Audi TT Suspension

MagneRide semi-active suspension of Audi TT

Audi is equipping its new TT with Delphi Corp.’s MagneRide semi-active suspension, an innovative technology that uses magneto-rheological fluid to provide continuously variable real-time suspension damping control. Named Audi Magnetic Ride on the TT,MagneRide responds in real time to road and driving conditions based on input from sensors that monitor vehicle body and wheel motion. Audi Magnetic Ride this innovative technology uses magneto-rheological fluid-filled dampers to provide continuously variable real-time suspension damping control. The system offers increased damper tuning capability, a very large range of damping, and faster response over valve-based controlled suspension systems. Audi Magnetic Ride delivers both maximum driving dynamics and superior road isolation that result in excellent driver comfort. with different versions of MagneRide include the Audi TT, Audi R8, Audi A3, the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano, the Ferrari California and the widely-acclaimed new Ferrari 458 Italia.

 Component identification

The system consists of four magneto-rheological (MR) fluid-based monotube dampers (struts and/or shock absorbers)- MR fluid is a suspension of magneticallnsoft particles in a synthetic hydrocarbon base fluid . A sensor set, and an on-board Electronic Control Unit (ECU). Three enabling technologies made the development of MagneRide possible:The MR fluid, The damping actuator, The control algorithm.

System operation

The MagneRide semi-active suspension uses magneto-rheological fluid to provide continuously variable real-time suspension damping control. It responds in real time to road and driving conditions based on input from sensors that monitor vehicle body and wheel motion. 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 new 8J TT now has a multi-link fully independent rear suspension to complement the front independent suspension. The entire suspension system can be enhanced with Audi's new active suspension, "Audi Magnetic Ride", available as an option. This is based on BWI Group's MagneRide, which uses magneto rheological dampers (this means that an electronic control unit for the suspension will automatically adjust its damping properties depending on the current road conditions and driving manner).The mount contains an electromagnetic coil that can generate a variable magnetic flux across the fluid passages.When the coil current is off, the MR fluid is not magnetised, the iron particles are randomly dispersed within the fluid, and the fluid behaves like conventional hydraulic oil. When the coil is energized,the magnetic field causes the particles to align into fibrous structures in the direction of the magnetic flux. The strength of the bond between the particles in the structures is proportional to the strength of the magnetic field, so changing the current provides real-time variable damping with a very large range of force variation.Audi Magnetic Ride this innovation technology uses magneto-rheological fluid - filled damper to provide continuously variable real time suspension damping control.The system offers increased damper tuning capability,a very large range of damping,and faster response over valve-based controlled suspension system.Audi Magnetic Ride delivers both maximum driving dynamics and superior road isolation that results in excellent driver comfort.European production vehicles currently available.Furthermore,drivers can choose from two driving programs with a console-mounted two-position driver preference switch depending on whether they want to drive with maximum road feel and control,or with the emphasis more on ride comfort.

Benefit of MegneRide Suspension

 Production-proven system- High reliability and maintenance free.  Automatic, continuous control of body modes- Increased maximum damping forces for high levels of body and wheel Control.Full-car modal control (heave/pitch/roll) - Reduced minimum damping forces for improved isolation and Smoothness.  Independent damping at each corner- Increases damping at a corner when needed to control body and/or wheel motions enhances vehicle handling and stability."MagneRide is one of the best technologies I've seen in a decade. It's an important breakthrough, and I consider it on par with stability control. " 

AUDI EVOLUTION