The new Hadley SmartValve Electronic Height Control System combines a valve manifold, external sensor and electronics into one compact unit that fits in the same envelope as a mechanical height control valve. Installed on a drive axle suspension, the company says, SmartValve can save time and effort, and help reduce driver injuries by eliminating the need to crank the landing gear as often or as far, and by eliminating trips out of the cab for adjustment.

Testing by Hadley at the Bosch Automotive Proving Grounds validated the time saved by SmartValve in these operations compared to mechanical height control valves.  In high-frequency drop-and-hook situations, according to the company, SmartValve could save each driver a week’s worth of time every year. Hadley also tested SmartValve using SAE J1321 Type II Fuel Economy procedures. The resulting .7 % improvement on a specific tractor model, the company says, means that SmartValve provides OEMs with a tool to design more aerodynamic tractors, which can automatically lower vehicle ride heights at highway speeds

The SmartValve Electronic Height Control System is available today as a retrofit kit for specific applications, with additional coverage planned for the next few months.  SmartValve will be available later this year for OEM installation.