COMPUTER-OPTIMIZED ADAPTIVE SUSPENSION TECHNOLOGY (COAST).

A fundamental vehicle suspension system using real-time computer control is presented. This computer-optimized adaptive suspension technology (COAST) consists of a microprocessor-controlled, fully-integrated, adaptive suspension system. COAST is capable of providing near-optimum performance for any land surface vehicle in any environment and can be implemented in a relatively simple and cost-effective manner. Each COAST suspension unit consists of a patented electronically controlled damping device and air spring along with a novel position sensor that provides the required inputs to the microprocessor to optimally control the vehicle. Beyond the conventional load-leveling capabilities of the air spring, the COAST utilization of a microprocessor will automatically adjust the height to accommodate varying road surfaces, forming an adaptive land-leveling function. The patented COAST control process provides simultaneous real-time optimum control of all the parameters of suspension movement, including roll, pitch, sprung natural frequency, unsprung natural frequency, pumping down, stored energy, topping out, bottoming out, and height control.