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At the recent Consumer Electronics Show (CES) held in Las Vegas, ZF unveiled its innovative "Active Noise Reduction" software function aimed at mitigating in-vehicle tire noise, a common and disruptive issue that travels through chassis components such as control arms and dampers. Unlike traditional noise reduction methods that rely on additional hardware, ZF's new solution operates purely on a software basis, significantly reducing tire noise at its source without the need for extra noise dampening materials within the vehicle. This breakthrough technology leverages the capabilities of ZF’s Smart Chassis Sensor, which integrates an acceleration sensor to accurately detect vibrations transmitted from the tires through the chassis.
The core of the system lies in a specially developed algorithm that identifies the unique noise patterns associated with tire cavity noise, typically centered around 200 hertz. Once the vibrations are analyzed, the software generates a counter-signal delivered via ZF’s cubiX software platform through the valves of semi-active dampers known as CDC (Continuous Damping Control). This process induces micro-movements in the dampers to counteract and reduce the noise without compromising the damper’s primary function. Dr. Peter Holdmann, member of the ZF Board of Management and head of the Division Chassis Solutions, emphasizes that this smart algorithm-driven approach enhances the efficiency of ZF’s semi-active CDC dampers and sets new standards in vehicle comfort, all while avoiding the need for additional noise-dampening equipment.
The implementation of noise reduction solely through software-controlled damper adjustments brings several advantages, including eliminating extra installation costs and space requirements traditionally associated with acoustic hardware. Currently, the technology achieves noise reductions exceeding 3 decibels, which is noticeably perceptible to passengers, and there is potential to increase this reduction up to 10 decibels in future iterations. Another key benefit of this software-based solution is its adaptability; it can be tailored to suit various vehicle types and customer preferences through straightforward software updates, opening new possibilities in the automotive market, especially for lower-priced vehicles that typically lack high-end acoustic solutions.
ZF is recognized as the global market leader in semi-active dampers, supplying approximately 40 percent of all such components worldwide. With the automotive industry's growing shift toward automated driving systems, ZF anticipates a rise in demand and sales for these advanced damping technologies. The Active Noise Reduction function is an integral part of ZF’s Chassis 2.0 product strategy, which combines intelligent and networked actuators—including brakes, steering, and damping systems—with scalable electronic architectures and innovative software solutions. This integrated approach forms a flexible platform for enabling new chassis functionalities in software-defined vehicles.
Looking ahead, production of Active Noise Reduction technology is slated to begin in 2028. ZF also plans to expand this software-driven noise mitigation concept to other chassis actuators, such as using it to actively reduce brake squeal or incorporating it within the fully active damping system called sMOTION. Dr. Holdmann notes that leveraging system expertise and smart algorithms will allow ZF to transform its mechatronic actuators into innovation leaders capable of efficiently minimizing both self-generated and external noise. By embedding these capabilities within the Chassis 2.0 initiative, ZF is laying the groundwork for the future of software-defined vehicles, where intelligent actuator control substantially enhances driving comfort and overall vehicle performance.
