A controlled friction damper for vehicle applications

This paper examines the performance of a servo-driven dry-friction damper in a car suspension application; this device is a potential alternative to a traditional viscous damper. The friction damper is semi-active: damping is controlled without energy introduction into the system and hence the power required is much smaller than fully active systems. Models for the friction damper hydraulic drive and vehicle ride are developed. It is shown through simulation and experimental studies that a VSC-controlled friction damper has potentially superior performance to a conventional damper. Limitations of the current design are identified and suggestions for improvements are outlined. (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.