Revolutionizing Ride Comfort: The Future of By-Wire Suspension

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Revolutionizing Ride Comfort: The Future of By-Wire Suspension - Image for illustration purposes only
04-04-2025motortrend
Hydraulic suspension systems have been around since the 1950s, but they haven’t evolved significantly since then. However, Domin Limited, a British technology firm, is on a mission to transform this outdated model with its innovative electrohydraulic solutions.

A New Approach to Suspension

- Electrohydraulic Actuation: Instead of relying on a centralized hydraulic system, Domin proposes generating hydraulic pressure on demand using compact electric pumps and valves.
- Weight Savings: In aviation, their technology can dramatically reduce hydraulic piping weight—by 2,200 pounds in a Boeing 777. For vehicles, it promises a lightweight, active suspension that adapts in real-time.

Key Features

- Integrated Struts: Each wheel corner utilizes a single strut that is equipped with:
- A variable-orifice damping valve and a high-precision brushless motor.
- Multiple accumulators for customizable spring rates.

- Active Ride Height Adjustment:
- The system can adjust the ride height without affecting spring rates.
- It requires about 1 kilowatt of power for quick adjustments, ensuring minimal energy consumption.

Performance Advantages

- Speed and Precision: With a rapid response time of just 2-3 milliseconds and real-time wheel-velocity monitoring, you can expect smooth rides over road imperfections.
- Adaptive Control: This system can replace costly components needed for handling roll and pitch, providing detailed insights into vehicle dynamics.

Cost and Production

- Affordable Manufacturing: While the Domin corner may initially come with a higher price tag, weight reductions can offset expenses. Furthermore, simplified assembly significantly cuts costs.
- Future Developments: Currently, Domin is testing its suspension with a major German OEM and plans to launch a hypercar by 2028.

Conclusion

Domin's advanced electrohydraulic suspension technology represents a promising future for vehicle dynamics, offering customizable comfort and performance while reducing weight. This innovative approach could redefine how we experience suspension systems in the automotive world.

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