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ride is an important tool in verifying that the suspension
solution, proposed to our customers, provides their vehicle
with the required suspension behaviour. A great deal of expensive
prototype testing can be avoided by expert use of the simulation
tools now available. Working with a noted consultant, using
ADAMS™ simulation software, we have amassed a wealth
of experience in the development of suspension characteristics
through ride-model analysis.
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A typical simulation will subject a vehicle
model to a range of manoeuvres over obstacles and terrains,
outputting the displacements, velocities and accelerations
predicted at relevant locations in the vehicle. A particular
reference is the driver’s seat, where excessive shocks
or motions can prevent the vehicle being driven effectively.
In the simulation shown, a 4x4 vehicle is crossing a transverse
bump, 200 mm high, at a speed of 30 kph. The graphical output
shows a vertical acceleration of 4.75 m/s2 (approximately
0.5 g), which would cause discomfort to the vehicle’s
occupants. By modifying the suspension spring and damper
characteristics, the vehicles reaction to the obstacle can
be optimised to give the minimum discomfort.
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Animated outputs can be synchronised to compare the behaviour
of vehicle models with subtle changes such as the one shown
here, where the effect of different tyre characteristics,
on the vehicle’s roll behaviour, is graphically demonstrated.
In addition to mobility, simulation can also be used to
study mine blast effects, air-drop deployment, thermal and
firing behaviour. Simulations can model structural elements
as passive or dynamic elements and indicate effects on structures
within the model, beyond the suspension environment
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