Abstract:
An improved magnetorheological fluid damper is provided which closely approximates ideal performance requirements by providing an increased turn-up ratio and improving the linearity of damping force response. The MR damper includes a plurality of concentric annular flow gaps formed between concentrically mounted flux rings positioned on a piston core. By utilizing multiple flow gaps, the present damper increases the overall magnetorheological damping affect thereby creating a higher damping force and an increased tun-up ratio for a given piston size. Alternatively, the present multiple flow gap design permits a given damping force requirement to be achieved with a piston having a significantly reduced length thereby permitting a longer piston stroke. Also, multiple flow gaps permit greater design optimization for controlling damping force linearity.