Dual mode suspension damper controlled by magnetostrictive element
US6422360B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 28, 2001 |
| Grant date | Jul 23, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 28, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16F2224/0283
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Parallel paths for damping fluid are provided through the piston of a suspension damper, each of which are provided with separate damping valving sets to control damping. Communication through one of the paths is controlled by a movable control valve member, which is controlled by a magnetostrictive element which deforms in response to application of a magnetic field. The control valve member is moved between active and inactive positions in response to changes in a magnetic field applied by a coil mounted within the damper piston. In one position, all communication of damping fluid is through one of the damping valve sets, while in the other positon damping fluid communicates through both valve sets. Accordingly, damping levels may be varied by controlling the magnetic field.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.