A Non Linear Parametric Model of an Automotive Shock Absorber

The shock absorber model proposed in this paper is applicable both as part of a full vehicle suspension simulation and as a general way to describe and specify automotive shock absorbers.

The parameters of the model correspond to the different physical properties and tuning possibilities of a standard automotive damper. They relate directly to the car behaviour on the road, both for handling and comfort. The language of ride engineers is used. After identification of the parameters, results of the simulation model correspond very well with experiments, for a wide range of dampers and road profiles.

The paper presents the algorithm and formulas used in the model and compares simulated and measured damping curves for a typical automotive shock absorber.