Cosimulation of multi-body-based vehicle dynamics and an electric power steering control system

Abstract

Increasing use of electric power steering (EPS) systems, which affect vehicle dynamic behaviour, has prompted the need for a more effective method of analysing control systems coupled with detailed vehicle models. This paper develops an integrated simulation of an EPS control system with a full-vehicle dynamic model. Using a cosimulation technique, a multi-body-based full-vehicle dynamic model interacting with the EPS control algorithm is concurrently simulated on a single-bump road condition. The effects of EPS on the vehicle dynamic behaviour and handling responses resulting from steer and road input are analysed and compared with proving ground experimental data. The comparisons show reasonable agreement on tie rod load, rack displacement, steering wheel torque and tyre centre acceleration. This cosimulation capability may be useful for EPS performance evaluation and calibration, as well as for vehicle handling performance integration.