Suspension Control ( Automatic - Electronic ): Description and Operation

CONTROL UNIT





The control unit calculates the direction and the speed of the vehicle based on input signals from each sensor, and controls actuators (step motors) for optimum damping force of shock absorbers. In case of the trouble in the electric system, the control unit controls actuators (step motors) for constant damping force according to signals stored in control unit.

STEERING ANGLE SENSOR








Three optical, non-contact type sensors are used to send signals of the steering direction, neutral position, and lock angle to the control unit.
Steering angle sensors consist of LEDs, phototransistors which transform light to electric signals, and slit sheets which rotate with the steering wheel. The sensors receive light through slit sheets which rotate and shade light, turning ON/OFF the phototransistors.

VERTICAL G SENSOR








The vertical G sensor detects the up/down accelerations of the vehicle, and sends signals to the control unit.
The vertical G sensor consists of semiconductor piezo elements for the detecting element. The sensor detects accelerations as distortion amount and transforms the amount to a voltage signal through the amplification circuit.

CAUTION: Because the sensor is susceptible to mechanical impact, be sure to handle it with care.

SHOCK ABSORBER ACTUATOR





Shock absorber actuators are installed on the upper part of shock absorbers to control the damping force of shock absorbers by output signals from the control unit.
The motor operating angle is about 70°. The shock absorber actuator instantly controls 140 patterns of damping force.