Performance evaluation of magneto-rheological damper with spring accumulator and on-road testing by implementing in a four wheeler vehicle

Abstract

Passenger vehicles running over roads are undergoing speedy updates every now and then in terms of design, luxury and passenger expectations. Above all, a passenger expects greater comfort in a vehicle throughout the journey. In many possible ways, semi-active suspension systems are proving themselves as optimum choice between passive and active systems. The present study emphasizes the performance analysis of a class of semi-active systems called magneto-rheological (MR) dampers. An MR damper suitable for a specific four wheeler vehicle with McPherson suspension system is designed and developed with a spring accumulator. The MR damper thus developed has undergone characterization testing subjected to variable input excitation conditions. The MR fluid for this damper is prepared in the laboratory. Sky-hook and ground-hook controllers are used as the current controlling devices. The developed MR damper is then used in the suspension system of the front half of the four wheeler vehicle for on-road testing. The developed damper showed about 20% improvement in the ride comfort level when used with the control strategies. © Indian Academy of Sciences 2025.