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In the complex structure of modern cars, the chassis suspension system is undoubtedly an important part of ensuring driving comfort and handling performance. Although they are usually hidden under the body of the car and not noticed by most drivers, the automotive chassis suspension components have a vital task: from ensuring stable contact between the wheels and the road to absorbing bumps during driving, the role of the suspension system cannot be underestimated.
The automotive suspension system is mainly composed of two basic components: springs and shock absorbers. Springs are responsible for absorbing and storing energy, while shock absorbers (also known as dampers) are responsible for controlling the rebound of springs to ensure that the wheels can quickly regain contact with the road after encountering bumps.
Spring Types
Coil springs: The most common type of spring in modern cars, with the advantages of simple structure, light weight and small space.
Leaf springs: Common in older models and many four-wheel drive vehicles, they are made of multiple layers of metal sheets connected together, and absorb energy by bending the metal sheets.
Torsion bar: A metal bar that connects the body and the lower link of the suspension, absorbing bumps by twisting.
Shock absorber
A shock absorber is usually a piston filled with oil. When the wheel encounters a bump, the piston moves in the oil, slowing the rebound of the spring through the flow resistance of the oil. This flow resistance can be changed by adjusting the diameter of the hole on the piston, thereby adjusting the shock absorption effect, which is called the damping rate.
Suspension systems can be divided into two categories according to their design: non-independent suspension and independent suspension.
Non-independent suspension, also known as driven suspension, is characterized by the left and right wheels sharing a fixed axle. This design is still common in the rear suspension of trucks and some cars. But an obvious disadvantage of non-independent suspension is that when one wheel encounters a bump, the entire axle will be vibrated, affecting ride comfort and not conducive to preventing body roll.
Independent suspension systems allow each wheel to move independently, thereby absorbing bumps more effectively, improving ride comfort and handling. Common independent suspension types in modern cars include:
McPherson suspension: This is a simple and effective front suspension system that combines shock absorbers and coil springs to form a compact and lightweight suspension unit, especially suitable for front-wheel drive vehicles.
Technological progress in suspension systems
As technology develops, suspension systems are also constantly innovating. New technologies such as air suspension and electric suspension are gradually being applied to high-end models. These technologies can automatically adjust according to road conditions and driving modes by adjusting the stiffness and damping rate of the suspension to provide the best driving experience.
With the increasing attention to environmental protection and sustainability, automakers are exploring how to use lighter and more environmentally friendly materials in suspension systems to reduce fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions. At the same time, the continuous emergence of new technologies, such as self-repairing tires and the application of lightweight materials, will also have a profound impact on the design and performance of suspension systems.
