Abstract

The goal of this paper is to investigate the performance of an active suspension system via linear quadratic regulator control and proportional–derivative–integral control. This project presents the mathematical models of the two degrees of freedom of a quarter-car active suspension system. This project introduces the design of a controller performance used for an active suspension system. The equations of motion of the quarter-car active suspension system model are developed. In the passive suspension system, there are huge oscillations or vibrations that occur in the suspension system. This phenomenon will lead to uncomfortable ride among the passengers or the driver. Besides, it takes longer time to reduce the vibration. Therefore, a good controller design must be able to reduce the vibration and produce a fast settling time. This project is focused on designing a controller for active suspension system by using MATLAB and Simulink software for both PID and LQR controllers to enhance the performance of ride comfort. This research also aims to study the effect of disturbances such as road bump and holes to the response time of the vibration of the vehicle. The result shows that the response of LQR control gives the best output performances in minimizing the vibration and gives faster settling time than that of the PID control.