Citation

Lehtonen TJ, Juhala M. Int. J. Veh. Syst. Model. Test. 2005; 1(1,2,3): 131-142.

Affiliation

Laboratory of Automotive Engineering, Helsinki University of Technology, Finland (tero.j.lehtonen@tkk.fi)

Copyright

(Copyright © 2005, Inderscience Publishers)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This paper describes the development of an independent front axle suspension on a validated MBS (MultiBody System) model of an agricultural tractor. Comparison simulations are performed with different front axles. The aim of the front suspension was to improve both the driving performance of the tractor and the driver's comfort. The MBS model has been built using commercial MSC.ADAMS software from the MSC Company. The virtually prototyped front axle suspension is described. Simulations have been executed on different test tracks and the results are analysed according to the standards. The results show clearly that the driver's riding comfort can be improved considerably in a tractor equipped with a front axle suspension, even though the driver's seat is positioned above the nonsuspended rear axle of the tractor.