ZF Sachs Provides New Electronic Damper to GM Sequel Concept Vehicle

NORTHVILLE, Mich., Sept. 14 -- ZF Sachs -- the powertrain and suspension components division of ZF -- is contributing a key piece of "by- wire" technology to the GM Sequel concept vehicle. The Intelligent Controlled Damper (ICD) is an electronically controlled shock absorber that improves comfort, performance, handling and safety.

ICD is a versatile system that integrates a series of sensors and control electronics into each variable shock absorber, along with body acceleration sensors at each vehicle corner and a central electronic control unit (ECU). Local controllers at the shocks convert force commands from the chassis controller to the shock control valve, adjusting the damping force within milliseconds. An advantage of the system is that it does not need its own ECU. Instead, it can be integrated into a vehicle with an existing vehicle dynamics control system from which the dampers can be managed.

The system can work in any vehicle and easily integrates into global chassis systems to improve communication between the wheels, brakes and steering systems. And, because each wheel has its own sensor and valve driver, it reduces the current requirements of the controller to mainly signals only. With its GMLAN/CAN bus compatible architecture, sharing sensor and other vehicle dynamics information with other chassis controllers is made simple.

Within the Sequel, ICD allows General Motors to develop vehicle ride and handling characteristics to a whole new level.

ZF is a leading worldwide supplier of driveline and chassis technology. Headquartered in Friedrichshafen, Germany, ZF is among the 15 largest automotive suppliers in the world. The company employs approximately 54,000 at 122 locations in 26 countries, and totaled sales of $13.5 billion in 2005.

ZF operates a large manufacturing network in North America, combined with global research and development capabilities, to provide advanced technology to the region. The ZF Group North American Operations Headquarters and Technical Center is located in Northville, Mich., USA.