Vehicle Suspension Systems: Stabilizer, Torsion, Panhard Bars & More
Vehicle Suspension Systems
The vehicle’s suspension system is crucial for handling and comfort. Here’s a breakdown of key components:
Stabilizer Bar
A U-shaped steel rod connecting the body and wheel suspension arms of each axle. Its primary function is to reduce body roll during cornering, enhancing vehicle stability.
Torsion Bar
A cylindrical steel rod fixed to the body on one end and the wheel’s trapeze on the other. It works by twisting under force and returning to its original shape due to elasticity.
Panhard Bar
A horizontal bar attached to the vehicle’s frame or chassis on one end and the axle on the other. It reduces transverse displacement of the axle, allowing the frame to move vertically.
Hydractive Suspension
This system has two states:
- Soft State: Hydraulic fluid circulates between suspension elements on the same axle, controlled by a rigidity regulator.
- Firm State: The regulator prevents hydraulic fluid movement between elements on the same axle.
Hydropneumatic Self-Leveling Shock
This system automatically adjusts to increasing loads without needing additional components like pumps or external sensors.
Hydropneumatic Advantages
This system offers:
- Comfortable ride and suspension elasticity.
- Maintains constant body height.
- Allows regulation of the center of gravity.
- Integrates suspension dampers, saving space.
- Enhanced safety in case of punctures, keeping the body horizontal.
- Reduced maintenance, improving suspension performance.
Disjunction Phase
When pressure exceeds 170 Bar, internal pressure overcomes spring force, closing the feed. Fluid flows from the pump through valve stems and the deposit, while utilization is isolated. The controller remains in this position until pressure decreases to the minimum calibration point, approximately 145 bar.
Conjunction Phase
When chambers A and B reach 145 Bar, the regulator changes position. The pump feeds the output into utilization, and the tank is closed.
Filter Drier
This component removes water from the system using a regenerative dehydrator. It consists of synthetic silicate desiccant granules capable of storing up to 20% of their weight in water, depending on temperature.
Accumulator Deposit
A metal deposit, usually aluminum, that accumulates air to ensure suspension functionality with minimal energy intake, reducing the work of the anti-roll compressor. The system includes a rigid stabilizer bar for road traffic and a lower stiffness coefficient bar for off-road conditions.
Steering Linkage
This system transmits linear movement from the steering box to the wheel knuckle. The type of linkage depends on the steering box. Key parts include command bars, steering sleeves, adjustment tie rods, angular levers, and hinges.