A new paradigm of mechanical energy dissipation. Part 2: Experimental investigation and effectiveness of a novel car damper

Abstract

Solid-liquid interfaces can be used as a damper to dissipate mechanical energy. Owing to its original properties, a heterogeneous lyophobic system consisting of a nanoporous solid and a non-wetting liquid can dissipate energy under specific pressures. The dissipation process is fast enough to consider its use in damping high-frequency disturbances and for other applications. In this paper, a prototype automobile damper is described. One of the objectives of the device is to exert a clipping effect on major forces induced by the fast and large mechanical disturbance applied to the rod. The prototype is a hybrid of a viscous damper that contains a small volume of oil and throttle valves for conventional viscous dissipation, and a heterogeneous lyophobic system that can significantly enhance mechanical dissipation for velocities greater than adjustable threshold piston rod speeds. The mechanical properties of the device and its energy performance are evaluated and comprehensively discussed.