Numerical Simulation of the Kinematic Behavior of a Twist Beam Suspension Using Finite Element Method

The use of numerical simulations in the design of automotive components has contributed to reducing the design time, decreasing the prototypes costs and increasing reliability of the final product. In addition, the search for solutions of low cost and satisfactory performance is essential for the success of the product in the world market. Twist-beam suspensions are an example of this competitive environment. This solution presents a very satisfactory performance when applied to light vehicles and has an excellent relationship between cost / benefit in the automotive market. It is estimated that more than 90% of light vehicles manufactured in emergent countries use this type of suspension at the rear. Despite its acceptance in the automotive market there are few studies related to the twist-beam suspension, perhaps because of its simplicity and low cost design and ease of manufacturing. Unlike other types of suspension, the twist-beam has a flexible torsion beam connecting the swing arms. The evaluation of the deformation of this flexible element becomes essential to understand their kinematic behavior. Thus, the use of software based only on the rigid body dynamics is not suitable to analyze this type of suspension. The main objective of this work was to evaluate through numerical simulation based on finite element method, the influence of the torsion beam on the kinematic behavior of a twist-beam suspension. It was evaluated the influence of both the position and orientation of the torsion beam on the suspension, under symmetric and asymmetric loadings.