Nonlinear dynamics and stability analysis of vehicle plane motions

In this article, the problems of dynamics and stability for vehicle planar motion systems have been investigated. By introducing a so-called joint-point locus approach, equilibria of the system and their associated stability properties are given geometrically. With this method, it is discovered that the difference between the front and the rear steering angles plays a key role in vehicle system dynamics and that the topological structure of the phase portrait and the types of bifurcations are different from those published previously. In particular, the vehicle system could still be stabilized even when pushed to work in a certain severely nonlinear region, by applying extremely large steering angles. However, it is worth noticing that the attractive domain of the stable equilibrium is very narrow. These developments might prove to be important in active steering control design. Numerical experiments are carried out to illustrate the potentials of the proposed techniques.     

Theory and experimental research on six-track steering vehicles

The structural characteristics and steering behaviour of a six-track vehicle are described in this paper. Kinematic analysis for skid steering of a six-track vehicle under steady-state conditions on firm ground is conducted, with the relationship between thrust force and speed instantaneous centre of the track–terrain interface taken into consideration. A mechanical model for steady steering of a six-track vehicle is also presented based on the kinematic analysis. In this model, the steering inaccuracy and efficiency are defined to evaluate steering performance. The steering performance of a six-track vehicle is numerically simulated to analyse the effect of the structural parameters and deflection angles on tracks. A virtual prototype model is established based on the multi-body dynamics software RecurDyn for steering simulation and the findings coincide well with theoretical results. The theory and the virtual prototype simulations presented are verified by a power test of a bucket-wheel excavator. The method for analysing the steering performance of a six-track vehicle proposed in this paper provides a basis for designing a six-track vehicle.     

Steering disturbance rejection using a physics-based neuromusculoskeletal driver model

The aim of this work is to develop a comprehensive yet practical driver model to be used in studying driver–vehicle interactions. Drivers interact with their vehicle and the road through the steering wheel. This interaction forms a closed-loop coupled human–machine system, which influences the driver's steering feel and control performance. A hierarchical approach is proposed here to capture the complexity of the driver's neuromuscular dynamics and the central nervous system in the coordination of the driver's upper extremity activities, especially in the presence of external disturbance. The proposed motor control framework has three layers: the first (or the path planning) plans a desired vehicle trajectory and the required steering angles to perform the desired trajectory; the second (or the musculoskeletal controller) actuates the musculoskeletal arm to rotate the steering wheel accordingly; and the final layer ensures the precision control and disturbance rejection of the motor control units. The physics-based driver model presented here can also provide insights into vehicle control in relaxed and tensed driving conditions, which are simulated by adjusting the driver model parameters such as cognition delay and muscle co-contraction dynamics.     

An Advanced Steering System with Active Kinesthetic Feedback for Handling Qualities Improvement

SUMMARY

Advanced Steering System with artificial steering wheel torque-active kinesthetic information feedback for improving handling qualities is discussed. Fundamentally the structure of the system may be considered to another form of model following control. In this system, a driver always remains in the control loop and receives steering control information which give him/her a direct hint to steer a steering wheel. This system works as a stability and control augmentation system of the vehicle to improve the vehicle handling qualities both in compensatory and pursuit control task, and is expected to reduce driver's workload. Effects of this system are analyzed in terms of man-machine system characteristics. Identification of driver dynamics was carried out to find why such improvement could be achieved. Availability of the proposed system is verified by analysis, simulator and proving ground tests.     

Method for control of steering angles for articulated vehicles using virtual rigid axles

Many methods we have been developed to control the rear wheels of a vehicle, but most of them are designed for automobiles with four wheels. The AWS (all wheel steering) control method for articulated vehicles is currently applied only to Phileas vehicles developed by APTS, but the control algorithm for this system has yet to be reported. In the present paper, a new algorithm is proposed after the AWS ECU (electronic control unit) of the Phileas vehicle was tested and analyzed in order to understand the existing steering algorithm. The new algorithm considers the vehicle geometry, stability of handling, and safety, and can be easily applied to multi-axle vehicles. In order to verify the AWS algorithm, the trajectory and steering angles of each algorithm were compared using the commercial software ADAMS. Turning radius, swing-out, and swept path width were also investigated to determine the turning performance of the proposed algorithm.     

四轮转向车辆多体仿真与试验研究

以四轮转向原理样车为对象,运用多体动力学理论对四轮转向车辆的转向特性进行了计算机仿真研究和试验验证。对建立整车多体模型的方法进行了论述。通过对仿真数据与样车试验结果的对比分析,证明了四轮转向多体模型各类参数和控制方法的正确性和适用性。最后利用建立的整车多体模型,仿真分析了前后悬架刚度对操纵稳定性的影响,以及制动转向时的转向响应特性。     

转向盘转角阶跃输入下半挂汽车列车操纵稳定性仿真分析

基于包括任意载荷分布的非线性轮胎模型在内的半挂汽车列车整车模型,应用汽车列车动力学仿真软件Arc Sim,分析了半挂汽车列车在转向盘转角阶跃输入时的转向特性。通过在不同车速、不同结构参数等条件下的仿真计算,揭示了半挂汽车列车的转向特性与车速、结构参数之间的内在联系,给出了半挂汽车列车转向特性在这些条件下的表现特征,为半挂汽车列车操纵稳定性分析提供了参考和借鉴。     

Desired yaw rate and steering control method during cornering for a six-wheeled vehicle

This paper proposes a steering control method based on optimal control theory to improve the maneuverability of a six-wheeled vehicle during cornering. The six-wheeled vehicle is believed to have better performance than a four-wheeled vehicle in terms of its capability for crossing obstacles, off-road maneuvering and fail-safe handling when one or two of the tires are punctured. Although many methods to improve the four-wheeled vehicle’s lateral stability have been studied and developed, there have only been a few studies on the six-wheeled vehicle’s lateral stability. Some studies of the six-wheeled vehicle have been reported recently, but they are related to the desired yaw rate of a four-wheeled vehicle to control the six-wheeled vehicle’s maneuvering during corning. In this paper, the sideslip angle and yaw rate are controlled to improve the maneuverability during cornering by independent control of the steering angles of the six wheels. The desired yaw rate that is suitable for a six-wheeled vehicle is proposed as a control target. In addition, a scaled-down vehicle with six drive motors and six steering motors that can be controlled independently is designed. The performance of the proposed control methods is verified using a full model vehicle simulation and scaled-down vehicle experiment.     

Independent Suspension, Self Steered Axle, and 4WS for Busses

The dynamic behavior of commercial vehicles fitted with differentr types of suspension mechanisms and steering devices is investigated in this paper. Six vehicle models have been constructed: 2WS-SA is a standard two wheel steering bus with solid axles; 2WS-DW is a 2WSA vehicle with independent double wishbone suspension in front and rear axles; SSA-SA is a 2WS system with solid axles, the rear one being mounted on a self steered mechanism; SSA-DW is a vehicle with independent double wishbone suspension in the front axle, and a solid self steered rear axle; 4WS-SA has four wheel steering with solid axles; and 4WS-DW is a 4WS vehicle with independent double wishbone suspension in front and rear axles. The dynamic response of these models has been assessed in terms of lateral acceleration, yaw velocity, tire forces, tire force reserves, and slip angles. The expected advantages of a 4WS system (higher acceleration rates and lower slip angles) will be corroborated but, at the same time, it will be shown that they are obtained at the cost of lower force reserves. Self steered mechanisms produce smaller body slip angles, but it will be shown that they give rise to larger yaw velocity overshootings. The particular independent suspension analyzed does not show significant improvements with respect to the solid axle counterpart.     

Dynamics of Automated Guideway Transit Vehicle with Single-axle Bogies

Summary The steering type of a mechanical guidance system has been used for Automated Guideway Transit (AGT) system in Japan. Recently, the single-axle bogie system has developed for AGT vehicle and applied to Yurikamome 7200 type vehicle. This paper describes dynamic characteristics of AGT vehicle with single-axle bogies. Introducing a nonlinear, 15 degree-of-freedom dynamic model, a computer simulation study on the lateral motion of the AGT vehicle with single-axle bogies are carried out. In order to show the dynamic characteristics of the single-axle bogie clearly, it is compared to that of the AGT vehicle with conventional steering system. The simulation study with actual vehicle parameters shows that single-axle bogie has suitable characteristics for AGT system. The multi-body dynamics modeler, DADS, is used to build the dynamic model of AGT vehicle with single-axle bogies and this is used to demonstrate the vehicle motion in actual guideway. Obtained results are compared to that of the field test. It is shown that the vehicle dynamic response can be obtained in realistic situation by using multibody dynamics code, that is useful for designing both vehicle and guideway.     

Dynamics of Automated Guideway Transit Vehicle with Single-axle Bogies

Summary The steering type of a mechanical guidance system has been used for Automated Guideway Transit (AGT) system in Japan. Recently, the single-axle bogie system has developed for AGT vehicle and applied to Yurikamome 7200 type vehicle. This paper describes dynamic characteristics of AGT vehicle with single-axle bogies. Introducing a nonlinear, 15 degree-of-freedom dynamic model, a computer simulation study on the lateral motion of the AGT vehicle with single-axle bogies are carried out. In order to show the dynamic characteristics of the single-axle bogie clearly, it is compared to that of the AGT vehicle with conventional steering system. The simulation study with actual vehicle parameters shows that single-axle bogie has suitable characteristics for AGT system. The multi-body dynamics modeler, DADS, is used to build the dynamic model of AGT vehicle with single-axle bogies and this is used to demonstrate the vehicle motion in actual guideway. Obtained results are compared to that of the field test. It is shown that the vehicle dynamic response can be obtained in realistic situation by using multibody dynamics code, that is useful for designing both vehicle and guideway.     

基于ADAMS与Matlab的ABS模糊控制仿真研究

将多体系统动力学与智能控制理论相结合对汽车制动防抱死控制系统进行了研究，利用ADAMS／CAR建立了汽车整车的多体力学模型，模型包含了前后悬架、动力总成、转向系统、稳定杆、制动系、轮胎力学模型以及车身，同时也考虑了轮胎、衬套、弹簧、减震器等部件的非线性，准确地表达了车辆的动态特性；利用Matlab／Simulink模糊控制工具箱建立了制动防抱死控制系统的模糊控制策略，利用ADAMS／Control接口进行模型的集成、协同仿真，并将仿真结果与另一种控制策略一逻辑门限值控制的仿真结果进行了比较和分析，仿真反映出模糊控制在整车制动防抱死控制系统上的应用效果，结果表明该控制算法稳定好并具有较强的鲁棒性。     

New approaches to enhance active steering system functionalities: preliminary results

An important development of the steering systems in general is active steering systems like active front steering and steer-by-wire systems. In this paper the current functional possibilities in application of active steering systems are explored. A new approach and additional functionalities are presented that can be implemented to the active steering systems without additional hardware such as new sensors and electronic control units. Commercial active steering systems are controlling the steering angle depending on the driving situation only. This paper introduce methods for enhancing active steering system functionalities depending not only on the driving situation but also vehicle parameters like vehicle mass, tyre and road condition. In this regard, adaptation of the steering ratio as a function of above mentioned vehicle parameters is presented with examples. With some selected vehicle parameter changes, the reduction of the undesired influences on vehicle dynamics of these parameter changes has been demonstrated theoretically with simulations and with real-time driving measurements.     

An Advanced Steering System with Active Kinesthetic Feedback for Handling Qualities Improvement

Advanced Steering System with artificial steering wheel torque-active kinesthetic information feedback for improving handling qualities is discussed. Fundamentally the structure of the system may be considered to another form of model following control. In this system, a driver always remains in the control loop and receives steering control information which give him/her a direct hint to steer a steering wheel. This system works as a stability and control augmentation system of the vehicle to improve the vehicle handling qualities both in compensatory and pursuit control task, and is expected to reduce driver's workload. Effects of this system are analyzed in terms of man-machine system characteristics. Identification of driver dynamics was carried out to find why such improvement could be achieved. Availability of the proposed system is verified by analysis, simulator and proving ground tests.     

基于功能安全的分布式驱动电动汽车前轮失效补偿控制

分布式驱动电动汽车可以实现四轮转矩分配和差动转向,提升整车的动力学控制性能和经济性,但是四轮转矩独立可控的特点也对功能安全提出挑战。当前轮单侧电机出现执行器故障失效情况时,不仅会产生附加横摆力矩降低车辆安全性,差动转向功能的存在还会使车辆严重偏航。基于此,在设计分布式驱动-线控转向一体化底盘的基础上,基于功能安全提出一种分布式驱动电动汽车前轮失效补偿控制策略。首先建立分布式驱动失效动力学模型,分析前轮失效对车辆状态的影响机理,发现单一的驱动转矩截断控制无法满足车辆状态修正需求;其次设计一套备用的线控转向结构,通过变截距滑模控制算法提高切换状态下线控转向系统的转角跟踪性能,并用台架试验验证跟踪的准确性;然后设计自适应失效诊断观测器实时诊断驱动系统的电机故障,在将对应轮进行驱动转矩截断后,通过模型预测控制算法对车轮转矩重新分配实现纵向和侧向的状态跟踪;最后通过仿真和实车试验验证所提失效补偿控制策略的有效性和可用性。研究结果表明：分布式驱动电动汽车前轮单侧电机失效后,备用的线控转向系统能及时矫正前轮转角,所提出的失效补偿控制策略能够快速恢复车辆的稳定性和路径跟踪能力。     

Lateral stability control of dynamic steering for dual motor drive high speed tracked vehicle

In this paper, the torque and power required by dual motors for electric tracked vehicle during dynamic steering maneuvers with different steering radiuses are analyzed. A steering coupling drive system composed of a new type of center steering motor, two Electromagnetic (EM) clutches, two planetary gear couplers, and two propulsion motors is proposed for the dual motors drive high speed electric tracked vehicle (2MHETV), which aims to improve its lateral stability. An average torque direct distribution control strategy based on steering coupling and an optimization-distribution-based close-loop control strategy are designed separately to control the driving torque or regenerative braking torque of two propulsion motors for vehicle stability enhancement. Then models of the 2MHETV and the proposed control strategy are established in Recudyn and Matlab/Simulink respectively to evaluate the lateral stability of dynamic steering for the 2MHETV with different steering radiuses on hard pavement.The simulation results show that the lateral stability of the 2MHETV can be significantly improved by the proposed optimization-distribution-based close-loop control strategy based on steering coupling system.     

Nonlinear PI front and rear steering control in four wheel steering vehicles

Vehicle steering dynamics show resonances, which depend on the longitudinal speed, unstable equilibrium points and limited stability regions depending on the constant steering wheel angle, longitudinal speed and car parameters.

The main contribution of this paper is to show that a combined decentralized proportional active front steering control and proportional-integral active rear steering control from the yaw rate tracking error can assign the eigenvalues of the linearised single track steering dynamics, without lateral speed measurements, using a standard single track car model with nonlinear tire characteristics and a non-linear first-order reference model for the yaw rate dynamics driven by the driver steering wheel input. By choosing a suitable nonlinear reference model it is shown that the responses to driver step inputs tend to zero (or reduced) lateral speed for any value of longitudinal speed: in this case the resulting controlled vehicle static gain from driver input to yaw rate differs from the uncontrolled one at higher speed. The closed loop system shows the advantages of both active front and rear steering control: higher controllability, enlarged bandwidth for the yaw rate dynamics, suppressed resonances, new stable cornering manoeuvres, enlarged stability regions, reduced lateral speed and improved manoeuvrability; in addition comfort is improved since the phase lag between lateral acceleration and yaw rate is reduced.

For the designed control law a robustness analysis is presented with respect to system failures, driver step inputs and critical car parameters such as mass, moment of inertia and front and rear cornering stiffness coefficients. Several simulations are carried out on a higher order experimentally validated nonlinear dynamical model to confirm the analysis and to explore the robustness with respect to unmodelled dynamics.     

Nonlinear PI front and rear steering control in four wheel steering vehicles

Vehicle steering dynamics show resonances, which depend on the longitudinal speed, unstable equilibrium points and limited stability regions depending on the constant steering wheel angle, longitudinal speed and car parameters.

The main contribution of this paper is to show that a combined decentralized proportional active front steering control and proportional-integral active rear steering control from the yaw rate tracking error can assign the eigenvalues of the linearised single track steering dynamics, without lateral speed measurements, using a standard single track car model with nonlinear tire characteristics and a non-linear first-order reference model for the yaw rate dynamics driven by the driver steering wheel input. By choosing a suitable nonlinear reference model it is shown that the responses to driver step inputs tend to zero (or reduced) lateral speed for any value of longitudinal speed: in this case the resulting controlled vehicle static gain from driver input to yaw rate differs from the uncontrolled one at higher speed. The closed loop system shows the advantages of both active front and rear steering control: higher controllability, enlarged bandwidth for the yaw rate dynamics, suppressed resonances, new stable cornering manoeuvres, enlarged stability regions, reduced lateral speed and improved manoeuvrability; in addition comfort is improved since the phase lag between lateral acceleration and yaw rate is reduced.

For the designed control law a robustness analysis is presented with respect to system failures, driver step inputs and critical car parameters such as mass, moment of inertia and front and rear cornering stiffness coefficients. Several simulations are carried out on a higher order experimentally validated nonlinear dynamical model to confirm the analysis and to explore the robustness with respect to unmodelled dynamics.     

车辆半主动悬架与助力转向集成控制的仿真研究

为协调车辆操纵稳定性和行驶平顺性,基于底盘系统动力学原理,建立了半主动悬架和电动助力转向的综合模型,对半主动悬架和电动助力转向系统进行集成控制.运用二次反馈法和PID策略分别对悬架的可调阻尼和转向系统的助力进行控制.仿真结果表明,在集成控制情况下,车辆的操纵稳定性和平顺性均优于悬架或转向单独控制的效果.