Takagi-Sugeno fuzzy control for semi-active vehicle suspension with a magnetorheological damper and experimental validation

Much research has gone into developing advanced control algorithms for semi-active suspension. Experimental validation of these control algorithms is critical for their practical applications. This paper investigates a state-observer-based Takagi-Sugeno fuzzy controller (SOTSFC) design for a semi-active quarter-car suspension installed with a magnetorheological (MR) damper and provides proof of the effectiveness of the proposed controller. To conduct the test, a quarter-car test rig and control system hardware were used. Then, a new MR damper was designed and built to fit with the test rig. After that, the SOTSFC for the quarter-car test rig was developed. Finally, several tests were conducted on the quarter-car suspension in order to investigate the real effect of the SOTSFC. It was then compared with the use of a skyhook controller to demonstrate its benefits.