An adaptive backstepping control strategy based on radial basis function neural networks for the magnetorheological semi-active suspension

Owing to nonlinear issues such as external disturbances and uncertain parameters within the semi-active suspension system (SASS), the vibration amplitude of the suspension system tends to increase, and the time required for the suspension system to reach a steady-state response is prolonged. Hence, this paper proposes an adaptive backstepping control strategy based on radial basis function neural networks (RBF-NNs). Firstly, the damping force characteristics of the magnetorheological (MR) damper are tested, and the experimental data are utilized for parameters identification and fitting of the Bouc-Wen model. To establish a connection between the controller and the forward model of the MR damper, the forward model of the MR damper, the inverse model of the MR damper, and the model of the MR-SASS are constructed. Secondly, the backstepping controller and the adaptive backstepping controller based on RBF-NNs are designed. The stability and reliability of the closed-loop suspension system are verified through stability analysis using Lyapunov function. Finally, the dynamic characteristics of the passive control, backstepping control, and adaptive backstepping control strategies based on RBF-NNs applied to MR-SASS are analyzed under B-Class road excitation and speed bump road excitation. The acceleration, suspension dynamic deflection, and tire dynamic load are selected as the evaluation indices. The results demonstrate that the adaptive backstepping controller based on RBF-NNs significantly enhances the ride comfort of the SASS.