Active Electromagnetic Suspension System for Improved Vehicle Dynamics

This paper offers motivations for an electromagnetic active suspension system that provides both additional stability and maneuverability by performing active roll and pitch control during cornering and braking, as well as eliminating road irregularities, hence increasing both vehicle and passenger safety and drive comfort. Various technologies are compared with the proposed electromagnetic suspension system that uses a tubular permanent-magnet actuator (TPMA) with a passive spring. Based on on-road measurements and results from the literature, several specifications for the design of an electromagnetic suspension system are derived. The measured on-road movement of the passive suspension system is reproduced by electromagnetic actuation on a quarter car setup, proving the dynamic capabilities of an electromagnetic suspension system.