Modeling of dry friction in shock absorbers

A vehicle dynamics model that can predict ride comfort and handling qualities of an automobile needs to have a good shock absorber model. The objective of this thesis is to model dry friction between two points moving relative to each other (point to point friction) as applicable to a shock absorber. For this purpose a six logic state event based friction model is developed which handles the static and dynamic behavior of friction between two moving points. The logic states are then written in computer code, which facilitates easy simulation.; The friction model has been validated with experimental results. To test the friction model two experimental setups that simulate friction between two points moving relative to each other are built and tested. The data obtained from these setups is then compared with data obtained from a numerical solution of the same system, which includes the friction model that was developed.; A vehicle dynamics model known as the quarter car model is introduced and the method to study suspension characteristics like ride comfort and vehicle handling are shown. A method of implementation of the friction model in the vehicle dynamics model is also presented.