Modelling and optimisation of an 8 x 8 heavy duty vehicle's hydro-pneumatic suspension system

In this paper, modelling of the hydro-pneumatic suspension (HPS) system of a heavy duty vehicle that has all-wheel steering and driving capability is studied. The prototype vehicle of concern is a mobile telescopic crane. The spring and damper effects of the HPS, which is used generally in heavy commercial vehicles and in military vehicles, have been modelled separately. First, HPS dynamics is studied on 1/8 vehicle model and then vehicle dynamics is examined on the MSC ADAMS/Car model. HPS of the prototype vehicle is assessed by some objective functions. In addition, simulation-based optimisation is performed using a 1/8 vehicle model. Various designs are obtained and their performances are compared with that of the prototype vehicle's HPS by the ADAMS/Car model simulations. Modelling and optimisation studies reveal a sound background to improve the prototype vehicle and to design active HPS system.