Vehicle and Suspension Systems Engineering

Randle Engineering, a leading consultancy in the automotive sector, is pleased to announce the launch of its new public training course, "Vehicle and Suspension Systems Engineering: A Course for Engineers, by Engineers." Usually delivered ‘behind closed doors’ directly to OEM suspension and vehicle dynamics teams, this in-depth, technical course is designed for professionals seeking to further their understanding of the complex engineering principles behind vehicle dynamics.

The Vehicle and Suspension Systems Engineering course consists of five in-depth taught lectures, supported by hands-on exercises to reinforce key concepts. Topics covered include the theory of suspension geometry – modelling and design considerations, double wishbone suspension design and analysis, and a range of specific ride and handling analyses for implementation into the vehicle development process.

The course will cater to engineers at various experience levels, providing both theoretical knowledge and practical tools that can be directly applied to live engineering projects. The exercises, ranging from simple demonstrations to the use of advanced analysis tools, are carefully curated to enhance participants' skills through real-world demonstrations.

The course will be delivered through 5 'sessions' with both taught and practical elements in each session.

Info: Session one focusses on ride analysis, with participants being given a wide-ranging introduction to the background theory and modelling techniques used in the development of vehicle ride.

Following a broad introduction to the topic the principle of primary ride is introduced, supported by the 1-DoF model. This then progresses on to the concept of secondary ride as highlighted by the 2-DoF quarter car model. Once the basics are in place the session progresses onto more complex details such as damper top mount design and spring-damper geometry.

Info: Session two focusses on handling analysis, with participants being given a wide-ranging introduction to the background theory and modelling techniques used in the development of vehicle handling.

Working from first principles, key handling concepts are introduced with a 1-DoF handling model. This is then extrapolated to a 2-DoF model to capture a broader dynamic range. These models are used to probe steady-state & transient linear range handling attributes, including the understeer gradient, yaw stiffness and yaw damping.

Info: Session three continues to focus on handling analysis, where participants will be introduced to a number of more detailed vehicle and suspension design parameters that impact handling behaviour.

Building on the content of session two the 2-DoF bicycle model is used as basis to introduce the concept of axle slip gradients and the understeer budget. Key elements include tyre behaviour, suspension kinematics and suspension compliance.

Info: Session four introduces a range of suspension kinematic properties and evaluates their impact on vehicle performance, using a double wishbone suspension as a worked example.

Initially the ‘virtual link’ method is proposed to allow the calculation of suspension forces and roll centre heights. This is then developed into an analysis of body roll, lateral load transfer and non-linear handling attributes. Camber compensation and anti-geometry concepts are assessed in a similar manner with practical design limitations explored.

Info: Session five will invite participants to focus on the development of a front axle, double wishbone suspension concept. Working from a set of kinematic and compliance targets, participants will follow the journey by determining hardpoint locations, bush stiffnesses, a spring stiffness and ARB requirements. Following this, participants will be challenged to review the impact of geometry changes on system & vehicle performance, in an exercise the draws together learnings from the whole course.

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Host or Publisher Randle Engineering