Tuesday 10 April 2012

Audi's new magnetic semi-active suspension system

Audi magnetic ride provides the right degree of damping force at each individual wheel in every situation. The control unit, supplied by complex sensing technology, constantly analyses the situation. Starting from the "Normal" setting, the driver can also activate the "Sport" mode via a button on the centre console. These two programs establish clearly distinctive characteristics.
In the basic mode – when the oil is more viscous and the degree of damping less pronounced – the TT rolls surprisingly smoothly; this is ideal for long-distance driving or uneven road surfaces. In the Sport mode, by contrast – when the oil is less viscous – it reveals an extremely dynamic character that is manifested by a resolutely firm grip of the road surface. Rolling movements are suppressed from the very moment the steering is turned even more effectively than in the basic suspension setting, and the steering response is further improved. The self-steering behaviour is further optimised by the specific stabilisation provided for each individual wheel, resulting in a driving feel reminiscent of a go-kart.
Audi Magnetic Ride is based on a magneto-rheological principle. When in a magnetic field, small iron particles in the suspension fluid align themselves in the direction of the magnetic flux. The electromagnetic coil is integrated into the damper piston in such a way that when it is energized the magnetic flux runs exactly transversely to the admission ports in the damper piston. If the piston moves, the aligned iron particles create flow resistance in the flowing suspension fluid.

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