Modelling, feasibility and performance analyses of a 3-DOF parallel mechanism employed in a rear vehicle suspension

Abstract

This work deals with a three-degree-of-freedom mechanism for rear independent suspensions, capable to adjust simultaneously the camber, toe and roll angles. Topologically, the mechanism is parallel and asymmetric with three distinct active kinematic chains. In this paper, the kinematic and kinetostatic models are developed. In order to evaluate how promising this mechanism is, two analyses are conducted. First, a performance analysis evaluates the influence of the mechanism actuation on the vehicle dynamic behaviour and, second, a feasibility analysis determines a suitable stroke and the required force/power for the actuators. The obtained results have shown the capability of the mechanism to improve vehicle handling performance, when compared to a car equipped with a conventional suspension system. The evaluation is based on three manoeuvres: a steady-state cornering, a fishhook and a double lane change. Moreover, the mechanism feasibility analysis has shown that the actuator's stroke, velocity and force can be obtained by using standard hydraulic or eletromechanical actuators. Copyright © 2015 Inderscience Enterprises Ltd.