Análise dinâmica computacional de um modelo de quarto de carro com mola pneumática

Abstract

The growing demand for comfort, stability, and safety has driven the development of more advanced vehicle suspension systems, especially in heavy vehicles, where dynamic requirements are critical. In this context, the present study conducts a dynamic and computational analysis of a quarter-car model equipped with an air spring. The research is based on the theory of mechanical vibrations and employs the fourth-order Runge-Kutta method to solve the differential equations that describe the vertical dynamics of the system. The mathematical model incorporates the nonlinearities inherent of the air spring’s behavior, considering both the variation of volume and effective area with displacement and the polytropic thermodynamic process of compressed air. The restoring force is formulated based on the principles of gas thermodynamics, while damping is addressed in a manner that reflects the hydropneumatic contributions of the system. Numerical analysis enables the investigation of the system's response under harmonic excitation (emulating road surface excitation), allowing the assessment of the displacement of the sprung and unsprung masses, vertical accelerations, and vibration transmissibility. The results obtained show that the air spring exhibits progressive stiffness and dynamic adaptability, providing greater comfort and stability under road irregularities. Finally, the study reinforces the importance of accurate modeling and computational analysis for the design and optimization of modern vehicle suspensions. The data obtained provides a foundation for the adoption of more efficient technologies in the transportation sector and contributes to the training of engineers capable of addressing the challenges posed by contemporary mobility.