Analysis of auxiliary leaf springs influence on operation of 9-ton HOWO trucks with the use of HyperWork and Matlab software

Introduction (problem statement and relevance). For heavy trucks, the suspension plays a key role in ensuring the vehicle strength, stability and comfort. The choice of leaf spring material remains a big issue directly affecting the suspension performance and service life. The HOWO trucks are one of the most popular types of cargo vehicles in Vietnam, that is why studying and improving the suspension system of these vehicles have not only scientific but also practical importance contributing to increase in quality of transportation and road traffic safety.
The purpose of the study is analysis and comparison of strength of the leaf springs manufactured of steel and E-glass fibre using the finite element method (FEM). Simulation and evaluation of the vibration characteristics of the double (elliptic) leaf spring suspension system within the HOWO cargo vehicle. Proposal of an optimal solution for the leaf spring material selection aimed to improve comfort and strength of the suspension system.
Methodology and research methods. Use of Matlab Simulink to create the leaf spring suspension system model, as well as to study the characteristics of oscillation and damping capability of the system. Simulation for comparison between steel leaf springs and E-glass (glass fiber) leaf springs by the following criteria: tension, deformation and damping capability.
Scientific novelty and results. The FEM results show that the E-glass leaf springs have a lower level of tension compared to the steel ones, which may extend the leaf spring service life. The E-glass fibre has more effective damping capability, especially under the conditions of high loads, which allows for better comfort maintenance. Using the E-glass fibre for leaf springs of cargo vehicles is a new step ensuring balance between strength and comfort, which has not been yet fully assimilated in the automobile industry of Vietnam.
Practical significance. Using the E-glass leaf springs may lead to decrease in maintenance costs, vehicle service life extension and driver comfort improvement. The improved suspension system not only contributes to more stable vehicle operation, but also decreases the risk of accidents due to loss of control when transporting heavy cargoes. This study opens the way to application of advanced materials and simulation technologies in the automobile industry of Vietnam encouraging studies and development of domestic products.

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