ABSTRACT
ABSTRACT: In this paper, the analysis and optimization of vehicle dynamics with a focus on drivetrain, suspension and body vibrations are investigated within the frequency range ∼10 < f <∼200 Hz. The excitation is caused by a small-capacity, 2-cylinder internal combustion engine within an A-segment passenger car (Van Miert, 1999) during a 3rd gear wide-open-throttle acceleration. The 2-cylinder design of the engine leads to high non-uniformity of crankshaft torque and high engine vibrations. Multi-Body-System (MBS) Simulation, Finite-Element-Method (FEM) and experimental analysis are used to develop so called “countermeasures”, which improve comfort behavior. During the development of such countermeasures, two limits are applied: a maximum additional mass of +12 kg and usage of add-on parts only to the body-in-white (BIW) structure. This paper describes in detail modeling, results of the simulation tools and definition of the most efficient countermeasure package. Finally, results of objective vehicle measurements before and after installation of countermeasures are shown.
