Showing papers in "Vehicle System Dynamics in 2011"

Editors’ perspectives: road vehicle suspension design, dynamics, and control

Abstract: This paper provides an overview of the latest advances in road vehicle suspension design, dynamics, and control, together with the authors' perspectives, in the context of vehicle ride, handling, and stability. The general aspects of road vehicle suspension dynamics and design are discussed, followed by descriptions of road-roughness excitations with a particular emphasis on road potholes. Passive suspension system designs and their effects on road vehicle dynamics and stability are presented in terms of in-plane and full-vehicle arrangements. Controlled suspensions are also reviewed and discussed. The paper concludes with some potential research topics, in particular those associated with the development of hybrid and electric vehicles.

Modelling of suspension components in a rail vehicle dynamics context

Abstract: Suspension components play key roles in the running behaviour of rail vehicles, and therefore, mathematical models of suspension components are essential ingredients of railway vehicle multi-body models. The aims of this paper are to review existing models for railway vehicle suspension components and their use for railway vehicle dynamics multi-body simulations, to describe how model parameters can be defined and to discuss the required level of detail of component models in view of the accuracy expected from the overall simulation model. This paper also addresses track models in use for railway vehicle dynamics simulations, recognising their relevance as an indispensable component of the system simulation model. Finally, this paper reviews methods presently in use for the checking and validation of the simulation model.

Unscented Kalman filter for vehicle state estimation

Abstract: Vehicle dynamics control (VDC) systems require information about system variables, which cannot be directly measured, e.g. the wheel slip or the vehicle side-slip angle. This paper presents a new concept for the vehicle state estimation under the assumption that the vehicle is equipped with the standard VDC sensors. It is proposed to utilise an unscented Kalman filter for estimation purposes, since it is based on a numerically efficient nonlinear stochastic estimation technique. A planar two-track model is combined with the empiric Magic Formula in order to describe the vehicle and tyre behaviour. Moreover, an advanced vertical tyre load calculation method is developed that additionally considers the vertical tyre stiffness and increases the estimation accuracy. Experimental tests show good accuracy and robustness of the designed vehicle state estimation concept.

Vehicle dynamics applications of optimal control theory

Abstract: The aim of the paper is to survey the various forms of optimal-control theory which have been applied to automotive problems and to present illustrative examples of applications studies, with assessments of the state of the art and of the contributions made through the use of optimal-control ideas. After a short introduction to the topic mentioning several questions to which optimal-control theory has been addressed, brief reviews of automotive-applicable optimal-control theory are given. There are outlines of the Linear Quadratic Regulator, without and with state reconstruction and then with the addition of disturbance preview, the nonlinear regulator or state-dependent-Riccati equation method, general numerical optimal-control theory including indirect and direct methods, model predictive control and robust control. Applications of the theory to active and semi-active suspension design and performance, worst-case manoeuvring, minimum-time manoeuvring and high-quality driving are then discussed in detail...

Vehicle suspensions with a mechatronic network strut

Abstract: This paper applies a novel mechatronic network strut to vehicle suspensions and discusses the benefits of system performance. The proposed mechatronic strut consists of a ball-screw inerter and permanent magnet electric machinery, such that the system impedance can be realised through a combination of mechanical and electrical networks. Applying the mechatronic strut to vehicle suspensions, we evaluate the improvement of system performance using passive electrical networks. Furthermore, a prototype mechatronic strut is constructed for properties verification. Finally, nonlinearities of the mechatronic strut are taken into account to modify the suspension design. From the simulation and experimental results, the proposed mechatronic network strut is shown to be effective.

A review of ground vehicle dynamic state estimations utilising GPS/INS

Abstract: This paper provides an extensive overview of existing vehicle dynamic state estimators that utilise the in-car Inertial Navigation Sensors and Global Positioning System The different approaches are categorised, the techniques are summarised and the limitations and advantages of each approach are provided Recommendations for future research are also given The review is intended to be fairly comprehensive, but with an emphasis on vehicle sideslip estimation

Vehicle dynamic stability improvements through gain-scheduled steering and braking control

Abstract: This paper is concerned with the synthesis of a robust gain-scheduled ℋ∞ MIMO vehicle dynamic stability controller (VDSC) involving both steering and rear braking actuators. This VDSC aims at improving automotive vehicle yaw stability and lateral performances. The aim of this work is to provide a methodology to synthesise such a controller while taking into account the braking actuator limitations and use the steering actuator only if it is necessary. These objectives are treated in an original way by the synthesis of a parameter-dependent controller built in the LPV framework and by the solution of an LMI problem. The proposed solution is coupled with a local ABS strategy to guarantee slip stability and make the solution complete. Nonlinear time and frequency domain simulations on a complex full vehicle model (which has been validated on a real car), subject to critical driving situations, show the efficiency and robustness of the proposed solution.

Numerical methods in vehicle system dynamics: state of the art and current developments

Abstract: Robust and efficient numerical methods are an essential prerequisite for the computer-based dynamical analysis of engineering systems. In vehicle system dynamics, the methods and software tools from multibody system dynamics provide the integration platform for the analysis, simulation and optimisation of the complex dynamical behaviour of vehicles and vehicle components and their interaction with hydraulic components, electronical devices and control structures. Based on the principles of classical mechanics, the modelling of vehicles and their components results in nonlinear systems of ordinary differential equations (ODEs) or differential-algebraic equations (DAEs) of moderate dimension that describe the dynamical behaviour in the frequency range required and with a level of detail being characteristic of vehicle system dynamics. Most practical problems in this field may be transformed to generic problems of numerical mathematics like systems of nonlinear equations in the (quasi-)static analysis and ex...

A hybrid electromagnetic shock absorber for active vehicle suspension systems

Abstract: The use of electromagnetic dampers (ED) in vehicle active suspension systems has drawn considerable attention in the past few years, attributed to the fact that active suspension systems have shown superior performance in improving ride comfort and road handling of terrain vehicles, compared with their passive and semi-active counterparts. Although demonstrating superb performance, active suspensions still have some shortcomings that must be overcome. They have high energy consumption, weight, and cost and are not fail-safe in case of a power breakdown. The novel hybrid ED, which is proposed in this paper, is a potential solution to the above-mentioned drawbacks of conventional active suspension systems. The proposed hybrid ED is designed to inherit the high-performance characteristics of an active ED with the reliability of a passive damper in a single package. The eddy current damping effect is utilised as a source of the passive damping. First, a prototype ED is designed and fabricated. The prototype ED is then utilised to experimentally establish the design requirements for a real-size active ED. This is accomplished by comparing its vibration isolation performance in a 1-DOF quarter-car test rig with that of a same-class semi-active damper. Then, after a real-size active ED is designed, the concept of hybrid damper is introduced to the damper design to address the drawbacks of the active ED. Finally, the finite-element method is used to accurately model and analyse the designed hybrid damper. It is demonstrated that by introducing the eddy current damping effect to the active part, a passive damping of approximately 1570 Ns/m is achieved. This amount of passive damping guarantees that the damper is fail-safe and reduces the power consumption more than 70%, compared with an active ED in an automotive active suspension system.

Integrated control on MR vehicle suspension system associated with braking and steering control

Abstract: This article presents a hierarchy control strategy for magneto-rheological suspension system integrated with active braking and active front steering subsystems. This is proposed for the improvement of ride comfort and vehicle stability under different kinds of driving conditions. A nonlinear complicated full vehicle model which includes the longitudinal, lateral and vertical motions is established and combined with a modified coupling 'Magic Formula' tyre model. Subsequently, the global state identification and task assignment logic are formulated by adopting several driving conditions such as the straight driving and cornering state. A fuzzy control strategy is then used for the suspension system, while a sliding mode control technique is utilised for both braking and steering systems. In order to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control methodology, control performances such as roll angle, yaw rate and vehicle trajectory are evaluated and presented.

Hydraulically interconnected vehicle suspension: handling performance

Abstract: This paper extends recent research on vehicles with hydraulically interconnected suspension (HIS) systems. Such suspension schemes have received considerable attention in the research community over the last few years. This is due, in part, to their reported ability to provide stiffness and damping rates dependent on the suspension mode of operation (i.e. the bounce, roll, pitch or articulation of the unsprung masses relative to the sprung mass), rather than relying on the stiffness and damping characteristics of the single wheel stations. The paper uses a nine-degrees-of-freedom (DOF) vehicle model and simulations of a fishhook manoeuvre to assess the handling performance of a vehicle when it is fitted with: (a) a conventional independent suspension, and (b) an HIS. In the case of the latter, the fluid subsystem is modelled using a nonlinear finite-element approach, resulting in a set of coupled, first-order nonlinear differential equations, which describe the dynamics of the integrated mechanical-hydraulic vehicle system. The simulation results indicate that, in general, the HIS-equipped vehicle possesses superior handling, as measured by the sprung mass roll angle, roll rate, roll acceleration, lateral acceleration and the vehicle's Rollover Critical Factor. The potential effects of the suspension set-up on ride performance are also considered by studying the transient response when one side of the vehicle traverses a half-sine bump. The obtained results are then discussed, and it is shown that they are consistent with previous findings, both by the authors and other researchers. The presented work outlines an alternative approach for studying the dynamics of HIS-equipped vehicles, particularly suited to analyses in the time domain.

Optimal preview game theory approach to vehicle stability controller design

Abstract: Dynamic game theory brings together different features that are keys to many situations in control design: optimisation behaviour, the presence of multiple agents/players, enduring consequences of decisions and robustness with respect to variability in the environment, etc. In the presented methodology, vehicle stability is represented by a cooperative dynamic/difference game such that its two agents (players), namely the driver and the direct yaw controller (DYC), are working together to provide more stability to the vehicle system. While the driver provides the steering wheel control, the DYC control algorithm is obtained by the Nash game theory to ensure optimal performance as well as robustness to disturbances. The common two-degrees-of-freedom vehicle-handling performance model is put into discrete form to develop the game equations of motion. To evaluate the developed control algorithm, CarSim with its built-in nonlinear vehicle model along with the Pacejka tire model is used. The control algorithm ...

Parameter and state estimation for articulated heavy vehicles

Abstract: This article discusses algorithms to estimate parameters and states of articulated heavy vehicles. First, 3- and 5-degrees-of-freedom linear vehicle models of a tractor semitrailer are presented. Vehicle parameter estimation methods based on the dual extended Kalman filter and state estimation based on the Kalman filter are presented. A program of experimental tests on an instrumental heavy goods vehicle is described. Simulation and experimental results showed that the algorithms generate accurate estimates of vehicle parameters and states under most circumstances.

Application of time-variant predictive control to modelling driver steering skill

Abstract: The paper addresses the need for improved mathematical models of human steering control. A multiple-model structure for a driver's internal model of a nonlinear vehicle is proposed. The multiple-model structure potentially offers a straightforward way to represent a range of driver expertise. The internal model is combined with a model predictive steering controller. The controller generates a steering command through the minimisation of a cost function involving vehicle path error. A study of the controller performance during an aggressive, nonlinear steering manoeuvre is provided. Analysis of the controller performance reveals a reduction in the closed-loop controller bandwidth with increasing tyre saturation and fixed controller gains. A parameter study demonstrates that increasing the multiple-model density, increasing the weights on the path error, and increasing the controller knowledge range all improved the path following accuracy of the controller.

Assessment of safety against derailment using simulations and vehicle acceptance tests: a worldwide comparison of state-of-the-art assessment methods

Abstract: The assessment of derailment safety of new railway vehicle designs is a fundamental concern worldwide. Although the methods used for assessment in different countries and regions vary considerably, the fundamental mechanisms being addressed are the same. This paper provides a detailed review of the current state-of-the-art methods for derailment safety assessment in several regions and countries including Europe, UK, USA, and Russia. Brief overviews of the methods used in China, Korea, and Japan are also included. Similarities and differences are discussed, including testing and computer simulations. References are provided for the origins of the methods and safety performance criteria used in each region. Recommendations are made for improving the assessment methods, especially the use and validation of computer simulations.

Adaptive backstepping control of train systems with traction/braking dynamics and uncertain resistive forces

Abstract: Although backstepping control design approach has been widely utilised in many practical systems, little effort has been made in applying this useful method to train systems. The main purpose of this paper is to apply this popular control design technique to speed and position tracking control of high-speed trains. By integrating adaptive control with backstepping control, we develop a control scheme that is able to address not only the traction and braking dynamics ignored in most existing methods, but also the uncertain friction and aerodynamic drag forces arisen from uncertain resistance coefficients. As such, the resultant control algorithms are able to achieve high precision train position and speed tracking under varying operation railway conditions, as validated by theoretical analysis and numerical simulations.

High-speed optimal steering of a tractor–semitrailer

Abstract: A high-speed optimal trailer steering controller for a tractor-semitrailer is discussed. A linear model of a tractor-semitrailer with steered trailer axles is described, and an optimal trailer steering controller is introduced. A path-following controller is derived to minimise the path-tracking error in steady-state manoeuvres using active trailer steering. A roll stability controller is introduced by adding the lateral acceleration of trailer centre of gravity as another objective in the steering controller, so as to improve roll stability in transient manoeuvres. A strategy to switch between these two control modes is demonstrated. Simulation results show that the steering controller can ensure good path tracking of articulated vehicles in steady-state manoeuvres and improve roll stability significantly in transient manoeuvres, while maintaining the path-tracking deviation within an acceptable range. Tests with an experimental tractor-semitrailer equipped with a high-bandwidth active steering system validate the controller design and simulation results. The roll stability controller reduces the measured rearward amplification by 27%.

Yaw damper modelling and its influence on railway dynamic stability

Abstract: This paper deals with the modelling of yaw dampers and determining the influence of the modelling of this component on the results obtained when predicting the dynamic stability of a vehicle. The first part of the work analyses the influence of the yaw damper characteristics on railway dynamic stability. Following this, a physical model of the damper is developed which allows its performance to be reproduced accurately in the whole range of operating conditions the damper is envisaged to operate in. Once obtained, it was found that the computational cost of the model was relatively high. Therefore, a simplified model has been developed. The simplified model allows obtaining accurate results without excessively increasing the time required to perform the simulations. Analysing the results obtained with this model, it has been concluded that with respect to previous model based on conventional approaches, it improves the accuracy of dynamic calculation for the stability assessment. Also, it has been found that the accurate modelling of the yaw damper is critical when dealing with the vehicle's dynamic performance. In the last part of the paper, a special type of yaw damper was studied as well as its effect on the dynamic behaviour of the vehicle.

Handling stability improvement through robust active front steering and active differential control

Abstract: The design of the integrated active front steering and active differential control for handling improvement of road vehicles is undertaken. The controller design algorithm is based on the solution of a set of linear matrix inequalities that guarantee robustness against a number of vehicle parameters such as speed, cornering and braking stiffnesses. Vehicle plane dynamics are first expressed in the generic linear parameter-varying form, where the above-stated parameters are treated as interval uncertainties. Then, static-state feedback controllers ensuring robust performance against changing road conditions are designed. In a first series of simulations, the performance of the integrated controller is evaluated for a fishhook manoeuvre for different values of road adhesion coefficient. Then, the controller is tested for an emergency braking manoeuvre executed on a split-μ road. In all cases, it is shown that static-state feedback controllers designed by the proposed method can achieve remarkable road handl...

Observer-based clutch disengagement control during gear shift process of automated manual transmission

Abstract: A clutch disengagement strategy is proposed for the shift control of automated manual transmissions The control strategy is based on a drive shaft torque observer With the estimated drive shaft torque, the clutch can be disengaged as fast as possible without large driveline oscillations, which contributes to the reduction of total shift time and shift shock The proposed control strategy is tested on a complete powertrain simulation model It is verified that the system is robust to the variations of driving conditions, such as vehicle mass and road grade It is also demonstrated that the revised system with switched gain can provide satisfactory performance even under large estimation error of the engine torque

Odometric estimation for automatic train protection and control systems

Abstract: The paper summarises the main features concerning the definition of an efficient odometry algorithm to be used in modern automatic train protection and control (ATP/ATC) systems. The availability of a reliable speed and travelled distance estimation is essential for the efficiency and the safety of the whole system. The first essential step in odometric subsystem design is the choice of the sensors, whose output signals will be used for velocity estimation. Then a suitable procedure fusing sensor signals has to be defined as a function of number and type of sensors and accuracy and safety targets. In the paper, the main features of an innovative solution will be summarised and its performance will be presented, in terms of precision in speed and travelled distance estimation.

Preliminary studies concerning the application of different braking arrangements on Italian freight trains

Abstract: Freight wagons are usually equipped with the standard Union Internationale des Chemins de Fer pneumatic brake. On long trains, the propagation of the pneumatic signals along the pipe and different braking/loading conditions may produce delays and/or differences in the application of the braking effort along the train. This phenomenon may cause heavy longitudinal forces exchanged between wagons through buffers and draw gear. In particular, the workgroup n.6 (freight trains composition) of the Italcertifer committee has performed some preliminary studies concerning the application of LL braking operative conditions on freight wagons trains travelling on Italian lines. Partners have cooperated in this workgroup; however, in this paper, the attention is focused on methodologies and results concerning the contribution of University of Florence. The results of this activity, coordinated by RFI-CESIFER have been used to emanate the 20/07 rule of the RFI (‘Modifiche alla Prefazione Generale all'Orario di Servizio...

System Dynamics of Electrified Vehicles: Some Facts, Thoughts, and Challenges

Abstract: Mainly motivated by ecological aspects and the resulting worldwide regulations, electrified vehicles are getting increasing attention from researchers, car manufacturers, and consumers. While most discussions are focusing on the hybrid or completely electric propulsion technologies, this contribution will focus on the aspects of system dynamics related to electrified vehicles. Most of the aspects discussed here are also interesting for vehicles with conventional combustion engines, which will be dominating the mobility market for many years to come. Here, after discussing some basic principles of energy consumption and recuperation potentials, chassis systems are discussed with respect to energy efficiency and fitness for electrified vehicles. Further on, some system implementations are presented to show promising or already successful solutions to the arising challenges.

Design of electromagnetic shock absorbers for automotive suspensions

Abstract: Electromechanical dampers seem to be a valid alternative to conventional shock absorbers for automotive suspensions. They are based on linear or rotative electric motors. If they are of the DC-brushless type, the shock absorber can be devised by shunting its electric terminals with a resistive load. The damping force can be modified by acting on the added resistance. To supply the required damping force without exceeding in size and weight, a mechanical or hydraulic system that amplifies the speed is required. This paper illustrates the modelling and design of such electromechanical shock absorbers. This paper is devoted to describe an integrated design procedure of the electrical and mechanical parameters with the objective of optimising the device performance. The application to a C class front suspension car has shown promising results in terms of size, weight and performance.

Sliding-mode control for semi-active suspension with actuator dynamics

Abstract: A sliding-mode controller (SMC) is proposed for semi-active suspensions to achieve ride comfort and handling performance simultaneously. First, a nonlinear quarter-car model of Macpherson strut suspension is established in Matlab/Simulink. Constrained damper force and actuator dynamics are considered for the damper model. System identification is applied to the nonlinear model for obtaining the linear model parameters. Kalman filter is designed based on the linear model and the actuator dynamics to estimate the state responses required for SMC. The sliding surface consists of tyre deflection and sprung mass acceleration. The proposed SMC is evaluated using the nonlinear model for both time and frequency domain responses. Robustness due to the increased sprung mass and deteriorated suspension is also investigated in this paper. Preliminary simulation results show improved ride comfort without sacrificing the road holding performance.

The dynamic study of locomotives under saturated adhesion

Abstract: In order to study the dynamic behaviours of locomotives under saturated adhesion, the stability and characteristics of stick–slip vibration are analysed using the concepts of mean and dynamic slip rates. The longitudinal vibration phenomenon of the wheelset when stick–slip occurs is put forward and its formation mechanism is made clear innovatively. The stick–slip vibration is a dynamic process between the stick and the slip states. The decreasing of mean and dynamic slip rates is conducive to its stability, which depends on the W/R adhesion damping. The torsion vibration of the driving system and the longitudinal vibration of the wheelset are coupled through the longitudinal tangential force when the wheelset alternates between the stick and the slip states. The longitudinal oscillation frequencies of the wheelset are integral multiples of the natural frequency of torsion vibration of the driving system. A train dynamic model integrated with an electromechanical and a control system is established to sim...

Integrated control of active suspension system and electronic stability programme using hierarchical control strategy: theory and experiment

Abstract: Integrated vehicle dynamics control has been an important research topic in the area of vehicle dynamics and control over the past two decades. The aim of integrated vehicle control is to improve the overall vehicle performance including handling, stability, and comfort through creating synergies in the use of sensor information, hardware, and control strategies. This paper proposes a two-layer hierarchical control architecture for integrated control of the active suspension system (ASS) and the electronic stability programme (ESP). The upper-layer controller is designed to coordinate the interactions between the ASS and the ESP. While in the lower layer, the two controllers including the ASS and the ESP are developed independently to achieve their local control objectives. Both a simulation investigation and a hardware-in-the-loop experimental study are performed. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed hierarchical control system is able to improve the multiple vehicle performance indices including both the ride comfort and the lateral stability, compared with the non-integrated control system. Moreover, the experimental results verify the effectiveness of the design of the hierarchical control system.

Multibody dynamics modelling and system identification of a quarter-car test rig with McPherson strut suspension

Abstract: In this paper, we develop a multibody dynamics model of a quarter-car test-rig equipped with a McPherson strut suspension and we apply a system identification technique on it. Constrained equations of motion in the Lagrange multiplier form are derived and employed to characterise the dynamic behaviour of the test rig modelled once as a linear system and once as a non-linear system. The system of differential algebraic equations is integrated using a Hilber–Hughes–Taylor integrator. The responses of both models (linear and non-linear) to a given displacement input are obtained and compared with the experimental response recorded using the physical quarter-car test rig equipped with a McPherson strut suspension. The system identification is performed for control purposes. The results, as well as the performance and area of applicability of the test rig models derived, are discussed.

Extended study of railway vehicle lateral stability in a curved track

Abstract: This article presents results of the studies aimed at more accurate stability analysis of railway vehicles in a curved track. More accurate analysis means extended study of the stability as compared with the method used by the authors so far. New measures undertaken by the authors in order to achieve the goal are explained. Besides, differences between results obtained with the earlier and extended approaches are presented and discussed. Results that are expected on the basis of the theory are confronted with practical capabilities to generate them through simulations at the same time. The issues of interest are precise determination of nonlinear critical velocity, determination of linear system critical velocity, determination of unstable periodic and unstable stationary solutions, existence of multiple solutions and correct determination of velocity at which unbounded growth of the solutions (lateral dynamics coordinates) happens during calculations resulting in their stop.

An insight into linear quarter car model accuracy

Abstract: The linear quarter car model is the most widely used suspension system model. A number of authors expressed doubts about the accuracy of the linear quarter car model in predicting the movement of a complex nonlinear suspension system. In this investigation, a quarter car rig, designed to mimic the popular MacPherson strut suspension system, is subject to narrowband excitation at a range of frequencies using a motor driven cam. Linear and nonlinear quarter car simulations of the rig are developed. Both isolated and operational testing techniques are used to characterise the individual suspension system components. Simulations carried out using the linear and nonlinear models are compared to measured data from the suspension test rig at selected excitation frequencies. Results show that the linear quarter car model provides a reasonable approximation of unsprung mass acceleration but significantly overpredicts sprung mass acceleration magnitude. The nonlinear simulation, featuring a trilinear shock absorber model and nonlinear tyre, produces results which are significantly more accurate than linear simulation results. The effect of tyre damping on the nonlinear model is also investigated for narrowband excitation. It is found to reduce the magnitude of unsprung mass acceleration peaks and contribute to an overall improvement in simulation accuracy.