Automotive Suspension Control.

Abstract

Abstract : This report contains the software package for an adaptive optimal suspension control system relative to terrain random vibration disturbances. The proposed problem solution is shown to fall into two separate program categories: (a) recognition of the terrain and parameter selection, by means of an on-board minicomputer or microprocessor, (b) optimization of suspension parameters for arbitrary terrain configurations obtained from terrain statistics and executed on a centrally located stationary computer facility. The interface between the stationary computer facility and the on-board microprocessor is accomplished by means of a data bank prepared at the stationary facility and permanently stored in the memory of the on-board microprocessor. The suspension parameters are set by a servo-control on the vehicle which is activated by the microprocessor. The servo-control unit regulates the supply and release of air in the hydropneumatic suspension system, thereby increasing or decreasing the spring rate according to the optimal requirements. In a similar manner the damper orifice size is increased or diminished depending on the required effective damping parameter. If need arises, the vehicle can operate at fixed suspension parameters. The results of the investigation are shown in graph form. (Author)