Development, validation, and parameter sensitivity analyses of a nonlinear mathematical model of air springs

Abstract

Air springs are highly nonlinear devices. Linear and quasi-linear models of air springs have been developed over the years to analyze and predict their behavior. Such models are shown here to be inadequate to describe the behavior of this highly nonlinear element. A nonlinear mathematical model of air springs has been developed and reported in this paper. The model has been verified experimentally, and has been shown to be effective in predicting the behavior of air springs. The sensitivity of the model to uncertainties in two key parameters is examined.