base and defining a non-circular cavity to receive at least a portion of the adjustment nut shaft stud and a noncircular region of the needle nut such that the needle nut cannot rotate relative to the non-circular cavity of the adjustment nut; and an adjustment knob, wherein rotation of the adjustment knob causes rotation of the adjustment nut shaft stud relative to the adjustment nut, and wherein rotation of the adjustment nut shaft stud causes axial movement of the needle nut relative to an orifice of the aperture seat. 1. An adjustment control for adjusting said damping of a shock absorber , said adjustment control comprising:an aperture seat configured to be secured to a bore of said shock absorber, said aperture seat defining an orifice;a needle nut including a needle extending outwardly from a first end, a noncircular region disposed about a second end, and a first threaded portion;an adjustment nut shaft stud including a second threaded portion configured to engage with said first threaded portion;an adjustment nut configured to be secured to said base, said adjustment nut defining a non-circular cavity configured to receive at least a portion of said adjustment nut shaft stud and at least said noncircular region of said needle nut such that said needle nut cannot rotate relative to said non-circular cavity of said adjustment nut; andan adjustment knob, wherein rotation of said adjustment knob causes rotation of said adjustment nut shaft stud relative to said adjustment nut, and wherein rotation of said second threaded portion said adjustment nut shaft stud causes axial movement of said needle nut relative to said orifice of said ...

Suspension control apparatus

A suspension control apparatus includes a damping force adjustable shock absorber disposed between a vehicle body and a wheel of a vehicle and capable of adjusting a damping force to be generated, a vertical movement detection device configured to detect a state regarding a vertical movement of a vehicle, and a controller including: a target damping force calculation section configured to calculate a target damping force based on a detection result of the vertical movement detection device, a correction section configured to calculate a corrected damping force, which is acquired by reducing the target damping force when a relative speed is a low speed between a sprung side and an unsprung side of the damping force adjustable shock absorber, and a control signal output section configured to output the control signal corresponding to the corrected damping force to the damping force adjustable shock absorber.

ADJUSTABLE DAMPENING FOR PLANTER ROW UNIT

A row unit has a frame with an upper portion and a lower portion. The upper portion has a parallel linkage and the lower portion is coupled to plural gauge wheels. A first sensor is configured to provide an output signal and a controllable device is coupled to the upper portion and configured to provide an adjustable down force. A dampening device is coupled to the upper portion and configured to provide adjustable dampening of the row unit based on the output signal. 1. A row unit , comprising:a frame comprising an upper portion and a lower portion, the upper portion comprising a parallel linkage, the lower portion coupled to plural gauge wheels;a first sensor configured to provide an output signal;a controllable device coupled to the upper portion and configured to provide an adjustable down force; anda dampening device coupled to the upper portion and configured to provide adjustable dampening of the row unit based on the output signal.2. The row unit of claim 1 , wherein the dampening device comprises a magnetorheological fluid dampener claim 1 , an electrorheological fluid dampener claim 1 , an electrophoretic fluid dampener claim 1 , or an adjustable hydraulic fluid dampener.3. The row unit of claim 1 , wherein the dampening device is disposed adjacent to and separate from the controllable device.4. The row unit of claim 1 , wherein the dampening device is integrally disposed within the controllable device.5. The row unit of claim 1 , wherein the controllable device comprises an air bag.6. The row unit of claim 1 , wherein the first sensor comprises an accelerometer.7. The row unit of claim 1 , wherein the first sensor comprises a position sensor coupled to the controllable device.8. The row unit of claim 1 , further comprising a second sensor claim 1 , wherein based on a signal from the second sensor claim 1 , the controllable device adjusts the down force.9. The row unit of claim 8 , wherein the second sensor comprises a load cell.10. The row unit of claim 1 ...

HEIGHT ADJUSTABLE DAMPING DEVICE

A damping device includes a housing defining a pressure chamber, containing a magnetorheological fluid. A rod is slideably coupled to the housing to adjust a length of the housing. A piston is attached to the rod and disposed within the pressure chamber. The piston is immersed within the magnetorheological fluid, and separates the pressure chamber into a first half and a second half. An electromagnet is disposed in magnetic contact with the magnetorheological fluid, and is operable to apply a magnetic field to the magnetorheological fluid to increase viscosity of the magnetorheological fluid to prevent movement of the rod relative to the housing. The magnetorheological fluid is free to flow through a fluid port in the piston, between a first half and a second half of the pressure chamber, in the absence of the magnetic field from the magnetic source to allow adjustment of the length. 1. A damping device comprising:a first pressure chamber extending along a longitudinal axis and containing a first fluid;a first rod extending along the longitudinal axis and including an interior end disposed within the first pressure chamber, wherein the first rod is moveable along the longitudinal axis relative to the first pressure chamber;a first piston attached to the interior end of the first rod and interacting with the first fluid to dampen movement of the first rod along the longitudinal axis;a second pressure chamber extending along the longitudinal axis and containing a magnetorheological fluid;a second rod extending along the longitudinal axis;a second piston attached to the second rod and interacting with the magnetorheological fluid;an electromagnet disposed in magnetic contact with the magnetorheological fluid, and operable to apply a magnetic field to the magnetorheological fluid in response to an electric current to increase viscosity of the magnetorheological fluid to secure a position of the second piston within the second pressure chamber.2. The damping device set ...

VALVE SWITCHING CONTROLS FOR ADJUSTABLE DAMPER

A damper system for a vehicle includes a shock absorber and a damper module. The shock absorber includes a plurality of digital valves. The shock absorber is operable at one of multiple damping states based on a valve state of the digital valves. The damper module is coupled to each of the digital valves and controls each of the digital valves to a desired state based on a damper setting. The damper module determines a target damping state, where the target state is one of the multiple damping states. The damper module performs a switch operation to control the valve state of the plurality of digital valves to a given desired state when the target damping state is different from a present damping state. 1. A damper system for a vehicle comprising:a shock absorber having a plurality of digital valves, wherein each of the plurality of digital valves is controllable to a first position or to a second position, and the shock absorber is operable at one of multiple damping states based on the plurality of digital valves; anda damper module electrically coupled to each of the digital valves and controlling each of the digital valves to a desired position based on a damper setting received from a master module, the damper module applying an actuation current pulse for switching the digital valve from the first position to the second position, wherein the desired position is either the first position or the second position, the damper module determines a target damping state of the shock absorber based on the damper setting, the target damping state is one of the multiple damping states, and the damper module performs a switch operation to control the plurality of digital valves to a given desired position when the target damping state is different from a present damping state.2. The damper system of wherein the damper module predefines each of the digital valves as either a primary valve or a secondary valve claim 1 , and the digital valve claim 1 , as the secondary valve ...

Proportional directional control valve, and hydraulic circuit and hydropneumatic suspension system having such a valve

The invention relates to a proportional directional control valve for controlling a hydraulic consumer, having a housing with a pressure port, a tank port, and first and second working ports. A control element is movably mounted in the housing. A single actuator is provided for moving the control element, which, in dependence on its position relative to the housing, enables different flow paths between the ports. The control element, starting from a first switching position in which both working ports are connected to the tank port, is movable by the actuator via a second switching position that follows the first switching position, to a third switching position that follows the second switching position. It is possible, by moving the control element from the first switching position into the third switching position, to successively disconnect the two working ports from the tank port and connect them to the pressure port. 1. A proportional directional control valve for controlling a hydraulic consumer , comprising a housing that has a pressure port for feeding pressurized hydraulic fluid from a pressure medium source , a tank port for discharging hydraulic fluid to a reservoir , and a first and a second working port for connecting to the hydraulic consumer , and comprising a control element that is movably held in the housing , and an actuator for moving the control element , the control element , in dependence on its position relative to the housing , enabling different flow paths between the working ports and the pressure port and the tank port , and the flow cross-sections of the flow paths being changeable in a continuously variable manner in dependence on the adjustment travel of the control element , the directional control valve having a single actuator , and the control element , starting from a first switching position in which both working ports are connected to the tank port , being movable by means of the actuator via a second switching position that ...

SUSPENSION DAMPER TEMPERATURE COMPENSATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS

A damper control system includes a controller configured to estimate a temperature of a damper fluid based on data relating to heat added to and heat removed from the fluid. At least one damper is operatively coupled to the controller, and the controller is configured to control a size of a damper flow path of the at least one damper based on the estimated temperature. Methods relate to controlling at least one damper based on an estimated temperature of a damper fluid. 1. A method of controlling a vehicle damper , the method comprising:estimating with a vehicle controller, a temperature of a fluid of the vehicle damper based on data relating to heat added to the fluid and data relating to heat lost from the fluid; andcontrolling a size of at least one fluid flow path of the vehicle damper based on the estimated temperature of the fluid of the vehicle damper.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising transmitting data relating to heat added to the fluid of the vehicle damper to the controller.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein transmitting data relating to heat added to the fluid of the damper comprises transmitting data relating to a speed of the vehicle to the controller.4. The method of claim 2 , wherein transmitting data relating to heat added to the fluid of the vehicle damper comprises transmitting data relating to a wheel height of a wheel of the vehicle.5. The method of claim 4 , wherein transmitting data relating to heat added to the fluid of the vehicle damper comprises transmitting data relating to an amplitude of an oscillation of the wheel height of the vehicle.6. The method of claim 5 , wherein transmitting data relating to heat added to the fluid of the vehicle damper comprises transmitting data relating to a frequency of the oscillation of the wheel height of the vehicle.7. The method of claim 1 , further comprising transmitting data relating to heat lost from the fluid of the vehicle damper to the controller.8. The method of claim 7 , wherein ...

HYBRID FLUID ELASTOMERIC DAMPER

A damper includes a housing that forms a fluidly sealed cavity for receiving a fluid therein. The fluid is configured to change fluid properties as electrical energy is induced. An electrical subsystem provides electrical energy to the fluid, which is monitored with a control subsystem. The method includes inducing the fluid with electrical energy to change the dampening effects of the damper in real time. 1. A system , comprising: a housing; and', 'a dampening device disposed within the housing and configured to dampen forces exerted on the damper;, 'a damper, havinga heater operably associated with the dampening device and configured to provide heat energy to the dampening device; anda control subsystem operably associated with the heater and configured to regulate heat energy to the dampening device.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the dampening device is an elastomeric material.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the dampening device is a piston.4. The system of claim 3 , wherein the piston forms a first fluid chamber and a second fluid chamber; andwherein fluid passages between the first fluid chamber and the second fluid chamber as the piston moves within the housing.5. The system of claim 4 , further comprising:a fluid passage extending through the piston;wherein the passage is configured to channel fluid from the first chamber to the second chamber.6. The system of claim 1 , wherein the dampening device is a piston elastically attached to an inner surface of the housing.7. The system of claim 1 , wherein the dampening device is comprised of:a piston elastically attached to an inner surface of the housing via an elastomeric material; anda first fluid chamber and a second fluid chamber positioned on opposing ends of the piston and in fluid communication with each other via fluid passage.8. The system of claim 1 , wherein the heater is disposed within the housing.9. The system of claim 1 , further comprising:a sensor operably associated with the control ...

ROD GUIDE ARRANGEMENT FOR ELECTRONICALLY CONTROLLED VALVE APPLICATIONS

A shock absorber has a housing with a piston rod assembly disposed therein. A first rod guide member is secured within a first portion of the housing so as to be concentrically disposed about at least a portion of the piston rod assembly. A second rod guide member is secured within the housing adjacent the first rod guide member so as to be concentrically disposed about at least another portion of the piston rod assembly. An electronically controlled valve assembly is disposed within the second rod guide member and is in communication with the first rod guide member. 1. A shock absorber comprising:a housing;a piston rod slidably disposed within said housing;a first rod guide member secured within a first portion of said housing so as to be concentrically disposed about at least a portion of said piston rod;a second rod guide member secured within said housing adjacent said first rod guide member so as to be concentrically disposed about at least another portion of said piston rod; andan electronically controlled valve assembly disposed within said second rod guide member and in communication with said first rod guide member.2. The shock absorber according to claim 1 , wherein said electronically controlled valve assembly includes a plurality of electronically controlled valves.3. The shock absorber according to claim 2 , wherein said plurality of electronically controlled valves are aligned in an axial direction of said piston rod.4. The shock absorber according to claim 1 , wherein said electronically controlled valve assembly comprises:a sleeve;an armature movably disposed within said sleeve; anda coil assembly disposed adjacent said armature.5. The shock absorber according to claim 4 , further comprising a circuit board removably secured within a channel in said first rod guide member claim 4 , said circuit board in communication with said electronically controlled valve assembly for actuating said armature.6. The shock absorber according to claim 1 , further ...