阅读说明：本技术 可伸缩阻尼器 (Telescopic damper ) 是由 G·芒格尔肖特 于 2020-05-13 设计创作，主要内容包括：本发明公开了一种阻尼器,该阻尼器包括压力管、活塞和储备管。该活塞布置在该压力管内部并将该压力管分成第一工作室和第二工作室。该储备管围绕该压力管延伸,以在该压力管和该储备管之间限定储备管室。第一阻尼器端口被布置成与该第二工作室连通,并且第二阻尼器端口被布置成与该储备管室连通。远程阀组件与该阻尼器间隔开。该远程阀组件包括第一电磁阀和第二电磁阀,该第一电磁阀被布置成通过第一液压管线与该第一阻尼器端口连通,该第二电磁阀被布置成通过第二液压管线与该第二阻尼器端口连通。储液器被布置成与该第一电磁阀和该第二电磁阀连通。(A damper includes a pressure tube, a piston, and a reserve tube. The piston is disposed within the pressure tube and divides the pressure tube into a first working chamber and a second working chamber. The reserve tube extends around the pressure tube to define a reserve tube chamber between the pressure tube and the reserve tube. A first damper port is arranged in communication with the second working chamber, and a second damper port is arranged in communication with the reserve tube chamber. A remote valve assembly is spaced from the damper. The remote valve assembly includes a first solenoid valve disposed in communication with the first damper port through a first hydraulic line and a second solenoid valve disposed in communication with the second damper port through a second hydraulic line. A reservoir is disposed in communication with the first solenoid valve and the second solenoid valve.)

1. A damper assembly, comprising:

a pressure tube extending axially around the damper axis;

a piston disposed within said pressure tube in sliding engagement such that said piston divides said pressure tube into a first working chamber and a second working chamber;

a piston rod passing through the first working chamber and extending longitudinally along the damper axis between a first piston rod end and a second piston rod end, the second piston rod end coupled to the piston;

a reserve tube extending circumferentially about the pressure tube to define a reserve tube chamber located radially between the pressure tube and the reserve tube, the reserve tube chamber being disposed in fluid communication with the first working chamber;

a first damper port disposed in fluid communication with the second working chamber;

a second damper port disposed in fluid communication with the reserve tube chamber; and

a remote valve assembly spaced apart from the pressure tube and the reserve tube, the remote valve assembly including a first solenoid valve connected in fluid communication with the first damper port by a first hydraulic line, a second solenoid valve connected in fluid communication with the second damper port by a second hydraulic line, and a reservoir connected in fluid communication with at least one of the first solenoid valve and the second solenoid valve.

2. The damper assembly of claim 1, wherein the remote valve assembly includes a valve block having a first valve bore receiving the first solenoid valve, a second valve bore receiving the second solenoid valve, a first remote valve port extending through the valve block to the first valve bore, and a second remote valve port extending through the valve block to the second valve bore.

3. The damper assembly of claim 2, wherein the first remote valve port is connected to the first damper port by the first hydraulic line and the second remote valve port is connected to the second damper port by the second hydraulic line.

4. The damper assembly of claim 3, wherein the first and second damper ports are disposed in a damper body.

5. The damper assembly of claim 4, wherein the damper body has a stepped bore with a first stepped section and a second stepped section.

6. The damper assembly as recited in claim 5, wherein the pressure tube extends longitudinally between a first pressure tube end and a second pressure tube end, and wherein the reserve tube extends longitudinally between a first reserve tube end and a second reserve tube end.

7. The damper assembly of claim 6, wherein the second pressure tube end is received in the first step section of the stepped bore in the damper body and the second reserve tube end is received in the second step section of the stepped bore in the damper body.

8. The damper assembly of claim 7, wherein the first damper port extends through the damper body to the first step section of the stepped bore and the second damper port extends through the damper body to the second step section of the stepped bore.

9. The damper assembly of claim 2, further comprising:

a third hydraulic line connected in fluid communication with the first valve bore;

a fourth hydraulic line connected in fluid communication with the second valve bore; and

a switching valve having a first position in which the switching valve opens a fluid connection between the first valve bore and the second valve bore and a second position in which the switching valve closes the fluid connection between the first valve bore and the second valve bore.

10. The damper assembly of claim 2, further comprising:

a common valve passage extending through the valve block between the first and second valve bores and the reservoir;

a third hydraulic line connected in fluid communication with the common valve passage and an accumulator;

a fourth hydraulic line connected in fluid communication with the pump; and

a switching valve having a first position at which the switching valve connects the fourth hydraulic line in fluid communication with the first valve bore and a second position at which the switching valve connects the fourth hydraulic line in fluid communication with the second valve bore.

11. The damper assembly of claim 2, wherein the reservoir has a reservoir housing and a floating piston disposed in sliding engagement inside the reservoir housing such that the floating piston divides the reservoir into a pressurized gas chamber and a reservoir chamber disposed in fluid communication with at least one of the first and second solenoid valves.

12. The damper assembly of claim 2, wherein the reservoir has a reservoir housing and a flexible diaphragm disposed inside the reservoir housing, the flexible diaphragm dividing the reservoir into a pressurized gas chamber and a reservoir chamber disposed in fluid communication with at least one of the first and second solenoid valves.

13. The damper assembly of claim 2, wherein the first valve bore includes a first transfer chamber arranged in fluid communication with the first remote valve port such that fluid in the first hydraulic line enters the first transfer chamber and flows through a first active orifice in the first solenoid valve during a compression stroke, and such that fluid in the first transfer chamber enters the first hydraulic line during a rebound stroke after flowing to the first transfer chamber via a first passive orifice in the first solenoid valve.

14. The damper assembly of claim 2, wherein the second valve bore includes a second transfer chamber disposed in fluid communication with the second remote valve port such that fluid in the second hydraulic line enters the second transfer chamber and flows through a second active orifice in the second solenoid valve during a rebound stroke, and such that fluid in the second transfer chamber enters the second hydraulic line during a compression stroke after flowing to the second transfer chamber via a second passive orifice in the second solenoid valve.

15. The damper assembly of claim 1, wherein the piston is a closed piston lacking a passage for transferring fluid between the first and second working chambers.

16. A damper assembly, comprising:

a damper body having a stepped bore with a first stepped section and a second stepped section;

a pressure tube extending circumferentially about the damper shaft and extending longitudinally between a first pressure tube end and a second pressure tube end;

a piston disposed within said pressure tube in sliding engagement such that said piston divides said pressure tube into a first working chamber and a second working chamber;

a piston rod passing through the first working chamber and extending longitudinally along the damper axis between a first piston rod end and a second piston rod end, the second piston rod end coupled to the piston;

a reserve tube extending circumferentially about the pressure tube to define a reserve tube chamber located radially between the pressure tube and the reserve tube, the reserve tube extending longitudinally between a first reserve tube end and a second reserve tube end, the reserve tube chamber disposed in fluid communication with the first working chamber;

the second pressure tube end is received in the first step section of the stepped bore in the damper body and the second reserve tube end is received in the second step section of the stepped bore in the damper body;

the damper body including a first damper port extending through the damper body to the first step section of the stepped bore and arranged in fluid communication with the second working chamber, and a second damper port extending through the damper body to the second step section of the stepped bore and arranged in fluid communication with the reserve tube chamber; and

a remote valve assembly spaced apart from the damper body, the remote valve assembly including a first solenoid valve, a second solenoid valve, a reservoir, and a valve block having a first valve bore receiving the first solenoid valve, a second valve bore receiving the second solenoid valve, a passage extending through the valve block between the reservoir and at least one of the first and second valve bores, a first remote valve port extending through the valve block to the first valve bore, and a second remote valve port extending through the valve block to the second valve bore, wherein the first remote valve port is connected to the first damper port by a first hydraulic line, and the second remote valve port is connected to the second damper port by a second hydraulic line.

17. The damper assembly of claim 16, wherein the first valve bore includes a first transfer chamber arranged in fluid communication with the first remote valve port such that fluid in the first hydraulic line enters the first transfer chamber and flows through a first active orifice in the first solenoid valve during a compression stroke, and such that fluid in the first transfer chamber enters the first hydraulic line during a rebound stroke after flowing to the first transfer chamber via a first passive orifice in the first solenoid valve.

18. The damper assembly of claim 16, wherein the second valve bore includes a second transfer chamber disposed in fluid communication with the second remote valve port such that fluid in the second hydraulic line enters the second transfer chamber and flows through a second active orifice in the second solenoid valve during a rebound stroke, and such that fluid in the second transfer chamber enters the second hydraulic line during a compression stroke after flowing to the second transfer chamber via a second passive orifice in the second solenoid valve.

19. The damper assembly as recited in claim 16, wherein the first and second hydraulic lines are made of flexible tubing.

20. A damper assembly, comprising:

a damper including a pressure tube, a piston disposed in sliding engagement within the pressure tube to define a first working chamber and a second working chamber, a piston rod coupled to the piston, and a reserve tube extending circumferentially around the pressure tube to define a reserve tube chamber therebetween, the reserve tube chamber disposed in fluid communication with the first working chamber;

a first damper port disposed in fluid communication with the second working chamber;

a second damper port disposed in fluid communication with the reserve tube chamber;

a first hydraulic line connected in fluid communication with the first damper port;

a second hydraulic line connected in fluid communication with the second damper port;

a first solenoid valve and a second solenoid valve;

a reservoir;

a first remote valve assembly including a first valve block having a first valve bore configured to receive the first solenoid valve, a second valve bore configured to receive the second solenoid valve, a common valve passage extending between the first valve bore and the second valve bore configured to communicate with the reservoir, a first remote valve port extending through the first valve block to the first valve bore and configured to connect to the first hydraulic line, and a second remote valve port extending through the first valve block to the second valve bore and configured to connect to the second hydraulic line;

a second remote valve assembly including a second valve block having a first valve bore configured to receive the first solenoid valve, a second valve bore configured to receive the second solenoid valve, a passage extending from the first valve bore through the second valve block to the reservoir, a first remote valve port extending through the second valve block to the first valve bore and configured to connect to the first hydraulic line, a second remote valve port extending through the second valve block to the second valve bore and configured to connect to the second hydraulic line, a third remote valve port arranged in fluid communication with the first valve bore and configured to connect to a third hydraulic line, a fourth remote valve port arranged in fluid communication with the second valve bore and configured to connect to a fourth hydraulic line, and a switching valve, the switching valve has a first position in which the switching valve opens a fluid connection between the first valve bore and the second valve bore and a second position in which the switching valve closes the fluid connection between the first valve bore and the second valve bore; and

a third remote valve assembly including a third valve block having a first valve bore configured to receive the first solenoid valve, a second valve bore configured to receive the second solenoid valve, a common valve passage extending between the first and second valve bores configured to communicate with the reservoir, a first remote valve port extending through the third valve block to the first valve bore and configured to connect to the first hydraulic line, a second remote valve port extending through the third valve block to the second valve bore and configured to connect to the second hydraulic line, a third remote valve port arranged in fluid communication with the common valve passage and configured to connect to a third hydraulic line, a fourth remote valve port arranged in fluid communication with the first valve bore or the second valve bore depending on a position of a switching valve, the switching valve having a first position in which the switching valve connects the fourth remote valve port in fluid communication with the first valve bore and a second position in which the switching valve connects the fourth remote valve port in fluid communication with the second valve bore,

wherein the first, second and third remote valve assemblies are interchangeable, and any one of the first, second and third remote valve assemblies may house the first and second solenoid valves and the reservoir and may be connected to the damper at a location spaced apart from the damper via the first and second hydraulic lines.

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates generally to dampers for vehicle suspension systems and more particularly to a standardized damper design that can be connected to any of several different remote valve assemblies to provide different damping modes and characteristics.

Background

The statements in this section merely provide background information related to the present disclosure and may not constitute prior art.

Generally, dampers are used to absorb and dissipate the impact and rebound movements of the vehicle suspension system and to keep the tires of the vehicle in contact with the ground. Dampers are typically mounted alongside (as independent shock absorbers) or within (as part of a shock strut assembly with a coil spring concentric with the shock absorber) springs and are placed in front and rear suspension systems. The damper is attached to the frame member or other sprung component of the vehicle by an upper mount and to the suspension member or other unsprung component of the suspension by a lower mount.

A conventional hydraulic damper includes a pressure pipe serving as a hydraulic cylinder. A piston is slidably disposed within the pressure tube, wherein the piston divides an interior of the pressure tube into a first working chamber and a second working chamber. A piston rod is connected to the piston and extends out of one end of the pressure tube, wherein the piston rod is adapted to be attached to a sprung or unsprung member of the vehicle. The opposite ends of the pressure tube are adapted for attachment to other sprung or unsprung components of the vehicle.

The conventional dual tube hydraulic damper also includes a reserve tube that extends circumferentially around the pressure tube to define a reserve tube chamber. The reserve tube chamber is positioned radially between the pressure tube and the reserve tube. Such dampers typically include a first valving system incorporated within the piston for generating a damping load during an extension (i.e., rebound stroke) of the damper and a second valving system incorporated within the base valve assembly for generating a damping force during a compression stroke of the damper.

The assignee of the present application has developed different styles of dual tube hydraulic dampers in which the valve system, typically incorporated in a piston and base valve assembly, has been replaced by two solenoid valves mounted to a reserve tube. This damper configuration is described in U.S. patent application serial No. 16/234725 filed on 28.12.2018, which is expressly incorporated by reference. According to this damper configuration, one of the solenoid valves is connected in fluid communication with the reserve tube chamber, and the other solenoid valve is connected in fluid communication with the second working chamber.

Disclosure of Invention

This section provides a general summary of the disclosure, and is not a complete disclosure of the full scope of the invention or all of its features.

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a damper assembly is provided that includes a pressure tube, a piston, a reserve tube, and a remote valve assembly. The pressure tube extends axially about the damper axis and the piston is disposed within the pressure tube in sliding engagement. The piston divides the pressure tube into a first working chamber and a second working chamber. The piston rod extends longitudinally through the first working chamber along the damper axis. The piston rod has a first piston rod end and a second piston rod end. The second piston rod end is coupled to the piston. The reserve tube extends circumferentially around the pressure tube to define a reserve tube chamber. The reserve tube chamber is positioned radially between the pressure tube and the reserve tube. The first damper port is disposed in fluid communication with the second working chamber, and the second damper port is disposed in fluid communication with the reserve tube chamber. The remote valve assembly is spaced apart from the pressure tube and the reserve tube. The remote valve assembly includes a first solenoid valve connected in fluid communication with the first damper port through a first hydraulic line and a second solenoid valve connected in fluid communication with the second damper port through a second hydraulic line. The remote valve assembly also includes a reservoir connected in fluid communication with at least one of the first solenoid valve and the second solenoid valve.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the damper assembly further includes a damper body having a stepped bore with a first stepped section and a second stepped section. The pressure tube extends longitudinally between a first pressure tube end and a second pressure tube end, and the reserve tube extends longitudinally between a first reserve tube end and a second reserve tube end. The second pressure tube end is received in a first step section of a stepped bore in the damper body and the second reservoir tube end is received in a second step section of the stepped bore in the damper body. The first damper port extends through the damper body to the first step section of the stepped bore such that the first damper port is disposed in fluid communication with the second working chamber. The second damper port extends through the damper body to the second step section of the stepped bore such that the second damper port is disposed in fluid communication with the reserve tube chamber. The remote valve assembly is spaced apart from the damper body. The remote valve assembly has a valve block including a first valve bore receiving a first solenoid valve, a second valve bore receiving a second solenoid valve, and a passage extending between at least one of the first and second valve bores and a reservoir. The valve block of the remote valve assembly also includes a first remote valve port extending through the valve block to the first valve bore and a second remote valve port extending through the valve block to the second valve bore. The first remote valve port is connected to the first damper port via a first hydraulic line, and the second remote valve port is connected to the second damper port via a second hydraulic line.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a damper assembly includes three interchangeable remote valve assemblies, wherein any one of the three remote valve assemblies is connectable in fluid communication with the damper at a location spaced apart from the damper. The first remote valve assembly includes a first valve block having a first valve bore configured to receive a first solenoid valve, a second valve bore configured to receive a second solenoid valve, and a common valve passage extending between the first valve bore and the second valve bore. The common valve passage in the first valve block is configured to communicate with a reservoir. The first remote valve assembly also includes a first remote valve port extending through the first valve block to the first valve bore and a second remote valve port extending through the first valve block to the second valve bore. The first remote valve port is configured to be connected to a first hydraulic line and the second remote valve port is configured to be connected to a second hydraulic line.

The second remote valve assembly includes a second valve block having a first valve bore configured to receive the first solenoid valve, a second valve bore configured to receive the second solenoid valve, a passageway extending between the first valve bore and the reservoir, and a switching valve. The second remote valve assembly also includes a first remote valve port extending through the second valve block to the first valve bore and a second remote valve port extending through the second valve block to the second valve bore. The first remote valve port is configured to be connected to a first hydraulic line and the second remote valve port is configured to be connected to a second hydraulic line. The second remote valve assembly has a third remote valve port disposed in fluid communication with the first valve bore and a fourth remote valve port disposed in fluid communication with the second valve bore. The third remote valve port is configured to be connected to a third hydraulic line and the fourth remote valve port is configured to be connected to a fourth hydraulic line. The switching valve of the second remote valve assembly has a first position in which the switching valve opens the fluid connection between the first valve bore and the second valve bore and a second position in which the switching valve closes the fluid connection between the first valve bore and the second valve bore.

The third remote valve assembly includes a third valve block having a first valve bore configured to receive the first solenoid valve, a second valve bore configured to receive the second solenoid valve, a common valve passage extending between the first and second valve bores, and a switching valve. The common valve passage in the third valve block is configured to communicate with a reservoir. The third remote valve assembly also includes a first remote valve port extending through the third valve block to the first valve bore and a second remote valve port extending through the third valve block to the second valve bore. The first remote valve port is configured to be connected to a first hydraulic line and the second remote valve port is configured to be connected to a second hydraulic line. The third remote valve assembly has a third remote valve port arranged in fluid communication with the common valve passageway and a fourth remote valve port arranged in fluid communication with the first valve bore or the second valve bore depending on the position of the switching valve. The switching valve of the third remote valve assembly has a first position in which the switching valve connects a fourth remote valve port in fluid communication with the first valve bore and a second position in which the switching valve connects a fourth remote valve port in fluid communication with the second valve bore. The third remote valve port is configured to be connected to a third hydraulic line and the fourth remote valve port is configured to be connected to a fourth hydraulic line.

As described above, the first remote valve assembly, the second remote valve assembly, and the third remote valve assembly are interchangeable. Any one of the first, second and third remote valve assemblies may house the first and second solenoid valves and the reservoir, and may be connected to the damper via the first and second hydraulic lines. This interchangeability of the remote valve assembly allows for the use of one standardized damper design to assemble different damper assemblies having different operating characteristics. The only part that needs to be replaced is the remote valve assembly. This results in manufacturing efficiencies that reduce the cost of the damper assembly. Further, the damper assembly disclosed herein provides a more flexible packaging solution because the remote valve assembly is spaced apart from the damper and thus may be mounted in a variety of different positions. This is particularly useful for vehicles having significant packaging limitations in the area where the damper is installed.

Drawings

Other advantages of the present invention will be readily appreciated, as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of an exemplary damper assembly constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary damper of the damper assembly shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a side cross-sectional view of the example damper shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is another side cross-sectional view of the exemplary damper shown in FIG. 3, wherein the damper is shown during an extension (i.e., rebound) stroke;

FIG. 5 is another side cross-sectional view of the exemplary damper shown in FIG. 3, with the damper shown during a compression stroke;

FIG. 6 is a front cross-sectional view of an exemplary remote valve assembly of the damper assembly shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is another front cross-sectional view of the example remote valve assembly shown in FIG. 6, with the remote valve assembly shown during an extension (i.e., rebound) stroke;

FIG. 8 is another front cross-sectional view of the exemplary remote valve assembly shown in FIG. 6, with the remote valve assembly shown during a compression stroke;

FIG. 9 is a side perspective view of another example damper assembly constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure;

FIG. 10 is a front cross-sectional view of another exemplary remote valve assembly of the damper assembly shown in FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a side cross-sectional view of the example remote valve assembly shown in FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is another side cross-sectional view of the example remote valve assembly shown in FIG. 10;

FIG. 13 is a side perspective view of another example damper assembly constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 14 is a front cross-sectional view of another exemplary remote valve assembly of the damper assembly shown in FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is a side cross-sectional view of the example remote valve assembly shown in FIG. 14; and is

FIG. 16 is another side cross-sectional view of the example remote valve assembly shown in FIG. 14.

Detailed Description

Referring to the drawings, wherein like numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views, several damper assemblies 20, 20', 20 "are shown.

Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. Exemplary embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and will fully convey the scope to those skilled in the art. Numerous specific details are set forth, such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example embodiments may be embodied in many different forms and that neither should be construed to limit the scope of the disclosure. In some example embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known technologies are not described in detail.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular exemplary embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" may also be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms "comprises," "comprising," "including," and "having," are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. Unless specifically identified as an order of execution, the method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not to be construed as necessarily requiring their execution in the particular order discussed or illustrated. It should also be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.

When an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "engaged to," "connected to" or "coupled to" another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged, connected or coupled to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on," "directly engaged to," "directly connected to" or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a similar manner (e.g., "between …" versus "directly between …", "adjacent" versus "directly adjacent", etc.). As used herein, the term "and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

Although the terms "first," "second," "third," etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as "first," "second," and other numerical values when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the example embodiments.

Spatially relative terms (such as "inner," "outer," "lower," "below," "lower," "above," "upper," etc.) may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element or feature as illustrated. Spatially relative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as "below" or "beneath" other elements or features would then be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term "below" can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or oriented in other directions) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

Referring to fig. 1-3, a first damper assembly 20 is shown. The first damper assembly 20 includes a damper 22 and a first remote valve assembly 24 connected in fluid communication with the damper 22 by a first hydraulic line 26 and a second hydraulic line 28. Damper 22 includes a damper body 30, a pressure tube 32, a reserve tube 34, a piston 36, and a piston rod 38. The damper body 30 extends longitudinally between a first body end 40 and a second body end 42. The second body end 42 includes an attachment feature 44 configured to mechanically connect to a sprung or unsprung member 45 of a vehicle (not shown). The damper body 30 has a stepped bore 46 that is open at the first body end 40 and closed at the second body end 42. The stepped bore 46 includes a first stepped section 48 adjacent the second body end 42 and a second stepped section 50 adjacent the first body end 40. The first stepped section 48 has a smaller diameter than the second stepped section 50.

Pressure tube 32 extends circumferentially about a damper axis 52 and reserve tube 34 extends circumferentially about pressure tube 32 to define a reserve tube chamber 54 positioned radially between pressure tube 32 and reserve tube 34. Pressure tube 32 extends longitudinally between first and second pressure tube ends 56 and 58, and reserve tube 34 extends longitudinally between first and second reserve tube ends 60 and 62.

Piston 36 is disposed within pressure tube 32 in sliding engagement and divides pressure tube 32 into a first working chamber 64 and a second working chamber 66. In the illustrated example, piston 36 is a closed piston 36, although other configurations are possible, and thus lacks a passage for transferring fluid between first and second working chambers 64, 66. Piston seal 68 is disposed between piston assembly 36 and pressure tube 32 to allow sliding movement of piston 36 with respect to pressure tube 32 without generating excessive frictional forces and sealing first working chamber 64 from second working chamber 66. The piston rod 38 extends longitudinally along the damper axis 52 between a first piston rod end 70 and a second piston rod end 72. Second piston rod end 72 is attached (i.e., coupled) to piston 36. Piston rod 38 extends through first working chamber 64 and through rod guide assembly 74. Thus, first piston rod end 70 is always positioned outside of pressure tube 32. Rod guide assembly 74 is positioned within first reserve tube end 60 and cooperates with first pressure tube end 56 to enclose first working chamber 64. Seal assembly 76 seals the interface between rod guide assembly 74 and piston rod 38.

The first piston rod end 70 is adapted to be secured to a sprung or unsprung member of a vehicle (not shown). Because piston rod 38 extends only through first working chamber 64 and not second working chamber 66, the extension and pressure movements of piston 36 with respect to pressure tube 32 result in a difference in the amount of fluid displaced in first working chamber 64 as compared to the amount of fluid displaced in second working chamber 66. The difference in the amount of displaced fluid is referred to as the "rod volume". During the compression stroke and the extension (i.e., rebound) stroke of damper 22, fluid flows through first remote valve assembly 24 to accommodate the change in rod volume. As the length of damper 22 extends during an extension stroke, an additional volume of fluid is required in second working chamber 66 due to the rod volume and fluid will flow from reserve tube chamber 54 to second working chamber 66 through first remote valve assembly 24. When the length of damper 22 compresses during a compression stroke, excess fluid must be removed from second working chamber 66 due to the "rod volume". Thus, fluid will flow from the second working chamber 66 to the reserve tube chamber 54 through the first remote valve assembly 24.

Pressure tube 32 and reserve tube 34 are positioned in a coaxial arrangement with second pressure tube end 58 extending/protruding longitudinally beyond second reserve tube end 62. The second reservoir tube end 62 is received in the second step section 50 of the stepped bore 46 in the damper body 30, and the second pressure tube end 58 is received in the first step section 48 of the stepped bore 46 in the damper body 30. With this arrangement, at least a portion of the second stepped section 50 of the stepped bore 46 in the damper body 30 is arranged in fluid communication with the reserve tube chamber 54, and at least a portion of the first stepped section 48 of the stepped bore 46 in the damper body 30 is arranged in fluid communication with the second working chamber 66. Optionally, an O-ring seal 78 may be disposed between reserve tube 34 and second step section 50 of stepped bore 46 in damper body 30, and between pressure tube 32 and first step section 48 of stepped bore 46 in damper body 30.

The damper body 30 includes a first damper port 80 and a second damper port 82. The first damper port 80 extends through the damper body 30 to the first stepped section 48 of the stepped bore 46. Thus, the first damper port 80 is disposed in fluid communication with the second working chamber 66. The second damper port 82 extends through the damper body 30 to the second stepped section 50 of the stepped bore 46. Thus, the second damper port 82 is disposed in fluid communication with the reserve tube chamber 54. The first hydraulic line 26 is connected to the first damper port 80 through a first damper fitting 84, and the second hydraulic line 28 is connected to the second damper port 82 through a second damper fitting 86.

Fig. 4 shows the damper 22 during an extension (i.e., rebound) stroke. Thus, FIG. 4 illustrates an operating condition of damper 22 in which piston 36 is moving toward rod guide assembly 74. Thus, during an extension stroke, the volume of first working chamber 64 decreases and the volume of second working chamber 66 increases. Since piston 36 is a closed piston 36, there is no direct fluid flow between first working chamber 64 and second working chamber 66. Instead, fluid in first working chamber 64 flows into reserve tube chamber 54 via a slot in rod guide assembly 74 where rod guide assembly 74 meets first pressure tube end 56. Fluid in the reserve tube chamber 54 exits the damper 22 through the second damper port 82 and enters the second hydraulic line 28. The increasing volume of the second working chamber 66 is filled with fluid, which is supplied by the first hydraulic line 26 to the damper 22. This fluid enters second working chamber 66 via first damper port 80. Rebound damping is controlled by a first remote valve assembly 24 which controls the flow of fluid into and out of a first hydraulic line 26 and a second hydraulic line 28.

Fig. 5 shows the damper 22 during a compression stroke. Thus, FIG. 5 illustrates an operating condition of damper 22 in which piston 36 is moved away from rod guide assembly 74. Thus, during a compression stroke, the volume of first working chamber 64 increases and the volume of second working chamber 66 decreases. Because piston 36 is a closed piston 36, there is no fluid flow directly between first working chamber 64 and second working chamber 66. Instead, the increasing volume of first working chamber 64 is filled with fluid that flows out of reserve tube chamber 54 and into first working chamber 64 via a slot in rod guide assembly 74 where rod guide assembly 74 meets first pressure tube end 56. Fluid is supplied to the reserve tube chamber 54 through the second hydraulic line 28. This fluid enters the reserve tube chamber 54 via the second damper port 82. Fluid in the second working chamber 66 exits the damper 22 via the first damper port 80 and flows into the first hydraulic line 26. The compression damping is controlled by a first remote valve assembly 24 that controls the flow of fluid into and out of a first hydraulic line 26 and a second hydraulic line 28.

The first remote valve assembly 24 is spaced from the damper 22. In other words, the first remote valve assembly 24 is not structurally connected to or supported on the damper 22. The only connection between the damper 22 and the first remote valve assembly 24 is via the first hydraulic line 26 and the second hydraulic line 28. In the illustrated example, the first and second hydraulic lines 26, 28 are made of flexible tubing, such as rubber tubing, plastic tubing, or braided metal tubing, although other configurations are possible. Thus, there is great flexibility in where the first remote valve assembly 24 may be mounted relative to the damper 22. This produces packaging benefits and may also make it easier to service damper assembly 20 with improved access. Further, the first remote valve assembly 24 may be adjacent to or directly physically connected to a remote valve assembly associated with another damper (not shown) in the suspension system. Further, the first remote valve assembly 24 may include a single valve block having components associated with more than one damper in the suspension system. For example, the valve block may be a unitary component and may include one or more solenoid valves associated with the right front damper and one or more solenoid valves associated with the left front damper. The portion of the single valve block associated with the right front damper may be hydraulically isolated from the portion of the single valve block associated with the left front damper. Alternatively, there may be a passage hydraulically interconnecting the portion associated with the right front damper to the portion associated with the front left damper.

With additional reference to fig. 6, the first remote valve assembly 24 includes a first valve block 88, a first solenoid valve 90, a second solenoid valve 92, and a reservoir 94. The first valve block 88 includes a first valve bore 96 configured to receive the first solenoid valve 90 and a second valve bore 98 configured to receive the second solenoid valve 92. The first valve block 88 also has a common valve passage 100 extending between the first and second valve bores 96, 98 and the reservoir 94. The first valve block 88 also includes a first remote valve port 102 extending through the first valve block 88 to the first valve bore 96 and a second remote valve port 104 extending through the first valve block 88 to the second valve bore 98. The first hydraulic line 26 is connected to the first remote valve port 102 through a first valve assembly fitting 106, and the second hydraulic line 28 is connected to the second remote valve port 104 through a second valve assembly fitting 108.

The reservoir 94 has a reservoir housing 110 and a floating piston 112 disposed in sliding engagement within the reservoir housing 110. The floating piston 112 divides the reservoir 94 into a pressurized gas chamber 114 and a reservoir chamber 116 disposed in fluid communication with the common valve passageway 100. As fluid flows into the reservoir 116, its volume increases. The volume of the pressurized gas chamber 114 decreases. The pressure within the pressurized gas chamber 114 may also increase. As fluid flows out of the fluid storage chamber 116, the volume of the pressurized gas chamber 114 increases and the pressure within the pressurized gas chamber 114 decreases.

First valve bore 96 in first valve block 88 includes a first transfer chamber 118 disposed in fluid communication with first remote valve port 102. As shown in fig. 7, after flowing from the common valve passage 100 to the first transfer chamber 118 via the first passive orifice 124 in the first solenoid valve 90, the fluid in the first transfer chamber 118 enters the first hydraulic line 26 during the rebound stroke. Fluid flow through the first passive orifice 124 in the first solenoid valve 90 is controlled by a first spring disc stack 126 that flexes to an open position when the pressure differential between the common valve passage 100 and the first transfer chamber 118 exceeds a predetermined pressure. As shown in fig. 8, fluid in the first hydraulic line 26 enters the first transfer chamber 118 during the compression stroke and flows into the common valve passage 100 via the first master orifice 120 in the first solenoid valve 90. The first solenoid valve 90 includes a first solenoid 122 configured to open and close a first active orifice 120 in response to application of current to the first solenoid 122. An auxiliary fluid flow passage, shown in phantom, is also provided during the compression stroke, wherein fluid in the first transfer chamber 118 may flow to the common valve passage 100 via a first bypass orifice 125 in the first solenoid valve 90, which is controlled by a first passive reed disc valve 127.

The second valve bore 98 includes a second transfer chamber 128 disposed in fluid communication with the second remote valve port 104. As shown in fig. 7, fluid in the second hydraulic line 28 enters the second transfer chamber 128 during the rebound stroke and flows into the common valve passage 100 via the second master orifice 130 in the second solenoid valve 92. The second solenoid valve 92 includes a second solenoid 132 configured to open and close the second active orifice 130 in response to applying current to the second solenoid 132. An auxiliary fluid flow passage, shown in phantom, is also provided during the rebound stroke, wherein fluid in the second transfer chamber 128 can flow to the common valve passage 100 via a second bypass orifice 135 in the second solenoid valve 92, which is controlled by a second passive reed disc valve 137. As shown in fig. 8, after flowing from the common valve passage 100 to the second transfer chamber 128 via the second passive orifice 134 in the second solenoid valve 92, the fluid in the second transfer chamber 128 enters the second hydraulic line 28 during the compression stroke. Fluid flow through the second passive orifice 134 in the second solenoid valve 92 is controlled by a second spring disc stack 136 that flexes to an open position when the pressure differential between the common valve passage 100 and the second transfer chamber 128 exceeds a predetermined pressure.

Referring to fig. 9-12, another damper assembly 20 'is shown wherein the aforementioned damper 22 is connected in fluid communication with a second remote valve assembly 24'. The structure of the damper 22 and the first and second hydraulic lines 26 and 28 remains the same as described above. Only the second remote valve assembly 24' is different. The second remote valve assembly 24 'includes a second valve block 88', a first solenoid valve 90', a second solenoid valve 92', a reservoir 94', and a switching valve 138'. The second valve block 88' has a first valve bore 96' configured to receive the first solenoid valve 90' and a second valve bore 98' configured to receive the second solenoid valve 92 '. A first remote valve port 102 'extends through the second valve block 88' to the first valve bore 96', and a second remote valve port 104' extends through the second valve block 88 'to the second valve bore 98'. The first remote valve port 102 'is configured to connect to the first hydraulic line 26 at a first valve assembly fitting 106', and the second remote valve port 104 'is configured to connect to the second hydraulic line 28 at a second valve assembly fitting 108'. Similar to the design described above, the first hydraulic line 26 is connected to the first damper port 80, and the second hydraulic line 28 is connected to the second damper port 82. The reservoir 94' has a reservoir housing 110' and a flexible diaphragm 140' disposed within the reservoir housing 110' that divides the reservoir 94' into a pressurized gas chamber 114' and a reservoir chamber 116' disposed in fluid communication with the first solenoid valve 90' but not the second solenoid valve 92 '.

First valve bore 96 'in second valve block 88' includes a first transfer chamber 118 'disposed in fluid communication with first remote valve port 102'. Fluid in the first hydraulic line 26 enters the first transfer chamber 118 'during a compression stroke and flows into the first valve passage 100' via the first drive orifice 120 'in the first solenoid valve 90'. The first solenoid valve 90 'includes a first solenoid 122' configured to open and close a first active orifice 120 'in response to application of current to the first solenoid 122'. During the compression stroke, fluid in the first transfer chamber 118 may also flow to the first valve passage 100 'via a first bypass orifice 125' in the first solenoid valve 90', which is controlled by the first passive reed disc valve 127'. After flowing from the first valve passage 100 'to the first transfer chamber 118' via the first passive orifice 124 'in the first solenoid valve 90', fluid in the first transfer chamber 118 'enters the first hydraulic line 26' during a rebound stroke. Fluid flow through the first passive orifice 124' in the first solenoid valve 90' is controlled by the first spring disc stack 126' that flexes to an open position when the pressure differential between the first valve passage 100' and the first transfer chamber 118' exceeds a predetermined pressure.

The second valve bore 98 'in the second valve block 88' includes a second transfer chamber 128 'disposed in fluid communication with the second remote valve port 104'. Fluid in the second hydraulic line 28 enters the second transfer chamber 128 'during the rebound stroke and flows into the second valve passage 101' via the second pilot orifice 130 'in the second solenoid valve 92'. The second solenoid valve 92 'includes a second solenoid 132' configured to open and close the second active orifice 130 'in response to applying current to the second solenoid 132'. An auxiliary fluid flow passage, shown in phantom, is also provided during the rebound stroke, wherein fluid in the second transfer chamber 128' is flowable to the second valve passage 101' via a second bypass orifice 135' in the second solenoid valve 92', which is controlled by the second passive reed disc valve 137 '. After flowing from the second valve passage 101' to the second transfer chamber 128' via the second passive orifice 134' in the second solenoid valve 92', fluid in the second transfer chamber 128' enters the second hydraulic line 28 during the compression stroke. Fluid flow through the second passive orifice 134' in the second solenoid valve 92' is controlled by the second spring disc stack 136', which flexes to an open position when the pressure differential between the second valve passage 101' and the second transfer chamber 128' exceeds a predetermined pressure.

The second remote valve assembly 24' also has a third remote valve port 142' extending through the second valve block 88' to the first valve passageway 100' and a fourth remote valve port 144' extending through the second valve block 88' to the second valve passageway 101 '. The third remote valve port 142 'is configured to connect to the third hydraulic line 146' at a third valve assembly fitting 148', and the fourth remote valve port 144' is configured to connect to the fourth hydraulic line 150 'at a fourth valve assembly fitting 152'. Thus, fluid may enter and exit the first and second valve passages 100', 101' via the third and fourth hydraulic lines 146', 150', respectively. The switching valve 138' has a first position in which the switching valve 138' opens the fluid connection between the first valve bore 96' and the second valve bore 98', and a second position in which the switching valve 138' closes the fluid connection between the first valve bore 96' and the second valve bore 98 '.

The third and fourth hydraulic lines 146 'and 150' are configured to connect to a remote valve assembly associated with another damper (not shown) in the suspension system. For example, the damper assembly 20' shown in FIG. 9 includes a front left damper 22. In this example, the third and fourth hydraulic lines 146 'and 150' would extend to a remote valve assembly of a right front damper (not shown). According to this arrangement, the third hydraulic line 146' is connected in fluid communication with the first solenoid valve 90' in the remote valve assembly 24' associated with the left front damper 22 and with the second solenoid valve in the remote valve assembly associated with the right front damper. The fourth hydraulic line 150' is connected in fluid communication with the second solenoid valve 92' in the remote valve assembly 24' associated with the left front damper 22 and with the first solenoid valve in the remote valve assembly associated with the right front damper. Because the third and fourth hydraulic lines 146', 150' intersect, the passive fluid pressure in the third and fourth hydraulic lines 146', 150' may be communicated from the left front damper 22 to the right front damper, and vice versa, to provide anti-roll resistance when the vehicle is turning. When the switching valve 138 'is in the second position, the anti-roll resistance is optimized, while when the switching valve 138' is in the first position, the ride comfort is optimized. The third and fourth hydraulic lines 146 'and 150' may also be connected to hydraulic lines associated with left and right rear dampers of the vehicle through T-connections (not shown).

The second remote valve assembly 24' may be adjacent to or directly physically connected to a remote valve assembly associated with another damper (not shown) in the suspension system. Alternatively, the second remote valve assembly 24' may comprise a single valve block having components associated with more than one damper in the suspension system. For example, the valve block may be an integral part and may include one or more solenoid valves associated with the right front damper and one or more solenoid valves associated with the left front damper. The portion of the single valve block associated with the right front damper may be hydraulically isolated from the portion of the single valve block associated with the left front damper. Alternatively, there may be a passage hydraulically interconnecting the portion associated with the right front damper to the portion associated with the front left damper.

Referring to fig. 13-16, another damper assembly 20 "is shown wherein the aforementioned damper 22 is connected in fluid communication with a third remote valve assembly 24". The structure of the damper 22 and the first and second hydraulic lines 26 and 28 remains the same as described above. Only the third remote valve assembly 24 "is different. The third remote valve assembly 24 "includes a third valve block 88", a first solenoid valve 90 ", a second solenoid valve 92", a reservoir 94 ", and a switching valve 138". The third valve block 88 "has a first valve bore 96" configured to receive the first solenoid valve 90 "and a second valve bore 98" configured to receive the second solenoid valve 92 ". The third valve block 88 "also includes a common valve passage 100" extending between the first and second valve bores 96 ", 98" and the reservoir 94 ". The reservoir 94 "has a reservoir housing 110" and a flexible diaphragm 140 "disposed inside the reservoir housing 110" that divides the reservoir 94 "into a pressurized gas chamber 114" and a reservoir chamber 116 "disposed in fluid communication with the common valve passageway 100".

The third remote valve assembly 24 "also includes a first remote valve port 102" extending through the third valve block 88 "to the first valve bore 96" and a second remote valve port 104 "extending through the third valve block 88" to the second valve bore 98 ". The first remote valve port 102 "is configured to connect to the first hydraulic line 26 at a first valve assembly fitting 106", and the second remote valve port 104 "is configured to connect to the second hydraulic line 28 at a second valve assembly fitting 108".

First valve bore 96 "in third valve block 88" includes a first transfer chamber 118 "disposed in fluid communication with first remote valve port 102". Fluid in the first hydraulic line 26 enters the first transfer chamber 118 "during a compression stroke and flows into the common valve passage 100" via the first drive orifice 120 "in the first solenoid valve 90". The first solenoid valve 90 "includes a first solenoid 122" configured to open and close a first active orifice 120 "in response to application of current to the first solenoid 122". An auxiliary fluid flow passage, shown in phantom, is also provided during the compression stroke, wherein fluid in the first transfer chamber 118 "can flow to the common valve passage 100" via a first bypass orifice 125 "in the first solenoid valve 90", which is controlled by a first passive reed disc valve 127 ". After flowing from common valve passage 100 "to first transfer chamber 118" via first passive orifice 124 "in first solenoid valve 90", fluid in first transfer chamber 118 "enters first hydraulic line 26 during a rebound stroke. Fluid flow through the first passive orifice 124 "in the first solenoid valve 90" is controlled by the first spring disc stack 126 "that flexes to an open position when the pressure differential between the common valve passage 100" and the first transfer chamber 118 "exceeds a predetermined pressure.

The second valve bore 98 "includes a second transfer chamber 128" disposed in fluid communication with the second remote valve port 104 ". Fluid in the second hydraulic line 28 enters the second transfer chamber 128 "during the rebound stroke and flows into the common valve passage 100" via the second master orifice 130 "in the second solenoid valve 92". The second solenoid valve 92 "includes a second solenoid 132" configured to open and close the second active orifice 130 "in response to applying current to the second solenoid 132". An auxiliary fluid flow passage, shown in phantom, is also provided during a full stroke, wherein fluid in the second transfer chamber 128 "may flow to the common valve passage 100" via a second bypass orifice 135 "in the second solenoid valve 92" which is controlled by the second passive reed disc valve 137 ". After flowing from the common valve passage 100 "to the second transfer chamber 128" via the second passive orifice 134 "in the second solenoid valve 92", the fluid in the second transfer chamber 128 "enters the second hydraulic line 28 during the compression stroke. Fluid flow through the second passive orifice 134 "in the second solenoid valve 92" is controlled by the second spring disc stack 136 "that flexes to an open position when the pressure differential between the common valve passage 100" and the second transfer chamber 128 "exceeds a predetermined pressure.

The third remote valve assembly 24 "has a third remote valve port 142" disposed in fluid communication with the common valve passageway 100 "and a fourth remote valve port 144" disposed in fluid communication with either the first transfer chamber 118 "or the second transfer chamber 128" depending on the position of the switching valve 138 ". The switching valve 138 "of the third remote valve assembly 24" has a first position in which the switching valve 138 "is connected to the fourth remote valve port 144" in fluid communication with the first transfer chamber 118 "and a second position in which the switching valve 138" is connected to the fourth remote valve port 144 "in fluid communication with the second transfer chamber 128". The third remote valve port 142 "is configured to connect to the third hydraulic line 146" at a third valve assembly fitting 148 ", and the fourth remote valve port 144" is configured to connect to the fourth hydraulic line 150 "at a fourth valve assembly fitting 152". The third hydraulic line 146 "is configured to be connected to a reservoir (not shown), and the fourth hydraulic line 150" is configured to be connected to a pump (not shown). According to this arrangement, the pump may be used to increase the fluid pressure in the first or second hydraulic line 26, 28 and thus in the first or second working chamber 64, 66. Thus, operation of the pump in conjunction with the switching valve 138 "may be used to provide active anti-roll resistance and/or to increase or decrease the ride height of the vehicle.

The third remote valve assembly 24 "may be adjacent to or directly physically connected to a remote valve assembly associated with another damper (not shown) in the suspension system. Alternatively, the third remote valve assembly 24 "may comprise a single valve block having components associated with more than one damper in the suspension system. For example, the valve block may be an integral part and may include one or more solenoid valves associated with the right front damper and one or more solenoid valves associated with the left front damper. The portion of the single valve block associated with the right front damper may be hydraulically isolated from the portion of the single valve block associated with the left front damper. Alternatively, there may be a passage hydraulically interconnecting the portion associated with the right front damper to the portion associated with the front left damper.

The first, second and third remote valve assemblies 24, 24' and 24 "are interchangeable. Thus, any of the first, second and third remote valve assemblies 24, 24' and 24 "may be connected to the damper 22 via the first and second hydraulic lines 26 and 28. This interchangeability of remote valve assemblies 24, 24', 24 "allows one standardized damper 22 to be used to assemble different damper assemblies 20, 20', 20" having different operating characteristics. The only component that needs to be replaced is the remote valve assembly 24, 24', 24 ". This results in manufacturing efficiencies that reduce the cost of the damper assembly 20, 20', 20 ". Further, the damper assemblies 20, 20', 20 "disclosed herein provide a more flexible packaging solution in that the remote valve assemblies 24, 24', 24" are spaced apart from the damper 22 and thus may be mounted in a variety of different positions. This is particularly useful for vehicles having significant packaging constraints in the area where the damper 22 is installed. It should also be understood that the first solenoid valve 90, 90', 90 ", the second solenoid valve 92, 92', 92", the reservoir 94, 94', 94 ", and the switching valves 138', 138" may also be standardized to have the same size and configuration such that they may optionally be the same across the three damper assemblies 20, 20', 20 ".

Many other modifications and variations of the present disclosure are possible in light of the above teachings and may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described within the scope of the appended claims.