Title: A systems approach to controlled heavy vehicle suspensions

Authors: R.L. Roebuck, D. Cebon, B.P. Jeppesen, J. Haque

Addresses: Cambridge University Engineering Department, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1PZ, UK. ' Cambridge University Engineering Department, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1PZ, UK. ' Robert Bosch GmbH, Robert Bosch Allee 1, Abstatt 74232, Baden-Wuertemberg, Germany. ' Mektronika Systems Limited, 9 Godfrey Close, Strood, Kent, ME2 3QS, UK

Abstract: This paper considers the design of a vehicle dynamics control system to control a tractor – semi-trailer vehicle fitted with active anti-roll hardware and semi-active ride suspension units. Key items of the system specification are discussed. The configuration of processors is considered, as are key issues of CPU requirements and communications. For reasons of reliability, safety, coding simplicity and modularity, a system of local controllers connected via a CAN bus to a global controller was selected. Details of this implementation, including safety precautions such as a vehicle dynamics watchdog, sensor consistency checks, localised processor watchdogs and a hardwired stop system are also discussed. Application to all areas of vehicle dynamics data collection and control is looked at.

Keywords: ride; roll; distributed; control; semi-active; active; heavy vehicle; suspension; vehicle dynamics; CAN.

DOI: 10.1504/IJHVS.2005.008024

International Journal of Heavy Vehicle Systems, 2005 Vol.12 No.3, pp.169 - 192

Published online: 10 Nov 2005 *

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