Observer-based hybrid control algorithm for semi-active suspension systems

In order to improve ride comfort and handling performance of the vehicle, an adaptive hybrid control algorithm is proposed for semi-active suspension systems. The virtues of sky-hook is combined with ground-hook control strategies and a more suitable compromise for the suspension systems is chosen. The hybrid coefficient is tuned according to the longitudinal and lateral acceleration so as to improve the vehicle stability especially in high speed conditions. Damping continuous adjustable absorber is used to continuously control the damping force so as to eliminate the damping force jerk instead of traditional on-off control policy. Based on suspension stroke measured by sensors, unscented Kalman filter is designed to estimate the suspension states in real-time for the realization of hybrid control, which improves the robustness of the control strategy and is adaptive to different types of road profiles. Finally, the proposed control algorithm is validated under the following two typical road profiles: half-sine speed bump road and the random road. The simulation results indicate that the hybrid control algorithm could offer a good coordination between ride comfort and handling of the vehicle.