Development Of An Automotive Shock Absorber That Improves Riding Comfort Without Impairing Steering Stability

Abstract

In order to further improve both vehicle vibration and riding comfort, it is necessary to put the damping force of the shock absorbers to effective use. In this study, the operating range of the shock absorber piston stroke and velocity was first measured under each of the various driving conditions, and damping force requirements were studied. It was found, as a result, that if damping characteristics dependent not only on piston velocity but also on piston stroke could be provided, then high levels in regard to such factors as handling performance, riding comfort, ride harshness and road holding could be achieved. Next, in order to produce this damping characteristic, a shock absorber was developed that takes advantage of a phenomenon in which it takes a certain amount of time for a vortex to occur in the hydraulic fluid. Through the appropriate setting of damping characteristics in this vortex-type shock absorber, riding comfort on smooth roads can be improved while the other factors are maintained at the same level as in the conventional shock absorber.