Integration of an Active Suspension System for Better Driving Dynamics and Enhanced Small Overlap Crash Performance

Abstract

Deflection of the crash opponent is a well-known method to improve general crash behavior, as seen with safety fences on motorways. Within the DLR’s Next Generation Car (NGC) project this behavior was applied to the suspension functions of the Urban Modular Vehicle (UMV), a small, fully battery-electric car for four passengers to cover the needs of the inner city inhabitants. To achieve this, a patent pending concept was developed, in which independent wheel actuators turn the car’s front wheels to act as a deflection shield. In addition to the steering actuator, the safety of the UMV is also increased through a second actuator for each wheel controlling the camber angle. Because of the holistic approach of the suspension concept, it weighs less than the suspension of a reference car, but with enhanced driving dynamics through wheel independent toe-in and camber actuators.