Contribution to the development of methodology for assessing the impact of bus suspension system on fuel consumption and CO2 emission

Abstract

This paper analyzes the effects of intercity bus suspension system oscillatory parameters on driver's ride comfort and road damage. The analysis has been carried out through simulation by means of validated in-plane bus model with six degrees of freedom excited by real road roughness signal. Low root-mean-square values of the weighted vertical acceleration (less than 0.315 m/s2) have been achieved by shock-absorbers with lower damping coefficient and softer suspension system springs. Low values of dynamic load coefficient provide low shock-absorber damping and softer springs. However, low crest factor values for both axles are accomplished for high shock-absorber damping and softer springs in bus suspension system. Results from this analysis could be used as reference for selecting proper oscillatory parameter values when designing road-friendly bus suspension system which in turn would increase vehicle energy efficiency. Presented methods, results and analyzes are the part of wider methodology for assessing the impact of bus suspension system on fuel consumption and CO2 emission.