View Single Post
      01-02-2009, 11:45 PM   #5
ssemerod
Private
1
Rep
70
Posts

Drives: 2008 e92
Join Date: Dec 2008
Location: california

iTrader: (0)

mind you, I am indulging in RBV (red bull and vodka). you can read my paraphrasing below or read the actual article by googling electronic or magnetic shock absorbers

it all starts with the ecu. the vehicle has accelerometers located in several places that send data to the ecu in regards to up and down movements of the car. this, in conjuction with vehicular speed, steering angle and possibly other data is analyzed by the ecu which in turn alters the dampening rates of the shocks. less than 10 milliseconds is required for a system response. the sport setting is a control map that makes all adjustments, including the beginning threshold, more stiff , or a higher threshold for shock movement, or technically a lower flow rate of hydraulic fluid.

a lower threshold, i.e. comfort setting, the more fluid can flow, allowing the shock to posess longer travel, or less dampening effect.
this physically happens by way of a motor altering the size of the hydraulic channel.

the magnetic systems in use utilize metallic particles in the fluid, when these systems are actuated, an electric current (up to 5 amps per corner) causes the metallic fluid to become more viscous and thereby limiting the flow through the orifice. these operate 1/1000 of a second or
Appreciate 0