Analytical and numerical modeling and simulation of tracked vehicle suspension system

In this paper, the dynamic characteristics of the suspension system of an armed tracked vehicle were theoretically analyzed and numerically investigated. Our research was focused on the chassis system of the M1 Abrams tank, which combines the torsion bars with the hydraulic shock absorbers, which provides the vehicle with excellent stability and terrain passability. The key part of the research activities presented in this article is the analytical simulations performed in the MATLAB Simulink environment related to the suspension of this tank, the results of which proved the excellent tank’s ability to overcome the terrain obstacles that directly affect combat effectiveness, as the stability of the center of gravity improves the accuracy of the firing during the tank movement, reduces the crew exhaustion, and allows the vehicle to maintain high velocity even in the difficult terrain conditions. Furthermore, in the article, the numerical finite element method simulation model of the suspension system is presented. This model was used for the structural, dynamic, and fatigue analyses performed in the Creo Simulate software. Results of these simulations also confirmed that the suspension system is satisfactory for the intended applications.