Innovation

Low Frequency Suspension Technology
It has long been known that by reducing the friction within a suspension and thereby the vibration transfer of a suspension, provides a more comfortable ride for a vehicle operator, which can then lead to greater productivity and improved operator well being.

The introduction by Sears of Air / Hydraulic suspensions during the early 1980's began a process of bearing and air spring development which led to the words first low frequency suspension in 1987. Working with Firestone Sears developed a high volume air spring. Sears had always used suspension scissors with a wide stance, which while greatly improving stability also allowed for the straight forward utilisation of the new air spring. When coupled to Sears / INA developed Delrin® low friction roller bearings, this combination allowed for the previously unheard of frequency rating of 1.2 Hz, to be realised in an off-road suspension production product.

Using the six axis ride simulator (left), Sears were in a unique position to tune their suspensions to perform at their optimum level. Gathering real world terrain data from vehicles actually being operated, using the 'portable data acquisition system', this facility has allowed Sears to refine the ride characteristics of each suspension to suit a specific vehicle or application. This work is performed in the laboratory, before proving the performance and fine tuning, using operators in typical everyday and extreme working environments.

This gathering, interpreting and logging of ride files or ride algorithms, for almost all off-road terrain conditions over many years, and their practical application, has put Sears in a unique and world leading position in the area of Seat and suspension ride dynamics. It was no surprise then, that when John Deere were looking for a seat manufacturing company to develop their Active Seat, Sears - with their world leading position in off-road seat technology, coupled to their unique long term relationship with John Deere - were chosen as their partner.