SEMI-ACTIVE VEHICLE CAB SUSPENSION USING MAGNETORHEOLOGICAL (MR) TECHNOLOGY

Abstract

Agricultural vehicle manufacturers are employing new semi-active cab suspensions using Magnetorheological (MR) technology. The use of MR technology in cab suspensions is a logical next step in improving operator safety and comfort. The speed and simplicity of MR technology enables the use of low-stiffness springs without the compromise between ride and stability, and can provide roll, isolation and pitch stability. MR fluids are materials that respond to a magnetic field with a dramatic change in rheological behavior. These fluids can reversibly change instantaneously from a free-flowing liquid to a semi-solid with controllable yield strength when exposed to a magnetic field. MR systems have been developed with a modular, integrated approach that can include a damper containing MR fluid, air spring, automatic electronic leveling, sensors, controller, and CANbus data communication.