Simulation of Dynamical Behaviour of a Front Wheel Suspension

Abstract

A MacPherson front wheel suspension and its components are modelled with the finite element method. Nonlinearities due to both the geometry and the characteristics of the components (springs, dampers and bushings) are considered. The force due to a given compression/elongation of the spring strut is calculated and compared with experimental results. Kinematical results, change in track width and camber angle, are also shown and compared with experimental results. Good agreement between numerical and experimental results is obtained.