Journal Article
Experimental Study on the Effect of Coil Spring Reaction Force Vector on McPherson Strut Suspension Characteristics
2014-04-01
2014-01-0048
In McPherson strut applications for automotive suspension systems, the desired coil spring reaction force vector (FLP: force line position) that minimizes damper friction and king pin moment is typically determined by Statics/Kinematics calculations. There is not a device available on the open market today which can mimic the coil spring reaction force vector within the suspension system. Such a programmable coil spring reaction force vector generator, named “Universal Spring”, was developed in 2003 (USPG2003), and was then improved in 2013 (USPG2013) from the standpoint of accuracy, durability and reliability. The device is actuated by six hydraulic cylinders constructing a Stewart platform type parallel mechanism. Accuracy of FLP generated by USPG2013 is 1.1mm at maximum in ϕ80mm area around strut axis.
