Supension System Vehicle Design Using a Local Optimization Procedure

This paper deals with the design of double-wishbone and multilink independent suspension systems. To achieve this objective, the proposed method uses a dimensional synthesis technique based on local optimization. An objective function is defined using exact-gradient determination to search for the optimal solution. The multibody system is described by a set of constraint equations which are used to perform the necessary differentiation. Due to the kinematic characteristics of suspension systems, the technique developed here provides a valuable tool for obtaining the optimal solution fulfilling typical requirements imposed in this kind of problems. In this way, double-wishbone and multilink mechanisms are synthesized solving path generation and rigid-body guidance problems at the same time. Finally, two examples are shown to illustrate the application of the method to this kind of systems.Copyright © 2005 by ASME