Simulation And Research On Handling Stability And Ride Performance Of Dependent Suspension Light Duty Bus Based On ADAMS/CAR

Based on the theory of multi-body system dynamics, the article aims at a light duty bus both front and rear suspension with longitudinal leaf spring structure. Using ADAMS/Car module, the article builds a full vehicle multi-body dynamics model that contains front and rear suspension, steering-system, front and rear stabilize bar, front and rear tires, body and powertrain. As a modeling difficult, the leaf spring is built with SAE recommended method of three sections of beams to simplify modeling. The modeling principles and processes are described in detail. Finally, the leaf spring stiffness has been verified with parallel wheel travel test.Under a reasonable and accurate simulation model, according to the national standards, the virtual prototype has been carried out six simulation tests on handling stability including step steer test, ramp steer test, cornering with steer release test, steady cornering test, snake test and steering portability test, etc. And the vehicle has also been carried out random road input test and triangular bump pulse input test on ride. Through step steer simulation test and triangular bump pulse input simulation test, several main factors are discussed in order to study the rule of vehicle parameters affecting on handling stability and ride, including mass gravity center height, the location of center of mass, leaf spring stiffness and the load. The simulation results show that handling stability and ride performance of the vehicle is good. From the analysis of four impact parameters on handling stability and ride, centroid location has the same influence on the trend of handling stability and ride. The centroid slightly forward is beneficial to both handling stability and ride. The centroid height, leaf spring stiffness and load have the opposite influence on the trend of handling stability and ride. This is to say, suitably reducing the height of mass center, increasing front and rear leaf spring stiffness and load reduction can be improved handling stability performance, but at the same time will lead to deterioration of ride. Thus, in the vehicle's design stage, how to design these several parameters, making the vehicle's handling stability and ride performance can be well balanced, it will be a question required particular attention in the R & D process. The article has a certain guide on the research and design of this dependent suspension light duty bus.