Unveiling four key factors for tire force control allocation in 4WID-4WIS electric vehicles at handling limits

The four-wheel independent drive and four-wheel independent steering (4WID-4WIS) configurations enhance control flexibility and dynamic performance potential for more integrated electric vehicles. This paper comprehensively analyzes the impacts of four key factors on tire force control allocation: vertical load estimation, actuator dynamic characteristics, tire force constraints, and wheel steering precision at handling limits. The study demonstrates that precise vertical load estimation enhances lateral force allocation accuracy. Additionally, the self-compensating effect of lateral tire forces minimizes the impact of small deviations in vertical load estimation on tire force control allocation. A novel control allocation method considering actuator dynamics is introduced, effectively improving yaw rate response and reducing tracking errors. Considering tire-road adhesion and actuator rate constraints, an innovative method to calculate the real-time attainable tire force volume is proposed based on the tire slip ratio and slip angle. Feedforward control with bump steer compensation is implemented to improve wheel steering precision and lateral tire force control accuracy. Matlab/Simulink and Carsim co-simulation results emphasize the importance of these key factors’ individual impacts and combined effects. This analysis offers valuable insights for developing advanced tire force control allocation strategies in 4WID-4WIS electric vehicles.