Global braking and chassis systems specialist BWI Group has developed a lightweight, more compact version of its proven Active Stabiliser Bar System (ASBS) that will make the many benefits of active roll control available to a far wider range of vehicles. Originally developed for large SUVs, the technology reduces the compromise between sharp handling and class-leading ride quality.
Advances in the systems� actuators and optimisation of other components means it can meet the package constraints and weight targets of smaller cars, including sports cars and smaller SUVs. A comprehensive programme of system optimisation and advances in the actuators has reduced weight by around 15%. The company has developed a new rotary actuator that will go into production on an SUV in 2012, while a high-performance sports car with an active stabiliser bar system is due to start production later this year using BWI�s linear actuator.
�BWI Group�s range of active stabiliser bar systems now offers manufacturers even greater packaging freedom, making it easier to achieve the optimum installation,� said Olivier Raynauld, BWI Group�s manager, Forward Engineering Controlled Suspensions. �Our production experience has allowed us to scale down much of the original system for smaller vehicles that do not require the torque or extensive wheel travel of an off-roader or large SUV.�
BWI�s Active Stabiliser Bar splits the anti-roll bar in the middle and uses a computer-controlled actuator to apply variable levels of torque to the ends of each section. When cornering, the system applies an anti-roll torque, opposed to the lateral acceleration, which limits body roll. When subject to road disturbances, the system has the ability to apply a torque opposed to the one generated by the springs and dampers, thus limiting head-toss. This gives the benefits of stiff, large diameter bars without the normal compromise in comfort and refinement. It improves stability through corners by reducing roll angle and managing the tyre-to-road interface.
Because ASBS can deal with all the vehicle roll angle and roll velocity inputs, leaving the springs and dampers to deal just with vertical inputs, it helps eliminate the traditional compromise between ride and handling. The system is able to modify the understeer or oversteer behaviour of vehicles near-instantaneously. BWI supplies a range of linear and rotary actuators with single or twin channel operation, allowing the company to provide systems for a wide variety of applications said Raynauld.
�Our two-channel system allows vehicle manufacturers to adjust the front-rear balance in real time so that the understeer or oversteer characteristics are continuously optimised for the demands of each driving situation,� said Raynauld. �This helps produce a vehicle that manoeuvres better and remains stable at high speeds. Entering corners, the system adapts to help initiate the turn then resists overshoot as the vehicle exits.�
BWI supplies a wide range of chassis control technologies to vehicle manufacturers worldwide including electronic stability systems, variable damping systems and antilock braking systems. The acclaimed Range Rover Sport uses ASBS actuators and hydraulic control modules supplied by BWI.
First image: BWI�s Active Stabiliser Bar System allows an outstanding quality of ride combined with precise body control through corners. A new lightweight actuator provides greater torque density, making packaging of the system easier.
Second image: BWI has reduced the weight of its Active Stabiliser Bar System by 15%. The low mass and compact size allow OEMs to use the technology on smaller cars, including sports cars and smaller SUV�s.
| BWI
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