Adaptive Engine Mounts

Adjustable rigidity

By opening an additional bypass channel within the fluid-filled bearing, for example, the dynamic bearing rigidity can be reduced. This opening can be electromechanical or pneumatic-mechanical. The dynamic stiffness switches between two characteristic curves, which are matched to idling or driving operation.
 

Adjustable damping

Another possibility is provided, for example, by means of a decoupling diaphragm that works against an air volume. In this case, the air volume is closed or opened by electrically or pneumatically operated actuators. Closing the air volume brings about significant changes in the bearing characteristics. On the one hand, the low-frequency damping capacity increases and, on the other hand, the dynamic rigidity of the bearing increases across a broad frequency range. If the air volume is released again, damping and dynamic stiffness are reduced. In this way, the characteristic curve of the bearing can be optimally adjusted in accordance with the driving situation.
 
Further possibilities arise from the use of rheological fluids (ERF/MRF) or the coupling of additional spring elements.