Controllable magneto-rheological fluid devices for motion-damping
US7364022B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 4, 2005 |
| Grant date | Apr 29, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 3, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16F9/537
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Variably controllable motion-damping devices are disclosed that utilize a magneto-rheological fluid (MRF). One configuration of such a device includes a first valving region and a second valving region connected to the first valving region. Between the first and second valving regions is a plate having a first surface adjacent the first valving region and a second surface adjacent the second valving region. At least one of the first and second surfaces is treated to impart a significantly increased shear yield stress to columnized MRF particles passing over the surface, compared to an otherwise similar untreated surface. An MRF is contained in the first and second valving regions such that the MRF can flow through the first and second valving regions. Motion of a first object relative to a second object is damped by causing flow of MRF through the first and second valving regions. A magnet produces a magnetic field within at least one of the valving regions. MRF flow is constrained by the magnetic field and the treated surface sufficiently to damp the relative motion.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.