Comprehensive Evaluation and Optimal Design for the Vehicle Handling

Abstract

In this paper, a comprehensive evaluation method for vehicle handling based on the driver’s subjective evaluation to different vehicle configurations has been studied by using development driving simulator tests. An objective evaluation index is developed which consists of several individual evaluation indices affecting vehicle handling. A series of weighting factors corresponding to individual evaluation indexes are found by using the Genetic Algorithm to reach the best agreement between the objective evaluation and the average of subjective evaluation of the drivers. Simulator test scheme has been designed and carried out with 14 vehicle configurations, and subjective evaluation has been made for easy handling of vehicle by a group of drivers. A driver/vehicle close-loop system model has been established which can predict the vehicle motion of handling and stability. Vehicle design parameters and control parameters of its control system have been optimized by using the driver/vehicle close-loop system model and objective evaluation index.