Information generated from smart algorithms
ZF launches Smart Chassis Sensor in Cadillac Celestiq
The sensor detects irregularities in the road surface - such as potholes and road bumps.
ZF
ZF equips Smart Chassis Sensor for Cadillac’s all-electric flagship Celestiq. It is permanently integrated into the ball joints of all four-wheel suspensions and determines the vehicle's ride height. Smart algorithms generate information from it.
"With the help of evaluation algorithms, our sensor not only replaces conventional height sensors—it significantly outperforms them in terms of data volume and reliability," says Steffen Reichelt, Head of the Chassis Components Product Line at ZF.
Embedded algorithms enable core vehicle functions such as adaptive damping and headlamp leveling—and open up potential for more smart features and new business models.
No need for separate installation
In the Celestiq, the ZF solution is permanently integrated into the ball joints on all four-wheel suspensions - two in the front wishbones and two in the rear wishbones. Thanks to this integration, there is no need for separate installation, which saves time and weight. According to the German supplier, the Smart Chassis Sensor is therefore easier to install, lighter, cheaper, less susceptible to weather conditions and has a significantly more reliable signal quality than previous height sensors on the market.
ZF sees the main advantage in the quality and volume of data provided directly from the chassis by the Smart Chassis Sensor - regardless of whether the associated systems come from ZF or other manufacturers.
New business models and smart functions
Regardless of the specific application, the ZF sensor solution offers considerable potential. For example, Cadillac can use the data from the Smart Chassis Sensor in the Celestiq to control the damping and air suspension as well as the headlight range adjustment. Depending on the degree to which the system is deployed and the vehicles are networked, "road condition monitoring" can also be implemented.
Here, the sensor detects irregularities in the road surface - such as potholes and road bumps - and can better adjust the chassis to the conditions, adapting the vehicle damping to the road conditions and protecting important and safety-relevant chassis components from damage.
"These findings are particularly attractive for commercial vehicle users and fleet owners, but also for the maintenance of road infrastructure," says Reichelt. According to ZF, the data can also be used to feed driving dynamics applications such as ERC (Electronic Roll Control) roll stabilisation and active or semi-active damping systems. Other systems can also be operated in combination to ensure increased safety and comfort.
