The Application of Experimental Design Method to Brake Induced Vehicle Vibrations

Vehicle sensitivity to brake induced vehicle vibration has been one of the key factors impacting overall vehicle quality. This directly affects long term customer satisfaction. The objective of this investigation is to understand the sensitivities of a given suspension, and steering system with respect to brake induced vehicle vibration, and develop possible solutions to this problem. Design of experiment methods have been used for this chassis system sensitivity study. The advantage of applying the design of experiment methodology is that it facilitates an understanding of the interactions between the hardware components and the sensitivity of the system due to the component change. The results of this investigation have indicated that the friction of suspension joints may affect vehicle system response significantly. However, if a sub-frame experiences oscillatory motion induced by the brake system, the suspension will move with the sub-frame and friction is no longer effective on the system. Based on the experimental results, design suggestions have been made for further system improvement.