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A new method to predict brake squeal occurrence was developed by MSC under contract to Ford Motor Company. The results indicate that the stability characteristics of this disc brake assembly are governed mainly by the frictional properties between the pads and rotor. The stability is achieved when the friction coefficient of the pads is decreasing as the contact force increases. Based on the results, a stable brake system can be obtained without changing the brake structure by incorporating the appropriate frictional coefficient in the brake system. The method developed here can be also used as a tool to test the quality of any brake design in the early design stage.

The evolution of computer technology has made CAE ( Computer Aided Engineering ) an integral part of the total vehicle development process. Particularly for crash development, up-front input is crucial in determining vehicle architecture, performing trade off studies and setting design targets. Detailed FEA ( Finite Element Analysis ), although more accurate, is not always suitable at this stage due to (1) the lack of Detailed design information and (2) the large amount of modelling and analysis efforts. Concept/Hybrid models, however, can provide important input to make early design decisions without a detailed design. This paper uses a concept model to illustrate the above mentioned point. The model contains, the interior structure of a pick-up truck, driver occupant, restraints, and a detailed steering column assembly. Correlation with a physical test demonstrates the reliability of the model. Several restraint parameters which influence occupant performance are identified.