Finite element analysis and experimental study of strain for a vehicle rear suspension

Abstract

In this paper, aspects of the study of the durability of rear suspension components of a vehicle are discussed. These aspects are addressed in two ways, namely the study by CAD modelling and finite element method simulation, and secondly by experimental analysis on a durability test bench. In order to develop these research problems, an experimental stand is virtually modelled and studied by simulation using ADAMS software. Results are obtained that characterize the operation of the test bench system kinematically and dynamically. The studies are then completed by finite element analysis of the dependent rear axle and helical springs in the suspension structure. These results are corroborated with those obtained experimentally, i.e. stresses and strains recorded on the stand. The usefulness of these studies is that they allow the validation of different components of the rear suspension in terms of fatigue strength and different types of rear axles from cars can be tested, as the stand has a modular construction and the test parameters can be adjusted.