Kinematic cross-linking in automotive suspension systems

A relatively new type of kinematically cross-linked automotive suspension system is described and mathematical models are built to predict the behaviour as a function of the geometric design. Three planar model variants are involved. The first allows simulation of the mainly vertical response to load changes, representative of accelerating or braking in straight line motion. The second covers quasi-steady state cornering at constant speed. The third deals with the standard laboratory roll centre test, in which a pure rolling torque is applied to the stationary car body. Mention is also made of a full car handling model incorporating the suspension arrangements but details are not included. Graphical simulation results and animations of the system are used to demonstrate the behaviour. A systematic approach to choosing the geometry is taken and results are included to illustrate the convergence of the design to a state with very advantageous properties. Small body roll angle, excellent road wheel camber angle control and modest negative jacking with some slight reductions in lateral load transfer, as compared with convention, are apparently possible. The most critical design area is revealed.