Stability control keeps SUVs on the straight and narrow

Feb. 5, 2004
Ordinary electronic stability-control systems control yaw or skidding only. But engineers at Ford Motor Co. married a new Roll Stability Control (RSC) system with a traction-control system for extra protection against rollovers.

 

In the RSC, a gyroscopic sensor determines roll angle and rate of the vehicle. This information, using proprietary algorithms in software, is processed with other sensor data from the vehicle. The data includes yaw rate as well as lateral and longitudinal accelerations that indicate roll stability about 150 times/sec. An unstable situation activates the RSC, reducing engine power and applying brakes to one or more wheels until the vehicle stabilizes.

The RSC made its debut on 2003 Volvo XC90s. It is now available on 2004 Lincoln Aviator and Navigator SUVs.

Sponsored Recommendations

A closer look at modern design considerations for food and beverage

April 9, 2024
With new and changing safety and hygiene regulations at top of mind, its easy to understand how other crucial aspects of machine design can get pushed aside. Our whitepaper explores...

Condition Monitoring for Energy and Utilities Assets

April 9, 2024
Condition monitoring is an essential element of asset management in the energy and utilities industry. The American oil and gas, water and wastewater, and electrical grid sectors...

Strategizing for sustainable success in material handling and packaging

April 9, 2024
Download our visual factory brochure to explore how, together, we can fully optimize your industrial operations for ongoing success in material handling and packaging. As your...

Fueling the Future of Commercial EV Charging Infrastructure

April 9, 2024
Miguel Gudino, an Associate Application Engineer at RS, addresses various EV charging challenges and opportunities, ranging from charging station design strategies to the advanced...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!