Design of Active Suspension System for an Electric Car Using PID and LQR Controllers

A desire for cutting-edge suspension systems that can improve ride comfort and vehicle stability has been generated by the development of electric cars (EVs). This paper presents a comprehensive study on designing and implementing an active suspension system for an electric car, utilizing Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) controller and Linear Quadratic Regulator (LQR) controller. The PID controller exhibits simplicity and responsiveness, while the LQR controller offers better disturbance rejection and optimal control action. The electric vehicle chosen for this research features an all-wheel in-wheel drive powertrain configuration and is modeled as a half-vehicle model having different weight distribution than an IC car. Performance of LQR suspension is observed to be better as compared to PID suspension, which in turn is better than the passive suspension system.