Multi-body co-simulation of semi-active suspension systems

Abstract This paper describes the development and use of a multi-body co-simulation approach for predicting the dynamic response of a vehicle containing magnetorheological (MR) semi-active dampers. The approach is used to investigate the effects of various local and global control strategies on the load histories of suspension components for the purpose of assessing their likely impact on fatigue life. The approach adopted aims to exploit the capability of a multi-body system (MBS) code and a mathematical simulation code, by integrating the MBS vehicle models with selected semi-active damper/controller models. Various MBS vehicle models are developed of increasing complexity using MSC.visualNastran, which are linked to three local, two-state switchable, control algorithms and also two global controllers, each developed in MATLAB/Simulink. The control strategies are implemented within the vehicle model using an MR damper model derived from experimental test data. Road inputs, including both bump/pothole and random road excitation, and the tyre model are also implemented within MATLAB/Simulink. Ultimately, the aim is to develop an approach which would allow concurrent structural optimization and controller optimization to enable lighter and more durable suspension components to be produced.