Exploring nonlinearity in quarter car models with an experimental approach to formulating fractional order form and its dynamic analysis

This study explores the inherent nonlinearity of quarter car models by employing an experimental and numerical approach. The dynamics of vehicular suspension systems are pivotal for ensuring passenger comfort, vehicle stability, and overall ride quality. In this paper we assessed the impact of various parameters and components on suspension performance, enabled the optimization of ride comfort, stability, and handling characteristics. Firstly, experimental analysis allowed for the investigation of factors that are challenging to model theoretically, such as stiffness nonlinearity and damping characteristics, which may vary under different operating conditions. Time domain and frequency response diagram of the model has been obtained. Secondly, a quarter-car with single degree-of-freedom presented and investigated in fractional order form. Fractional order dynamics emphasize nonlinearities in quarter car models, capturing real-world dynamics effectively. The proposed fractional-order nonlinear quarter car model employed Caputo derivative. For numerical analysis of fractional order system, the Adam-Bashforth-Moulton method is used and the disturbance of road assumed to be stochastic. Results show that the dynamic response of the vehicle can be chaotic. Influence of road roughness amplitude and frequency on vehicle vibration is investigated.