Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A springless combination shock absorber and suspension apparatus comprising three tubes: An outer tube, a piston tube (inner tube) and a stationary (damping) tube, with a floating piston disposed in the inner piston tube, wherein the floating piston forms two chambers therein, a lower liquid chamber and an upper gas chamber. Fluid dampens shocks by passing through a two-way valve in the outer tube and may be controlled internally by a shim plate positioned over apertures or valve passageways, or, in a separate embodiment, by external adjustment of flow by rotating adjusting plates to open and close the valve passageways. The amount by which the gas chamber is reduced in compression is large enough to generate the high pressures required to produce spring-like forces. This design allows the gas pressure chamber to operate effectively as a spring.