Multibody Dynamics Simulation of an Electric Bus

• Published in: Procedia engineering Vol. 114; pp. 470 - 477
• Main Authors: Teixeira, Ricardo R., Moreira, Sérgio R.D.S., Tavares, S.M.O.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 2015
• Subjects: MSC Adams; Multibody dynamics; Nonlinear damping systems; Vehicle suspension; Multibody dynamics; Nonlinear damping systems; Vehicle suspension; MSC Adams
• ISSN: 1877-7058; 1877-7058
• DOI: 10.1016/j.proeng.2015.08.094

In the design stage of a bus, as well as any other road vehicles, it is important to understand its response to different critical maneuvers, such as curves, bumps and emergency braking. Virtual simulations can give worthwhile information and knowledge about the behavior of these vehicles under these different conditions, allowing faster, cheaper and more precise design. However, numerical models of passenger buses are not straightforward due to the multiple elements that interact with each other and with nonlinear responses, making it harder to predict their behavior to different requests. In this case study, an electric bus dynamic behavior was analyzed for different conditions. This study was fundamental for design decisions since the batteries mass increases the center of gravity,which may instigate risks of instability. Aiming a multibody dynamics study, a model in MSC ADAMS/Car was built taking into account the dynamic interactions of the different components. Parameters quantification, as mass, moment of inertia of major elements and also characteristic curves of springs, dampers, bushings and bumpstops, among others were defined, supporting the problem definition and to describe the bus behavior, understanding if the suspension elements are well chosen. This allows to describe the bus behavior, and to understand if the suspension elements are well chosen. Mass and moments of inertia were determined from the geometry and material density of the different components. Through a literature review, were found the spring characteristic curves of the spring and experimentally were measured the dampers characteristic curves. Remaining components were characterized by standard values proposed by MSC ADAMS/Car. A sensitivity analysis showed that these standard values have low influence in the results.