Research on the Dynamics of Flexible Multibody System of Passenger Car Suspension

Based on the theory of multibody system dynamics, some characteristics of the Mcpherson independent suspension (Audi 100 front suspension) are analyzed. The planar and spatial models consisting of multiple closed-loop systems with rigid and deformable bodies are included in the study. In the planar analysis, Lagrange method is used to develop dynamic equations. In the spatial analysis, a special and practical method to transform system stiffness to the wheel center is used to simplify the calculation process and obtain the satisfactory results more easily. As an example, a result of turning behavior is given to show that the method introduced is effective to investigate some effect of the parameters of the suspension on car performance. Specialized test techniques are implemented to obtain the mechanical property of the components which is necessary in the analysis.