Robust H∞ Control Design for Improving Handling and Ride Comfort in Semi-Active Suspension Systems

Authors

  • Kumlachew Yeneneh Department of Motor Vehicle Engineering, College of Engineering, Ethiopian Defence University, Bishoftu P.O. Box 1041, Ethiopia https://orcid.org/0009-0008-7803-8304
  • Tatek Mamo Department of Mechanical Engineering, School of Mechanical, Chemical and Materials Engineering, Adama Science and Technology University, Adama P.O. Box 1888, Ethiopia
  • Menelik Walle Department of Motor Vehicle Engineering, College of Engineering, Ethiopian Defence University, Bishoftu P.O. Box 1041, Ethiopia
  • Biru Birhanu Department of Motor Vehicle Engineering, College of Engineering, Ethiopian Defence University, Bishoftu P.O. Box 1041, Ethiopia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15282/ijame.21.3.2024.7.0890

Keywords:

Handling, Ride comfort, Robust H∞ control, Semi-active suspension, μ-synthesis

Abstract

This study investigates the application of robust H∞ control design for semiactive suspension systems. The goal is to achieve a balance between ride comfort and handling. A quarter-car model is used to simulate the system's dynamics. The findings demonstrate that the robust H∞ control approach with μ-synthesis offers significant advantages compared to traditional passive control and nominal H∞ control methods. When compared to the passive system, the robust H∞ controller with μ-synthesis results in a 50% reduction in body displacement (from 0.04 meters to 0.02 meters) during a simulated road bump. It also achieves a 25% reduction in peak body acceleration (from 4 m/s² to 3 m/s²) and a 37.5% reduction in suspension deflection (from 0.04 meters to 0.025 meters). These improvements translate to a smoother ride with less body movement and improved handling due to better tire contact with the road. The μ-synthesis method specifically addresses uncertainties like passenger weight and road conditions. This leads to more consistent performance in real-world driving scenarios. Overall, this study highlights the effectiveness of robust H∞ control design in achieving a well-balanced suspension system that enhances both ride comfort and handling.

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Published

2024-09-20

How to Cite

[1]
K. Yeneneh, T. Mamo, M. Walle, and B. Birhanu, “Robust H∞ Control Design for Improving Handling and Ride Comfort in Semi-Active Suspension Systems ”, Int. J. Automot. Mech. Eng., vol. 21, no. 3, pp. 11542–11553, Sep. 2024.

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