Development and validation of a three-dimensional kinematic model for the McPherson steering and suspension mechanisms

A three-dimensional model is presented of the kinematic behaviour of a McPherson-type steering suspension. A general approach is put forward to determine the main parameters (caster, camber, steer angle, …) which influence the handling of the vehicle, in function of the operational factors of the system. The input data are, on the one hand, the suspension and steering geometry, and on the other, the travel of the strut and the turn of steering wheel steer, which is obtained through monitoring the vehicle. The model has been applied to a standard vehicle and the validity of the results has been proven.