How do you test active suspension systems on different roads?

1 Simulation and Modeling

One of the most common and efficient ways to test active suspension systems is to use simulation and modeling software that can replicate the dynamics and interactions of the vehicle, the suspension, the road, and the driver. Simulation and modeling allow engineers to analyze the behavior and response of the system under different inputs, parameters, and disturbances, as well as to optimize the design and control of the system. Some of the software tools that are used for simulation and modeling of active suspension systems include MATLAB, Simulink, CarSim, ADAMS, and Dymola.

2 Laboratory Testing

Another way to test active suspension systems is to use laboratory testing equipment that can reproduce the road excitations and measure the performance of the system in a controlled environment. Laboratory testing can involve using actuators, sensors, and controllers to apply forces and motions to the suspension components, or using a test rig that can simulate the whole vehicle on a platform with rollers or shakers. Laboratory testing can provide accurate and reliable data on the characteristics and functionality of the system, as well as identify any potential faults or failures.

3 Road Testing

The final and most realistic way to test active suspension systems is to use road testing, which involves driving the vehicle on actual roads with different surface conditions, traffic situations, and driver preferences. Road testing can provide valuable feedback on the comfort, handling, and stability of the vehicle, as well as the durability and reliability of the system. Road testing can also reveal any unexpected or undesirable effects or interactions of the system with the environment or the driver. Some of the tools that are used for road testing include data acquisition systems, cameras, GPS, and sensors.

4 Evaluation Criteria

To assess the performance and quality of active suspension systems, engineers employ various evaluation criteria that reflect the objectives and requirements of the system. For instance, they consider ride comfort, which evaluates how well the system isolates the vehicle body and occupants from road disturbances and vibrations. Additionally, they evaluate handling, which examines how well the system maintains vehicle stability and maneuverability under different driving conditions. Furthermore, engineers consider road holding to determine how well the system keeps the tires in contact with the road surface. Moreover, they examine power consumption to evaluate how much energy the system consumes and how it affects fuel efficiency and emissions. Lastly, cost is a factor in assessing active suspension systems since it reflects how much it costs to design, manufacture, install, and maintain them.

5 Challenges and Opportunities

Testing active suspension systems on different roads presents both challenges and opportunities. Challenges include the complexity and variability of road conditions and driver behavior, trade-offs between evaluation criteria, and safety and ethical issues. On the other hand, opportunities include the advancement of simulation and modeling tools, the development of new technologies and sensors, and the increasing customer demand for improved systems. All these factors can help create more efficient testing, optimization, and differentiation of the system, as well as new markets and applications.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?