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A road simulation method has been developed to investigate ride comfort and fatique strength in the laboratory. A short description is given of the road profile generation technique used. The road to be simulated is recorded by driving the vehicle on the road and measuring the vertical accelerations and the forces of each spindle. In the laboratory the transfer behavior of the vehicle is determined with the aid of an identification technique. An iteration process is used. The simulation of the road profile and the forces is realised in the laboratory with multi-channel electrohydraulic equipments. Laboratory test results are shown and compared with road signals.

Daimler-Benz have developed an automatically/electronically controlled traction system, the 4MATIC. Great store has been set by active safety. This paper deals with the problems involved in 4-Wheel drive and analyzes the reasons which led to the 4MATIC concept. Depending on the conditions encountered, the drive components engage automatically one after the other in the sequence front-wheel drive - interaxle differential lock - rear axle differential lock. The engagement, and thus the approaching limits of driving dynamics, is indicated to the driver by an indicator lamp so that he can adjust to the deteriorated conditions in time. A further important advantage of this system is the automatic disengagement of the differential locks when braking so that the anti-lock braking remains fully effective.