Formula SAE Racecar Suspension System Design

Abstract

For racing application, what actually counts is the wheel path during bump and the consequently change of wheel parameters like camber. The suspension system mainly comprises of the elastic components (springs), shock absorbers and control arms. This paper covers: Firstly, the selection of the suspension type of a FSAE racecar. Secondly, how to determine the hard points of the suspension system according to the general envelop of the racecar. Then the 3D-modeling and assembly of the suspension system will be done using Autodesk Inventor; With the results from the kinetic and dynamics simulations using ADAMS, adjustments or amendments will be done to the system to optimize the change of parameters in bump and roll; At last, according to the results of the FEA processes, the structure of the control arms, uprights, rockers, etc. will be optimized so that the stress of each components within strength limitations. Finally, optimize the suspension assembly and make sure it meets the practical requirements.