Experimental verification of energy-regenerative feasibility for an automotive electrical suspension system

Existing hydraulic active suspension system has several disadvantages such as slow response, high energy consumption and complexity. An energy-regenerative electrical suspension is utilized whose motor actuator is composed of a permanent-magnet direct-current motor with a ball screw and a nut. The significant characteristic of the suspension is that vibration energy from the road excitation can be regenerated and transformed into electric energy while good suspension performance can be maintained. The performance tests of the DC motor are carried out. The regeneration and vibration control performances are verified by the full-vehicle experiments in the IST RoadLab four post rig. Experimental results of the electrical system functioning as a passive suspension system show the feasibility of vibration energy regeneration. The prototype is designed and produced based on the rear suspension structure of a typical passenger car.