Optimum Vehicle Suspension With a Damped Absorber

Abstract

The performance characteristics of vehicle suspension with optimum damped absorber are evaluated and compared with those of the pertinent optimized conventional and optimal active suspension system. A one-dimensional two-degree-of-freedom linear model, subjected to random guideway disturbance, is adopted. Optimization is based upon the rms tire-terrain normal force (a measure of controllability), constrained by the rms sprung mass acceleration (a measure of ride comfort). The rms rattle displacements between suspension components (a measure of dynamic excursion) and the power spectral density of the sprung mass acceleration (an addition measure of ride comfort) are evaluated to provide for additional vehicle performance criteria. The comparison demonstrates that both optimum damped absorber and optimal active suspensions, in general, improve vehicle performances. And, the optimal active is better when controllability is emphasized, but the optimum damped absorber suspension is superior when ride comfort is of prime importance.