Suspension force, also known as suspension load, refers to the vertical force exerted by a vehicle's suspension system on its body. This force is a crucial aspect of vehicle comfort, stability and safety, as it helps to absorb and dampen shocks and vibrations caused by bumps in the road surface.
The suspension of a vehicle usually consists of a combination of springs and dampers. The springs, which can be made of materials such as steel, air or composite materials, are responsible for absorbing and distributing the vertical forces caused by the weight of the vehicle and additional loads such as passengers or cargo. The dampers, on the other hand, control the movement of the springs and prevent the vehicle from bouncing up and down too much after driving over bumps.
The spring force acts against gravity and the dynamic forces acting on the vehicle to ensure an even and stable ride height. A well-tuned suspension ensures that the vehicle's wheels always maintain optimum contact with the road surface, which improves traction and braking performance. At the same time, it helps to increase ride comfort by reducing shocks and vibrations that would otherwise be transmitted directly to the vehicle occupants.
The design of the suspension and the determination of the optimum spring force depend on various factors, including the weight of the vehicle, the type of use and the expected road conditions. Engineers use advanced calculation methods and simulations to design and optimize the suspension systems to meet the specific requirements of the vehicle.
To summarize, suspension force is a key aspect of vehicle dynamics and comfort. By carefully tuning the suspension, engineers can ensure that vehicles can be operated safely, stably and comfortably.