Suspension Geometry Optimization and Analysis of Steering Knuckle for Weight Reduction

there are various suspension geometries that can be considered in formula SAE cars. The most common type of Independent suspension geometry is a double wishbone type. It is the most extensively used suspension geometry right from FSAE cars to professional sized formula cars. Since the double wishbone type of suspension system consists of several connected parts, the dimensions of each member play a vital role in the variation of steering and suspension angles. In this study importance has been given to optimization of suspension geometry and obtaining the optimum locations of the mounting points i.e. hard points of the suspension geometry. A double wishbone suspension (front suspension) with pushrod was analyzed in Lotus Shark software to obtain the most appropriate locations of the hard points. Steering knuckle being one of the important components of steering system is also analyzed in this study and emphasis has been given on alternate material for weight reduction. The knuckle was modeled in Solid Works and analyzed in ANSYS 15.0. Keywords—Suspension Geometry, Double wishbone, Steering Knuckle)