New AutoComfort semi-active cab suspension enhances comfort
11.11.2007Cab suspension on tractors has become increasingly popular, but so far all cab suspension systems have been “passive”, meaning that the spring and dampening settings have been made on the basis of specific design criteria. The end result is always a compromise. Cab suspension that is good on the road may not be the best off the road.
Valtra has therefore developed a semi-active cab suspension system that automatically adjusts to different driving conditions. The system consists of electronically controlled shock absorbers, a position sensor and a control unit that is connected to the tractor via a CAN bus. The system can adjust the stiffness of the shock absorption every two milliseconds according to movement data from the position sensor and information about the driving situation from the CAN bus. For example, the CAN bus provides information about the position of the shuttle and breaking, allowing the system to react against bouncing.
The system can be set on automatic or manual on the panel inside the cab. The suspension elements include air springs that maintain a steady height regardless of the load. The semi-active cab suspension system will be available as an option from the beginning of 2008 on Valtra’s T Series 151e-191 Advance and HiTech models. When ordered with AutoComfort, the Aires front axle suspension includes automatic height control, which further enhances driving comfort while minimising the use of compressed air and antifreeze.
Improving driving comfort is extremely important, as the Valtra T Series is popular among contractors and on big farms, which are affected by the EU Vibration Directive for salaried employees. AutoComfort helps Valtra’s customers reduce vibration levels. Even farmers not affected by the directive will appreciate the enhanced comfort.
Semi-active AutoComfort cab suspension received the silver Innovation Award at the Agritechnica exhibition in Hanover, Germany in 2007.
AutoComfort video (15 MB, wmv)
Valtra Inc.
More information:
Max Schulman, Product Manager, +358 40 737 4456, max.schulman@valtra.com
Valtra Inc. develops, manufactures, markets and services Valtra tractors. Valtra is the leading tractor manufacturer in the Nordic countries and the second most popular brand in Latin America. Net sales in Europe, Africa and the Middle East (EAME) in 2006 amounted to 470 million euros and the number of employees to 950. Total production in Finland and Brazil amounted to 17,500 tractors. Valtra is a worldwide brand of AGCO Corporation.
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