An Energy Efficient Electromagnetic Active Suspension System

The technology thrust to develop an effective electromagnetic actuator for application in an active suspension system has precipitated a fresh look at the active control schemes in an effort to reduce the required force levels of the actuator. The resulting “near constant force” control algorithm is described and its ability to greatly reduce vehicle sprung mass motion is documented through simulation and single wheel station laboratory test stand results. The vehicle power and energy requirements associated with this unwanted vehicle vertical are analyzed and comparisons between the corresponding passive and active systems are presented. The success of the active system leads naturally to the conclusion that a passive suspension equipped vehicle will become power limited at a much lower speed than will this active system when traversing severe cross-country terrain.