A new methodology to calculate the equivalent stiffness matrix of the suspension structure with flexible linkages

The purpose of this work is to present a methodology for calculating the equivalent stiffness matrix of the wheel center of the vehicle suspension. For a suspension, the stiffness matrix of the wheel center, which is effected by the bushings and flexible linkages, control the suspension’s elasto-kinematic ( e–k) specification. The equivalent stiffness matrix of the wheel center is formulated by using the stiffness of the bushings and linkages. And the models of series and parallel springs are used to calculate this equivalent stiffness matrix based on the number of the bushings and linkages. An example is presented to illustrate how to use the proposed methodology to derive the equivalent stiffness matrix of a suspension system with three bushings and flexible linkages. The results show that the equivalent stiffness of the wheel center will decrease if the linkage stiffness is considered. This methodology can be used in all kinds of suspension structure. It can also be used to optimize and design the suspension system.