Modeling and Characterization of a Regenerative Shock Absorber for Improved Vehicle Efficiency

Abstract

This paper proposes the development of an innovative model of a regenerative shock absorber, capable of transforming the kinetic energy dissipated during the operation of the suspension into an additional source of electrical energy. The system is based on a classic hydraulic shock absorber, modified by integrating an energy conversion module, which uses the internal oil pressure to drive a hydraulic mill-type mechanism. This generates rotary motion transmitted to an electric micro-generator, connected to the vehicle's storage system. The modelling and functional analysis of the system are performed in the Simulink environment, where the dynamics of the entire assembly in real operating conditions are simulated.