Robust design strategy applied to a vehicle suspension system with high camber angle tyres

Abstract

This paper presents the robust design of a suspension system suitable for tyres whose camber angle can cover a large interval. The originality of this study is to take account of the tyre camber angle within the range $( + / - 20^\circ )$ in the robust design of a vehicle suspension system. The methodology is based on the hierarchical organisation of the design process, on simplified models, on sensitivity analysis and on robust optimisation. The paper describes the robust design methods, the modelling of the tyre, the design process and the results. Two models of car tyres valid for high camber angles have been defined. The design strategy based on ‘First Design’ and ‘Rational Design’ methods, as well as on the ‘Electre’ decision-support method, shows its strong potential for finding efficient and robust solutions. The feasibility of integrating an axle into the steering system at high camber angles is demonstrated.