Development of analytical process to reduce side load in strut-type suspension

Methods have been developed to reduce the side load and friction force acting on the shock absorber inherent in the MacPherson strut system, popularly used in vehicle suspension systems. Reducing this friction force is one of the most important issues in improving the ride comfort of a car. The side load of the shock absorber can be reduced by controlling the force line of the coil spring. To reduce the side load, we designed an S-shaped coil spring. For the design of the side load spring, we also developed an analytical process, which utilizes finite element analysis and mechanical system analysis. All analysis results for the stiffness, stress, fatigue life, and spring force line were validated through experiments.