Ride-Comfort Analysis for Commercial Truck Using MATLAB Simulink

Ride Comfort forms a core design aspect for suspension and is to be considered as primary requirement for vehicle performance in terms of drivability and uptime of passenger. Maintaining a balance between ride comfort and handling poses a major challenge to finalize the suspension specifications. The objective of this project it to perform ride- comfort analysis for a commercial truck using MATLAB Simulink. First, benchmarking was carried out on a 4x2 commercial truck and the physical parameters were obtained. Further, a mathematical model is developed using MATLAB Simulink R2015a and acceleration- time data is collected. An experimentation was carried out on the truck at speeds of 20 kmph, 30 kmph, 40 kmph and 50 kmph over a single hump to obtain actual acceleration time domain data. The model is then correlated with actual test over a single hump. This is followed by running the vehicle on Class A, B & C road profiles to account for random vibrations. Similarly, a simulation is done on MATLAB Simulink and a correlation is established between simulated and actual data using time domain and frequency domain analysis. Furthermore, fitment of data in Ride Comfort Index is carried out as per ISO 2631. Uniqueness of this work, includes dynamic damping and stiffness values for obtaining accurate results. Thus, A versatile model is developed to accommodate all 4x2 trucks in the same segment. Thus, a flexible model for trucks with varying weight distribution ranging from conventional IC engine to electric powertrain can be used for ride comfort analysis.