Ford Motor Company Active Tilt Control

FORD - FUTURE TECHNOLOGY WATCH

Many of the advanced technologies and significant issues remain to be resolved before implementation. Inhibitors which could delay or preclude implementation might include unproven reliability, vehicle packaging issues and cost .vs. value as perceived by the customer.

ACTIVE TILT CONTROL

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What it is :

Active tilt control winds up the stabilizer bars in the front and rear suspension to resist body lean while cornering. Because active control is used only as needed, vehile spring rates and stabilizer bars stiffness can be reduced, improving normal ride characteristics. In addition, this system has potential to increase low speed, off road traction on 4 WD vehicles.

How it works :

The control module receives a lateral acceleration signal from a body mounted acceleromter. The module directs pressure from a pump to hydraulic cylinders that replace stabilizer bar links. During cornering, the cylinders wind up the stabilzer bars, which increases resistance to body lean. The system is deactivated at slow speeds to increase driver comfort. Off road traction is improved due to lower resistance from the stabilizer bars, allowing the front and rear wheels to better follow the surface of rough roads.=

Customer benefit :

Reduced vehicle lean when cornering and improved ride.

Ford Status :

Under development.