Energy Regenerative Suspension Using an Algebraic Screw Linkage Mechanism

This paper presents the development of a novel energy-regenerative suspension mechanism. The system consists of a mass-spring unit coupled with an algebraic screw kinematic pair, a rotary permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMSG), and a three-phase boost charger connected to a battery. The algebraic screw converts the translational vibration into a reciprocating rotary motion which drives the PMSG through a planetary gearhead. A pulse-width-modulated three-phase boost converter is then used to convert the energy generated by the rotary machine into battery charge. To this end, a control and switching algorithm is utilized that makes the battery appear as a pseudo-resistor across the terminals of the rotary machine. Introducing this pseudo-resistive characteristic across the machine produces the same effect as mechanical damping with an energy regenerative function. The design and analysis of the regenerative suspension mechanism are presented by considering the dynamics of the electromechanical device, parameters of the suspension system, and the base excitation input profile. Experimental results are presented that evaluate performance of the proposed regenerative damper on a small-scale suspension system, which demonstrate the feasibility of building energy-regenerative dampers.