Optimal Layout of Suspension System Employing Mechatronic Inerter for Comfort Enhancement Based on Structure-Immittance Approach

Abstract

The usage of the inerter and its studies has greatly developed in recent years as it offers better performance compared to passive systems and has lower cost and power consumption than active and semi-active systems. This article focuses on studying a half-vehicle model to obtain the optimal layout of the mechatronic inerter, spring, and damper suspension system (ISD) for comfort enhancement with the aid of the structure-immittance approach, ensuring structural simplicity. The mechatronic inerter, which consists of a single capacitance, resistance, and inductance, is added to a half-vehicle model composed of an inerter, spring, and damper. All possible layouts are studied to achieve the optimal design layout. Evaluation criteria such as the performance index, system peak-to-peak value, and settling time are utilized to assess body acceleration, thereby improving passenger comfort. Furthermore, the system’s impact on dynamic tire load and suspension working space under diverse road conditions is analyzed. Theoretical analyses conducted using MATLAB/Simulink demonstrate that the novel mechatronic ISD layout significantly enhances body acceleration performance compared to conventional passive systems, switchable hydraulic ISD systems, and fuzzy logic-controlled three-setting switchable dampers.