Technical Paper
Development of simulation methodology to evaluate Leaf Spring strength and predict the Leaf Interface stresses and correlating with test
2024-04-09
2024-01-2735
Leaf Springs are commonly used as a suspension in heavy commercial vehicle for higher load carrying capacity. The leaf springs connects the vehicle body with road profile through axle & tire assembly. It provides the relative motion between the vehicle body and road profile for improving the ride & handling performance. The leaf springs are designed to provide the linear stiffness and uniform strength characteristics throughout its travel. Leaf springs are generally subjected to dynamic loads which are induced due to different loads & driving patterns. Leaf spring design should be robust as any failure in leaf springs will put vehicle safety at risk and cost the vehicle manufacturer reputation. The design of a leaf spring based on the conventional methods predicts the higher stress levels at the leaf spring center clamp location and stress levels gradually reduce from the center to free ends of the leaf spring.