Optimization of Design Parameters for Leaf Spring by Taguchi Technique

Abstract

   Spring design in vehicles is one of the basic requirements in the system of suspension as by ensuring the proper design, the necessary comfort for passengers can be obtained. Thus, the car's stability on the road and in different places (the flat roads, winding roads and mountain roads) will be achieved. Given this importance, there are many factors that affect the design of springs (leaf springs). This research includes the study of three factors considered namely :( thickness, length and step) of springs. Taguchi experiment is used in determining the best among the tests performed. Then each factor was taken individually in control to get the design parameters for the leaf spring.

        Taguchi technique is applied in the design process of the three factors and mix levels to choose the optimal level for each factor that gives nominal of suitable displacement, stress and load. Optimal levels that have been achieved for case study of leaf spring of a total thickness of (12) mm were:

• Spring work in regions with high bumps.
• Spring work in flat areas and highways.
• Spring work in the middle regions (winding roads within cities).
• Applied cases studied were NISSAN, SCANIA and MAN automobiles to apply this rule and compare the actual design specifications of these automobiles. The output results showed a complete compatibility between these cases.