Dynamic Loads on Suspension Components Using Mechanisms Programs

A method is described for employing general purpose mechanisms programs to predict the loads induced in the suspension systems of ground vehicles traversing rough terrains. The mechanisms representation employed accounts for geometric non-linearities of the kinematics as well as the material non-linearities of the tire, shock absorbers, and rubber bushings, but neglecting the compliance of the body structure which is treated as a rigid link. Dynamic loads obtained using this procedure can serve as input to detailed finite element models of vehicle components for stress analysis.