Analysis and Development of Motorcycle Kinematic Sensor

The present work is realized in collaboration with ZF Friedrichshafen, within the motorcycle suspension division. Riding a motorcycle is an intensive experience of speed, tilt and handling. To achieve the best performances and guide experience is essential to have a chassis that responds optimally in every condition with the most sophisticated Comfort and Safety logic control, that shall use very precisely kinematic measurements. This project aims to analyse and develop an innovative motorcycle kinematic sensor. It shall measure how much the shock absorber is compressed. This new sensor will bring important improvements in compliance with the actual state-of-art solutions. The new sensor would be integrated in the shock absorber, with consequently space-saving and weight reduction that means a simplification in motorcycle design. The most important improvement is a more durable and consistent performance along the entire motorcycle's life. This last aspect shall allow to improve the logic control of the motorcycle safety system as ASC (Automatic Stability Control) , ABS (Anti Blockier System) and comfort systems as ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment) that could change the spring base or absorber damping in order to have an optimal handling. This thesis would check the operating principle, its implementation's limits and performances.