Modelling and Comparison of Semi-Active Control Logics for Suspension System of 8x8 Armoured Multi-Role Military Vehicle

Abstract

Comparative performance of vehicle suspension system using passive, and semi-active control (on-off and continuous) has been carried out for a multi-axle vehicle under the source of road disturbance. Modelling and prediction for stochastic inputs from random road surface profiles has been carried out. The road surface is considered as a stationary stochastic process in time domain assuming constant vehicle speed. The road surface elevations as a function of time have been generated using IFFT. Semi active suspension gives better ride comfort with consumption of fraction of power required for active suspension. A mathematical model has been developed and control algorithm has been verified with the purpose/objective of reducing the unwanted sprung mass motions such as heave, pitch and roll. However, the cost and complexity of the system increases with implementation of semi-active control, especially in military domain. In addition to fully passive and fully semi-active a comparison has been made with partial semi-active control for a multi-axle vehicle to obviate the constraints. The time domain response of the suspension system using various control logics are obtained and compared. Simulations for different class of roads as defined in ISO: 8608 have been run and the ride comfort is evaluated and compared in terms of rms acceleration at CG in vertical direction (Z), which is the major contributor for ORV (Overall Ride Value) Measurement.