Simulation of a visco-elastic damper based on the model of the vehicle shock absorber

This paper presents results of simulation of visco-elastic dampers based on the model of the vehicle shock absorber. The aim of this research is to determine the parameters of dynamic models of special dampers applicable in advanced vehicle suspension systems. One of the key issues of modeling is to determine the acceptable degree of the simplification. Model reduction is based on the determination of the damping coefficient suitable for testing vibration control systems. The diagnostic model of the shock absorber takes into account features such as nonlinearity and asymmetry of damping characteristics. It is also important to take into account the apparent elasticity of the hydraulic damper. Damping and stiffness characteristics of automotive shock absorbers are identified by the proposed algorithm. The obtained results proove that the resulting damper stiffness is an important factor which cannot be neglected at higher frequencies of cyclic load.