Optimization and biodynamic modelling of a 3D-printed honeycomb cushion and double-diamond seating suspension system for vibration isolation

Extended periods of driving, lasting up to 8 hours, can have a severe impact on a driver's health due to the presence of low-frequency vibrations caused by uneven road surfaces. This paper presents a novel biodynamic system modelling method for investigating how the human body responds to low-frequency vibrations. The lumped biodynamic parameter model predicts time-domain head acceleration and frequency-domain transmissibility ratio. This paper's design innovation involves a three-dimensional printed cushion composed of honeycomb cells and a seating suspension system featuring six double-diamond isolators. Using the Design of Experiments, Response Surface Method, and Genetic Algorithm methods, the structural parameters of the seating suspension system and cushion in the model are optimized for the minimum peak transmissibility ratio. The uniqueness of this paper's approach lies in its sensitivity analysis and optimization of the seat cushion and seating suspension system design parameters within a quarter-vehicle suspension system environment, which sets it apart from other literature. Furthermore, this paper explores the connection between the negative Poisson's ratio and quasi-zero stiffness as a means of reducing vibration transmission.