Adaptive spring strut for motor-supported two-wheelers with a dynamic spring rate
Motor-supported Two-wheelers are essential to the modern mobility. With the increase in power the moved loads with these vehicles also increase. As the additional load is a big portion of the total weight, vehicle dynamics are heavily influenced by steadily changing circumstances in usage. While common spring struts use a non-changeable steel spring, AeroFlex uses an intelligent spring-damper-system to adjust the spring rate to its operating conditions. Therefore, AeroFlex improves comfort and riding safety for drivers of motorized Two-Wheelers.
The aim of this project is to develop an intelligent spring-damper-system, which is able to adapt to its working conditions by adjusting the spring rate to the actual vehicle’s load. Due to this adjustability, harmful vibrations to the human body and the vehicle itself can be reduced, while comfort and safety is increased.
Spring struts with common steel springs are dominant in vehicle engineering and therefore non-adjustable during usage. AeroFlex‘ dynamic spring rate can help to solve conflicting goals in design, as usually there has to be chosen between rider’s safety and rider’s comfort. The rider benefits from this by a reduced whole-body-vibration, i.e. increased comfort, and increased safety during rides with additional load.
Research Coordinator "Mobility Technologies"