WO2019203672A2 - Dispositif de suspension pneumatique et système de suspension pneumatique - Google Patents

Dispositif de suspension pneumatique et système de suspension pneumatique Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2019203672A2
WO2019203672A2 PCT/QA2018/050002 QA2018050002W WO2019203672A2 WO 2019203672 A2 WO2019203672 A2 WO 2019203672A2 QA 2018050002 W QA2018050002 W QA 2018050002W WO 2019203672 A2 WO2019203672 A2 WO 2019203672A2
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
air
interface
icd
suspension
suspension device
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/QA2018/050002
Other languages
English (en)
Other versions
WO2019203672A3 (fr
Inventor
Abdulla Mohammed AL-NAIMI
Mousa ABUHELAIQA
Ibraheam AL-AALI
Issa AL-SULAITI
Original Assignee
Al Naimi Abdulla Mohammed
Abuhelaiqa Mousa
Al Aali Ibraheam
Al Sulaiti Issa
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Al Naimi Abdulla Mohammed, Abuhelaiqa Mousa, Al Aali Ibraheam, Al Sulaiti Issa filed Critical Al Naimi Abdulla Mohammed
Priority to PCT/QA2018/050002 priority Critical patent/WO2019203672A2/fr
Publication of WO2019203672A2 publication Critical patent/WO2019203672A2/fr
Publication of WO2019203672A3 publication Critical patent/WO2019203672A3/fr

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
    • B60G3/00—Resilient suspensions for a single wheel
    • B60G3/18—Resilient suspensions for a single wheel with two or more pivoted arms, e.g. parallelogram
    • B60G3/20—Resilient suspensions for a single wheel with two or more pivoted arms, e.g. parallelogram all arms being rigid
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
    • B60G11/00—Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location or kind of springs
    • B60G11/26—Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location or kind of springs having fluid springs only, e.g. hydropneumatic springs
    • B60G11/27—Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location or kind of springs having fluid springs only, e.g. hydropneumatic springs wherein the fluid is a gas
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
    • B60G2200/00—Indexing codes relating to suspension types
    • B60G2200/10—Independent suspensions
    • B60G2200/14—Independent suspensions with lateral arms
    • B60G2200/144—Independent suspensions with lateral arms with two lateral arms forming a parallelogram
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
    • B60G2202/00—Indexing codes relating to the type of spring, damper or actuator
    • B60G2202/20—Type of damper
    • B60G2202/21—Type of damper with two dampers per wheel, arranged before and after the wheel axis
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
    • B60G2204/00—Indexing codes related to suspensions per se or to auxiliary parts
    • B60G2204/10—Mounting of suspension elements
    • B60G2204/12—Mounting of springs or dampers
    • B60G2204/126—Mounting of pneumatic springs
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
    • B60G2204/00—Indexing codes related to suspensions per se or to auxiliary parts
    • B60G2204/40—Auxiliary suspension parts; Adjustment of suspensions
    • B60G2204/421—Pivoted lever mechanisms for mounting suspension elements, e.g. Watt linkage
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
    • B60G2204/00—Indexing codes related to suspensions per se or to auxiliary parts
    • B60G2204/40—Auxiliary suspension parts; Adjustment of suspensions
    • B60G2204/424—Mechanisms for force adjustment, e.g. constant force mechanisms
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
    • B60G2300/00—Indexing codes relating to the type of vehicle
    • B60G2300/04—Trailers
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
    • B60G2400/00—Indexing codes relating to detected, measured or calculated conditions or factors
    • B60G2400/25—Stroke; Height; Displacement
    • B60G2400/252—Stroke; Height; Displacement vertical
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
    • B60G2401/00—Indexing codes relating to the type of sensors based on the principle of their operation
    • B60G2401/17—Magnetic/Electromagnetic
    • B60G2401/176—Radio or audio sensitive means, e.g. Ultrasonic
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
    • B60G2500/00—Indexing codes relating to the regulated action or device
    • B60G2500/30—Height or ground clearance

Definitions

  • the present disclosure generally relates to a suspension system mounted on a vehicle such as an automobile, car, truck, bus, caravan and the like, and preferably used for absorbing a vibration of the vehicle.
  • a majority of conventional air suspension systems include an air spring and a shock absorber.
  • the shock absorber is mounted at an angle with respect to the air spring and the angle between the shock absorber and the air spring might render an insufficient damping efficiency of the air suspension systems.
  • air suspension systems are relatively expensive and complex to fix and maintain. Accordingly, there is a need for an improved air suspension device and air suspension system for a vehicle with simple and compact configuration that allows for superb ride quality, height correction, and easy control.
  • the present disclosure generally relates to an air suspension device, system and method for a vehicle such as an automobile, car, truck, bus, caravan and the like.
  • a vehicle such as an automobile, car, truck, bus, caravan and the like.
  • the present air suspension device and system uses an air pump or compressor to pump air into a flexible bellows and utilizes a lever mechanism to raise the chassis of the vehicle to provide a smooth and constant ride.
  • an example embodiment of an air suspension device includes a suspension support, an air bellows provided on a surface of the suspension support, a shock absorber connected with the suspension support, a plurality of arms that are parallel with each other and are connected between the suspension support and a knuckle, and an air cylinder connected between the suspension support and the knuckle.
  • the air cylinder is parallel to the arms.
  • an example embodiment of an air suspension system includes an air supply apparatus, a control circuit and an air suspension device.
  • the air suspension device includes a suspension support, an air bellows provided on a surface of the suspension support, a shock absorber connected with the suspension support, a plurality of arms that are parallel with each other and are connected between the suspension support and a knuckle, and an air cylinder connected between the suspension support and the knuckle.
  • the air cylinder is parallel to the arms.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a caravan including an air suspension device according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure
  • FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a lever mechanism according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure
  • FIG. 3 is a schematic view of an air suspension device according to a non limiting embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • FIGS. 4A-4C illustrate a side view (FIG. 4A), a front view (FIG. 4B) and a top view (FIG. 4C) of an air suspension device according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure
  • FIGS. 5A-5D illustrate a top view (FIG. 5A), a front view (FIG. 5B), a bottom view (FIG. 5C) and a side view (FIG. 5D) of an air suspension device according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure
  • FIGS. 6A-6C illustrate a perspective view of an air suspension device in accordance with a non-limiting embodiment according to the present disclosure in an access height setting (FIG. 6A), ride height setting (FIG. 6B) and extended height setting (FIG. 6C);
  • FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of an air supply apparatus according to the present disclosure
  • FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a non- limiting embodiment of an electronic control circuit coupled with height sensors and ultrasonic sensors according to the present disclosure
  • FIG. 9 is a flow chart of a computer program according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • FIGS. 10A-10C are perspective views of interfaces according to a non limiting embodiment of an air suspension device according to the present disclosure.
  • FIGS. 11A-11B are perspective views of interfaces according to a non limiting embodiment of an air supply apparatus according to the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 12 is a perspective view of interfaces according to a non-limiting embodiment of an electronic control circuit coupled with height sensors and ultrasonic sensors according to the present disclosure
  • FIGS. 13A-13C illustrate a top view (FIG. 13A), a front view (FIG. 13B) and a side view (FIG. 13C) of an air suspension device in an access height setting according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure
  • FIGS. 14A-14C illustrate a top view (FIG. 14A), a front view (FIG. 14B) and a side view (FIG. 14C) of an air suspension device in a ride height setting according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure
  • FIGS. 15A-15C illustrate a top view (FIG. 15A), a front view (FIG. 15B) and a side view (FIG. 15C) of an air suspension device in an extended height setting according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • the present disclosure generally relates to an air suspension device, system, and method for a vehicle.
  • the air suspension device, system, and method are configured to provide sufficient damping efficiency to absorb and dampen vibrations and impact forces from a vehicle, easier height correction of the vehicle and accessibility to off-road in rocky terrains, and to carry a great amount of load of the vehicle.
  • the terms “mounted,” “connected” and “coupled” are used broadly and encompass both direct and indirect mounting, connecting and coupling. Further,“connected” and“coupled” are not restricted to physical or mechanical connections or couplings, and can include electrical connections or couplings, whether direct or indirect. Also, electronic communications and notifications may be performed using any known means including direct connections, wireless connections, etc.
  • the present disclosure is generally related to an air suspension device and an air suspension system for vehicles, such as gasoline vehicles, diesel vehicles, or electric vehicles including small size passenger cars, trucks, buses, caravans, and the like.
  • One of objective of the present disclosure is to provide an axle-less air suspension system for a luxurious caravan to asset its road comfort and accessibility.
  • the present air suspension device, system and method uses pressurized air that allows for superb ride, accurate height correction and easy control.
  • An air suspension device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is mounted on a chassis of a caravan 001 as shown in Fig 1.
  • the caravan is a multipurpose, comfortable means of transportation that provides a space for sleeping, cooking and other living necessities.
  • FIG. 2 a schematic view of a lever mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.
  • This lever mechanism could be explained by the concept of similar triangles where a pivoted lever acts as a sloping line for two triangles. Since the angle of deflection about the pivot Q, is maintained for both triangles when the air bellow is inflated, the air bellow travel length is amplified by a factor of ⁇ Vi?2.
  • the required total travel length for example 16 inches clearance height from the ground could be achieved using lower air bellows stroke length. This minimizes the air bellows’ stroke length in exchange for a higher load capacity.
  • the air suspension device 100 may generally include an air bellows 101 , a suspension support 102, a shock absorber 103, a few levers or arms 104, an air cylinder 105, a knuckle 106 and a spindle 107 coupled to a wheel hub 113.
  • the air bellows 101 provides stiffness to the air suspension device 100 as well as actuate change in height of the vehicle.
  • the air bellows 101 may include a rubber bag containing pressurized air, and supplying air to the air bellows 101 should result in an increased height.
  • the suspension support (bellows support) 102 is configured to hold one or more air bellows 101 and connect the entire air suspension device 100 to a chassis of the vehicle.
  • the suspension support 102 may include six or more columns to connect with the chassis of the vehicle.
  • the levers or arms 104 are parallel to each other and are connected with between the knuckle 106 and the suspension support 102.
  • the air cylinder 105 is provided along the levers or arms 104 and is connected between the suspension support 102 and the knuckle 106.
  • the air cylinder 105 may also be parallel to the levers or arms 104 and has a 7 inches stroke according to an embodiment.
  • Two or more shock absorbers 103 are provided on the suspension support 102 and are connected between the suspension support 102 and the air bellows 101.
  • the knuckle 106 is connected with a wheel 108 via a spindle 107.
  • FIG. 4A-4C a side view, a front view and a top view of an air suspension device in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.
  • At least two air bellows 101 are provided on a surface 109 of a suspension support 102.
  • the suspension support 102 is configured to be connected with a chassis of a vehicle such as a caravan via columns provided along the edges or on part of the suspension support 102.
  • the suspension support 102 includes an arm 111 on a side of the suspension support 102 which is close to the wheel hub 113.
  • the arm 111 is vertical to the surface 109 of the suspension support 102 where the air bellows 101 is provided on.
  • the arm 111 of the suspension support 102 has a pivot.
  • At least two levers or arms 104 are parallel to each other and are provided between the knuckle 106 and the suspension support 102 at one side close to a wheel.
  • the two levers or arms 104 connect the knuckle 106 and the arm 111 of the suspension support, and are configured to rotate around the pivot of the arm 111 of the suspension support 102.
  • An air cylinder 105 is provided between the two levers or arms 104 and connects the knuckle 106 and the arm 111 of the suspension support.
  • the air cylinder is configured to constrain the wheels 108 from moving laterally. This is because the lateral length of the levers or arms 104 decreases with height, if left unconstrained, the wheels 108 would move laterally with changes in height.
  • the levers or arms 104 are configured to constrain the wheels 108 to move only on the vertical direction, and thus preventing them from rotating and cambering.
  • At least a pair of shock absorbers 103 is provided corresponding to the air bellows 101.
  • One end of the shock absorbers 103 is connected to the suspension support 102, and another end of the shock absorbers 103 is connected to the air bellows 101 via an interface component 112 provided on a surface of the air bellows.
  • the material for making the air suspension device may include metal, alloy and AISI Steel 1045, Cold Drawn which is commonly used in air suspension systems.
  • the AISI Steel 1045 material has a desired high yield point of >500 MPa.
  • For welding which is needed in various part of the suspension support, it may need low hydrogen electrodes, pre-heat to 200- 300°C and maintain during welding and allow the weld to cool slowly in sand according to an embodiment.
  • the air suspension device 100 as illustrated in Figs. 4A-4C provides a mean to sufficiently dampen vibrations and impact forces and actuate change in height for a vehicle such as a caravan.
  • the air suspension device 100 is configured to carry the weight of the trailer, keep tires in contact with the ground by absorbing and damping vibrations and impact forces, provide a comfortable ride by isolating the road profile from the caravan by reducing the impact force and vibrations and control trailer height. More specifically, the air suspension device 100 is configured to carry a weight of 3,500 lbs.
  • trailer height allows for the adjustment of trailer height from 8” (inches) to 24” (inches) above the ground based on a 14” (inches) wheel, be powered by a 12 volt battery, be attached to a trailer frame by simple bolt attachment, meet caravan industry requirement for both electric and manual breaking systems, be capable of handling both on and off road stresses (4 times static load; ⁇ 75% yield strength), and be able to withstand temperatures ranging from - 35 °C to 60°C.
  • the trailer height is adjustable to three different levels such as access height 8”, extended height being 24” above the ground and ride hide approximately in the middle -16”.
  • an air bellows (Goodyear 1B 15-375 Air Bellows) manufactured by Goodyear is used in the air suspension device.
  • the air bellows provides the stiffness to absorb and isolate the road noises.
  • the specification of the air bellows is summarized in Table 1.
  • Shock absorbers are capable of adjusting a damping force between a vehicle body and each wheel and provide the damping needed to dissipate energy absorbed by the air bellows into primarily thermal energy by the use of viscous fluid or gas.
  • the shock absorbers are selected from a shock absorber manufacture, Monroe. Table 2 shows the specifications of the shock absorbers used in the air suspension device according to an embodiment.
  • Air cylinder is a pneumatic system that uses air as working fluid. The supply of air to the air cylinder results in extending the rod. The air cylinder is configured to control the travel of the parallel arms. The air cylinder is selected from a vendor, Velvac according to an embodiment. Table 3 shows the specifications of the air cylinder.
  • a spindle is used to carry a wheel hub to allow the tires rotate independently without rotating the entire air suspension system.
  • Table 4 shows the specification of the spindle according to an embodiment.
  • a wheel hub is an interface between the air suspension device and the wheels.
  • the wheel hub carries the load from the vehicle to the ground and carries the ground disturbances back to the vehicle.
  • the wheel hub is selected from AL-KO, a vendor based in North America and experienced in caravan parts. Table 5 shows the specification of the wheel hub.
  • the wheel hub may include an embedded brake dram according to an embodiment.
  • FIGs. 5A-5D a top view, a front view, a bottom view and a side view of an air suspension device in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.
  • the air suspension device 200 as shown in Figs. 5A-5D includes an air bellows 201 corresponding to one side of wheels.
  • the number of the air bellows 201 is not limited to one, the air suspension device 200 according to an embodiment may include two or more air bellows 201 on each side of the wheels.
  • the air bellows 201 is provided on a surface 209 of a suspension support 202.
  • the suspension support 202 is configured to be detachably connected to a chassis of a vehicle such as a caravan.
  • the suspension support may connect with the chassis of the vehicle via six columns 210, but the number of the columns 210 is not limited to six, it can be more than six columns or less than six columns without diminishing its intended advantages.
  • the suspension support 202 further includes two arms 211 on a side facing to a wheel. The two arms 211 are vertical or perpendicular to the surface 209 of the suspension support 202 where the air bellows 201 is provided on.
  • the air suspension device 200 includes at least two shock absorbers 203 at one side of the air suspension device.
  • the two shock absorbers 203 each are provided on the arms 211 of the suspension support 202 and are vertical to the surface 209 of the suspension support 202 as well.
  • the shock absorbers 203 are placed in vertical direction with respect to the surface 209 of the suspension support 202. This vertical arrangement of the shock absorbers 203 significantly improves the damping efficiency of the shock absorbers from 60% to 100% and hence allow for better off-road capability as well as softer ride.
  • the number of shock absorbers is not limited to two. Any number of the shock absorbers 203 used in the air suspension device 200 is possible without diminishing its intended advantages.
  • the air suspension device 200 may have more than two shock absorbers 203 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • An air bellows interface part 212 having a bellows pivot 214 as shown in Fig. 5 A is provided on a top surface of the air bellows 201.
  • the shock absorbers 203 are connected with the air bellows interface part 212 via a shock rod 215.
  • the shock rod 215 has a U shape according to an embodiment. Flowever, other shapes such as a circular shape, square shape and rectangular shape are applicable according some embodiments of the present disclosure.
  • the air suspension device 200 further includes a plurality of control arms 204 according to an embodiment as illustrated in Figs. 5A-5D.
  • the control arms 204 include two upper control arms 220 and two lower control arms 221.
  • the two upper control arms 220 further include two upper outer control arms 216 and two upper inner control arms 217.
  • the two upper inner control arms 217 are configured to be assembled with the two upper outer control arms 216, respectively.
  • the lower control arms 221 further include two lower outer control arms 218 and two lower inner control arms 219.
  • the two lower inner control arms 219 are also configured to be assembled with the two lower outer control arms 218, respectively.
  • the control arms 204 are parallel with each other.
  • the control arms 204 may have more than two upper control arms 220 and two lower control arms 221.
  • the air suspension device 200 further includes a plurality of air cylinders
  • one air cylinder 205 may be provided between the two upper control arms 220 and is in parallel with the two upper control arms 220.
  • Another air cylinder 220 may be provided between the two lower control arms 221 and is in parallel with the two lower control arms 221.
  • more than two air cylinders 205 may be provided to sufficiently constrain the air suspension device 200 to move only in a vertical direction.
  • the air suspension device 200 includes a knuckle 206 and a spindle 207.
  • the knuckle 206 is configured to house the spindle 207 and transfer the load from the vehicle to the spindle 207 and a wheel hub 213.
  • the control arms 204 are connected to the knuckle
  • the wheel hub 213 is provided to couple with the spindle 207 to allow the wheels to rotate freely without rotating the entire air suspension system as well as to carry the load of the vehicle to the road and the road disturbances to the vehicle and the air suspension system.
  • a height sensor 222 is provided to the air suspension device 200.
  • the height sensor 222 is configured to sense the air bellows height to check and correct ride height of the air suspension device 200.
  • the height sensor is provided on the surface 209 of the suspension support 202 or over the air bellows interface part 212.
  • the height sensor 222 can be provided at any part of the air suspension device to measure the height of the air bellows without diminishing its intended advantages.
  • a height sensor 223 is provided to the air suspension device 200.
  • the ultrasonic sensor 223 is configured to use sound waves above the upper limit of human hearings to sense objects.
  • the ultrasonic sensor 223 is used to detect obstruction underneath a caravan body that might cause damage when the air suspension device 200 is in an access height mode.
  • the ultrasonic sensors 223 can also be used to measure the extension of air cylinders 205 and feed back to an electronic control circuit.
  • the ultrasonic sensor 223 is provided on a part close to the air cylinders 205.
  • the ultrasonic sensor 223 can be provided at any part of the air suspension device 200 to measure the extensions of the air cylinders 205 without diminishing its intended advantages.
  • FIG. 6A is a perspective view of an air suspension device 200 with an access height setting.
  • the access height is 8 inches clearance from the ground.
  • Fig. 6B is a perspective view with a ride height setting.
  • the access height is 16 inches clearance from the ground.
  • Fig. 6C is a perspective view with an extended height setting.
  • the extended height is 24 inches clearance from the ground.
  • the control arms 204 and air cylinders 205 change in length in responding to the changes of the height of the air suspension device 200 as illustrated in Figs. 6A-6C.
  • the air suspension system may include an air suspension device as described herein, an air supply apparatus 300 and an electronic control circuit 400.
  • an air supply apparatus 300 is illustrated in Fig. 7.
  • the air supply apparatus 300 may be provided on board to a vehicle or be detachable from the vehicle.
  • the vehicle may include a car, a truck, a bus, a caravan or the like.
  • the air supply apparatus is configured to supply air to the air suspension device as described herein.
  • the air supply apparatus may include an air compressor 301, an air filter and dryer 302, an air tank 303, a pressure switch 304, a solenoid valve 305 and a shut-off valve 306 according to an embodiment.
  • the air compressor is an air supplier in the air supply apparatus.
  • the air compressor 301 takes air from the environment, compresses it and supplies it to the air suspension device.
  • the air compressor 301 is configured to supply air to two air bellows (307-308) and four air cylinders (309-312). It should be appreciated and understood that the air compressor 301 may supply air to more than two air bellows and four air cylinders according to another embodiment.
  • the air filter and dryer 302 is provided to remove dirty and moist air from entering the air supply apparatus 300 and elongate the service life of the air supply apparatus 300.
  • the air tank 303 is configured to store a large volume of air and to increase height actuation speed of the air suspension device.
  • the air tank 303 may be couple with a pressure switch 304 according to an embodiment to allow the pressure switch 304 to detect whether the pressure of the air tank have dropped lower than a preset threshold.
  • the solenoid valve 305 is configured to allow the air supply apparatus 300 to be controlled electronically via an electronic control circuit 400.
  • the shut-off valve 305 is used to control and direct the flow of air.
  • the shut-off valve can be controlled by the electronic control circuit 400 to shut off the air supply to the air suspension device including air bellows and air cylinders according to an embodiment.
  • an air compressor Viair 480C Air Compressor manufactured by Viair is used in the air supply apparatus.
  • the air compressor is used to supply air to the air bellows and air cylinders to actuate change of height of the air suspension device.
  • a single or multiple air compressors may be used to supply air to two air bellows and four air cylinders simultaneously according to an embodiment.
  • the specification of the air compressor is summarized in Table 6.
  • An air compressor mount is provided to mount the air compressor on the suspension support to avoid movements or vibrations that may damage the air compressor.
  • the air compressor mount is selected from a manufacture, AccuAir. Table 8 shows the specification of the air compressor mount according to an embodiment.
  • Air compressor mount specification [0052] Air compressor power supply accessories are provided to interface the air compressor with a battery and to protect the air compressor from current surge.
  • the air compressor power supply accessories may include an air compressor relay, relay cable and fuse.
  • the specifications of the air compressor relay, relay cable and fuse are shown in Tables 8, 9 and 10 respectively according to an embodiment.
  • an air suspension system it may be difficult to control an air suspension system using an ECU or a processor.
  • An air tank coupled with a pressure switch is used to control the air compressor.
  • the pressure switch closes when the pressure in the air tank falls below or goes above a threshold.
  • the air tank is selected from a manufacture, AccuAir. Table 11 shows the specification of the air tank according to an embodiment.
  • the pressure switch is selected from a manufacture, Viair.
  • Table 12 shows the specification of the pressure switch according to an embodiment.
  • An air filter and dryer is selected from a manufacture, Le-Man. Table 13 shows the specification of the air filter and dryer according to an embodiment.
  • a solenoid valve is a valve configured to regulate the flow of fluid in the air supply apparatus.
  • the solenoid valve is configured to control the flow of air to and from the air bellows and air cylinders of the air suspension device.
  • the solenoid valve is selected from a manufacture, AccuAir according to an embodiment.
  • the solenoid valve is built entirely using corrosion resistance material, stainless steel.
  • the solenoid valve architecture maximizes flow rates, provides tight sealing, and guarantees operation up to 200 PSI for millions of cycles.
  • Table 14 shows the specification of a solenoid valve according to an embodiment.
  • Table 15 shows the specification of a solenoid valve according to another embodiment.
  • a muffler may be provided in the air supply apparatus.
  • the muffler is selected from a manufacture, AccuAir according to an embodiment. Table 16 shows the specification of the muffler.
  • a shut-off valve is used as a safety and reliably enhance to stop the flow in case of a failure in level control in an embodiment.
  • the shut-off valve is configured to be actuated by energizing a solenoid coil.
  • the shut-off valve is configured to stop the flow of air from escaping from the air bellows which can lead to catastrophic failure in case of a failure in the solenoid valve.
  • a shut-off valve is selected from a manufacture Granzow Inc. Table 17 shows the specification of the muffler.
  • air tubes are used in order to transport air between the components in the air supply apparatus and the air suspension device.
  • air tubes with a maximum operating pressure larger than 200 PSI and an operating temperature range from -35°C to 60°C are preferred.
  • Tube fittings and adhesive are also used to provide a good connection between the air tubes and threaded ports of the air supply apparatus and air suspension device. Tube fittings with a maximum operating pressure larger than 200 PSI and an operating temperature range from -35°C to 60°C are preferred according to an embodiment.
  • an electronic control circuit is provided.
  • the electronic control circuit 400 is illustrated in Fig. 8.
  • the electronic control circuit 400 may include one ore more physical processors (e.g., CPU) 401 communicatively coupled to memory, a solderless breadboard 402, transistors, switches, resistors and LED indicators.
  • the transistors are configured to allow the electronic control circuit 400 to control power supply from high current source and control the valves of the air supply apparatus.
  • the switches are configured to control the shut-off valve to prevent air leakage from the air bellows and keep the air in the air bellows.
  • Passive circuit elements such as input switches, resistors and LED indicators are used to receive input from the user and provide feedback on error massages as well as current height setting.
  • the memory may include a volatile or non-volatile memory device, such as RAM, ROM, EEPROM, or any other device capable of storing data.
  • FIG. 9 illustrates a flow diagram of an example method for controlling the air supply apparatus.
  • processing logic may include hardware (circuitry, dedicated logic, etc.), software, or a combination of both.
  • the process begins with define and set variable (block 902). Then, the program may indicate user to initiate infinite loop (block 904). If at block 905, 5 minutes has elapsed since the process started, the program will confirm if set height of the air suspension device is equal to actual height (within tolerance range for ⁇ 0.4” error). If the answer is yes at block 909, the program will ask for user input at block 906 and if the answer is yes at block 906, the program will indicate the value of user input at block 908 and loops back to block 909. If the answer is no at block 909, the program will ask input by user at block 910.
  • the program confirms if 15 minutes has elapsed after the process started. If the answer at block 907 is no, the program loops back to block 904. If the answer at block 907 is yes, the program will confirm if k>3 at block 933. If the answer at block 933 is yes, the program activate shut-off valve in the air supply apparatus at block 934 and give user indication at block 935, then the program operation is complete (block 936). If the answer at block 933 is no, the program loops back to block 904 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • an electronic control circuit is configured to be connected with a height sensor and an ultrasonic sensor.
  • the height sensor is configured to sense the air bellows height to check and correct ride height of the air suspension device.
  • the height sensor is provided on a surface of the suspension support or over the air bellows’ support.
  • the height sensor can be provided at any part of the air suspension device to measure the height of the air bellows without diminishing its intended advantages.
  • the height sensor is selected from a manufacturer, Sharp. Table 18 shows the specification of the height sensor.
  • the ultrasonic sensor is configured to use sound waves above the upper limit of human hearings to sense objects.
  • the ultrasonic sensor is used to detect obstruction underneath a caravan body that might cause damage when the suspension device is in an access height mode.
  • the ultrasonic sensors can also be used to measure the extension of air cylinders and feed back to the electronic control circuit.
  • the ultrasonic sensor is provided on a part close to the air cylinders.
  • the ultrasonic sensor can be provided at any part of the air suspension device to measure the extensions of the air cylinders without diminishing its intended advantages.
  • the ultrasonic sensor in an embodiment is selected from a manufacturer, Parallax. Table 19 shows the specification of the ultrasonic sensor.
  • the electronic control circuit may include a programmable circuit manufactured by Engineering Part 21, 2014, a programmable circuit manufactured by Engineering Part 21, 2014, a programmable circuit manufactured by Engineering Part 21, 2014, a programmable circuit manufactured by Engineering Part 15, 2019, 2018, a programmable circuit manufactured by Engineering Part 15, 2019, a programmable circuit manufactured by Engineering Part 15, 2019, a programmable circuit manufactured by Engineering Part 15, 2019, a programmable circuit manufactured by Engineering Part 15, 2019, a programmable circuit, etc.
  • Transistors used in the electronic control circuit are configured to control high current rated power supply such as marine battery.
  • transistors are obtained from a manufacturer ON semiconductor. Table 21 shows the specification of the transistors. Table 21 : Transistor specification
  • the electronic control circuit may also include a solderless breadboard configured to accommodate the electronics such as the transistors, input buttons, switches, LED indicators.
  • FIGs. 10A-10C illustrate air suspension device interfaces according to an embodiment.
  • ICD-001 is an interface between the supporting columns and the body of the caravan.
  • Table 22 shows details of the interface ICD-001.
  • ICD-002 is an interface between the air bellows and bellows support.
  • ICD-003 is an interface between the air bellows and bellows pivot.
  • Table 24 shows details of the interface ICD-003.
  • ICD-004 is an interface between the shock absorber and bellows pivot.
  • Table 25 shows details of the interface ICD-004.
  • ICD-005 is an interface between the control arm pivot and the shock absorber. Table 26 shows details of the interface ICD-005.
  • ICD-006 is an interface between the height sensor and the bellows support.
  • Table 27 shows details of the interface ICD-006.
  • ICD-007 is an interface between control arm pivot and the bellows support.
  • Table 28 shows details of the interface ICD-007.
  • ICD-008 is an interface between air cylinders and an air cylinder bracket.
  • Table 29 shows details of the interface ICD-008.
  • ICD-009 is an interface between the air cylinder bracket and an ultrasonic sensor. Table 30 shows details of the interface ICD-009.
  • ICD-010 is an interface between the upper outer control arm and the air cylinder. Table 31 shows details of the interface ICD-010.
  • ICD-011 is an interface between the upper inner control arm and the air cylinder. Table 32 shows details of the interface ICD-011.
  • ICD-012 is an interface between the upper inner control arm and the air cylinder. Table 33 shows details of the interface ICD-012.
  • ICD-013 is an interface between the lower inner control arm and the air cylinder.
  • Table 34 shows details of the interface ICD-013.
  • ICD-014 is an interface between the upper outer control arm and the air bellows pivot. Table 35 shows details of the interface ICD-014.
  • ICD-015 is an interface between the upper outer control arm and control arm pivot. Table 36 shows details of the interface ICD-015.
  • ICD-016 is an interface between the upper inner control arm and control arm pivot. Table 37 shows details of the interface ICD-016.
  • ICD-017 is an interface between the lower outer control arm and control arm pivot.
  • Table 38 shows details of the interface ICD-017.
  • ICD-018 is an interface between the lower inner control arm and the knuckle. Table 39 shows details of the interface ICD-018.
  • ICD-019 is an interface between the upper outer control arm and the upper inner control arm.
  • Table 40 shows details of the interface ICD-019.
  • ICD-020 is an interface between the upper outer control arm and the upper inner control arm.
  • Table 41 shows details of the interface ICD-020.
  • Table 41 ICD-020 interface
  • ICD-021 is an interface between the knuckle and the spindle.
  • Table 42 shows details of the interface ICD-021.
  • ICD-022 is an interface between the spindle and the wheel hub.
  • Table 43 shows details of the interface ICD-022.
  • ICD-023 is an interface between the wheel hub and rim. Table 44 shows details of the interface ICD-023. Table 44: ICD-023 interface
  • FIGs. 11A and 11B illustrate air supply apparatus interfaces according to an embodiment.
  • ICD-024 is an interface between an air supply box and a caravan chassis according to an embodiment.
  • Table 45 shows details of the interface ICD-024.
  • ICD-025 is an interface between the air filter and dryer to fittings according to an embodiment.
  • Table 46 shows details of the interface ICD-025.
  • ICD-026 is an interface between the air compressor and compressor mount to air supply box according to an embodiment.
  • Table 47 shows details of the interface ICD- 026.
  • ICD-027 is an interface between the air compressor to relay according to an embodiment.
  • Table 48 shows details of the interface ICD-026.
  • ICD-028 is an interface between the pressure switch and the air compressor according to an embodiment.
  • Table 49 shows details of the interface ICD-028.
  • ICD-029 is an interface between the air compressor and the power supply according to an embodiment.
  • Table 50 shows details of the interface ICD-029.
  • ICD-030 is an interface between the air tank and supply air box according to an embodiment.
  • Table 51 shows details of the interface ICD-030.
  • ICD-031 is an interface between the fittings and the air tank according to an embodiment.
  • Table 52 shows details of the interface ICD-031.
  • ICD-032 is an interface between the plugs and the air tank according to an embodiment.
  • Table 53 shows details of the interface ICD-032.
  • ICD-033 is an interface between the pressure switch and the air tank according to an embodiment.
  • Table 54 shows details of the interface ICD-033.
  • Table 54 ICD-033 interface
  • ICD-034 is an interface between the solenoid valve VU4 and the air supply box according to an embodiment.
  • Table 55 shows details of the interface ICD-034.
  • ICD-035 is an interface between the mufflers and the solenoid valve VU4 according to an embodiment.
  • Table 56 shows details of the interface ICD-035.
  • ICD-036 is an interface between the solenoid valve VU2 and the air supply box according to an embodiment.
  • Table 57 shows details of the interface ICD-036.
  • ICD-037 is an interface between the solenoid valve VU2 and the fitting according to an embodiment.
  • Table 58 shows details of the interface ICD-037.
  • ICD-038 is an interface between the solenoid valve VU2 and the mufflers according to an embodiment. Table 59 shows details of the interface ICD-038.
  • ICD-039 is an interface between the fitting and the shut-off valve according to an embodiment.
  • Table 60 shows details of the interface ICD-039.
  • ICD-040 is an interface between the shut-off valve and the supply air box according to an embodiment.
  • Table 61 shows details of the interface ICD-040.
  • Table 61 ICD-040 interface
  • ICD-041 is an interface between the air bellows and the fittings according to an embodiment.
  • Table 62 shows details of the interface ICD-041.
  • ICD-042 is an interface between the fittings and the air cylinders according to an embodiment.
  • Table 63 shows details of the interface ICD-042.
  • Figs. 12 illustrates electronic control circuit (unit) and sensory interfaces according to an embodiment.
  • ICD-043 is an interface between the electronic control unit and ultrasonic sensors according to an embodiment.
  • Table 64 shows details of the interface ICD-
  • ICD-044 is an interface between the electronic control unit and height sensors according to an embodiment.
  • Table 65 shows details of the interface ICD-044.
  • ICD-045 is an interface between the electronic control unit and switches according to an embodiment.
  • Table 66 shows details of the interface ICD-045.
  • ICD-046 is an interface between the electronic control unit and input buttons according to an embodiment.
  • Table 67 shows details of the interface ICD-046.
  • ICD-047 is an interface between the electronic control unit and LED indicators according to an embodiment.
  • Table 68 shows details of the interface ICD-047.
  • ICD-048 is an interface between the electronic control unit and the solenoid valve VU4 according to an embodiment.
  • Table 69 shows details of the interface ICD-048.
  • ICD-049 is an interface between the electronic control unit and the solenoid valve VU2 according to an embodiment.
  • Table 70 shows details of the interface ICD-049.
  • ICD-050 is an interface between the electronic control unit and the shut-off valve according to an embodiment.
  • Table 71 shows details of the interface ICD-050.
  • Figs. 13A-13C illustrate an air suspension device 500 coupled with a caravan in an access height setting according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • the air suspension device 500 may include similar mechanical structures as described herein, and the dimensions of the air suspension device 500 are shown in Figs. 13A-13C as a non limiting example.
  • the air suspension device 500 may have an 18.9 inches width and 40 inches length.
  • the height of the air suspension device 500 is variable and dependent on the settings including an access height setting, a ride height setting and an extended height setting based on the user’s input. For example, when the air bellows 501 is inflated with a height of 2.3 inches, the air suspension device 500 may allow an 8 inches height clearance from the caravan chassis to the ground level as shown in Fig. 13C.
  • Figs. 14A-14C illustrate the air suspension device 500 as shown in Figs. 13A-13C in a ride height setting according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • the dimensions of the air suspension device 500 are shown as a non-limiting example.
  • the air suspension device 500 is configured to increase its height by extending control arms 504 and air cylinders 505 and may allow a 14.8 inches height clearance from the caravan chassis to the ground level as shown in Fig. 14C.
  • the increased height from the caravan chassis to the ground level allows the caravan to pass through unknown and complex road conditions.
  • Figs. 15A-14C illustrate the air suspension device 500 as shown in Figs. 13A-13C in an extended height setting according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • the dimensions of the air suspension device 500 are shown as a non-limiting example.
  • the air suspension device 500 is configured to increase its height by extending control arms 504 and air cylinders 505 and may allow a 23 inches height clearance from the caravan chassis to the ground level as shown in Fig. 15C.
  • the further increased height from the caravan chassis to the ground level provides the caravan with excellent off-road ability to pass through complex road conditions.
  • the air suspension device is not limited to the dimensions as described herein and that other suitable dimensions relating to the air suspension device may be realized without diminishing its intended advantages.
  • a vehicle including the air suspension device and air suspension system may operate under conditions as summarized in Table 72.
  • the air suspension device and the air suspension system are not limited to the conditions described herein and that other suitable operation conditions may be realized without diminishing its intended advantages.
  • an air suspension device and an air suspension system may have interfaces with external devices.
  • Table 73 shows a specification of external interfaces.
  • an air suspension device and air suspension system may have properties and performance as summarized in Table 74. It should be appreciated and understood that the air suspension device and air suspension system are not limited to the specifications as summarized in Table 74 and that other suitable specification may be realized without diminishing its intended advantages.
  • an air suspension system may further include a plurality of air compressors, height sensors, ultrasonic sensors, accelerometers.
  • the air compressors are configured to speed up height actuation of the air suspension device, reduce load on compressing units and decreases losing air supply. The use of more robust and accurate height sensors and ultrasonic sensors would help maintaining correct ride height and reducing faulty measurements.
  • the accelerometers is configured to detect the movement of the motor vehicle such the caravan to depressurize the air bellows and air cylinders when the motor vehicle is at a non-operation mode and thus further extend service life of the air suspension device and air suspension system.
  • the air suspension system may include metal tubing in order to reduce tearing and deterioration due to weather conditions.
  • the air suspension system may include a single electronic control circuit to control the air suspension devices according to an embodiment.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Vehicle Body Suspensions (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention concerne un dispositif, un système et un procédé de suspension pneumatique. Le dispositif de suspension pneumatique comprend un support de suspension, un soufflet à air disposé sur une surface du support de suspension, un amortisseur de chocs raccordé au support de suspension, une pluralité de bras qui sont parallèles les uns aux autres et qui sont raccordés entre le support de suspension et un joint d'articulation, et un cylindre à air comprimé raccordé entre le support de suspension et le joint d'articulation. Le cylindre à air comprimé est parallèle aux bras.
PCT/QA2018/050002 2018-04-19 2018-04-19 Dispositif de suspension pneumatique et système de suspension pneumatique WO2019203672A2 (fr)

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PCT/QA2018/050002 WO2019203672A2 (fr) 2018-04-19 2018-04-19 Dispositif de suspension pneumatique et système de suspension pneumatique

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PCT/QA2018/050002 WO2019203672A2 (fr) 2018-04-19 2018-04-19 Dispositif de suspension pneumatique et système de suspension pneumatique

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Family Cites Families (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB2229149B (en) * 1987-11-03 1992-01-29 Gkn Technology Ltd Vehicle suspension systems
FR2827814B1 (fr) * 2001-07-27 2005-12-02 Renault Vehicules Ind Ensemble de suspension avant pneumatique pour vehicule industriel
US20090206573A1 (en) * 2008-02-14 2009-08-20 Forrest Derry Merryman Variable-length control arm
US9085212B2 (en) * 2013-03-15 2015-07-21 Hendrickson Usa, L.L.C. Vehicle suspension
US10266025B2 (en) * 2016-05-06 2019-04-23 Arvinmeritor Technology, Llc Suspension module having an air spring pedestal

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