EXTERNALLY ADJUSTABLE SHOCK ABSORBING AND SUSPENSION APPARATUS AND METHOD OF USE

摘要

A springless shock absorbing and suspension apparatus and method of operation are disclosed that use external adjustments to alter flow resistance through a valve block in the apparatus. The valve block may have throughholes and/or passageways that allow fluid to flow in the valve block. Cover or shim elements may be used relative to certain throughholes and/or passageways to restrict flow in one or both directions. In one example, adjusters may be deployed that vary the force applied to cover or shim elements that effect a change in flow resistance of the valve block. In another example, adjusters may be deployed that articulate or rotate disc rings elements relative to the valve block to modify the effective size of flow openings (e.g., throughholes and/or passageways) that effect a change in flow resistance of the valve block. Separate external adjusters may be used for compression and expansion operations.

主权项

1. An externally adjustable springless shock absorbing and suspension apparatus, comprising:
an inner tubular section comprising a first fluid chamber and a second fluid chamber therewithin, wherein the first fluid chamber contains gas and wherein the second fluid chamber contains oil; a floating piston disposed within the inner tubular section between the first fluid chamber and the second fluid chamber; an outer tubular section having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the outer tubular section is at least partially disposed around at least a portion of the inner tubular section, and wherein the outer tubular section comprises a fourth fluid chamber therewithin that contains oil; a two-way valve block fixedly secured to the second end of the outer tubular section; a stationary tubular section disposed within the outer tubular section, the stationary tubular section fixedly secured to the valve block, the stationary tubular section having a third fluid chamber therewithin; and wherein a flow through the two-way valve block is controllable from the exterior of the springless combination shock absorber and suspension apparatus.