Fuzzy-skyhook controller with cuckoo search algorithm for a semi-active suspension system with magnetorheological damper

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the performance of a semi-active suspension system of the quarter car using fuzzy-skyhook (fs) controller tuned by cuckoo search algorithm (CSA). Since the parameters of the controller are crucial to be determined, the CSA method is deemed a good approach when combined with the fuzzy-skyhook controller since the proposed controller is expected to improve the searching accuracy of the parameters. The magnetorheological (MR) damper model was developed using the Spencer model approach based on the force-velocity and force-displacement characteristics. Then, a full simulation of the suspension system excited with a sinusoidal road profile input was conducted using MATLAB/Simulink. A comparative study was carried out between the semi-active systems and benchmarked against a passive suspension. The effectiveness of the fuzzy-skyhook controller with CSA (fs-CSA) was analyzed and compared to the fuzzy-skyhook and skyhook controllers. The result indicates that fs-CSA gives the highest percentage of improvement for the body acceleration and displacement for up to 48.6% and 21.3%, respectively.