Abstract
Keywords - active suspension system, electromechanical, vehicle dynamics, energy consumption, active body control
This paper presents an active electromechanical suspension system. It consists of a spring strut module for each wheel on the front and rear axle. In addition to the suspension spring, which is part of the standard strut and conventional damper, an electromechanical spindle drive and an accumulator spring are integrated into this module. The spindle drive displaces the seat of the suspension spring. In this way, vehicle body lifting forces can be dynamically increased or reduced. The accumulator spring arranged parallel to the suspension spring relieves the electromechanical spindle drive in idling and in turn the vehicle electrical system. The system operates on the basis of the standard 12V vehicle electrical system. In order to reduce current peaks in the vehicle electrical system, a high-capacity double-layer condenser is interconnected.
We present the systematic development of the module based on specification requirements via different approaches and concepts. Validation of the simulation results was available after the first partial and module tests and simultaneously served for confirmation of the specification requirements. Measurements on the test rig focused in particular on characteristics, travel and actuating forces, as well as dynamic behavior.
Furthermore, this paper shows the integration and the design of the active electromechanical system in a demonstrator vehicle. A description of the control algorithm for improving driving comfort and driving dynamics is given. Driving tests show that the average energy consumption is below that of a comparable vehicle with an active hydraulic suspension system. Less energy consumption leads to less fuel consumption and therefore less CO2 emission.