Title: Simulation and experimental verification of solenoid valve characteristics for semi-active dampers

Authors: Gideon Jacobus De Wet, Jasper Lodewyk Steyn, Pieter Schalk Els

Addresses: University of Pretoria, P.O. Box 41080, Moreletarif, 0044, South Africa. ' Department of Engineering and Technology Management, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, 0002, South Africa. ' Department of Mechanical and Aeronautical Engineering, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, 0002, South Africa

Abstract: This paper deals with mathematical modelling and experimental verification of the steady state and transient characteristics of a solenoid valve required for the design and modelling of a two-state semi-active damper. Valve suppliers do not provide such characteristics. Experimental verification of a steady state mathematical model was performed on a hydraulic test bench. A transient response model was verified using a specially designed semi-active damper. Correlation between models and measured characteristics is acceptable and sufficiently accurate to be used in vehicle dynamics simulation for semi-active suspension design. Fluid compressibility has a significant influence on the valve|s transient characteristics.

Keywords: semi-active suspension; damper; solenoid valves; steady state model; transient models; hydraulic fluid compressibility; lumped parameter; vehicle suspensions; vehicle design; mathematical modelling; vehicle dynamics.

DOI: 10.1504/IJVD.2008.020883

International Journal of Vehicle Design, 2008 Vol.47 No.1/2/3/4, pp.118 - 132

Published online: 22 Oct 2008 *

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