Study of the Vibration Isolation Properties of a Pneumatic Suspension System for the Seat of a Working Machine with Adjustable Stiffness

Abstract

This paper presents a study of the vibration isolation properties of pneumatic suspension systems for work machinery seats, with a particular focus on adjustable stiffness. It highlights the contribution that semi-active seat suspension systems make to vibration reduction, ultimately leading to improved passenger comfort levels and increased safety for vehicle users. The primary objectives of the research were twofold: firstly, to identify the key parameters of the apneumatic vibration isolation system; and secondly, to evaluate its performance in improving vibration damping. This entailed the development of a mathematical model that would foreground the movement through simulations based on different initial pressures, thus enabling the accurate prediction of real-life scenarios concerning the vibration-damping characteristics of the seating system, taking into account the different design options available for working machine technology applied at the test bed level, of which the pneumatic isolator is an integral component. In the cognitive process, the verification and validation of the formulated theoretical model play an important role. This approach enables the behaviour of the actual system to be inferred from the results of simulation studies, thus allowing the design of an appropriate vibration control system. By simulating different air bellow pressures, the characteristics of the seat suspension system can be assessed. This study provides valuable insights into optimising the vibration-damping capability of the air suspension system.