If successful, the system will also be retrofitted on previous HMMWV vehicles. To get there, LORD will have to demonstrate the effects of the MR system on the vehicle's performance, cost, space-claim and weight.
As you know by now, the MR suspension system uses a magneto-rheological fluid (MR) to operate. LORD's system, the manufacturer says, reacts nearly instantaneously to both changes in terrain and vehicle dynamic maneuvers. This adds to the car's dynamic stability. The system includes a controller, dampers, sensors, and software that can be tuned to optimize the vehicle's performance.
"These systems have already been demonstrated on a wide variety of military vehicles and the results are positive. Vehicles outfitted with our system experience less wear and tear, leading to longer vehicle life without reducing fuel efficiency. Our product enables greater stability and vehicle body control, allowing increased safety for the driver and occupants, and significantly improved ride quality," Steve Hildebrand, LORD engineering manager for MR suspension systems said.
Having witnessed the increasing interest in the MR suspension systems and in light of the US Army contract, LORD complete a 1,000-square-foot production cell expansion to the existing Cambridge Springs facility. According to LORD, the cell is the first of its kind.
Google News