Adjustable shock absorber characteristics testing and modelling

Abstract

The paper shortly presents the design of an electromagnetically adjustable shock absorber and its damping characteristics obtained from manufacturers. Next part presents the methodology and test stands typically used for shock absorber testing and test data processing to obtain force vs velocity characteristics. Next part discusses some new functional requirements and performance due to adjustability of damping level. Next part of the paper presents special dedicated software implemented in the Matlab/Simulink and on the dSpace platform for rapid prototyping of control system. The results of damping characteristics, time delay and hysteresis testing with its comparison for 3 types of passenger car adjustable shock absorbers obtained with use of developed methodology and testing control software are presented in the further part.