Optimization of Mechanical Dampers for Enhanced Vibration Isolation in Automotive Suspension
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.66411/jer.v41i1.125Keywords:
Quarter Car Model (QCM), vibration isolation, mechanical dampers, automotive suspension, ISO 8608Abstract
This research aims to develop mechanical damper and suspension system parameters in automobiles to enhance vibration isolation and improve metrics related to passenger comfort, road stability, and suspension performance. Problem lies in the inherent contradictions of vehicle suspension dynamics: improving ride comfort (low acceleration) often compromises road stability (high tire contact force) and suspension system life (low movement). The researcher addressed these contradictions by using a quarter-car model (QCM), a two-degree-of-freedom representation that accurately simulates vertical vehicle dynamics. The research and optimization methodology for the Quarter Control Module (QCM) was based on simulated road inputs, characterized by Power Spectral Density (PSD) profiles according to ISO 8608 [27], across roughness classes A to D. Multi-objective optimization was implemented using the Non-Dominant Genetic Sorting Algorithm II (NSGA-II) to balance three conflicting objectives: minimizing the RMS (rural mass) acceleration () for ride comfort, maximizing tire contact force for road stability, and minimizing RMS suspension deflection for suspension performance/lifetime. The research results succeeded in producing parameters that achieved a significant improvement in vibration isolation, showing a 20-30% reduction in the average squared spring mass acceleration () across all road classes and varying vehicle mass ratios. For rough urban roads (Category C according to ISO 8608), the optimal configuration achieved with parameters = 2500 N/m, = 28000 N/m, = 120 kg, and = 220000 N/m. The evaluation of ISO 2631-1 standards for whole body vibration (WBV) also revealed that in heavy vehicle scenarios, the improved design helps to keep the frequency-weighted acceleration () below the maximum risk level, thus extending the permissible exposure time.
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