Abstract
This paper deals with a semi-active suspension system based on the sky hook suspension principle. The purpose of the system is to improve passenger ride comfort by reducing lateral vibrations caused by track irregularities. This system was designed to meet the particular requirements of high-speed trains run on the conventional (narrow gauge) railways. It is simpler and less expensive compared with the similar system currently in use by the Shinkansen (New Trunk Lines) trains. A continuously adjustable hydraulic damper with a unique fail-safe feature was developed, and a new control law was originated, in which the yaw motion of the vehicle was taken into account. Simulation confirms that considerable improvement of ride quality is achieved.
