Mathematical Transforms in Design: Case Study on Feedback Control of a Customizable Automotive Suspension

Engineering design and analysis is replete with examples of mathematical transforms. This paper discusses the use of mathematical transforms at the operational stage implemented by superimposing the system with a control system to (1) convert a decoupled or coupled system to uncoupled, (2) achieve robustness to noise factors and (3) eliminate imaginary complexity. This paper proves with examples that such controller design and implementation is much easier for an uncoupled or decoupled design as compared to a coupled design. The case study presents a new customizable automotive suspension with independent control of stiffness, damping and ride-height. This system was proposed, designed and built using axiomatic design principles. The mechanical design is decoupled with respect to the functional requirements (FRs) of stiffness and ride-height; moreover ride-height is affected by the load on the vehicle (noise factor). This paper presents the design and implementation of a feedback control system for the customizable suspension to uncouple the system and to make it robust to the noise factor.