Compliant dynamics of a rectilinear rear-independent system

Abstract

The rectilinear rear-independent suspension investigated in this paper could remain the wheel alignment parameters invariable in theory. However, its dynamics is much more complex than that of the existing suspensions because of its redundant constraints in structure. Considering the elasticity of the rectilinear rear-independent suspension, a rigid-flexible half-car dynamic model is established for the first time based on the discrete time transfer matrix method. At the same time, a rigid half-car dynamic model is established as a comparison. The natural frequency characteristics and dynamic response of the rectilinear rear-independent suspension under random road excitations are analyzed and compared with those of rigid half-car dynamic model. The results reveal that the suspension system has apparent influence to the dynamics of vehicle. The wheel alignment parameters will fluctuate within a narrow range which is mainly determined by the rolling vibration of vehicle. And the suspension system could reduce and filter the road excitations with high frequency and small amplitude. This provides a good effect on the ride comfort of vehicle. Dynamics analysis of the rectilinear rear independent suspension reveals that the proposed modeling approach could deal with the dynamics of rigid-flexible multibody systems with redundant constraints effectively.