• International Journal of Automotive Technology
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• v.6 no.4
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• pp.375-381
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• 2005

This paper presents linear algebraic equations in the form of recursive formula to compute elastokinematic characteristics of a suspension system. Conventional methods of elastokinematic analysis are based on nonlinear kinematic constrant equations and force equilibrium equations for constrained mechanical systems, which require complicated and time-consuming implicit computing methods to obtain the solution. The proposed linearized elastokinematic equations in the form of recursive formula are derived based on the assumption that the displacements of elastokinematic behavior of a constrained mechanical system under external forces are very small. The equations can be easily computerized in codes, and have the advantage of sharing the input data of existing general multi body dynamic analysis codes. The equations can be applied to any form of suspension once the type of kinematic joints and elastic components are identified. The validity of the method has been proved through the comparison of the results from established elastokinematic analysis software. Error estimation and analysis due to piecewise linear assumption are also discussed.

• Transactions of the Korean Society of Automotive Engineers
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• v.6 no.6
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• pp.88-97
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• 1998

Compliance elements such as bushings of a suspension system play a crucial role in determining the ride and handling characteristics of the vehicle. In this paper, a general procedure is proposed for the optimum design of compliance elements to meet various design targets. Based on the assumption that the displacements of elastokinematic behavior of a suspension system under external forces are very small, linearized elastokinematic equations in terms of infinitesimal displacements and joint reaction forces are derived. Directly differentiating the linear elastokinematic equations with respect to design variables associated with bushing stiffness, sensitivity equations are obtained. The design process for determining the bushing stiffness using sensitivity analysis and optimization technique is demonstrated.