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.

    Continue Reading

    Sponsored Recommendations

    April 16, 2025
    Clean. Compact. Less heat.
    April 16, 2025
    SEW-EURODRIVE Introduces DR2C motor, IE5 Ultra-Premium Efficiency Motor
    March 31, 2025
    Unlike passive products - made of simple carbon springs - the bionic prostheses developed by Revival Bionics are propulsive, equipped with a motor and an artificial Achilles tendon...
    March 31, 2025
    Electric drives are a key technology for the performance of machines, robots, and power tools. Download this guide for an introduction to high-quality mechatronic drive systems...

    Voice your opinion!

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