Controllable Wheeled Vehicle Suspension Research

摘要

The classic compromise between wheeled vehicle ride comfort and handling is well known. For off-road vehicles (as used by the military), it is very difficult to achieve a good compromise due to the fact that these vehicles are also used on highways at high speeds. Controllable suspension systems offer the possibility to change the spring and damper characteristics while the vehicle is moving, thereby adapting to different terrains and speeds. This research involved the design, development, manufacturing, modeling and testing of a two-stage, semi-active, hydro-pneumatic spring, combined with a two stage semi-active damper. This system promises to improve both the ride comfort and handling (and therefore the mobility) of military wheeled vehicles. Test results indicate that the required characteristics can be achieved, and a design study proves the feasibility of fitting the system to a vehicle. It is concluded that the proposed suspension system is feasible and that further development of the system should continue.