Design of double stage springs for Baja SAE type vehicles

Abstract

Aiming to improve the parameters which influence the performance and ergonomics of the Komiketo Baja UFSJ prototype and to optimize its results during the Baja SAE competitions, a study proposed a new methodology to substitute linear springs for double stage spring. Springs are components with high elastic deformation’s ability that compound the automotive suspension system and they influence the vehicle dynamic performance. The experimentation consists in using the Microsoft Excel software and making a simulation of a model going through an irregular trail presenting high and low oscillation frequencies of the suspension, using MSC Adams Car® software. The test was divided in two stages, one for the operation of the vehicle with linear springs and the other for non-linear springs (double-stage springs). Then, some graphics were presented with the necessary data, aiming to compare the behavior of both suspension conditions, where the vertical acceleration was considered as a comparative criterion. The results were promising presenting improvements as the ergonomics parameters, regarding the linear springs previously used in the vehicle.