Suspension characteristic control using shape memory alloy materials
US6491291B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 8, 2000 |
| Grant date | Dec 10, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 8, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60G2500/20
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A suspension system includes a SMA suspension component, an actuator and a controller. Altering the mechanical characteristic of the SMA suspension component alters the kinematic properties of the vehicle wheel relative to the vehicle body and the suspension characteristics of the vehicle. In one disclosed embodiment a SMA suspension spring is height adjustable to alter the vehicle handling characteristics. In another disclosed embodiment a SMA suspension component stabilizer bar is shape adjustable. The SMA stabilizer bar is maintained in a first shape to provide a first handling characteristic. To provide a second handling characteristic the SMA stabilizer bar is moved into contact with a fixed vehicle component such as a vehicle frame component. The flexibility of the stabilizer bar is thereby reduced and the vehicle handling characteristics are optimized for a second condition.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.