Abstract: A Constant Force Control methodology and system utilizing integrated sensors and unique control algorithms to determine required applied force to mitigate shock events in an adaptive energy absorption system, typically comprising of a spring and an adjustable energy absorber or damper element. By utilizing an expected acceleration profile and event duration for an anticipated shock event an acceleration amplitude can be determined from a measure impact velocity. From this and a measured payload mass a system controller can determine the force necessary to be applied by the energy absorber in order to stop the payload over the full desired length of the available energy absorber stroke in order to minimize the forces experienced by the payload.

Abstract: A method of designing a magnetorheological (MR) fluid energy absorbing damper is provided that uses hydromechanical analysis with lumped parameters to allow a determination as to whether a potential damper design will provide predetermined characteristics, such as a desired dynamic force range and maximum piston velocity, with a selected MR fluid and yield stress and preferably meeting predetermined geometric limitations.

Abstract: An energy absorbing device is provided that includes a damper assembly having inner and outer concentric tubes and a piston movable within the inner tube. The damper assembly is configured to form bi-fold valve-type cavities to operatively connect an inner chamber of the inner tube with an outer chamber formed between the inner and outer tubes. A magnetorheological fluid fills the chambers and the bi-fold valve-type cavities. The magnetorheological fluid preferably contains coated magnetic particles at about 10 to 60 percent by volume. Electrical coils adjacent the bi-fold valves are selectively energizable to such that the energy absorbing device provides a tunable damping force, preferably over the entire range of velocities of the piston, especially in automotive applications.

Abstract: A Constant Force Control methodology and system utilizing integrated sensors and unique control algorithms to determine required applied force to mitigate shock events in an adaptive energy absorption system, typically comprising of a spring and an adjustable energy absorber or damper element. By utilizing an expected acceleration profile and event duration for an anticipated shock event an acceleration amplitude can be determined from a measure impact velocity. From this and a measured payload mass a system controller can determine the force necessary to be applied by the energy absorber in order to stop the payload over the full desired length of the available energy absorber stroke in order to minimize the forces experienced by the payload.

Abstract: An adaptive energy absorption system for a vehicle seat is disclosed, utilizing an adaptive energy absorber or variable profile energy absorber (VPEA) for mitigating occupant injury due to extreme vehicle movement (e.g., during a vehicle shock event), and/or for mitigating vibration experienced by an occupant of the vehicle seat during normal vehicle operating conditions. The adaptive energy absorption system achieves the aforementioned objectives for a wide range of occupant weights and load levels. Various configurations of dual-goal energy absorption apparatuses that enable both shock mitigation and vibration isolation are disclosed.

Abstract: A method of designing a magnetorheological (MR) fluid energy absorbing damper is provided that uses hydromechanical analysis with lumped parameters to allow a determination as to whether a potential damper design will provide predetermined characteristics, such as a desired dynamic force range and maximum piston velocity, with a selected MR fluid and yield stress and preferably meeting predetermined geometric limitations.

Abstract: An energy absorbing device is provided that includes a damper assembly having inner and outer concentric tubes and a piston movable within the inner tube. The damper assembly is configured to form bi-fold valve-type cavities to operatively connect an inner chamber of the inner tube with an outer chamber formed between the inner and outer tubes. A magnetorheological fluid fills the chambers and the bi-fold valve-type cavities. The magnetorheological fluid preferably contains coated magnetic particles at about 10 to 60 percent by volume. Electrical coils adjacent the bi-fold valves are selectively energizable to such that the energy absorbing device provides a tunable damping force, preferably over the entire range of velocities of the piston, especially in automotive applications.

Abstract: A system and method for self-powered magnetorheological-fluid damping of mechanical vibrations includes a hydraulic cylinder. The hydraulic cylinder is configured for at least partially disposing magnetorheological fluid therein. A piston head is disposed within the hydraulic cylinder. The piston head has first and second sides and is configured to be in sliding engagement with the hydraulic cylinder. A piston rod is at least partially disposed within the hydraulic cylinder and is connected to the piston head on the first side. The system also includes a vibration absorber assembly having housing. The vibration absorber assembly is configured to transduce mechanical vibrations of the piston rod to electric current.

Abstract: An adaptive energy absorption system for a vehicle seat is disclosed, utilizing an adaptive energy absorber or variable profile energy absorber (VPEA) for mitigating occupant injury due to extreme vehicle movement (e.g., during a vehicle shock event), and/or for mitigating vibration experienced by an occupant of the vehicle seat during normal vehicle operating conditions. The adaptive energy absorption system achieves the aforementioned objectives for a wide range of occupant weights and load levels. Various configurations of dual-goal energy absorption apparatuses that enable both shock mitigation and vibration isolation are disclosed.

Abstract: A new and improved automobile refrigerator comprising, in combination, an automobile dashboard having an exterior surface with a recess formed therein. A door is positioned over the recess to selectively open and close the recess. A hinge couples the lower edge of the door with the lower edge of the recess to allow the pivoting of the door to provide or prohibit access to the space within the recess interior of the dashboard. A box in the recess behind the door has upper and lower walls, side walls and a rear wall in the box-like configuration with an opening in the front of the walls terminating at the dashboard. Thermal insulation is located along all of the walls including the front door to abate the flow of thermal energy to and from the space within the box. A rectangular gasket is formed on the interior surface of the door adapted to contact the dashboard adjacent to the periphery of the opening. Flexible connectors have upper ends coupled to the box at upper extents thereof.