The word "air suspension" is spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet as /ɛr səˈspɛnʃən/. The first syllable "air" is pronounced with the /ɛr/ diphthong, which is a combination of the "e" and "r" sounds. The second syllable "sus-" is pronounced with the short "u" sound /ə/, followed by the voiceless "s" sound /s/. The third syllable "-pen-" is pronounced with the open "e" sound /ɛ/, followed by the nasal "n" sound /n/. The final syllable "-sion" is pronounced with the voiced "zh" sound /ʒ/ and the short "u" sound /ən/.
Air suspension is a type of vehicle suspension system that utilizes compressed air as a means of supporting the vehicle's weight and improving overall ride quality. In this system, the conventional coil or leaf springs are replaced by airbags or air springs, typically made of durable rubber or polyurethane material, which are filled with compressed air to support the vehicle's load.
The air suspension operates by using an air compressor, which pressurizes the air before distributing it to the air springs located at each wheel. By adjusting the amount of air in the springs, the system can actively control the ride height and stiffness of the vehicle, thereby providing a smoother and more comfortable driving experience.
One of the principal advantages of air suspension is its ability to self-level, ensuring that the vehicle remains at a consistent height regardless of the load or weight distribution. This feature is particularly beneficial in towing or carrying heavy loads, as it helps maintain optimal vehicle performance and stability. Additionally, air suspension systems can be adjusted to accommodate different driving conditions or preferences, allowing for customization of the vehicle's ride characteristics.
Air suspension is commonly found in luxury cars, trucks, buses, and commercial vehicles, where comfort, stability, and load-carrying capacity are essential. While it enhances ride comfort, the system also improves handling and reduces body roll during cornering. However, air suspension generally requires more regular maintenance and can be more expensive to repair compared to traditional suspension systems, due to the complexity of the setup and the specialized components involved.
The word "air suspension" has a straightforward etymology.
"Air" refers to the gaseous substance that surrounds the Earth and is necessary for human and animal life. It comes from the Old English word "ǣr", which means "gas" or "breath".
"Suspension" comes from the Latin word "suspensio", which means "a hanging up" or "a raising". It is derived from the Latin verb "suspendere", meaning "to hang" or "to pause".
Therefore, "air suspension" combines the word "air" with the word "suspension" to describe a system that uses compressed air to support the weight of a vehicle and absorb shocks while driving, thereby providing a smoother and more comfortable ride.