Energy Method Synthesis of Torsion Bar-Cam Balance Systems

A general method of optimizing the design of torsion bar-cam balance systems has been developed and applied to the design of automotive hoods and deck lids. Synthesis rather than analysis is achieved by allowing the design engineer to choose the precise effort curve desired for the customer. This method has been used to provide a new hood balance system for the 1974 full-size Chrysler cars. A user-oriented FORTRAN computer program has been developed which provides the balance solution as tabular results and a plot of the cam follower path. Theoretical work/energy principles are outlined for rotational torsion bar-cam systems and related to the more commonly applied rectilinear work principles. A typical problem solution is included along with the computer program flow chart.