Suspension systems are the key component in driving pleasure and ride quality. Driving stability and ride comfort are the criteria for assessing these demands. Sports vehicles for driving pleasure and luxury vehicles for ride quality each install the suspension system that fits its purpose better. Electronically controlled active suspension systems help reduce vehicle vibration and maintain roll angle while changing lanes and vehicle cornering by sensing hydraulic pressure, linear and lateral accelerations, road surface quality etc.
New and exciting systems are emerging in Automotive Suspension. Acceleration sensors, adaptive and semi-active damping systems, which were earlier used in high performance vehicles are now finding their way into mass consumption automobiles. Microprocessor based Suspension systems have moved beyond safety and comfort and help maintain control of vehicles under adverse driving conditions. Electronics has entered through Advanced Suspension technologies (Air Spring, Electronic Damping Control, and Suspension by Wire).
By Gene Frantz, Texas Instruments Smart, programmable cameras with a high degree of analytical intelligence will be the workhorses that enable the next generation of applications for the security and automotive markets to name just a couple. The technology will be in place. Are we ready for it as human beings?