Robust Optimization of Rear Suspension Trailing Arm for Durability Using Taguchi Method

Vehicle suspension parts are subjected to variable road loads, manufacturing process variation and high installation loads in assembly process. These parts must be robust to usage conditions to function properly in the field.

Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) tools and Taguchi Method were used to optimize initial rear suspension trailing arm design. Project identified key control factor/design parameters, to improve part robustness at the lowest cost. Optimized design performs well under higher road loads and meets stringent durability requirements.

This paper evokes use of Taguchi Method to design robust rear suspension trailing arm and study effect of selected design parameters on robustness, stress level/durability and part cost.