The suspension system of a car is akin to its legs, while the wheels are its feet. For a vehicle traveling at high speeds, the importance of the suspension system cannot be overstated.
The suspension system of a car is akin to its legs, while the wheels are its feet. For a vehicle traveling at high speeds, the importance of the suspension system cannot be overstated. The performance requirements of the suspension vary depending on the vehicle's purpose, and different suspension designs come with varying costs and performance characteristics. The suspension system directly influences the overall performance of the vehicle.
Load Distribution: The suspension transmits the vertical forces (support forces), longitudinal forces (traction and braking forces), lateral forces, and the resulting moments acting on the wheels to the car’s chassis or frame, ensuring the vehicle operates normally.
Stability: It maintains the correct alignment of the wheels and axles under varying loads, speeds, and during cornering, which is crucial for vehicle stability.
Control: The suspension system ensures that the driver can effectively control the vehicle's steering direction under various road conditions.
Comfort: Working in conjunction with the tires, the suspension absorbs vibrations from the wheels, ensuring a comfortable and smooth ride.
Suspensions can be categorized in various ways, but the primary distinction is between independent and non-independent suspensions. Simply put, if there is no rigid connection between the left and right wheels, and the suspension components on one side are only connected to the vehicle body, it is defined as an independent suspension. In contrast, a non-independent suspension has a rigid connection between the two wheels, causing them to interfere with each other.
Independent suspensions, without wheel interference, can be tuned for better comfort and handling. On the other hand, non-independent suspensions, due to their simple structure, offer better rigidity and off-road capability. Most passenger cars today have independent front suspensions, while rear suspensions vary.
A suspension system typically includes three main components: links, springs, and shock absorbers.
Links: These connect the wheels to the chassis and control the movement and angle of the wheels. Common types include double-arm, single-arm, multi-arm, and multi-link systems.
Springs: Positioned between the links and chassis, springs support the vehicle’s weight and provide cushioning when the wheels encounter uneven surfaces.
Shock Absorbers: These suppress excessive oscillations of the springs, stabilize the vehicle body, and, more importantly, ensure good contact between the wheels and the road.
Shanghai Yunqi is a research and manufacturing company specializing in automotive vibration damping components, offering design, development, manufacturing, and sales. Yunqi’s suspension-related products include stabilizer bar bushings, control arm bushings, upper and lower spring pads, bump stops, dust covers, and shock absorber mounts.