Evaluation of the Torsion Beam of a Twist-Beam Suspension by Numerical Simulation

Considering the competitiveness of the automotive market current, the search for low cost solutions that meet all quality demands, it has become essential in the process of product development. The principles of large-scale production have become a limiter component complexity, mainly due to difficulties in the manufacturing process. Twist-beam suspensions are an example of this competitive environment. This solution presents a very satisfactory performance when applied to light vehicles and has an excellent relationship between cost / benefit for the Brazilian market. It is estimated that more than 95% of light vehicles manufactured in Brazil using this type of suspension at the rear. Despite the large use in the Brazilian automotive market, there are few studies related to the twist-beam suspension. There is little literature available on the design and research in suspensions of this type, perhaps because of its simplicity and low cost design and ease of manufacturing. The main objective of this work was to evaluate through numerical simulation based on finite element method, the influence of the torsion beam on the kinematic behavior of a twist-beam suspension. It were evaluated the influence of factors such as moment of inertia and polar moment of inertia of the torsion beam on the toe-in and camber of the suspension.