An approach for multi-objective optimization of vehicle suspension system

In this paper, a half car model of with nonlinear suspension systems is selected in order to study the vertical vibrations and optimize its suspension system with respect to ride comfort and road holding. A road bump was used as road profile. At first, the optimization problem is solved with the use of Genetic Algorithms with respect to 6 optimization targets. Then the k – e optimization method was implemented to locate one optimum solution. Furthermore, an alternative approach is presented in this work: the previous optimization targets are separated in main and supplementary ones, depending on their importance in the analysis. The supplementary targets are not crucial to the optimization but they could enhance the main objectives. Thus, the problem was solved again using Genetic Algorithms with respect to the 3 main targets of the optimization. Having obtained the Pareto set of solutions, the k – e optimality method was implemented for the 3 main targets and the supplementary ones, evaluated by the simulation of the vehicle model. The results of both cases are presented and discussed in terms of convergence of the optimization and computational time. The optimum solutions acquired from both cases are compared based on performance metrics as well.