Analysis of mathematical models of few-leaf springs of vehicle suspension systems

BACKGROUND: For trucks, dependent suspension with longitudinal semi-elliptical springs is the most common. The widespread use of the suspension system with leaf springs caused by the simplicity of its design, low cost and low maintenance complexity, as well as the fact that the leaf springs simultaneously perform the functions of an elastic and guiding element. However, despite the widespread use and obvious advantages, few-leaf springs function modeling in a multibody dynamic system is a difficult task. To study the dynamics of vehicles with leaf spring suspensions, it is necessary to have an accurate and at the same time high-performance model. Therefore, it is very important to choose a reasonable mathematical model of a leaf spring. AIM: Comparison of multibody simulation mathematical models of well-known few-leaf springs, used in suspension of wheeled vehicles. METHODS: TThe solution of the problem is carried out by comparing the known methods of modeling leaf springs in terms of calculation time and accuracy of the results obtained in the NX software package in the environment of dynamics of coupled bodies Simcenter 3D Motion. RESULTS: In the course of the work, the 4 most common methods of modeling small leaf springs in the environment of dynamics of solids are considered. Based on the analysis, the most rational method was identified, providing the highest accuracy and calculation speed (less than 5 seconds). CONCLUSION: The chosen method of leaf spring suspension modeling can be used for studying vehicle dynamics, so high-quality results in a short period of time may be obtained.