Schaeffler’s electro-mechanical active roll control is set to make volume production. The new system replaces standard hydraulic stabilizers that minimize a vehicle’s rolling motion, but also prevent any yawing of the vehicle.
The design, now introduced by Schaeffler as an electromechanical system, has other benefits, in that it can help reduce fuel consumption and emissions, as well as simplify vehicle assembly. The system is based around a Continental-supplied software platform.
The product will debut in a ‘luxury-class’ sedan, and works in conjunction with a camera, which constantly scans the road surface in front of the vehicle. If any bumps, such as a manhole cover, are detected in the road surface ahead, the system briefly raises the corresponding wheel, increasing comfort.
“With the world’s first electromechanical active roll control, Schaeffler is expanding its range of electromechanical actuators, which make significant contributions with respect to performance capacity and efficiency for cars,” stated Prof. Peter Gutzmer, chief technology officer and member of the executive board at Schaeffler,
“With our electronic control system, we are helping to defuse the classic conflict of objectives between comfort and handling when designing the chassis. The rolling motion of the vehicle when going around curves is reduced, which at the same time increases driving safety, driving dynamics, and driving comfort.” added Felix Bietenbeck, manager of the vehicle dynamics business unit at Continental division chassis & safety.
To launch volume production for the new system, Schaeffler has built completely new production facilities at its Schweinfurt location. The individual systems have a modular design, making it possible to integrate other volume production launches in the years to come.
