Energy Regeneration From Suspension Dynamic Modes and Self-Powered Actuation

This paper concerns energy harvesting from vehicle suspension systems. The generated power associated with bounce, pitch, and roll modes of vehicle dynamics is determined through analysis. The potential values of power generation from these three modes are calculated. Next, experiments are carried out using a vehicle with a four jack shaker rig to validate the analytical values of potential power harvest. For the considered vehicle, maximum theoretical power values of 1.1, 0.88, and 0.97 kW are associated with the bounce, pitch, and roll modes, respectively, at 20 Hz excitation frequency and peak-to-peak displacement amplitude of 5 mm at each wheel, as applied by the shaker. The corresponding experimental power values are 0.98, 0.74, and 0.78 kW. An experimental rig is also developed to study the behavior of regenerative actuators in generating electrical power from kinetic energy. This rig represents a quarter-vehicle suspension model where the viscous damper in the shock absorber system is replaced by a regenerative system. The rig is able to demonstrate the actual electrical power that can be harvested using a regenerative system. The concept of self-powered actuation using the harvested energy from suspension is discussed with regard to applications of self-powered vibration control. The effect of suspension energy regeneration on ride comfort and road handling is presented in conjunction with energy harvesting associated with random road excitations.