Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a vibration damping system for a vehicle that is capable of detecting vibrations generated by a vehicle's engine and dynamic movement sand accordingly altering a fluid properties to effectively absorb kinetic energy from vibrations and dissipating the energy as heat, thereby enhancing stability and comfort during driving condition.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Vehicles, particularly those with internal combustion engines, experience significant vibrations during operation. These vibrations arise from the engine, road conditions, and dynamic movements of the vehicle. Such vibrations negatively impact the stability of the vehicle, as well as the comfort of its passengers. The transmission of vibration energy to the vehicle's structure and cabin can lead to undesirable noise and discomfort. Hence, there is a growing need for effective vibration damping systems capable of reducing vibration transmission while maintaining vehicle performance.

[0003] Existing solutions for vibration damping typically use passive systems like rubber mounts or springs, which may absorb vibrations to some extent but are limited in their ability to adjust in real-time to changing conditions. These systems do not provide the level of dynamic response needed to efficiently manage varying vibration intensities and frequencies. Therefore, there is a need to develop a system that adjust fluid properties in response to detected vibrations, providing an effective solution for vibration absorption and dissipation.

[0004] AU2021102645A4 discloses about a structural vibration compensation using magnetorheological-fluid damper." exemplary aspects of the present disclosure are directed towards structural vibration compensation using magnetorheological-fluid damper, comprising a plurality of seismic detecting device (sdd) 10lb capable of detecting seismic activities coupled to vibration monitoring device (vmd) 101 through wifi mesh network (wmn). wherein vibration monitoring device (vmd) 101 capable of identifying structural vibrations caused due to earth anomaly based on data set (ds). based on the anomaly, vibration monitoring device (vmd) 101 sends appropriate signals to the plurality of vibration compensation device (vcd) 102. wherein vcd 102 determines the exact excitation to be given to magnetorheological-fluid damper damper 002 based on data set (ds) for structural vibrational compensation.

[0005] US20120006635A1 discloses about a system and method of controlling engine vibration mounted within a vehicle including at least one hydraulic mount, each mount including a fluid chamber. A pair of accelerometers sense relative acceleration across the mount between the engine and the frame and generate a relative acceleration signal. A control unit is electrically connected to the accelerometers. The control unit is adapted to generate an electronic control signal in response to the relative acceleration signal. The control device is responsive to the electric control signal for controlling the damping force of the hydraulic mount. A control algorithm calibrates the control unit such that maximum vibration damping occurs at and around the engine resonance bounce frequency.

[0006] Conventionally, many systems have been developed to address vehicle vibrations, including the use of passive vibration dampers, shock absorbers and mechanical mounts. While these systems provide some level of vibration reduction, these systems lack the ability to respond to varying intensities and frequencies of vibrations in real-time. As a result, the damping performance degrade under different dynamic conditions, such as when the vehicle accelerates, decelerates, or encounters road irregularities.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a system that dynamically adjust to changing vibration conditions in real-time. The system should is also capable of detecting vibrations generated by the vehicle's engine and dynamic movements, and subsequently altering fluid properties or damping characteristics to efficiently absorb and dissipate kinetic energy.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a system that effectively reduces vibrations generated by a vehicle's engine and dynamic movements, thereby enhancing stability and comfort during operation.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that provides a fluid for absorbing and dissipating vibrational energy efficiently, while preventing transmission of harmful vibrations to other vehicle components.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that that minimize unwanted sound generated by the engine and other vibrations, improving the acoustic comfort of the vehicle's interior.

[0012] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a system maintains optimal fluid temperature for consistent viscosity and effective vibration damping.

[0013] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0014] The present invention relates to a vibration damping system for a vehicle that is designed to effectively detect and manage vibrations generated by the vehicle's engine and dynamic movements and adjusting its damping characteristics to absorb the kinetic energy produced by these vibrations and dissipate it as heat. By altering the properties of a fluid in real-time, the system enhances the vehicle's stability and comfort, thus improves both the ride quality and performance during various driving conditions.

[0015] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a vibration damping system for a vehicle comprises of a flat cuboidal body made from an isotropic material, configured to be positioned at bottom of an engine mount of a vehicle, interior of the body features a honeycomb structure for distributing vibrations experienced when engine of the vehicle is running, across multiple pathways to reduce resonance and energy transfer, an accelerometer coupled with a gyroscopic sensor embedded in the body to measure intensity of the vibrations, plurality of electromagnetic plates positioned at bottom of the body to generate a controlled magnetic field for increasing viscosity of a magnetorheological (MR) fluid disposed within the body for absorbing kinetic energy from the experienced vibrations and dissipates the energy as heat through opposite side of the body, a temperature sensor embedded within the body for monitoring internal temperature of the body, a Peltier unit is integrated within the body for actively cooling the fluid inside, by transferring heat from the fluid to opposite side of the body, in view of maintaining an optimal fluid temperature for consistent viscosity and effective vibration damping.

[0016] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed system comprises of an acoustic foam is layered over the body for absorbing unwanted sound generated by the engine, plurality of air springs are arranged below the body for absorbing shocks waves, generated by the vibrations, thus preventing direct transmission of the shock waves to other vehicle components, a strain gauge is positioned on the body to measure deformations and strain within the body, based on which the microcontroller regulates actuation of the accelerometer and gyroscopic sensor, to detect the vibrations intensity, for subsequent operations, an IoT (Internet of Things) integration via a communication module, enabling real-time monitoring for sending alerts or notifications to a dashboard wirelessly linked with the microcontroller, regarding the system's performance and a piezoelectric plate arranged on the body for generating an electric charge when subjected to mechanical stress, that is stored in a battery configured with the system for providing a continuous power supply to electronically powered components associated with the system.

[0017] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of a vibration damping system for a vehicle.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0020] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0021] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0022] The present invention relates to a vibration damping system for a vehicle that is capable of detecting vibrations generated by a vehicle's engine and dynamic movement sand accordingly altering a fluid properties to effectively absorb kinetic energy from vibrations and dissipating the energy as heat, thereby enhancing stability and comfort during driving condition.

[0023] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of a vibration damping system for a vehicle is illustrated, comprising a flat cuboidal body 101 made from an isotropic material, configured to be positioned at bottom of an engine mount of a vehicle, interior of the body 101 features a honeycomb structure 102, an accelerometer 103 coupled with a gyroscopic sensor 105 embedded in the body 101, plurality of electromagnetic plates 104 positioned at bottom of the body 101, a temperature sensor 107 embedded within the body 101, a Peltier unit 108 is integrated within the body 101, an acoustic foam 109 layered over the body 101, plurality of air springs 110 arranged below the body 101, a strain gauge 111 positioned on the body 101 and a piezoelectric plate 112 arranged on the body 101.

[0024] The proposed system herein comprises of a flat cuboidal body 101 made up of an isotropic material designed to be positioned at the bottom of a vehicle's engine mount, with an interior featuring a honeycomb structure 102 that distributes vibrations generated by the engine across multiple pathways, thereby reducing resonance and minimizing energy transfer. The use of an isotropic material ensures that the body 101 performs uniformly under mechanical stresses, contributing to the vehicle's overall durability and the effectiveness of the vibration damping system. The honeycomb structure 102 is ideal for distributing vibrations because the shape allows the material to absorb and dissipate energy through multiple pathways, reducing the intensity of vibrations as they travel through the body 101.

[0025] The body 101 effectively absorb and dampen vibrations transmitted from the engine to the vehicle's frame. The body 101 is positioned within the engine mount, situated between the engine and the chassis of the vehicle. This strategic placement ensures that the system effectively intercepts and manages the vibrations generated by the engine before they are transmitted to the vehicle’s chassis. By being located at this critical junction, the body 101 provides a direct interface for vibration absorption and damping, reducing resonance and protecting the structural integrity of the vehicle while enhancing stability and driving comfort.

[0026] An accelerometer 103 paired with a gyroscopic sensor 105 is embedded within the body 101 that is activated by an inbuilt microcontroller associated with the system to measure the intensity of vibrations experienced by the vehicle. The accelerometer 103 consist of a proof mass suspended by elastic elements. When the accelerometer 103 experiences acceleration due to vibrations, the proof mass shifts relative to its housing, causing displacement. This displacement is measured using capacitive, sensors. The measured displacement corresponds to the applied force which is used to calculate acceleration. The output signal is processed by the microcontroller to provide precise acceleration data, enabling the detection of vibration intensity.

[0027] Simultaneously, the gyroscopic sensor 105 measures angular velocity based on the principle of conservation of angular momentum. The gyroscopic sensor 105 uses a vibrating mass. When the sensor 105 is rotated, the Coriolis Effect causes a deflection in the vibrating mass or rotor proportional to the angular velocity. This deflection is detected by capacitive sensing elements. The signal is processed by the microcontroller to provide information about angular motion, including the tilt and orientation of the body 101.

[0028] Based on the data collected by the accelerometer 103 and gyroscopic sensor 105, the microcontroller processes the intensity and characteristics of the vibrations and dynamically actuates a plurality of electromagnetic plates 104 positioned at the bottom of the body 101 to generate a controlled magnetic field that interacts with the magnetorheological (MR) fluid contained within the body 101. The electromagnetic plates 104 operate based on the principle of electromagnetism, utilizing their key components: electromagnetic coils, ferromagnetic cores, and conductive plates. When an electric current flows through the coils, it generates a magnetic field around the ferromagnetic core, which is amplified due to the core's high magnetic permeability. The strength and direction of the magnetic field are precisely controlled by adjusting the current supplied to the coils.

[0029] The conductive plates positioned near the coils serve as a medium for the magnetic field to interact with external materials, such as the MR fluid. The controlled magnetic field influences the behavior of magnetic particles within the MR fluid, altering its viscosity and enabling it to absorb kinetic energy from the experienced vibrations. The absorbed energy is then dissipated as heat through the opposite side of the body 101, effectively reducing vibration transmission and enhancing stability. This dynamic system provides adaptive vibration damping by adjusting the magnetic field strength in real-time, ensuring optimal performance and stability under varying vibration conditions.

[0030] A strain gauge 111 is positioned on the body 101 to monitor deformations and strain experienced due to vibrations or mechanical stress. The strain gauge 111 operates by detecting minute changes in its electrical resistance as the body 101 deforms. These resistance changes are directly proportional to the strain, allowing precise measurement of the stress acting on the body 101. The data from the strain gauge 111 is transmitted to the microcontroller, which analyzes the strain information and uses it to regulate the operation of the accelerometer 103 and gyroscopic sensor 105. This ensures accurate detection of the intensity and characteristics of the vibrations for subsequent operations, enabling the system to adapt to varying conditions and enhance overall vibration damping and stability.

[0031] A temperature sensor 107 is embedded within the body 101 to continuously monitor internal temperature of the body 101, particularly the heat generated during the system's operation. The temperature sensor 107 consists of a thermistor, which is a type of resistive temperature detector. The thermistor is made from a ceramic or polymer material whose resistance changes significantly with temperature. It is connected to a measuring circuit that detects variations in the thermistor's resistance. As the temperature increases, the resistance of the thermistor either increases or decreases (depending on whether it's a Negative Temperature Coefficient (NTC) or Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) thermistor). The change in resistance is proportional to the change in temperature, and this variation is measured and processed by the microcontroller.

[0032] To maintain the internal temperature of the body 101, the microcontroller activates a Peltier unit 108 integrated within the body 101 to actively cool the fluid inside by transferring heat from the fluid to the opposite side of the body 101. The Peltier unit 108 integrated within the body 101 operates based on the thermoelectric effect, where an electric current is passed through two different types of semiconductor materials, typically p-type and n-type. This current causes heat to be absorbed at one junction and transferred to the other junction.

[0033] The cold side of the Peltier unit 108 is in contact with the magnetorheological (MR) fluid inside the body 101, effectively drawing heat away from the fluid. The hot side of the Peltier unit 108 is positioned on the opposite side of the body 101, where the heat is dissipated into the surrounding environment, often aided by a heat sink. By actively cooling the MR fluid, the Peltier unit 108 helps maintain an optimal fluid temperature, ensuring consistent viscosity and thereby enabling effective vibration damping.

[0034] Plurality of air springs 110 are positioned beneath the body 101 to absorb shockwaves generated by vibrations to prevent direct transmission of these shockwaves to other vehicle components. The air spring 110 operates based on the principle of air compression and elasticity. The air spring 110 consists primarily of an airbag, a piston that separates the internal air chamber from the external environment. When a force is applied, such as the weight of a vehicle, the air inside the bag is compressed which increases its internal pressure. This compression of air acts as a cushion absorbing shocks and vibrations. The elasticity of the airbag allows it to return to its original shape once the load is removed enabling the system to absorb and dissipate energy effectively.

[0035] An acoustic foam 109 is applied over the body 101 to absorb unwanted sound generated by the engine. This foam 109, typically made from materials like polyurethane or melamine, has an open-cell structure that allows sound waves to enter and dissipate within the foam 109. The foam’s 109 porous nature traps and reduces sound energy, converting it into heat and thereby lowering the intensity of noise that would otherwise be transmitted through the body 101. This helps to minimize engine noise and improve the overall acoustic environment within the vehicle, contributing to a quieter and more comfortable ride.

[0036] An IoT (Internet of Things) integration through a communication module 106 allows for real-time monitoring of the system’s performance. The communication module 106, typically utilizing Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or cellular networks enables the microcontroller to wirelessly send data regarding the system’s status to a connected dashboard. This setup facilitates the transmission of alerts or notifications, which can inform users or operators about the system’s operational parameters, such as vibration intensity, fluid temperature, or system health. This integration enhances the system’s functionality by providing remote monitoring and control, ensuring timely maintenance and adjustments for optimal performance.

[0037] A piezoelectric plate 112 is positioned on the body 101 of the system, generating an electric charge when exposed to mechanical stress. The piezoelectric plate 112 operates based on the principle of the piezoelectric effect, where specific materials generate an electric charge when subjected to mechanical stress or deformation. The plate 112 is made from piezoelectric materials, such as quartz or ceramics, which have a crystalline structure that allows for the displacement of charge carriers when force is applied.

[0038] When the plate 112 is compressed, bent, or vibrated, the mechanical stress causes the internal dipoles of the material to align, creating a charge difference between the surfaces of the plate 112. This electrical charge is then harvested and can be stored in a battery or used to power other components within the system. The piezoelectric plate 112 effectively converts mechanical energy into electrical energy, which is used for continuous power generation in electronic components.

[0039] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the cuboidal body 101 positioned at the bottom of the vehicle's engine mount, designed from isotropic material for uniform vibration distribution. Within the body 101, the honeycomb structure 102 ensures that vibrations are spread across multiple pathways, minimizing resonance and energy transfer. Embedded inside the body 101 are the accelerometer 103 and gyroscopic sensor 105, which measure the intensity and characteristics of the vibrations generated by the engine. The data collected from these sensors is processed by the microcontroller, which actuates a set of electromagnetic plates 104. These plates 104 generate the controlled magnetic field, interacting with the magnetorheological (MR) fluid inside the body 101 to adjust its viscosity, thereby absorbing kinetic energy from the vibrations and dissipating it as heat. The temperature sensor 107 and Peltier unit 108 to regulate the fluid’s temperature, ensuring its viscosity remains consistent for effective vibration damping. To prevent sound disturbances, acoustic foam 109 is applied to absorb unwanted noise. Furthermore, the communication module 106 provides real-time monitoring, sending alerts regarding the system’s performance.

[0040] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) A vibration damping system for a vehicle, comprising:

i) a flat cuboidal body 101 made from an isotropic material, configured to be positioned at bottom of an engine mount of a vehicle, wherein interior of said body 101 features a honeycomb structure 102 for distributing vibrations experienced when engine of said vehicle is running, across multiple pathways to reduce resonance and energy transfer;
ii) an accelerometer 103 coupled with a gyroscopic sensor 105, embedded in said body 101 to measure intensity of said vibrations, based on which an inbuilt microcontroller actuates plurality of electromagnetic plates 104 positioned at bottom of said body 101 to generate a controlled magnetic field for increasing viscosity of a magnetorheological (MR) fluid disposed within said body 101, for absorbing kinetic energy from said experienced vibrations and dissipates said energy as heat through opposite side of said body 101;
iii) a temperature sensor 107 embedded within said body 101 for monitoring internal temperature of said body 101, wherein a Peltier unit 108 is integrated within said body 101 for actively cooling said fluid inside, by transferring heat from said fluid to opposite side of said body 101, in view of maintaining an optimal fluid temperature, for consistent viscosity and effective vibration damping; and
iv) plurality of air springs 110 are arranged below said body 101 for absorbing shocks waves, generated by said vibrations, thus preventing direct transmission of said shock waves to other vehicle components.

2) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein an acoustic foam 109 is layered over said body 101 for absorbing unwanted sound generated by said engine.

3) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein a strain gauge 111 is positioned on said body 101 to measure deformations and strain within said body 101, based on which said microcontroller regulates actuation of said accelerometer 103 and gyroscopic sensor 105, to detect said vibrations intensity, for subsequent operations.

4) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein an IoT (Internet of Things) integration via a communication module 106, enabling real-time monitoring for sending alerts or notifications to a dashboard wirelessly linked with said microcontroller, regarding said system's performance.

5) The system as claimed in claim1, wherein a piezoelectric plate 112 arranged on said body 101 for generating an electric charge when subjected to mechanical stress, that is stored in a battery configured with said system for providing a continuous power supply to electronically powered components associated with said system.