Analysis of the rotational capability of the utilization of range of a spherical joint used in a passenger automobile McPherson suspension

Abstract

In this paper a method is presented how to determine the utilization of range of rotational ability of a ball joint used in a passenger automobile McPherson suspension. A portable measurement arm was used to measure some vehicle’s suspension geometry points as well as the geometry of suspension components. Based on the initial measured data a simulation model was used to estimate the real geometric parameters of the suspension and of the attachment points at the chassis. The damper module’s top mount movement as well as the stiffness characteristics of the control arm bushing allow to simulate the utilization of range of motion capability of the spherical joint as result of the suspension movement under external loads. These loads can result from pass over a bump or cornering movements. The rotational ability of the ball joint and its applied loads can be input for further stiffness analyses by making use of FEM software.