Weight-compensated actuator test stand for vehicle dynamics
This technology is a precision motion-control platform for testing objects like cars by combining two complementary actuator types: a pneumatic cylinder that bears the heavy static weight of the test object, and a linear electromagnetic motor that delivers precise, dynamic forces and movements. By offloading the burden of supporting the object's weight to the pneumatic system, the electromagnetic motor is freed to focus entirely on generating accurate, controlled motion profiles without being stressed by constant load. A computer control system coordinates both actuators in real time to hit specified force or displacement targets. The result is a testing rig that can simulate road conditions, vibrations, or crash forces with high fidelity.
What you could build
A high-fidelity vehicle dynamics and durability test stand sold to automotive OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, and government crash/safety labs that need accurate simulation of road loads, vibration, and impact forces on full vehicles or subsystems.
Who in Virginia should care
Virginia-based defense contractors and government labs (e.g., DoD proving grounds, Naval Surface Warfare Center) testing vehicles and equipment under controlled dynamic loads would be natural customers or collaborators.
Readiness: Prototype likely
Concept — described but not yet demonstrated. Lab validated — supported by experimental results in the patent. Prototype likely — the text describes a built, working embodiment.
Readiness is inferred from the patent text, not from a lab visit.
The record
- Inventors
- Stephen C. Southward, Chandler Reubush, Bryan Pittman, Kurt Roehrig, Doug Gerard
- Granted
- September 30, 2014
- Status
- Granted patent
- Patent number
- 8844345
Ready to talk?
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology.
Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.