Variable damping system using a piezoelectric device
US9777792B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 7, 2015 |
| Grant date | Oct 3, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 12, 2036 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16F2224/0291
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A damper assembly includes a housing and rod supported by the housing. A piston assembly is attached to the rod, and is positioned to separate an interior chamber of the housing into a first fluid chamber and a second fluid chamber. The piston assembly includes an annular plate that defines at least one orifice. The orifice interconnects the first fluid chamber and the second fluid chamber in fluid communication. The damper assembly includes a piezoelectric device that is moveable between a disengaged position and an engaged position, in response to a control signal. When disposed in the disengaged position, the piezoelectric device does not affect fluid flow through the at least one orifice. When disposed in the engaged position, the piezoelectric device does affect fluid flow through the at least one orifice, to adjust a damping rate of the piston assembly.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.