Active suspension system for a work vehicle

Abstract

An active suspension system for a work vehicle is disclosed herein. The system includes an active vibration isolator mounted between the chassis and cab of the vehicle. The isolator includes mounts attached to the cab and the chassis, and a spring and a hydraulic actuator are connected between the mounts. The actuator includes a cylinder and a piston moveable therein. An elastomeric vibration isolator is connected in series with the actuator to damp high frequency vibrations. The actuator moves the cab relative to the chassis when pressurized hydraulic fluid is selectively supplied and relieved to the actuator by a valve assembly responsive to a valve control signal. A sensor measures movement between the piston and the chassis. The sensor is located coaxial to the piston on an external surface of the isolator for ready access. A control circuit generates the valve control signal in response to the sensed signal to attenuate transmission of force between the cab and chassis. The movement sensor may also be mounted near the operator to directly sense vibrations affecting the operator. The isolator may be mounted sideways to reduce or eliminate the need for the spring.