Computer Simulation of Suspension Abuse Tests Using ADAMS

ADAMS (AUTOMATED DYNAMIC ANALYSIS OF MECHANICAL SYSTEMS) computer program is an excellent tool for solving non-linear, large-displacement dynamic problems. The suspension abuse events, e.g., curb, chuck hole, railroad ties and rough road impacts involve non-linear, large displacements of suspension components. ADAMS program and user written force subroutines are used to simulate these events. The modeling techniques to simulate these abuse events assume a simple tire model (spring and damper). Simulation results are presented in the form of computer generated outputs of forces, accelerations, velocities and displacements. Additionally, computer graphics is used to animate the vehiclegraphically during theabuse event. Specifically, the program is used to determine peak loads in suspension components during these events and these peak loads can be used as input loads for finite element analysis of suspension components.