LSA Manual

GETTI NG STARTED
WI TH
LOTUS SUSPENSI ON ANALYSI S
VERSION 5.01
GETTING STARTED
WITH
LOTUS SUSPENSION ANALYSIS
VERSION 5.01
The information in this document is furnished for informational use only, may be
revised from time to time, and should not be construed as a commitment by Lotus
Cars Ltd or any associated or subsidiary company. Lotus Cars Ltd assumes no
responsibility or liability for any errors or inaccuracies that may appear in this
document.
This document contains proprietary and copyrighted information. Lotus Cars Ltd
permits licensees of Lotus Cars Ltd software products to print out or copy this
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software. No part of this document may be copied for any other purpose or
distributed or translated into any other language without the prior written permission
of Lotus Cars Ltd.
2008 by Lotus Cars Ltd. All rights reserved.
CONTENTS
1 - INTRODUCING LOTUS SUSPENSION ANALYSIS
1.1 Overview.................................................................................. 1
1.2 What is Lotus Suspension Analysis? ....................................... 2
1.3 Normal Uses of Lotus Suspension Analysis............................. 2
1.4 Overall Concepts...................................................................... 2
1.5 Coordinate system................................................................... 3
1.6 Default Sign convention ........................................................... 3
1.7 About the Tutorials................................................................... 4
2 - GETTING STARTED
2.1 Overview.................................................................................. 5
2.2 Starting the Application ............................................................ 6
2.3 Creating a New Model.............................................................. 8
2.4 Manipulating the Graphical View............................................ 11
2.5 Displaying Graphical Results ................................................. 14
2.6 Displaying Text Results.......................................................... 15
2.7 Bump, Steer and Roll Kinematics........................................... 16
2.8 Animation Suspension Kinematics......................................... 19
2.9 Saving Data Files................................................................... 20
2.10 Closing the Application........................................................... 20
3 - INTERACTIVE TEMPLATE MODIFICATION
3.1 Overview................................................................................ 21
3.2 Adding Points to the Template ............................................... 22
3.3 General Addition and Deletion ............................................... 26
3.4 Adding Calculated Points ....................................................... 28
3.5 Merging Springs and Dampers............................................... 29
3.6 Converting Corner to Axle Model ........................................... 30
3.7 Add Two Part Rack to Model.................................................. 30
3.8 Add Roll Bar to Model ............................................................ 31
3.9 Add Compliant Hub to Model ................................................. 32
3.10 Add Drive shaft to Model ........................................................ 33
3.11 Add Spacer to Model.............................................................. 34
3.12 Mesh a Rigid Part................................................................... 36
3.13 Convert Ball Joint to Slot ........................................................ 37
3.14 Exercise 1: Modifying a Models Standard Template .............. 38
3.15 Exercise 2: Working with Spacers.......................................... 41
4 - EXTENDED TRAVEL OPTIONS
4.1 Overview................................................................................ 43
4.2 Introduction ............................................................................ 44
4.3 Setting the Extended Module Type ........................................ 45
4.4 Defining Extended Module Displacements............................. 46
4.5 Exercise: Extended Bump Travel ........................................... 46
5 - ADDITIONAL FEATURES
5.1 Overview................................................................................ 49
5.2 Graphs Scopes...................................................................... 50
5.3 Graphical measure................................................................. 51
5.4 User Defined Results ............................................................. 52
5.5 Exercise: Producing a User Defined SDF .............................. 54
5.6 Custom Control Box ............................................................... 56
5.7 Set view units......................................................................... 58
5.8 Standard SDF Scale and Shift Settings ................................. 59
5.9 Ini files.................................................................................... 60
5.10 Point Tolerances .................................................................... 62
5.11 Component-setup Toolbox..................................................... 65
6 - COMMAND REFERENCE CARD
7 - COMPLIANT ANALYSIS
7.1 Overview................................................................................ 71
7.2 Introduction ............................................................................ 72
7.3 Enabling compliance calculation ............................................ 72
7.4 Bush Properties...................................................................... 74
7.5 Spring Properties ................................................................... 78
7.6 Damper Properties................................................................. 78
7.7 Tyre Properties....................................................................... 79
7.8 External Forces...................................................................... 79
7.9 Roll Bar Properties................................................................. 84
7.10 Linear Rack Properties........................................................... 85
7.11 Non-Linear Rack Properties................................................... 86
7.12 Bump Stop Properties ............................................................ 86
7.13 Drive Shaft Torques ............................................................... 87
7.14 Drive Shaft Losses................................................................. 88
7.15 General Data.......................................................................... 88
7.16 Displaying compliance results................................................ 89
7.17 Solver Options........................................................................ 90
7.18 Exercise: Drive Shaft Forces.................................................. 92
8 - GRAPHICAL VIEW DISPLAY TOOL
8.1 Overview................................................................................ 95
8.2 Introduction ............................................................................ 96
8.3 Simple Modes ........................................................................ 96
8.4 Single Step............................................................................. 97
8.5 Deformed Geometry............................................................... 97
8.6 Mode Shape........................................................................... 98
8.7 Forced Damped ..................................................................... 98
8.8 Animation ............................................................................... 98
8.9 Exercise: Using the Display Mode Tool.................................. 98
9 - USER FORMATTING RESULTS
9.1 Overview.............................................................................. 101
9.2 Formatted SDF..................................................................... 102
9.3 Spline Fits ............................................................................ 104
9.4 Spline Data........................................................................... 105
9.5 Formatted Point Forces........................................................ 106
9.6 Compliance Text Values ...................................................... 108
9.7 Exporting.............................................................................. 109
9.8 Exercise: Example Formatted SDF...................................... 112
10 - LOCAL COORDINATE SYSTEMS
10.1 Overview.............................................................................. 115
10.2 Introduction .......................................................................... 116
10.3 Creating a Local Coordinate System.................................... 117
10.4 Changing a point to use a Local Coordinate System ........... 119
10.5 Exercise: Using a local coordinate system........................... 120
11 - BALL JOINT RESULTS DISPLAY
11.1 Overview.............................................................................. 121
11.2 Introduction .......................................................................... 122
11.3 Setting the Displayed Point .................................................. 123
11.4 Changing the Reference Axes ............................................. 123
11.5 Hard Copy............................................................................ 124
11.6 Auto-Centring....................................................................... 124
12 - INTERNAL OPTIMISER
12.1 Overview.............................................................................. 125
12.2 Introduction .......................................................................... 126
12.3 Setting Kinematic Targets via User Lines ............................ 127
12.4 Weighting Settings for Kinematics........................................ 128
12.5 Identifying Positional Optimiser Parameters......................... 130
12.6 Running a Kinematic Optimisation ....................................... 131
12.7 Kinematic Tutorial ................................................................ 133
12.8 Setting Compliant Targets via Compliance Coefficients....... 135
12.9 Weighting Settings for Compliance Targets ......................... 136
12.10Specifying Compliant Optimiser Parameters and Limits ...... 137
12.11Running a Compliant Optimisation....................................... 139
13 INTERACTIVE TEMPLATE BUILDER MODULE
13.1 Overview.............................................................................. 141
13.2 Template Builder Screen Layout .......................................... 142
13.3 Template Builder Individual Menu Options........................... 146
13.4 Building a New Template, Example 1 .................................. 146
13.5 Building a New Template, Example 2 .................................. 153
13.6 Exercise: Non-Steerable Single Upper Link Suspension ..... 155
14 - USER TEMPLATES (1)
14.1 Overview.............................................................................. 159
14.2 Description of User Templates............................................. 160
14.3 The Parts Data-Set ............................................................. 161
14.4 The Points Data Set ........................................................... 162
14.5 The Settings Data Set ........................................................ 164
14.6 Settings - Parts................................................................... 165
14.7 Settings - General Types.................................................... 174
14.8 Settings - Bushes ............................................................... 174
14.9 Settings Point Solution Type............................................ 185
14.10Template Validation ............................................................. 185
14.11Exercise 1, Modifying an Existing Template......................... 187
15 - USER TEMPLATES (2)
15.1 Overview.............................................................................. 189
15.2 Template Sources................................................................ 190
15.3 Storing and Saving Templates ............................................. 193
15.4 Saving to the User Templates File ....................................... 193
15.5 Saving Custom template Files.............................................. 194
15.6 Creating New Templates...................................................... 194
15.7 Exercise 2 Creating a New Template................................ 195
15.8 Template Graphics............................................................... 200
15.9 Exercise 3 Adding Graphics to a Template ....................... 207
15.10Using the New Template...................................................... 209
16 - EXTERNAL APPLICATION AUTO-SEARCH AND LOAD
16.1 Overview.............................................................................. 211
16.2 Introduction .......................................................................... 212
16.3 Mode Types ......................................................................... 212
16.4 Settings ................................................................................ 213
16.5 Processing ........................................................................... 215
16.6 Exercise: Running a Simple Case........................................ 216
17 - COMMAND MODE OPERATION
17.1 Overview.............................................................................. 221
17.2 Introduction .......................................................................... 222
17.3 Basic Commands................................................................. 224
17.4 Command Arguments .......................................................... 225
17.5 Switching Between Graphical and Command Modes .......... 225
17.6 Exercise: Running a Command Mode Example................... 226
18 - BATCH FILES
18.1 Overview.............................................................................. 229
18.2 Running Batch Files from the System Prompt...................... 230
18.3 Running Batch Files in the Command Mode........................ 230
18.4 Using Batch Files in the Graphical Interface ........................ 231
18.5 Site Specific Batch Files....................................................... 233
18.6 Exercise: Creating a Sample Batch File............................... 233
19 - REPORT FILES
19.1 Overview.............................................................................. 235
19.2 Report File Items and Arguments......................................... 236
19.3 Running a Report File in Command mode........................... 239
19.4 Using Report Files in the Graphical Interface....................... 240
19.5 Site Specific Report Batch Files........................................... 242
19.6 Exercise: Creating a Sample Report File ............................. 242
20 - USER LANGUAGE
20.1 Overview.............................................................................. 245
20.2 Opening the Editor ............................................................... 246
20.3 Using the Editor.................................................................... 246
20.4 The Search Facility .............................................................. 247
20.5 Implementing the User Dictionary ........................................ 247
20.6 Exercise: Replacing Camber Angle .................................... 248
21 - FULL SUSPENSION MODEL
21.1 Overview.............................................................................. 251
21.2 Target suspension design .................................................... 252
21.3 Tutorial 2.a ........................................................................... 253
21.4 Tutorial 2.b ........................................................................... 257
22 - IMPORTING/EXPORTING HARD POINTS
22.1 Overview.............................................................................. 261
22.2 Import and Export to an Adams Sub System ....................... 262
About This Guide
Welcome to Lotus Engineering Suspension Analysis. This product will allow you to
design and analyse the vehicle suspension hard points to achieve the required
suspension characteristics. The optional addition of compliant bushes and operating
forces allow compliant characteristics to be calculated and bushes tuned to obtain
the desired behaviour.
What You Need to Know
This guide assumes the following:
Lotus Suspension Analysis is installed on your computer or network and you
have permission to execute the relevant Lotus modules.
The necessary password file is installed to allow you to run the necessary
modules.
You have a basic understanding of vehicle suspension mechanisms, their loading
regimes and functional operating requirements.
1 Introducing Lotus Suspension Analysis
1.1 Overview
This chapter introduces you to the Lotus Suspension Analysis Tool and
explains the normal uses for it. It also introduces the tutorials that weve
included in this guide to get you started working with Lotus Suspension
Analysis (LSA).
This chapter contains the following sections:
1.1 Overview................................................................................... 1
1.2 What is Lotus Suspension Analysis?......................................... 2
1.3 Normal Uses of Lotus Suspension Analysis.............................. 2
1.4 Overall Concepts....................................................................... 2
1.5 Coordinate system.................................................................... 3
1.6 Default Sign convention ............................................................ 3
1.7 About the Tutorials .................................................................... 4
1
Getting Started with Lotus Suspension Analysis
1 - Introducing Lotus Suspension Analysis
2
1.2 What is Lotus Suspension Analysis?
LSA is a design and analysis tool that can be used for both the initial layout of a
vehicle suspensions hard points, and also the design and orientation of suspension
bushes for the tuning of the compliant behaviour.
Models are created and modified through a 3d-viewing environment. This allows
hard points and bushes to be dragged on screen and graphical/numerical results
updated in real time. A template-based approach to the modelling allows users to
create their own suspension models, supplementing the standard suspension
templates provided.
1.3 Normal Uses of Lotus Suspension Analysis
LSA is used by both designers and analysts alike for the layout of the suspension
hard point positions, in order that the required kinematic behaviour is achieved. Any
number of results can be displayed graphically, (e.g. Camber angle, Toe angle),
against bump motion, roll motion or steering motion. These results are updated in
real time as the suspension hard points are moved. The inclusion of compliant
bushes to the kinematic model allows the tuning of bush properties to be carried out,
to achieve required compliant response for items such as lateral force steer.
1.4 Overall Concepts
LSA has two main display and analysis modes, 2D and 3D, and it is possible to
import a 2D model into 3D.
Suspensions can be articulated in individual bump/rebound, roll and steering modes
or a combination mode that allows all three articulation types to be mixed. The
steering modes are relevant to the 3D mode only.
LSA uses templates to identify specific 3D suspension types. These templates define
the number of parts, the number of points and connectivity of the parts. A large
number of standard templates are include with the installation, whilst users can
create their own or modify existing ones to model kinematic suspension types not
catered for.
3D models can be built as corner, axle or full vehicle suspension models.
LSA can be used just in Kinematic mode, (i.e. rigid bodies with ball joints), or in
compliant mode where the deflection due to bushes is added to the kinematic results
on an incremental basis, (note that the compliant module is licensed additionally to
the kinematic module). The compliant mode includes modal analysis and forced
damped capability.
3
1.5 Coordinate system
The LSA co-ordinate system is a right-handed system the origin of which must be in
front of the car and coincide with the vehicle longitudinal centre line.
Y-axis is across the car track, and the +ve direction being towards the right side
when sitting in the car. Suspensions can be defined as right side or left side as
required.
X-axis is along the vehicle wheel base and positive toward the rear of the car.
Z-axis is the vertical height and positive upwards.
When inputting suspension hard point data you must ensure that all co-ordinates are
consistent with the origin you have selected and be aware that all suspension hard
point output generated by LSA will be relative to that origin. The only restrictions are
that the X-Z plane must pass through the centre of the car and the origin must be in
front of the car. The co-ordinate system origin need not be coincident with the
ground plane.
LSA coordinate System
1.6 Default Sign convention
Camber - Inclination of the wheel plane to the vertical, negative when the wheel
leans in at the top
King Pin Angle - The front view angle between the steering axis and the vertical.
Positive when the steering axis leans inwards at the top.
Toe - Angle between the plane of the wheel and the forward direction, positive if the
front of the wheel is toed in toward the centre of the car.
Castor - The angle in side view between the steering axis and vertical. Positive
when the top of the steering axis is inclined toward the rear.
Steering Lock - Linear Y-axis displacement of the steering rack. Positive steering
lock can produce negative or positive toe depending if the steering rack is in front or
behind the steering axis.
Roll - Right hand rule applied to the vehicle positive x-axis. When sitting in the car
roll to the left is positive.
4
The default sign conventions can be modified by a user, to suit local requirements.
These local sign conventions can include a sign change, a scale and shift terms. The
user sign conventions are saved to the local INI file.
1.7 About the Tutorials
The remainder of this guide is structured around a series of tutorials that introduce
you to the features of Lotus Suspension Analysis. Each tutorial builds on what was
learnt in those before it and are thus linked such that the user should work through
them in the order presented. The essential steps required to complete the tutorial
have been bulleted as shown below.
Essential steps in the tutorial are bulleted and italic.
To save time you can skip through the text and only do the essential steps. The rest
of the text gives a more complete description.
2 Getting Started
2.1 Overview
This chapter introduces the main features of the product and gives a
summary of its base functionality.
2.1 Overview................................................................................ 5
2.2 Starting the Application .......................................................... 6
2.3 Creating a New Model............................................................ 8
2.4 Manipulating the Graphical View.......................................... 11
2.5 Displaying Graphical Results ............................................... 14
2.6 Displaying Text Results........................................................ 15
2.7 Bump, Steer and Roll Kinematics......................................... 16
2.8 Points editing........................................................................ 17
2.9 Animation Suspension Kinematics....................................... 19
2.10 Saving Data Files................................................................. 20
2.11 Closing the Application......................................................... 20
2
2 - Getting Started
6
2.2 Starting the Application
To start Lotus Suspension Analysis from the main Start menu, point to Programs
and then Lotus Engineering Software, then Lotus Suspension Analysis
(Interactive). If the program fails to start or the menu item is missing from your start
menu, firstly confirm that the software has been installed correctly. You can browse
for the application directly, the executable file name is Shark.exe. As the program
starts, the start up splash screen will be displayed, before the main application
window is opened.
Start LSA from windows start menu
Start / Programs / Lotus Engineering Software / Lotus Suspension Analysis
(Interactive)
Start-up Splash Screen
On start-up, the application will open with an empty 3D display window. A number of
the menus and icons are disabled until either a new model has been started or an
existing model has been loaded.
The settings of both the display and analysis modes is initially set either by the
defaults, (if not previously run), or by the settings saved to the ini file from the
previous run.
Note: The star-up procedure may differ from the text above as a function of your
local installation. If in doubt check with your local IT support personnel.
2 - Getting Started
7
Layout of application
Additional context specific menu items are used throughout the application and can
be accessed by clicking the right mouse on the window/graph of interest.
2 - Getting Started
8
2.3 Creating a New Model
To create a new model, select the File / New menu option from the main menu bar,
(note that we are in 3D module and will thus be creating a new 3D model. Creating a
new model in the 2D module works in exactly the same way). The new model
dialogue box is then displayed.
File / New
New Model Dialogue Box
The dialogue box allows you to pick the required suspension type for the front, rear
or both. For our example we will consider a model with only the front. Suspensions
are modelled in LSA based on specific template types. Depending whether the
template has been built with provision for a steering attachment point, it will dictate if
it appears in the list of available front suspension types (all defined templates are
listed in the rear suspension list).
Check Front Suspension- PickType
From the front suspension drop down box select Type 1: Double
Wishbone, damper to lower wishbone
From steering type drop down box select steering rack
2 - Getting Started
9
Once you have selected the front suspension type, the View/Edit Front Co-
ordinates icon becomes enabled, allowing you to change the default hard point co-
ordinate values.
Click View/Edit Front Co-ordinates to inspect the front suspension
co-ordinate. Once done click OK to accept defaults
Type 1 Default hard points display
For a front suspension, you can choose between a conventional steering rack or two
types of steering box (a steering box requires additional hard point data to be
defined). We will stick with the more normal steering rack.
From the new dialogue box we can also view/change the Parameter data
associated with the model (such as wheelbase, c of g height, bump travel, brake split
etc, and geometric data associated with the tyre). All of the model properties can
also be modified at a later stage as required.
Parameter Data Listing
2 - Getting Started
10
To complete the creation of a new front suspension model, click Done. This will now
enable all the previously greyed-out menus and icons. The created model is now
displayed in the 3D display window.
Click Done to open the model.
Now that we have a model we will set up the 3D display. The first time LSA is
opened, the default view settings will be applied. Subsequently, each time that LSA
is closed, the current view settings are saved and will be used the next time LSA is
opened (the default settings can only be restored by deleting the LSA initiation file
SHARK.INI from the installation directory). Note this location may change with
specific user installations and use more than one INI file.
View / Screen Display / Static Only
Graphics / Point Limits, ensure neither visible nor use have a tick mark
next to them.
Display both sides of the suspension by left clicking on the Display Both
Sides tool .
Auto scale the view with Autoscale Display .
Screen shot of new front suspension model
2 - Getting Started
11
2.4 Manipulating the Graphical View
Use the Setup menu from the menu bar to display only the View toolbar.
From the SetUp menu, setup the toolbars so that only View Toolbar is
displayed.
Selecting View Toolbar Visibilitys from SetUp menu
The suspension 3D display interface has two modes: Dynamic viewing for
manipulating the view, and Edit mode for modifying the suspension geometry. The
left mouse button is clicked on the dynamic view icon to toggle between Viewing
and editing mode. In viewing mode markers are displayed in each corner of the 3D
suspension display window.
Toggle the dynamic view icon so that the viewing mode is selected,
i.e. markers displayed in each corner of the suspension 3D display window.
The graphical display is manipulated through the mouse cursor and buttons. It allows
you to rotate, translate and zoom in/out by the combination of holding the left mouse
button down whilst moving the mouse. Specific menu options exist for autoscale,
pick centre, and setting the view to orthogonal projections.
If you are in the edit mode, selecting any one of the dynamic viewing options will
change the mode to dynamic viewing. Alternatively, selecting the dynamic view icon
will cycle between edit and view modes.
2 - Getting Started
12
Change to Translate view . Select a point on the 3D-suspension
window with the left mouse button, hold down and drag.
Change to Scale view. Select with left mouse button, hold down and
move down to zoom in, up to zoom out.
Change to Rotate view . Select with left mouse button, hold down and
move to rotate view. Picking towards the centre rotates the eye point
around the object, picking towards the edge rotates around the object axis.
When in dynamic view mode, the right mouse button will cycle through the three
dynamic view types: zoom, translate and rotate.
In some situations, it is desirable to make frequent use of a particular user defined
view. To achieve this, LSA can save user define views for latter use.
Use the rotate view tool to set a non-orthogonal view

Pictorial view of front suspension
2 - Getting Started
13
Select the Save Current View Settings tool and enter a name for the
view, click ok
Restore the front view by selecting the front view icon , then the
Autoscale display icon
The saved view can be used via the View main menu. View / Saved Views
-/ Recall Saved and select the saved view from the list
To proceed, re-set the suspension display to front view and ensure the view
is fitted to the display window.
2 - Getting Started
14
2.5 Displaying Graphical Results
Graphs are used to display analysis results for any of the calculated results. To open
a graph, select Graphs / New-Open. The created window will show the current model
results for a particular parameter, e.g. camber angle. To change the displayed
parameter for a particular graph select the graph with the right mouse button and
pick the required parameter from the displayed list. The right mouse menu also
contains options for setting axis scales and general viewing options such as zoom
and autoscale.
Any number of graphs can be open at the same time, the positions and sizes of
which can be modified and saved by the user for future use. Some exporting options
are also available, as export to Excel
Graph showing right mouse menu
The default setting for each of the x-y graphs is to display the original as calculated
x and y data values. For each individual graph the user can choose to alternatively
plot the data as the derivative or the integral of the original calculated data.
Because of the nature of integration, an assumption needs to be made about the
intercept value. The integral display assumes a zero value for the first plotted value.
Changing the display type from data, derivative and integral also impacts the
displayed value of the ride derivative value. When the graph plot is set to data, the
ride derivative value lists the derivative value at the static position. When the graph
plot is set to derivative or integral, the ride derivative value lists the y value at the
static position.
If you have a number of x-y graphs displayed and wish to produce a hard copy of
them all, you can print them in one simple menu selection. The Graphs / Print All
menu has a number of sub options that perform multiple prints with a specified
number of prints per page. These are 1,3,4,6 and 8 to a page.
Open a graph, and set it to display camber angle by Right Click / Y-Variable
(SDF) / Standard / Camber Angle.
Open two more graphs for Toe Angle and Castor Angle and arrange the
windows, so you can view the suspension 3D display and each graph
simultaneously.
2 - Getting Started
15
2.6 Displaying Text Results
The text results for the currently defined suspension model can be displayed in a
scrollable text window, Results / Formatted SDF This lists an echo of the input
data and tabulated/headed suspension derivatives. This provides a convenient
reporting medium for numerically summarising the suspension properties.
From the main menu select Results / Formatted SDF. When done
inspecting results, close the text results window
Sample Formatted SDF Display
The text results can also be listed as a series of spline fits rather than tabulated data.
The user has control of which spline to list, and the power of the spline fits. This
provides a method of exporting suspension properties to external spline based full
vehicle handling applications.
Sample Spline Results Display
2 - Getting Started
16
2.7 Bump, Steer and Roll Kinematics
Display the File Toolbar from the SetUp menu by selecting SetUp / Toolbar
Visibility / File
Displaying the File Toolbar
The suspension articulation type can be bump/rebound, roll or steering. Steering
articulation is applicable to 3D front suspension models only. The articulation type
can be changed via the relevant toolbar icons, or the Module / Shark pull down menu
options.
3D articulation type icons ringed
Changing the articulation type will change any displayed result graphs to show the
same variables, but over the new articulation motion range (roll, bump, steer). Graph
y-axis scales may need to be re-set to show the new results.
In turn select each of the 3D bump 3D Roll, and 3D Steer articulation
Icons on the File Toolbar, and note how the results displayed on each
graph change for each motion type.
An additional combined bump, roll and steering mode is available. Users define each
point separately through an interactive display.
Each articulation type range is controlled by user-defined limits. These can be
changed via the Data / Parameters main menu. They can also be set for specific
articulation positions.
2 - Getting Started
17
Parameters Data Display
Now we can move the suspension hard points and see the effect on the suspension
kinematics
.
2.8 Points editing
Suspension hard points can be modified by one of three ways, using input edit
boxes, using the keyboard arrow keys, or by dragging hard points with the mouse.
Click the Set to Joggle Mode icon on the File Toolbar and left click on
one of the left inboard suspension ball joints.
Left Click on the Toggle Tracking Setting icon on the View toolbar
until both up/down and left/right arrows are displayed over the suspension
point you have selected.
Manipulate the suspension hard point by holding down the Ctrl key, then
pressing the arrows on the keyboard.
2 - Getting Started
18
As the suspension point is moved, the suspension geometry graphs will be
continuously updated and the position of the suspension roll centre will move on the
3D display. The roll centre is displayed as a blue circular dot on the display.
Toggling between 3D bump, steer and roll using the File Toolbar icons will update
the graphs for each of the kinematic motion types.
Select the Set To Drag Mode icon
Now left click and hold a suspension hard point. This can now be dragged
around the screen and the results will be continuously updated on the
graphs as you move the suspension.
The suspension hard points can be moved in the front plan and side views. The
suspension is modelled symmetrically: any change to one side is mirrored on the
opposite hard point.
Select the Set to Edit icon on the File toolbar and left click on a lower
inboard suspension point.
In the edit box add 5 mm to the y co-ordinate and click OK. The
suspension will now have moved to the new location.
When in edit mode, tracking lines are drawn to indicate the current tracking
direction(s). This is not relevant to the hard point-editing mode as tracking only
applies to the dragging and joggle edit modes. The right mouse button will cycle
through the available tracking direction options. A similar action is achieved by
selecting the mouse icon from the view toolbar.
Hard point joggling operates in a similar way to dragging, with regard to available
directions. The drawn joggle symbol indicates the number of joggle directions
available. To use joggle select either Ctrl + Arrow Key for coarse joggle or Shift +
Arrow Key for fine joggle. The joggle fine size is a tenth of the coarse size, the
coarse size can be set via SetUp / Gen Defaults
For a full description of the suspension hard point editing options, refer to the help
file, Overview Hard Point Editing and Overview Hard Point Dragging.
LSA can also be set up to retain the length of suspension parts when modifying the
suspension. In this mode the whole suspension moves to satisfy the new hard point
location, without changing any suspension part lengths.
From the menu bar, select Edit / Change mode / Retain Parts. Now try
dragging suspension hard points with the mouse.
Return Change mode to Change Point Positions
It is also possible to move a group of points, by using the options provided under the
Edit menu:
2 - Getting Started
19
Groups options
Try to create a group and use it as current to move some points together
with the drag mode.
2.9 Animation Suspension Kinematics
The suspension can now be animated to give a movie of the suspension movement
in bump, roll and steer. The movement of the roll centre is also displayed in the
animation, and the suspension hard points can be edited during the animation.
Display the graphics tool bar by using the SetUp menu SetUp / Toolbar
Visibility / Graphics
Left click the Animate mechanism icon on the graphics toolbar.
Whilst the animation is displayed, switch between bump, roll and steer
modes.
As the suspension is animating, try dragging suspension hard points and
see the effect on the roll centre location in roll, bump and steer.
2 - Getting Started
20
2.10 Saving Data Files
Models can be saved in the conventional way using the File / Save or File / SaveAs
menu items. You will always be warned about overwriting existing model files. Data
files will include all suspension hard point data, compliant bush properties and model
parameters. What it does not necessarily include is the template definition. A data
file can refer to the template via an entry number, if the 'include User Templates in
Data File' option is not checked. For further information on the definition and storing
of suspension templates, see the template sections in this document.
Okay to Overwrite dialogue
2.11 Closing the Application
To close the program select File / Exit from the main menu, and then confirm the
okay to exit prompt. Alternative methods to close the application include the
conventional X from the windows top right corner, Alt+F4 or close from the main
windows top left menu. In addition, the esc key will close the application (subject to
accepting the prompt).
Okay to Exit Prompt
3 Interactive Template Modification
3.1 Overview
A number of convenience menus exist in the Edit menu that modify the
template without the user being required to open the template editor.
They operate on the current visible model with mouse selections and
keyboard inputs to provide simple methods by which some of the more
popular template modifications can be easily performed.
To improve the functionality of simple model template editing, a number
of menu options were added to the main Edit pull down menu that
support some of the more common template editing activities. It should
be remembered that graphics elements also form part of the template
definition. In a similar way, graphics can be added interactively through
the Graphics / Add main menu, to modify the template graphics
definition.
3.1 Overview.............................................................................. 21
3.2 Adding Points to the Template............................................. 22
3.3 General Addition and Deletion ............................................. 26
3.4 Adding Calculated Points ..................................................... 28
3.5 Merging Springs and Dampers............................................. 29
3.6 Converting Corner to Axle Model ......................................... 30
3.7 Add Two Part Rack to Model................................................ 30
3.8 Add Roll Bar to Model .......................................................... 31
3.9 Add Compliant Hub to Model ............................................... 32
3.10 Add Drive shaft to Model ...................................................... 32
3.11 Add Spacer to Model............................................................ 34
3.12 Mesh a Rigid Part................................................................. 35
3.13 Convert Ball Joint to Slot ...................................................... 37
3.14 Exercise 1: Modifying a Models Standard Template ............ 38
3.15 Exercise 2: Working with Spacers........................................ 41
3
3 - Interactive Template Modification
22
3.2 Adding Points to the Template
A number of menu options are available to add a hard point to the current models
template. They are sub-divided into three categories: adding the point to Ground,
adding the point to Part, and adding Calculated points.
Adding Point Menu Options
23
Adding point to Ground
Five alternatives are given for adding a point to the ground: an absolute position,
relative to an existing point, and between two existing points.
1) Add Point / to Ground, Abs Position
For this option simply complete the displayed dialogue box giving, label, template
local point No. and global co-ordinates of the point. The part 1 for point box should
be left as -1 Ground and part 2 for point should be left as 0 None.
Adding Point to Ground Abs position
The new point will be added to the template and the re-drawn graphics will show the
new point.
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2) Add Point / to Ground, Rel to Point Position (Cartesian)
For this option, the graphical display is re-drawn with just hard points associated with
ground being drawn. With the left mouse button, select the required hard point that
you will define the relative position to (you can cancel this action by using the right
mouse button). Having selected the hard point, enter the required relative co-
ordinates for the new point in the listed dialogue box.
Adding Point to Ground Relative position
new point. To change the label and template point No. assigned to this new point,
change to edit mode and select it for editing in the normal way.
Similar options are given for adding points using Spherical and Cylindrical definition
methods.
5) Add Point / to Ground, Between Points
For this option, the graphical display is re-drawn with just hard points associated with
ground being drawn. With the left mouse button, select the two existing points
between which the new point should be added (you can cancel the picking action by
pressing the right mouse button). The new point will be added to the template
midway between the two picked points.
The re-drawn graphics will show the new point. To change the label and template
point No. assigned to this new point, change to edit mode and select it for editing in
the normal way.
25
Adding point to Part
Five alternatives are given for adding a point to a part: absolute position, relative to
an existing point, and between two existing points.
1) Add Point / to Part, Abs Position
For this option the graphical display is re-drawn with Part labels turned on. The user
must then pick the required parts centre that you wish to add the point to. Then enter
the required absolute co-ordinates of the new point into the displayed dialogue box.
Adding Point to Part, Absolute position
new point. To change the label and template point No. assigned to this new point,
change to edit mode and select it for editing in the normal way.
2) Add Point / to Part, Relative to Point Position (Cartesian)
For this option, the graphical display is re-drawn with Part labels turned on. The
user must then pick the required parts centre that you wish to add the point to. The
graphical display is then re-drawn again showing only the selected part and its
associated points. Now, pick the required point that the new one is to be defined
relative to. Finally, enter the required relative co-ordinates of the new point into the
displayed dialogue box. As with the previous options, the right mouse button can be
used to cancel the action. The new point will be added to the template and the re-
drawn graphics will show the new point. To change the label and template point No.
assigned to this new point, change to edit mode and select it for editing in the normal
way.
5) Add Point / to Part, Between Points
For this option, the graphical display is re-drawn with Part labels turned on. The
user must then pick the required parts centre that you wish to add the point to. The
graphical display is then re-drawn again, showing only the selected part and its
associated points. Now pick the required two points that the new one is to be placed
between. As with the previous options, the right mouse button can be used to cancel
the action at any time. The new point will be added to the template and the re-drawn
graphics will show it. To change the label and template point No. assigned to this
new point, change to edit mode and select it for editing in the normal way.
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3.3 General Addition and Deletion
This collection of menu options provides easy addition and deletion of some specific
model elements. Each is discussed individually below.
General Addition and Deletion Menu Options
Spring 1: If a template does not have a spring1 element, it can be added by picking
the two end points with the left mouse button. The first pick is for the ground point
(normally referred to as the upper point), whilst the second picked point is the
suspension end (normally referred to as the lower point). The template is modified
and the graphics re-drawn showing the new model. The right mouse button can be
used to cancel the picking actions. You cannot add a Spring 1 element if one is
already defined in the model (delete first if you want to modify the connections but
dont want to use the template editor).
Spring 2: Functions exactly the same as for Spring 1 above.
27
Damper 1: If a template does not have a damper1 element, it can be added by
picking the two end points with the left mouse button. The first pick is for the ground
point (normally referred to as the upper point), whilst the second picked point is the
suspension end (normally referred to as the lower point). The template is modified,
and the graphics re-drawn showing the new model. The right mouse button can be
used to cancel the picking actions.
Damper 2: Functions exactly the same as for Damper 1 above.
Bump Stop 1: If a template does not have a bumpstop1 element, it can be added
by picking the two end points with the left mouse button. The first pick is for the
ground point (normally referred to as the upper point), whilst the second picked
point is the suspension end (normally referred to as the lower point). The template is
modified and the graphics re-drawn showing the new model. The right mouse button
can be used to cancel the picking actions.
Bump Stop 2: Functions exactly the same as for Bump Stop 1 above.
Note: For non-linear bump stops, some resultant forces calculated using the user
defined bump stop curve, will be incorrect if the compliant displacements are large.
This is due to the compliant solver linearizing the rate at a certain kinematic position,
to compute the force it will apply to the system. Once this force is applied, the
compliant displacement if large will change the kinematic position, leading to a new
operating point of the bump stop (thus rate change), which is not taken into account
to find a new bump stop force. To reduce this effect set the tyre vertical rate to a high
value to stop the large displacements.
Each of these preceding four items can be removed from a template using the
appropriate delete menu entry. Note that the delete does not remove the associated
points. Only the tag of the points (in file/edit template/settings, gen type column) is
deleted (ex: damper 1 to suspension). To delete a point use the standard edit
method and the optional delete button.
Length Actuator: A length actuator can be added to interactively control the length
between two points. Pick the required end points with the left mouse button. The
graphics will be updated to indicate the change in the template. To change the
properties of the added actuator, change to edit mode and pick the actuator.
28
Length Actuator Added to Model Blue Element
Position Actuator: A position actuator can be added to interactively control the
location of a hard point. Should only be applied to points attached to ground (i.e. the
body). A single point pick is required with the left mouse button. The graphics is then
re-drawn, to indicate the change in the template. To edit the properties of the
actuator, change to edit mode and pick the actuator.
Part C of Gs: Three menu options are available to add a C of G point to a defined
part. These C of G points are used in specific calculations such as Un-sprung corner
Weight, modal analysis and Forced-damped response. The three adds
functionality is identical to that for the add point to part discussed earlier.
Remember that C of Gs are only visible in compliant mode and only then if the
specific visibility is set to on. To change the C of G properties set to edit mode and
pick the required C of G point.
3.4 Adding Calculated Points
This collection of menu options provides simple selection of calculated points that
can be added to the model. Each is discussed individually below.
Calculated points, as the name implies, are derived from the positions of other
defined model points. They are thus neither editable nor defined directly. They can
however be used for graphical display either individually or referred to by graphical
elements.
TCP The Tyre contact point with the ground plane. The kinematic position of this
point is based on the lowest point of a zero thickness disc around the stub axle. This
low point is recalculated at each increment.
Castored TCP The incremental position of where the original static TCP point has
moved to. Hence the term castored as the original point will roll around the new point
of contact and hence at increments is different from the TCP point above.
29
Steer Axis (Virtual) Upper For steerable templates that do not have a single
tagged upper ball joint, this calculated point is a point on the virtual steer axis
above the upper locations. It is normally coupled with the next item to graphically
draw a virtual steer axis.
Steer Axis (Virtual) Lower For steerable templates that do not have a single
tagged lower ball joint, this calculated point is a point on the virtual steer axis
below the lower locations. It is normally coupled with the previous item to graphically
draw a virtual steer axis.
KPI Normal Intersection point on the Kingpin Axis of the normal between the
Kingpin axis and the wheel spindle axis.
Castor Intersect Intersection point of the steering axis with the ground plane.
Spindle Normal Intersection point on the wheel spindle axis of the normal
between the Kingpin axis and the wheel spindle axis.
Spindle/Damper Normal Intersection point on the wheel spindle axis of the
normal between the Damper axis and the wheel spindle axis.
Damper Normal Intersection point on the Damper Axis of the normal between the
Damper axis and the wheel spindle axis.
3.5 Merging Springs and Dampers
A number of the standard templates have springs and dampers defined separately.
In the case of coil-over spring/damper units, where they can use the same hard
points, these merge convenience function allow the user to communize on one pair
of the points. The unused pair of hard points is removed from the template.
30
3.6 Converting Corner to Axle Model
Most standard templates for independent suspension are for a single corner. In
some instances it is necessary to model a complete axle. For examples, this would
be required when modelling anti-roll bars, sub frames, compliant steering racks. This
single click menu option mirrors all points and parts across to the other side,
modifying the template to set up the new connections and bushes.
Converting to Axle Model Prompt
The new model is redraw reflecting the change to the template.
3.7 Add Two Part Rack to Model
For full compliant analysis there is often a requirement to have the rack connecting
left and right hand suspensions for force transfer. This single click menu option adds
a compliant rack to the existing models front template. It can only be applied to a full
axle model, (this is checked for as part of the action). The rack parts are connected
between the two inner track rod points, these will need to have already been tagged
in the template (all standard front suspension templates have this, since this is what
identifies it as a front suspension). The model structure for the two-part rack is
shown below.
Two Part Rack Model
31
3.8 Add Roll Bar to Model
Including an anti-roll bar to a template requires that the current template is modelled
as a full axle (so convert to a full axle if not yet done so).
Full Axle Warning Adding Anti-Roll Bar
On adding the roll bar, the graphics will be re-drawn to show part centres. You must
select the part that the roll-bar drop link will be attached to with the left mouse button.
Having selected the part defines the absolute co-ordinates of the attachment point.
Once entered, the template is modified.
Anti-Roll Bar Model
Anti-Roll Bar Added to Model
32
3.9 Add Compliant Hub to Model
The Add compliant hub option provides a simple menu selection route to including
hub compliance into the existing model template. It adds a new part, the wheel/Hub
between the upright and ground. Two new points are added one for the new parts C
of G position and the other for the connection point. The compliant hub is modelled
with a single bush, rather than the more physical two bushes (i.e. the inner and outer
bearings), as hub compliance values are usually measured as a single stiffness
number. In compliance mode, if no bush stiffness values are provided, the default
Stiff values are applied to both axial and rotational stiffness. As part of the template
modification performed by this option, the wheel centre point and stub axles points
properties are changed such that they are associated with the new hub part rather
than the original upright part.
Compliant Hub Model
3.10 Add Drive shaft to Model
To provide a mechanism by which drive shaft loads can be applied to a model, a
representation of the drive shafts is needed. This option adds the necessary points
and modifications to the template such that the solver can calculate the associated
drive shaft loads and torques that should be applied to the upright. This option does
not add any parts and as such does not change the main kinematic solution of the
mechanism. The changes only involve tagging of the stub axle point to indicate the
outer CV joint centre, and the addition of two points to identify the drive shaft inner
and centre and axis. Four graphical elements are added for visualization, (they do
not imply physical parts in the model i.e. they have no mass), connecting the tagged
and new points.
33
Running the Add Drive Shaft option
Drive shaft loads include the definition of a torque value (one for each corner), and
an optional loss table that defines the efficiency of the inner and outer joints, based
on the instantaneous joint angles. A separate solver switch controls the application
of drive shaft loads to the model.
An additional option is involved with drive shaft loads, and is intended to allow users
to choose between brakes on and off when loading via the drive shafts. Drive shaft
loads are shown on the graphical display in a unique colour.
Two drive shaft types are available. The first is a fixed length drive shaft, with plunge
taken on the inboard sliding joint. The second is a varying length drive shaft, the
inboard joint position being fixed and the plunge accommodated in a sliding joint
between two parts of the shaft.
Drive Shaft added Drive Shaft loads shown
34
3.11 Add Spacer to Model
This option adds a spacer to the model. A spacer is intended to represent a
physical part in a suspension that is used to statically adjust the suspension settings.
It can be a spacer inserted between two moving parts, (such as wishbone to upright),
or a spacer between a moving part and the body (ground). They can be considered
as shims. Spacers have properties not just of connection but length and orientation.
Both of these properties can be interactively edited/dragged. Spacers can also be
added to the Component Toolbox for use in component mixing/adjustment, (see
separate description of the component toolbox).
To add a spacer, the graphics are re-drawn showing part centres, as the first pick
must be the part that the spacer is to be associated with. Having picked the required
part centre with the left mouse button, the display is re-drawn to show only the
selected part and its associated points. Again with the left mouse button, select the
required point that the spacer is to be attached at. The right mouse button can be
used to cancel this action at any point. Each spacer requires a global vector to be
specified that defines the orientation of the spacer axis. Enter the global vector when
prompted.
Defining the Spacer Global Vector
Having defined its orientation you will also need to specify its length. A zero length
would imply no change to the model whilst a positive length will not only complete
the addition of a spacer and modify the template it will also rebuild the current model
by inserting the defined length spacer at the selected point and orientation.
Defining the Spacer Length
The graphics are re-drawn and the model updated to reflect the change. One other
option exists with spacers. For those that are attached between point and ground
35
(body), the model is checked to see if there is a second point that could be
considered to operate with the picked point. An example of this is a wishbone pivot
axis, having picked one point, the second is identified as linked, and the option given
of applying an identical spacer to each.
Confirming a Linked Spacer
Single non-linked Spacer Added to Model
3.12 Mesh a Rigid Part
This utility is used to create a pseudo flexible part. It does so without any additional
burden on the kinematic solver, (i.e. the number of unknowns/equations in the main
kinematic solution is not altered). The meshing takes the selected part and
subdivides it into n smaller parts, each connected in sequence to the previous part
by three bushes. Two of the bushes are termed zero stiffness whilst the third is
given translation and rotational stiffness values to control the overall part flexibility.
As a simple example create a new double wishbone front suspension model and
select the option, Edit / Mesh Rigid Part, them select the Lower Wishbone part
centre. To mesh a part you need to identify three points which define how the part
will be meshed. The first two points picked set the start points of the mesh with the
mesh then proceeding in the direction of the third point. Thus for our lower wishbone
we will pick the front inner pivot and the rear inner pivot as the first two points, then
the outer ball joint as the third point. To complete the mesh you need to set the
36
number of Sub-parts, enter 6, and the x, y and z offsets from the first picked point,
(leave these as zero). Leaving them at zero places the stiff connection points on an
axis midway between the first two points. If you define actual non-zero values, then
the stiff axis position is based on the specified offsets.
As with all template modifications, to retain this template change either save the
template with the model file or save the template to a user/custom file.
The modified model should look similar to that shown in the screen shot below.
37
Example Meshed Rigid Part
The stiffness properties of the meshed part are then set by editing individual bush
values just like any other bush.
3.13 Convert Ball Joint to Slot
This very specific option is the conversion of a simple ball joint (normally an outer
track rod) to a reduced degree of freedom slotted joint. The slotted joint is
analogous to a special case of the universal joint. This menu option requires the user
to select the ball joint to convert, then modifies the template by adding an additional
part between the two original parts (i.e. between the track rod and the upright).
Connections between the original parts and the new part are made such that the
new joint operates as though the ball part is constrained by a slot on the original
track rod part.
Slotted Joint
38
3.14 Exercise 1: Modifying a Models Standard Template
In this exercise we will use some of the interactive template modifying menus,
described to build a more complex model, starting with the standard single corner
double-wishbone. Open a new model using the front template type 1.
File / New, Select Front, Set to Template type 1.
We want to add an anti roll bar to the model as well as a two part steering rack. For
both of the items, we need a full axle model: we will first convert the standard corner
model into a full axle.
Edit / Convert Corner to Axle Model.
Converting to Full Axle model
Re-scale the graphics to show the full axle model. Converting to full axle with
symmetry enabled will automatically identify and tag symmetry points in the
template. You can test this by dragging one of the hard points.
39
We will now add the two-part rack to the model.
Edit / Add to Model / Two Part Rack.
Adding the two part rack
Your model should now look similar to that shown below.
The modified model
The last part of this exercise is the addition of the anti-roll bar. To do this we need to
identify the part that the roll bar drop link will attach to.
Edit / Add to Model / Roll Bar (pick part).
Adding the Roll Bar
40
Ok.
For this exercise, we will attach the roll bar to the lower wishbone. With the left
mouse button, select the displayed part centre for the lower wishbone. Note that as
you hover the part centre, the far left of the status bar lists the part No. that you are
currently on. It should say, Front, Part 1 centre.
Pick Part 1 Centre with the left mouse.
Editing the connection co-ordinates
Now set the co-ordinates of the attachement point to be 4030, -480 and 195 and
confirm the creation prompt. Your model should look similar to the screen shot
below. Remember that these template changes would need to be saved either to a
separate custom template file, user template, or saved with the data file.
Completed modified template
41
3.15 Exercise 2: Working with Spacers
We will briefly add some spacers to a double wishbone template. To first revert back
to the default double wishbone template, run the following menu option (note the
example screen shots shown here are for a ve y side corner model).
File / Re-Read Default Templates (Skip All User).
This will replace out recently modified template with the default double wishbone. We
will first add a spacer to the lower wishbone pivot(s).
Edit / Add Spacer to Model.
Pick the lower wishbone in the same way as with adding the anti roll bar, by picking
its now displayed Part 1 centre. Then pick Point 1, the lower wishbone front pivot.
Now define the orientation of the spacer as 0, -1, 0
Setting the spacer orientation
For the lower wishbone front pivot, the application identifies a second dependent
coupled point (point 2, lower wishbone rear pivot). The displayed prompt identifies
that this is a coupled point, and the user needs to confirm that they are to be coupled
(effectively means that two identical coupled spacers will be added to the model).
Confirm the coupling, pick Yes.
Setting the spacer orientation
42
The final property of the spacer is its length, for now accept the default value of 10.0
mm then select Ok. The graphic should update to show two spacer cylinders and the
spacer vector.
Defining the Spacer Length
Adding a spacer in this way will force the two hard points (points 1 and 2) to be
10mm further outboard, with all other suspension lengths remaining unchanged.
Thus the suspension outboard points will be modified as the suspension is rebuilt,
based on the two new lower wishbone points. The length and orientation properties
of this spacer can be edited just like any other property in the model.
Try changing to edit mode, and selecting the centre of the graphic cylinder
representing the spacer with the left mouse button (remember to use the status bar
prompt to check what you are selecting). Change the Spacer Length property to 20,
30 and 40 use the apply button to view the impact as you make the changes.
Editing the spacer (ringed) properties
4 Extended Travel Options
4.1 Overview
This chapter describes the use of the extended travel options. These
are extensions to the standard bump, roll and steer displacement
modules, as well as an alternative combined motion module.
4.1 Overview.............................................................................. 43
4.2 Introduction .......................................................................... 44
4.3 Setting the Extended Module Type ...................................... 45
4.4 Defining Extended Module Displacements........................... 46
4.5 Exercise: Extended Bump Travel ......................................... 46
4
4 - Extended Travel Options
44
4.2 Introduction
The default method of controlling the displacement of the defined model is to select
the required displacement type from bump (and rebound), roll, steering or combined.
Each of these displacement types in standard form is defined by a maximum
displacement(s) and a step size. In the case of bump/rebound, each direction has its
own maximum displacement, whilst for roll and steer their maximum value is
mirrored (i.e. taken as +ve and ve).
Setting the Standard Displacement Limits 3D Parameters
For Bump displacement, the default travel is set as the vertical movement of the
ground plane (or body).
For Roll displacement, the travel is set as the roll angle of the body about the static
roll centre axis.
For Steer displacement, the default travel is the linear motion of the steering rack
inner ball joint. For steering boxes, it is the rotation angle of the steering arm.
Options are available to change these default travel settings. The bump
displacement, when not in moving body mode, can be the ground point (default), the
wheel centre, the lower ball joint or the upper ball joint (see solve/motion).
In addition to the above option, the displacements can be either the change in value
(default), or the new absolute position value. This applies to Bump and steering
articulation types (and hence also the combined mode).
45
4.3 Setting the Extended Module Type
Each of these displacement modules is set through the Module section of the main
menu bar.
Setting the Displacement Module Type
Each of the three standard displacements and the combined mode has an extended
option, where rather than use the limit and step size value, you define the number of
displacement points and their actual values. To enable the extended mode select
from the data pull down menu the required extended module switch.
Enabling the Extended Option
The extended menu option is checked when enabled.
46
4.4 Defining Extended Module Displacements
To define the extended travel positions, select the relevant Edit Extended *** Travel
option from the Data menus. In the opened dialogue box set the number of required
points and their values. Each point can also be given a label to aid identification and
use in results display.
Editing Extended Bump Travel
For Roll and Steer extended modes, you only need to define the +ve travel values.
They will be repeated for the ve side. With bump/rebound travel you define the +ve
and ve motions separately, where +ve is the bump direction and ve is the rebound
direction. In the combined mode, you can have different bump displacements on
each wheel, thus two columns are given for bump travel, Zbump1 and Zbump2.
Extended Travel data settings are a property of the model and are thus saved with
the model data file. They are not saved to the INI file.
4.5 Exercise: Extended Bump Travel
In this short exercise we will take a standard model and define a set of user defined
bump solution points, using the Extended Bump Travel option.
Open a new front model using suspension type 3 and open two graphs for Toe and
Camber, set to 3d Bump travel (you shouldnt need the commands for this any
more).
47
As normal, note the even spacing of the results on the graphs. We will now switch to
user defined bump travel having first entered the required numbers.
Open the Extended bump travel data. Menu Data / Extended Travel / Edit
Extended Bump Travel.
Enter 10 defined displacements into the display as illustrated in the screen shot
below. Note that you do not use column 1 and that you can enter point labels into
column 3. Try experimenting with the graph dragging.
Editing the Extended Bump travel
To use these user defined extended travel points, ensure you are in 3D bump mode,
and the enable the extended bump travel option.
Switch on Extended Bump Travel, select Data / Extended Travel / Use
Extended Bump Travel.
The graphical display should change to indicate the non-even spread of calculated
points. You will need Graphs / visibility / Point Symbols to be on to appear the same
as the images below.
48
Graph Results, Extended bump travel
Remember that this extended data is saved with the model file and not to the local
INI file.
Repeat the above exercise, but try and use the Solve / Motion / Ground Plane
Options / Z Displacement as Position and Solve / Motion / Ground Plane Options /
move Wheel Centre to generate the same plots. (Tip: you need to make the user
displacement values have the absolute Z value of the wheel centre as before).
5 Additional Features
5.1 Overview
This chapter describes some features relative to various functionalities
of Shark such as graphs, tolerances, or users configuration.
5.1 Overview.............................................................................. 49
5.2 Graphs Scopes.................................................................... 50
5.3 Graphical measure............................................................... 51
5.4 User Defined Results ........................................................... 52
5.5 Exercise: Producing a User Defined SDF ............................ 54
5.6 Custom Control Box............................................................. 56
5.7 Set view units....................................................................... 58
5.8 Standard SDF Scale and Shift Settings ............................... 59
5.9 Ini files.................................................................................. 60
5.10 Point Tolerances .................................................................. 62
5.11 Component-setup Toolbox................................................... 65
5
5 - Additional Features
50
5.2 Graphs Scopes
Three different types of lines can be displayed in the graphs:
- The data line is the current hard points results (blue line with circles by default).
- The user line is an editable curve principally for visually identifying the required
targets for the design (red line with triangles).It can be created by selecting Graphs /
User Lines / Copy Front-2D Data to User for example.
- The scope lines are for saving incremental results, to enable comparison of
subsequent changes to the stored plots (blue line with numbers).
It can be created by using the menu Graphs / Scope / Store. Scope lines are stored
in positions 1 to 5. An exclusive option is available to store the current to position
one and empty the others, as well as an option to grab the current line into scope
position one having first shuffled any other scope lines down one position.
Scope options
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Example graph showing all three line types displayed
The deviation between the Data Line and the current Scope and User lines can be
listed as a numerical sum. The displayed value is the cumulative sum of the
difference for each calculated position. To display these values use Graphs /
Visibility Deviation Values. The scope line used for the difference number can be
changed to any of the five positions.
5.3 Graphical measure
User can manually add various measures such as angle, distance, vector cross
product.
Adding a measure
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Measuring the angle between spring axis and z axis
5.4 User Defined Results
User created results can be built up using simple mathematical relationships from
standard SDFs, point positions and point forces. They can also make use of other
user defined SDFs but in this case, they would need to be defined in a suitable
sequence (i.e. they can only reference one that has already been defined).
To open the user SDF tool, select the menu Results / Edit User Defined Results ,
the displayed tool has two selection list areas one for variables and one for standard
maths functions. The variables list has 12 sub-sections that relate to standard
results, point positions, and point forces.
Each user function has a title string used for all menus and results displays, and a
describing function string. The function string uses a simple Fortran style
construction to build up a definition. Users can step through the defined user results
via the prev and next icons.
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User Defined Results Tool
To build up the function for a user result, either type the require function directly into
the display, or, to assist in achieving the necessary formatting, use the Insert Field
and Insert Func. Buttons. These will add the brackets and correct field syntax.
Some examples of simple functions are given below. Note the use of the [ brackets
to identify variables, and the ( brackets to set mathematical precedence.
As with all math functions, user should ensure they do not try and perform illegal
calculations, such as dividing by zero, square root of a negative number or raising
negative numbers to non-integer power.
a) The ratio of castor angle to kingpin angle;
[Castor Angle]/[Kingpin Angle]
b) The distance between two points (note extensive use of ABS to ensure stability);
SQRT( (ABS([frontP3X]-[frontP5X]))**2.0
+ (ABS([frontP3Y]-[frontP5Y]))**2.0
+ (ABS([frontP3Z]-[frontP5Z]))**2.0 )
(as a test you can compare this against a graphical plot of the distance between two
points added as a graphical)
c) The ratio of the X force to the resultant force at a point.
[Lower wishbone front pivotFX]/[Lower wishbone front pivotFR]
d) Using an earlier user function (No. 1) in a later user function
2.0*[U1]*COSD([Camber Angle])
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5.5 Exercise: Producing a User Defined SDF
In this exercise we will use the functionality of the user defined SDF tool to create
our own SDF result. The example will create the equation below.
length = || P1 - P6 ||
Where;
P1 is the lower wishbone front pivot joint
P6 is the upper wishbone outer ball joint
|||| indicates the magnitude
We will use default suspension type 1 for this exercise:
File / New... Set to Front Suspension, Type 1 Double Wishbone
Open the User SDF edit tool.
Results / Edit User Defined Results.
Create a new SDF via the Add button. You can modify the title if required.
Change to the Front Pnt by No. tab. Select the point 1 and click on the
Vector button.
This will insert the text [frontP1V] text in the display. You could have typed this in
directly but use of the function buttons ensures the correct nomenclature.
After putting a minus, still in the Front Pnt by No. tab, select the point 6
and click on the Vector button.
As it stands this formula will produce a vector result, i.e. it is the vector from point 6
to point 1 and has three components. Because we can only plot single values and
not vectors to check the results, we will turn this into the magnitude of the vector
(effectively the distance between the two points).
Position your cursor at the beginning of the function string and from the
Supported Functions list, scroll down to find the VMAG entry. Select this
with the left mouse button, and add to the function string with the Insert
Func. button.
We need to make a small syntax correction because we have added the VMAG()
function after the vector we need to move the trailing bracket from the VMAG
function to the end of the string. Perform this editing using normal keyboard edit
strokes.
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Your function should now look the same as shown below.
User Function entered
Once complete, select the Ok button to save and close the edit tool.
To plot this result, open a new graph, and from its right mouse menu, select Y-
Variable (User SDF) / User Function 1 to display the created function.
We can now check this result by adding a graphical distance element between the
two points.
Graphics / Add Measure / Distance / Pnt-Pnt Distance. Select point 1 and
point 6 with the mouse to generate the graphical element.
We can now open another new x-y graph, and plot this graphical elements distance
as a check.
Graphs / New-Open then from the new graphs right mouse menu select Y-
Variable (Front Graphic) / frontG10 Pnt-Pnt Distance: Distance (mm).
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5.6 Custom Control Box
The custom control box provides a user customizable method of creating not only
data entry dialogue boxes, but also opportunities to provide a formatted graphical
results display.
These custom control displays are accessed through the Window main menu. Two
menus allow you to open the existing defined custom controls or create a new one.
Originally intended as a way for users to build custom data entries their use has
been extended to display results graphs in the same way that you would add a
button or a data entry.
Custom controls are saved as part of the users INI file, so are reusable objects. They
can also be shared directly with other users with a specific external file read/save.
They could also be shared via a global common INI file used with some network
installations.
Example User Control Box Two Graphs Use Mode
The switch between use mode and edit is performed by selecting the required icon
button at the top left of the display. In edit mode additional icons buttons are
enabled to allow controls to be added to the display, existing controls modified or
files to read/saved. The control window delete button is also available in edit mode
and will remove a user control permanently from the display and the subsequent
local INI file.
Editing is performed through pick and drag type actions, with individual control
properties displayed in a simple property sheet. Thus a selected element can be
resized by picking the corners, moved by picking in the middle (or with the keyboard
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through the Ctrl+arrow or Shift+arrow keys). Multiple picks created by selecting an
area enable layout options such as align, equal height, equal size to be applied.
In edit mode Showing the Add control types
The controls that can be added are shown in the above figure. Remember to check
the right mouse for menu options. The one specific to formatted results is limited to
Graph. This graphical element behaves in the same way as the normal x-y graphs
in terms of their appearance and menu options. In some ways they are tied to the
main x-y graphs, as a particular SDF shares its graph limits between plot types. They
thus also respond to changes in the main Graph pull down menu options such as
Point Symbol visibility.
The properties of a graph control element include its position and size together with
options to defined the SDF variable (same list as for normal x-y results graphs) and
local graph axis settings. The local graph axis settings are important since if they are
not specified (i.e. all set to zero), the axis properties are inherited from the main
display x-y results graphs, and any attempt to retain standard graph axes through
these plots would otherwise be lost.
In use mode, these control windows can be printed or saved to a graphical file.
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5.7 Set view units
Users can control the units that data and results are displayed. Relevant units are
split into four groups: Angle, Length, Mass and Force. Each group has a number of
alternatives to the default setting including a user defined option.
To change the view display units select the menu SetUp / Change Units you are
warned that this should be done with all displays closed. This is because all data is
stored internally in a consistent constant set of units. The changes made through this
utility only affect how values are displayed, thus data values are scaled in and out of
a display, using the appropriate scale factor.
Opening the Units Display Window- Warning Message
The default setting for each units group is as follows (bracketed options shown);
Angle: Degree, (Radian, milliRadian, Minute, User-Defined)
Length: milliMeter, (Meter, User-Defined)
Mass: Kilogram, (User-Defined)
Force: Newton, (decaNewton, User-Defined)
Each unit option has an associated scale factor, label, and a correction of the
number of displayed decimal points. A user defined option needs to provide these
three data variables. The decimal point correction ensures that a suitable number of
significant figures are shown on general data entry (most graphs and results display
have their own decimal point settings, so they are not affected by changes of these
values).
Editing the Display Units
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5.8 Standard SDF Scale and Shift Settings
All calculated SDF results have a definition; part of it is a sign convention. Since
some users may have a different sign convention for a particular parameter, and also
possibly a slightly different definition of the value itself, some control of these is
available. The menu option Results / Std SDF Scale and Shift Settings opens a
spread sheet that lists a Scale value and a Shift value, for each calculated result.
Each corner can be set independently to give capability of both Left/Right and
Front/Rear corrections.
Opening the Scale and Shift Spread Sheet
The hard coded default is for all scale values to be unity (1.0) and the shift values to
be zero (0.0). This setting can be re-applied via the local menu option Data / Set to
Default 1.0/0.0. All settings are saved to the users INI file such that changes are
automatically reapplied every time the application is opened.
Some user installations have alternative settings from the 1.0/0.0 defaults that are
automatically applied as part of their specific installation. These are hard coded
alternatives and not part of the INI files settings. They would still be overwritten by
any alternative settings in the INI file, in the normal way.
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To aid transfer of these scale and shift settings, users can save/read them to/from,
a separate data file via the local File menu options.
The scale and shift is applied in the order shift first followed by scale, i.e.
New Value = Scale x (Old Value + Shift)
Editing the Standard Scale and Shift Settings
5.9 Ini files
The INI file contains all the user specific settings. This file is read in each time the
program is started. It is updated/overwritten with the current settings when the
program performs a normal exit. The program has hard coded defaults for all these
settings, which are overwritten by the user settings when the INI file is read. Thus to
revert back to the hard coded factory defaults a user could delete the INI file prior to
opening the application. For the standard installation the INI file is written to the
Windows folder (i.e. C:\WINNT), this means that individual users on the same
machine could not have their own unique settings. Conversely it also meant that no
two machines could expect to be set-up in the same way. An optional INI file is
looked for in the <database> folder this is looked for and loaded if found prior to
reading looking for the local windows INI file.
For the user specific server installation the INI file process has an additional INI file
step on startup. This provides a method that can support both a common setting on
all machines and all individual user settings on the same machine. How?
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ini files options
The specific server installation uses a central server for the software install, (i.e. the
software is not installed on individual machines). This single location means that an
INI file can be placed in this <install> folder that is read by all users. Because this
install is seen as a fixed file in that it is part of the initial install and then remains
unchanged (primarily due to its location) a second system wide INI is required in a
more flexible location. This second system wide INI file is to be identified by the
<database> location. This <database> INI file can be modified by an expert user, to
set common properties and settings for all users, unlike the <install> INI file which is
fixed. Neither of these are written to on program close! But menu options exist to be
able to write to them. These become the first two of the three INI files read. The
application then looks in the specific users directory on the Homedrive in the
Homepath for the users unique INI file. This is the INI file that is overwritten when
the user closes the program and thus stores their specific variation of the default
server settings. An example of where Homedrive and Homepath would point to is
C:\Documents and Settings\myusername\shark.ini. Note that the standard
installation uses the Windows environment variable for this folder location.
Users can revert back to the system wide server default settings either by deleting
their local copy of shark.ini prior to opening the application, or once the application
is open selecting the menu option File/Re-Read <install> INI File or File/Re-Read
<database> INI File. Note that this three step process will still mean that a users
individual settings are still machine specific, but they will start with the same server
specific defaults on any other machine. The users could copy their own individual INI
file on to a new machine if they wished to preserve all their settings.
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5.10 Point Tolerances
Hard point limit boxes can be switched on, theses boxes are set to allow only a user
specified amount of travel in a specific direction. Thus when switched on, a point, (or
a group point), cannot be dragged outside of its limit box. These boxes could perform
one of two functions, firstly they could be set to represent packaging limitations, or
secondly to indicate production tolerances. In the second case the program can run
a tolerance analysis for the chosen hard point at all extremes of the limit box, the
spread on the chosen derivatives is displayed on the current graphs.
The display of limit boxes have three settings, On, Off but visible and finally Off
and invisible. There is no functional difference between the last two, it merely assists
the clarity of the display by removing the additional graphical lines.
3D Graphic Display showing Limit Boxes as On
To control the status of Limit boxes use the pull down menu Graphics / Point Limits
sub menu to set as Visible or to set as Use, (note that in this context use means
On. Un-checking Use will turn limit boxes off but remain visible, whilst un-checking
Visible will set limit boxes to off irrespective of the current setting).
The first use of the Limit Box is as a constraint on how far a hard points position can
be moved in any direction whilst joggling or dragging.
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If limit boxes are in use then you cannot Joggle or drag a point such that it is
moved outside of the limit box. Limit boxes are defined as separate +/- distances in
each of the three axes, (or two for the 2D module), i.e. a total of six values for the 3D
module and four for the 2D module.
If limit boxes are not in use, (visible or not), when a points position is changed by any
of the edit modes, (edit, joggle or drag), the limit box is enlarged if the new position
falls outside the currently defined points limits.
Because of this individual point editing, each suspension hard point has its own
Limit Box dimensions. These can be individually re-set using the Data / Point
Tolerances / Edit Point Tolerances menu, identify the required axle and point, and
finally edit the values.
To re-set the limit boxes for all point in one step, select Data / Point Tolerances / Set
All Point Tolerances To menu and edit the required values, (note that you do not
need to enter the negative directions as a ve value, this is assumed).
Point Tolerances menu
The second use of the Limit Box is as a design/manufacturing tolerance analysis
tool. This is used in conjunction with the Data / Point Tolerances / Point Tolerance
Analysis option to display on the graphs the spread of the current derivative over the
defined limit box.
Tolerance analysis is applied to a single point at a time, the suspension being solved
for its current position, each corner and each mid point of the limit box cube, (total of
27 positions for the 3D module). Before being able to run the tolerance analysis the
analysis hard point needs to be identified, (select from tree style selection box).
Subsequent tolerance runs will not request for the analysis hard point as by default
the previously selected point will be used. To change to a different tolerance point
use the Data / Point Tolerances / Set Tolerance Point menu and identify the new
point.
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Example tolerance analysis Graphics and Graph displays
With tolerance analysis switched on the model can be dynamically viewed and/or
edited in exactly the same way as normally. Because of the increased number of
solution loops the refresh time will be significantly increased. Once a tolerance point
has been defined you can switch between tolerance on/off either via the menu Data /
Point Tolerances / Point Tolerance Analysis or the equivalent toolbar icon.
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5.11 Component-setup Toolbox
The Component toolbox is a utility that allows the user to create a library of
standard alternatives for each part in the current models template(s). Each part in
the toolbox has a characteristic length and the alternatives have different length
properties. The parts that can appear in the toolbox are Wishbones, Tie Rods and
Spacers, (currently uprights with their potential for up to six defining lengths are not
included). The toolbox can thus be used to investigate the effect on suspension
derivatives when mixing these alternative standard components.
Initial Opened empty Toolbox Select to Add Parts
To open the toolbox utility select the appropriate menu from the data pull down
menu. On initial opening it will be empty. You can add as many or as few of the
current parts to the toolbox. To add parts to the toolbox select on the top horizontal
panel with the left mouse. Here you can select individual parts from a list or use the
Auto-load all Parts and Spacers option to load all valid parts.
This initial add will place the part in the toolbox and add one alternative for each
added part, this alternative being the baseline as extracted from the current model. If
you select on the parts top header box menu options are given to Remove the part
from the toolbox (and any alternative options of it), Edit the label used for the part,
add an option to the part or Auto-create a range of alternative options for this part.
Along the bottom of the toolbox can be seen the current model the values for Toe,
Camber and Castor angle for each corner and the total deviation from any
defined/open SDF graph user lines. These values are given to assist in later options
presented that include running the optimizer to minimize the deviation or auto-setting
a part length to match static angles.
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Parts Added Alternative options menu shown
Adding an option to a part places a new entry in the column beneath the default
option. Each option has the same set of menu options, to modify its label, its value,
to remove it from the toolbox, to make the option current or to auto-adjust its length
to match the target static value for either Toe, Camber or Castor. Users can thus add
as many options as required to Parts with the properties perhaps that reflect the
physical alternatives available, and then mix these options to assess overall impact
on all relevant suspension derivatives.
To make a particular part option current, pick it with the mouse and select the make
option current menu item. This option will then be shown as indented and in red.
After a number of part option changes you may require to adjust a tie-rod or toe-link
to reset one of the main static angles. To do this pick an option from the required
part with the left mouse and select the Adjust Option length to re-set static Toe.
Note that at the end of the menu option is the target static value for this particular
angle. Similar menus exist for camber and castor. The current static angles are
displayed in the status bar at the bottom of the dialogue box. Obviously using the
adjust option length on a parts option will change its length property.
The component toolbox utility can be left open whilst the existing model is modified
in the normal ways. This can lead to the situation where the baseline part options
no longer have the correct length properties. If required they can be re-aligned using
the local menu option File / Align (All) Baseline Length Properties with Model. This
will reset the baseline option lengths as necessary for all loaded parts.
The internal optimizer can be used to sort through the available part options to
identify which combination of options gives the best (lowest) score. The scoring is
performed in exactly the same way as the normal optimization process, see The
Internal Optimizer. To run through this loop, (in which every permutation is tried),
select the local menu item File / Run Optimizer Scoring on Toolbox Options.
1 Command Reference Card
Change between dynamic Viewing mode and
dynamic Point Picking. Shortcut Alt+Z
Change to Translate view. Select with left mouse
button, hold down and drag.
Change to Scale view. Select with left mouse button,
hold down and move down to zoom in, up to zoom
out.
Change to Rotate view. Select with left mouse button,
hold down and move to rotate view. Picking towards
the centre rotates the eye point around the object,
picking towards the edge rotates around the eye to
object axis.
when in dynamic view mode, the Right Mouse button
will cycle through the three dynamic view types
Point-pick mode set to Edit. Selecting a point with the
left mouse button brings up a dialogue box to edit the
points values.
Point pick mode set to Joggle. Selecting a point
draws the joggle symbol on the selected point.
Ctrl+Arrow keys joggles the points position in coarse
steps, Shift+Arrow keys joggles the point in fine
steps. Joggle is affected by current tracking direction.
Point pick mode set to Drag. Select a point with the
left mouse button hold down and drag along current
tracking axis direction(s).
(when in dynamic point pick mode, the Right-Mouse
button will cycle through the Tracking directions)
Cycles through the available tracking directions. The
current Tracking direction(s) is indicated on screen
by visible lines drawn through each hard point, along
the relevant axis.
Autoscales the 3D graphical display. Shortcut Ctrl+A.
Opens a new Graph. The displayed variable can be
changed by selecting the graph with the Right-Mouse
button, and picking the required parameter.
Animates the suspension over the currently selected
articulation type, Bump, Roll or Steer.
Displays the Suspension Derivatives listing (SDFs) in
a pop-up dialogue box.
Displays the suspension Co-ordinates for a specified
bump and steer position in a pop-up dialogue box.
Enables the Tolerance analysis. In the first instance
the point to run the tolerance analysis on must be
defined.
6
6 - Command Reference Card
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Display for editing the current front/rear suspension
hard points.
Change solver to 2D Bump module.
Change solver to 2D Roll module.
Change solver to 3D Bump module.
Change solver to 3D Roll module.
Change solver to 3D Steer module.
Set view mode to Wire Frame.
Set view mode to Solid Fill.
Set view mode to Hidden Line. This view mode only works
correctly with the graphics frame type set to OpenGl, (see
View/Graphics Frame Type).
Set view mode to Depth Buffered solid fill. This view mode
only works correctly with the graphics frame type set to
OpenGl, (see View/Graphics Frame Type).
Toggles the visibility of the hard Point Reference
Nos.
Toggles the use of the Limit Bboxes for the hard points.
Limits can also be either visible or invisible. Turning limit
boxes on will always make them visible.
Toggles the visibility of the hard point (x,y,z) Co-
ordinates.
Toggles the visibility of the Spring enhanced graphics
display. When off spring is drawn as a simple line.
Toggles the visibility of the Damper enhanced graphics
display. When off damper is drawn as a simple line.
Toggles the visibility of the Wheel enhanced graphics
display. When off wheel is drawn as a simple line.
Toggles the visibility of the Pivot Axes enhanced
graphics display. When off is drawn as simple line.
Toggles the visibility of the any Body graphics
currently selected, (see Data / Body Type).
Displays both Front and Rear suspensions, (if in
current model).
Displays Front suspension only.
Display Rear suspension only.
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Toggle 3D compliance solver. Toggles between
compliant joints with resultant forces and pure
kinematic joints.
Toggles between Display both sides of the
suspension and right-hand side only.
Toggle 3D Compliance Forces. Toggles the model
to display compliance forces such as Spring Forces,
External Forces, Compliance Forces ETC.
Open Existing File. Opens the standard Windows
browser to locate and open a existing saved data file.
Save File As. Opens the standard Windows browser
to save the current model to disk.
Set to Moving Ground Plane. Sets the bump
displacement mode to moving ground plane.
Set to Moving Body. Sets the bump displacement
mode to moving body.
Graphics Zoom. Zooms in to the picked area of the
graphics display.
Standard Y-Z View. Sets the graphic view to the
standard front view. This is the Y-Z plane.
Standard X-Z View. Sets the graphic view to the
standard side view. This is the X-Z plane.
Standard X-Y View. Sets the graphic view to the
standard plan view. This is the X-Y plane.
View Store. Saves the current graphical view. Give a
label to identify for later retrieval.
Graphics Plane Visibility. Sets the visibility of the
ground plane grid graphical representation.
Copy to Clipboard. Copies the current graphical
display to the Windows clipboard for paste actions.
Autoscale All Graphs. Autoscales x and y axes for
all open graphs.
Open Property Tree. Opens the model property tree
display. Alternative method for listing and editing
model data.
Edit Parameter Data. Opens the parameter data edit.
dialogue
Edit Tyre Data. Opens the tyre data edit dialogue.
Save Point Co-ordinates. Saves the current model
point co-ordinates. Give a label for later retrieval.
Create Point Group. Creates a new points group.
Identify the points and associated group label.
Set Ride Height. Modify the model points by setting a
change in the ride height.
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Cascade All Windows. Re-arrange all open graphs
and graphical display into equal size cascaded
display.
7 Compliant Analysis
7.1 Overview
Up to now we have only considered the pure kinematics of the
suspension system, considering it rigid. In this chapter, the suspension
arms are still modelled as rigid members, but the bushes joining the
suspension arms are compliant. This module is also used for force
calculation.
Lotus Suspension Analysis solves compliant bushes by superposition of
first, kinematic solution, and second, locally linearised compliant bush
solution. We use that approximation as, for any particular suspension
displacement, the effect of bush compliance is assumed to give a small
perturbation of the position of the suspension members. Therefore the
system equations defining the bush compliance can be used in their
linear form, by assuming that the change in angle between suspension
members due to compliance is very small. This allows suspension
compliance results to be computed quickly, and real-time updated
onscreen as the suspension design is manipulated with mouse and
keyboard input.
This chapter contains the following sections
7.1 Overview.............................................................................. 71
7.2 Introduction .......................................................................... 72
7.3 Enabling compliance calculation .......................................... 72
7.4 Bush Properties.................................................................... 74
7.5 Spring Properties ................................................................. 78
7.6 Damper Properties............................................................... 78
7.7 Tyre Properties..................................................................... 79
7.8 External Forces.................................................................... 79
7.9 Roll Bar Properties............................................................... 84
7.10 Linear Rack Properties......................................................... 85
7.11 Non-Linear Rack Properties................................................. 86
7.12 Bump Stop Properties.......................................................... 86
7.13 Drive Shaft Torques ............................................................. 87
7.14 Drive Shaft Losses............................................................... 88
7.15 General Data........................................................................ 88
7.16 Displaying compliance results.............................................. 89
7.17 Solver Options...................................................................... 90
7.18 Exercise: Drive Shaft Forces................................................ 92
7
7 - Compliant Analysis
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7.2 Introduction
The data associated with the compliance module can be thought of as either
describing how forces are applied to the model (i.e. spring properties, external
forces, drive shaft loads etc), or how the model reacts those loads via its elastic
members (i.e. bush properties, roll bar properties etc).
This chapter gives an overview of each of the data sections as they appear through
the interface.
Compliance Data Menu Options
7.3 Enabling compliance calculation
For this tutorial, we will work with a front suspension model to illustrate compliant
bush analysis.
Use the File menu and select New. Create a new default type 1 double
wishbone front suspension model.
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Turn on compliance calculation by clicking on Toggle 3D Compliance
Solver
Screen shot of front suspension with compliant joints.
The ball joints are now represented by red wire frame spheres, denoting that the
compliant solver module is active. You will also note that the tyre stiffness has also
been included in the solver, and it is graphically represented by a spring connecting
the stub axle to the contact patch. Although the suspension forces are calculated,
the joints remain rigid until their individual compliance is activated. It is now possible
to load external forces onto the model, and view the resulting loads on each of the
points within the model. To start, we will add the force due to spring compression.
Load the model with the spring force by selecting Solve / Spring
Kinematic Displacement Force and Spring Rate. Ensure all other forces
are removed from the model by un-checking; External Forces, Roll Bar
Kinematic Displacement Force and Bump Stop Kinematic Dispalcement
Force in the Solve menu.
If not already displayed, the force vectors can be added to the graphical
display from the menu by selecting Graphics / Compliance visibility /
Calculated Forces.
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Calculated compliance forces due to spring force
Arrows now appear on the model representing the load vector exerted by the
suspension members on each ball joint/bush in the model. To compare the results
of the kinematic solution to the combined kinematic and compliant model, the
deflection due to force/load can be magnified by using the Deformed Geometry
Scale on the display tool.
Toggling between the kinematic and compliant model using the Toggle 3D
compliance tool now shows a clear difference between the two
models due to deflection of the tire.
To animate the deflection due to compliance select View / Screen Display /
Deformed Geometry from the main menu bar and turn animation on.
7.4 Bush Properties
Bush properties specify the orientation and values applied to a point modelled as a
general six degree of freedom bush. By arranging the orientation and values, it can
simulate special cases such as Ball Joint, Slider or hinge. This is the approach
taken by the Shark compliant solver. All joints can be by default replaced by stiff ball
joints (three high translation stiffness values and zero for the three rotational
stiffness), this is sufficient for the compliant solver to calculate forces at points.
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Strut templates are dealt slightly differently, with the upper and lower slider joints
having high translational stiffness in only two directions (to allow the slider to move),
and bush axes aligned along the slider axis.
The orientation of bush axis system is by two points, the local z-axis and a point in
the local x-z plane. These two points can be defined in absolute terms, relative terms
or by another hard point. The advantage of using another hard point is that for the
example of the strut slider a local bush z-axis will follow the strut top axis point.
Bushes can be toggled between Rigid and Compliant. These terms are relative
since both are actually compliant, but the rigid one uses the default ball joint rigid
stiffness value for its three translational stiffness. Default applied stiffness values are
all editable.
The other values editable on the Bush Stiffness property sheet are the local
damping values. Damping values are used within the solution of the Forced-damped
analysis. For bushes they are given in terms of Loss angles (deg).
Bushes that are identified as compliant can be optionally included/excluded by
individual force set. Thus should you require a bush to act as though it was a locked
damper for one particular load case, it can be defined such that it is only included
into the compliance stiffness matrix for the specified load case. Remember that
because the compliance is applied on top of the kinematic step solution, the
mechanism will still kinematically displace to the defined position irrespective of this
locked compliance bush.
Set the view to the x-y view then select Set to Edit mode and click
on the front lower wishbone pivot.
A bush data table will be brought up displaying the current ball joint/ bush setting and
the stiffness of the bush in all directions.
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Ball Joint and bush editing tool
Select Bush (compliant). The greyed out boxes are now active and the
bush axis are set relative to the centre of the bush.
To define bush compliance, the local co-ordinate system of the bush first needs to be
specified. This is achieved by specifying a point that lies on the local z axis, and a
second point that lies within the local x-z plane of the local co-ordinate system.
These two points and the location of the bush uniquely define a local co-ordinate
system. These two points can be defined in a number of ways.
1) Absolute (Abs). Defines a point in the absolute global co-ordinate system.
2) Relative (Rel). Defines a point along the axes of the global co-ordinate system
but relative to the location of the bush.
3) Point (Pnt). Uses another suspension point.
From the point drop down select Point 1: Lower Wishbone Front Pivot
and set the bush to Bush (compliant).
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Set the Point on Bush Local Z-axis to Pnt and select point 2: Lower
Wishbone Rear Pivot.
Set the Point on Bush Local x-z Plane to relative and select x = 0, y = 100,
z = 0
Accept default bush stiffness and click Apply
From the point drop down select Point 2: Lower Wishbone Rear Pivot
and set the bush to Bush (compliant).
Set the Point on Bush Local Z-axis to Pnt and select Point 1: Lower
Wishbone Front Pivot.
Set the Point on Bush Local x-z Plane to relative and select x = 0, y = 100,
z = 0
Accept default bush stiffness and click OK
A slight deflection of the lower wishbone rear bush has occurred due to the effect of
compliance. Also note that this slight bush movement has caused toe out of the
wheel, illustrating the effect of the small deflection caused by this compliance, and
the resultant effect on the suspension system as a whole.
Deflection of compliant bush due to spring force
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7.5 Spring Properties
Spring properties are used to identify the force applied by each spring in the model
(thus it should not be thought of as a connection property like a bush stiffness). The
springs are limited to linear elements, forces being defined by a linear rate and the
free and fitted length. At each displacement position, the change in spring length is
determined and added such that an overall incremental spring load can be
calculated. This is then applied to the appropriate part and point along the defined
orientation.
For a single corner template, it can have two springs on the one corner (listed in the
property table as Spring 1 and Spring 2), and these may be asymmetric left to right.
In the case of a full axle template, only one spring per corner is available (spring 1 on
one side and spring 2 on the other). Because they are individual spring entries, they
are not automatically linked such that if you are looking for a symmetric case, both
need to be modified at the same time.
Spring Properties Data Edit
7.6 Damper Properties
Damper properties are limited to a single damping rate (in N.s/mm). They are only
linked to the Forced-damped results.
As with spring properties, for a single corner template it can have up to two dampers
on the one corner (listed in the property table as Damper 1 and Damper 2), and
these may be asymmetric left to right. In the case of a full axle template, only one
damper per corner is available, (damper 1 on one side and damper 2 on the other).
Because they are individual damper entries, they are not automatically linked such
that if you are looking for a symmetric case, both need to be modified at the same
time.
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Damper Properties Data Edit
7.7 Tyre Properties
The tyre properties data sheet covers a number of geometry data variables. As most
are self-explanatory and not related to compliance they will not be discussed here.
From a compliance property perspective, only the tyre vertical stiffness (N/mm) value
is of interest. This linear stiffness is used as the stiffness for the vertical connection
between the upright and the ground. Both symmetry and asymmetry is supported.
Tyre Properties Data Edit Stiffness Ringed
7.8 External Forces
This data section defines external forces that are applied to the model. Multiple
forces can be arranged into sets to represent standard load cases. Forces are
applied to a part, defined by magnitude and phase. The position and orientation of
the force vector is controlled by the position of the head and tail. The position of
these points is by absolute global position or relative to a hard point.
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Force sets can be added or deleted, in the same way that forces can be added and
removed from the forces sets. The concept of the Default force set is used. This is
the force set that is shown on the Graphical display, and the one that is used to
calculate the displayed results and graphs. Some formatted results have the option
to locally re-set the current/default force set; this would be part of the local formatting
and thus should be obvious to the user. The default set is indicated/selected by the
button at the top right hand corner of the display.
Each force set has individual solver settings for; including the spring pre-load, drive
shaft loads and braked/un-braked hub switch. This is to provide full control on
standard load cases.
A number of load cases are hard coded into the software the settings for which can
be re-applied via the local Data menu option.
The settings for the force sets 1-n are saved to the INI file, whilst the force set 0 is
saved with the model file. This is because default force sets are considered to be
comparable with company standard tests whilst force set zero was considered to be
a local model force set.
Each force set has an on/off switch as does each force within a set. These force set
switches control their inclusion in the compliance coefficients table. The individual
force switches provide control over the individual force sets, without the need to
delete a force from the set.
External forces appear on the model graphics, the settings for which are controlled
through the Graphics / Compliance Visibility sub menus.
3D External Forces Display
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LSA does not simultaneously apply more than one force set at a time, however more
than one force set can be turned on, and LSA will then calculate results for each
force set applied separately. The suspension graphic display window always
displays the compliant results for the default force set that is specified by the user.
From the main menu select Data / Compliance Data / External Forces.
Now both Spring force and External forces should be active.
External Force Data edit screen
Set up a 1000N inward acting lateral load applied to the upright acting at the centre
of the front contact patch.
Select Set 0, User Definable Default Set
Click the Add button next to the force selector to add a force to the force
set.
Check that front right is selected for end and select upright in the Apply
to Part drop down box.
Give the force a magnitude of 1000 N.
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The force can be turned on and off using the On button in the second box. Multiple
forces can be added to each component in turn by adding additional forces in the
same Force Set.
Define the point where the force is acting by setting up the Force Head so
that it acts at the Tyre Contact Patch x, y, z (mm) by selecting it from the
Pnt drop down box.
Define the Force Tail relative, Rel, to the Force Head at y = 100.
Click OK to close the external force dialog box when done.
External force applied to upright at Contact Patch.
As with the bushes axes, each of the force vectors can be defined using two
reference points. The force head can be defined as acting at a pre-defined point,
selected from the drop down menu, or by giving it an absolute value expressed as a
global Cartesian co-ordinate.
The force tail can also be set using several reference points. It can be defined as an
absolute point defined in 3D space, as a point relative to another selected point, or
can be given a co-ordinate relative to the force head.
We will now add more forces to force set 0 using table 6.1 for input data. Once each
of the external forces have been included in the model, the effect of these forces
both individually and combined can be calculated.
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Use table 6.1 to setup 4 forces in force Set 0.
Force End Apply to part
Magnitude
(N)
Force Head
Force Tail
(Rel.To Head)
1 Front Right Upright 1000 Tyre Contact Patch Y = 100
2 Front Right Upright 1000 Tyre Contact Patch X = -100
3 Front Left Upright 1000 Tyre Contact Patch Y = 100
4 Front Left Upright 1000 Tyre Contact Patch X = -100
Table 7.1
Turn both halves of the model on using the button.
The model now reflects the systems reaction to a series of forces that would typically
be exerted as the vehicle enters a right hand corner under slight braking. Similar
forces acting on the system due to other conditions can be added in other force sets
to represent say, braking or accelerating.
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7.9 Roll Bar Properties
A template that has an anti-roll bar will use the properties defined in this section. The
property is the torsional stiffness of the bush that is applied to the roll-bar revolute. It
is used to represent the roll-bar stiffness.
Roll Bar Stiffness Data Entry
A roll bar revolute joint is tagged through the template as general type 34. With this
tag in compliant mode, this bush will be given the roll bar stiffness as its local
stiffness property. Users do not need to specifically make this bush compliant (i.e.
leave as rigid) for it to have the roll bar rate.
Example Roll Bar Model
If you chose to define the revolute bush properties directly, that will overwrite this
default roll bar rate.
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7.10 Linear Rack Properties
The linear rack properties define the axial stiffness that is applied to the specific bush
in the model. It is identified by the template settings as general type 15 Rack Lateral
Mount Point (see section Interactive Template Modification for a description of the
rack two-part model).
Bush Lateral Stiffness Data Entry
The stiffness is applied to the tagged point without needing to define it as a
compliant point, i.e. it should be left as rigid.
Example Two Part Rack Model
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7.11 Non-Linear Rack Properties
The non-linear rack properties are an optional setting for the rack properties in the
previous section. The solver option Non-linear Rack Bush will enable this option for
the tagged rack lateral mount bush. The properties are a look-up table of Force
versus Displacement. This option adds an additional calculation loop to correct for
the linear rack displacement, by the addition of corrective forces to bring the rack
displacement in-line with the non-linear property spline.
Non-linear Rack Bush Properties
7.12 Bump Stop Properties
Bump stop properties define the magnitude of the bump stop force applied to the
model, thus it is not a connection property like a bush, but can be considered to be
more like an external force or spring force. Its inclusion is optionally set by two solver
switches, which control the inclusion of the bump stop preload and the bump stop
rate.
Bump stop locations and orientations are not defined independently. They are
considered as additional forces defined by their own attachment points. They can be
separate from the spring axis.
Bump stop properties are defined by splines of Force versus Displacement. The use
of a spline allows for non-linear bump stop properties to be modelled, although at
each increment, the local linear stiffness is determined and used within the overall
stiffness matrix.
Bump stop properties can be set for both bump and rebound travel. So that this can
simulate not only a bump stop but also a rebound stop.
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Bump Stop Properties Non Linear Spline Example
7.13 Drive Shaft Torques
For model templates that include drive shafts, torsional loads are applied to the
inboard joint. The geometry of the drive shaft is used to identify the forces and
moments that are applied to the actual model upright parts (remember that drive
shafts are only graphical elements, not connected parts). The data in this section
defines the torque that will be applied to each corner (note use of ve sign).
Drive Shaft Torque Properties
Example Drive Shaft Model
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7.14 Drive Shaft Losses
This data section allows for the inclusion of non-linear drive shaft losses based on a
function of the joint angle. The loss term is defined as the percentage loss for the
applied torque. Separate loss curves can be optionally defined for both the inner and
outer joint. Each corner also has its own pair of splines.
7.15 General Data
This data section lists a number of default stiffness numbers applied by the solver to
undefined bushes and/or special tagged joint cases. Each item is discussed below.
General Compliance Data
Singularity Stiffness: (default value 1.0 N/mm). The compliant solver uses this
value to remove any singularities it identifies in the solver. An example of this is a
track rod that has the default rigid ball joints at both ends. It will have an
unconstrained degree of freedom in the rotational spin axis. The solver will apply
the singularity stiffness to the stiffness matrix to remove this singularity.
Rigid (Ball Joint ) Stiffness: (default value 1.0e8 N/mm). Any bush in the model
that is set to rigid, i.e. does not have user defined stiffness values, is treated by the
solver as a ball joint. This value is used for the three translational stiffnesses, the
three rotational values are set to zero.
Rigid Rotation Stiffness: (default value 1.0e10 N.mm/deg). The rigid rotation
stiffness is used by the solver for certain joint types to remove a rotational degree of
freedom. These joints include lateral rack bush local z-z, Spacer all three rotations,
Rigid Axle revolute, all three rotations, Roll bar revolute, local x-x and local y-y and,
Hub compliance all three rotations.
Bush Loss Angle: (default value 3.0 deg). It is the default value for bush damping.
All undefined bushes are pre-filled with this value.
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Default Compliant Stiffness: (default value 1.0e3 N/mm). It is the default value for
all compliant bush translational stiffness. When a bush is switched from rigid to
compliant its translational values are pre-filled with this value.
Default Rotation Stiffness: (default value 1.0e6 N.mm/deg). It is the default value
used for some specific bush types whose actual stiffness values have not been set
by the user. These bush types are leaf spring hanger points local x-x and local y-y
and part mesh points all three rotations.
7.16 Displaying compliance results
Select Results / Compliance Bar Values from the main menu bar.
Compliance Values
The Compliance Values show the change in the displayed values due to application
of the force Set. By default, the two displayed variables are Camber angle and Toe
Angle, but other variables can be added by left clicking on the force set background,
then right clicking, selecting Add Extra Variable. The variable displayed on any
particular graph can also be changed by left clicking on the particular graph, then
right clicking to select the variable from the Y-Variable menu. Each force set can be
turned off as required, or all force sets can be turned on by right clicking and
selecting Turn Force Set Off and Turn All Force Sets On respectively. Similarly,
the spring force set can also be added or removed. Note that the Graphic
suspension display will only show the deformed suspension geometry for the user
selected default force set.
Add the Castor Trail to the Force Set 0 results by first left click on the
background of the force set 0 display and right click Add Extra Variable.
Left click on the new graph then Right click and select Y-Variable (SDF) /
Standard / Castor Trail (mm).
Compliance Variables relevant to External Forces
Compliance data can also be displayed numerically in the form of Bush Forces,
Bush Deflections and Bush Rotations by selecting Results / Bush Forces ,
Results / Bush Deflections or Results / Joint-Bush Rotations from the menu bar.
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The list of values display deflection and forces for all three modes i.e. Bump, Steer
and Roll. In addition, they are displayed over a range for each of these three modes.
7.17 Solver Options
The solver uses a number of switch settings to define the exact nature of the
solution. This section details these switches and their effect on the solution. These
solver settings are saved to the INI file.
Solver Settings Menu Items
Motion: For bump/rebound travel, the user can choose to move either the body or
the ground plane. This is primarily a visual display switch as the majority of the
calculated result will be unaffected by this switch setting. It will however change the
reported co-ordinates for points and positional SDFs. A subset of menu options is
available when in Ground Plane. These include the ability to define the bump
motion not just by the ground plane, but also optionally switch to defining bump
displacement of the wheel centre, lower outer ball joint or the upper outer ball joint.
Both the bump and steering displacements can be defined, instead of the default
relative value, by an absolute position value.
3D Compliance: This controls the main switch for the additional compliant
calculations. The compliance solver is required for specific results. These include
point forces, bush displacements, modal frequencies, forced damped response.
External forces: This global switch turns all external forces on/off. It is a setting that
sits on top of the individual force and force set settings. It doesnt change the
individual force set switches just works in series with them.
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Suspension Spring Pre-Load Force: Switches the spring pre-load on/off. It
controls the application of the force to the model associated with the kinematic
compression of the spring. This is not considered to be an external force and is thus
not controlled by the external force switch. Pre-load is considered on a displacement
step by step basis. Thus it is not just zeroed at the static position, it is zeroed at all
kinematic positions. The suspension spring rate is still included in the stiffness matrix
(see item below).
Suspension Spring Rate: Switches the spring rate on/off for inclusion in the main
stiffness matrix. With this switch set to off, the solver will also exclude the spring
pre-load, irrespective of the specific pre-load solver setting.
Suspension Roll-Bar Force: Switches the contribution of the roll bar on and off.
This only has an effect on a compliant solution in the Roll displacement mode, and
assumes that a roll bar is included in the model. It works by optionally including the
anti roll bar revolute joint stiffness in the stiffness matrix.
Bush Rotation Pre-loads: It is a solver switch that optionally adds the forces due to
rotational pre-loads of the bushes. This is only effective if a bush has a defined
rotational stiffness (so no impact on ball joints). You dont define a pre-load value, it
is calculated from the current kinematic displacement from the static position. Thus
by definition, all pre-loads would be zero at the static position.
Suspension Bump Stop Pre-Load: Switches the bump stop pre-load on/off. It
controls the application of the force to the model associated with the kinematic
compression of the bump stop. This is not considered to be an external force and is
thus not controlled by the external force switch. Pre-load is considered on a step by
step displacement basis. Thus it is not just zeroed at the static position, it is zeroed
at all kinematic positions. The bump stop spring rate is still included in the stiffness
matrix (see item below).
Suspension Bump Stop Rate: Switches the bump stop rate on/off for inclusion in
the main stiffness matrix. With this switch set to off, the solver will also exclude the
bump stop pre-load, irrespective of the specific pre-load solver setting.
Suspension Tyre Vertical Rate: Allows the user to remove the connection of the
suspension upright to the ground. This connection is a vertical stiffness based on the
tyres vertical rate. It would normally be left on.
Control Elements: Models that make use of control elements for modifying length
and position via local control loops can be optionally included in the solution, such
that their impact can be assessed without having to remove them from the model.
Drive Shaft Loads: Optionally includes drive shaft loads. The switch will allow a
user to quickly understand the impact of the drive loads on the characteristics.
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Non-Linear Rack Bush: With this option off, the bush tagged as the rack lateral
location is taken has having a single linear stiffness. With this option enabled, the
non-linear look up table is employed to have force dependant stiffness value.
Braked Hub: Specifies how the torsional load is reacted by the suspension. The
default setting is braked, and in this form the wheel torsion load is reacted by the
upright as if the brakes are on. If drive shafts are included in the model, changing
this switch to un-braked will have wheel torsional loads reacted by the drive shafts. If
the drive shaft is not included in the model changing this switch will have no effect on
the results.
7.18 Exercise: Drive Shaft Forces
To demonstrate an element of the compliance data, we will add a drive shaft to a
standard model and review the impact on a points force.
Open a new front model using default template type 3.
File / New select front and suspension type 3 Steerable MacPherson strut.
Select Done to create the model.
We will look at forces in the lower ball joint. To plot these, create a user SDF function
for the resultant force at the lower ball joint and open a graph to display the result.
Set to bump mode, with 60mm for both bump and rebound travel.
Remember you will need to switch compliance on, so that Shark calculates forces.
The force applied to the suspension is the spring pre-load, which is reacted by the
tyres vertical stiffness.
Make sure your solver options are as following:
Solver options
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Open user SDF tool: Results / Edit User Defined Results. Add a new
function and select from the Front Pnt Force by Label tab the Lower
wishbone outer ball joint. Click on Insert R and then Ok
Editing the Force user function string
Now open a new graph and change the y variable to the new user function.
Graphs / New-Open, from right mouse menu select, Y-Variable (User SDF) /
User Function n. Autoscale graph as required.
The Lower wishbone force no drive shaft load
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To provide a comparison of the forces with and without the drive shaft loads we will
use the graph scope store option.
Graphs / Scope / Store / Exclusive.
To enable us to compare with the drive shaft we need to modify the template. Using
the appropriate edit option add a drive shaft to the current models template.
Edit / Add to Model / Drive Shaft(s).
The displayed model should update to show the drive shaft graphics. If still in
compliance mode and provide the solver option Solve / Drive Shaft Loads is enabled
then the x-y graph display should also a change due to the drive shaft torques.
The Lower wishbone force Comparison
8 Graphical View Display Tool
8.1 Overview
This chapter briefly covers the Graphical View display tool. This simple
dialogue box consolidates into a single dialogue tool, a number of
menus, and settings that affect the graphical display.
8.1 Overview.............................................................................. 95
8.2 Introduction .......................................................................... 96
8.3 Simple Modes ...................................................................... 96
8.4 Single Step........................................................................... 97
8.5 Deformed Geometry............................................................. 97
8.6 Mode Shape......................................................................... 98
8.7 Forced Damped ................................................................... 98
8.8 Animation............................................................................. 98
8.9 Exercise: Using the Display Mode Tool................................ 98
8
8 - Graphical View Display Tool
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8.2 Introduction
The Graphical view display tool is a convenience dialogue box tool that combines a
number of individual menus and settings of the 3D graphical view into a single
display. To open the tool, select View / Set Display Mode Tool. This dialogue box
can be left open during all normal use of the application. It does not need to be
closed to have a view change applied. Some of the items presented on this display
tool also have an equivalent separate menu entry in the View main menu.
Display Mode Dialogue Tool
8.3 Simple Modes
The top tick boxes allow the user to choose between four non-animated step
display options. Options are:
Full + Half +Static: The display draws the suspension at the static position, the two
full travel positions and two mid-travel positions.
Full +Static: The display draws the suspension at the static position and the two full
travel positions.
Static Only: The display draws the suspension at the static position only.
All Steps: The display draws the suspension at all calculated positions.
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8.4 Single Step
The first selection box, and its associated tick box, sets the display to a single
calculated step. This is similar to the static only option above, but it is available for
all calculated steps (note that the list changes with displacement mode).
Selecting a Single Step Option (Bump/Rebound list shown)
Setting this option and selecting from the available selections changes the graphical
display, to show the selected single position. Note that animating the view will
behave in the same way as when in one of the simple modes above. The display is
animated through all the calculated displacement positions.
8.5 Deformed Geometry
The deformed geometry option is only available in compliant mode. In the same way
as the single step option above, the list box gives all the calculated displacement
positions (again it changes with displacement mode), and the user selects the
particular position to display. The deformed geometry option applies a user defined
scalar to the compliant displacements. The model is drawn as (kinematic
displacements) + (compliant displacements x scalar). When animating the deformed
geometry, the display shows only the selected displacement position with the scalar
varying, such that the compliant displacement component is animated.
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8.6 Mode Shape
The mode shape option is only enabled in compliant mode. An individual selected
mode shape is drawn with a user supplied scaling factor. The scaling factor is simply
to control the magnitude of the modal displacement, such that it can be
viewed/interpreted on the screen. On animation, the scalar is varied from zero to the
defined value to animate the modal shape.
8.7 Forced Damped
The forced-damped option is only enabled in compliant mode. It is also required to
turn on compliance forces, and to tick solve/external forces. The different external
forces configurations are under data/compliance data/external forces (see
exercise).
The Forced-damped response is drawn at the specified frequency and using the
defined scalar. On animation, the scalar is varied from zero to the defined value, to
animate the forced damped response at the selected frequency. The frequency
setting can either be edited in directly, or set by the slider and its associated arrows.
8.8 Animation
The display tool also has a slider control for setting the animation speed. The
animation can be switched on and off through the icon at the top right corner.
Display Tool Animation slider and switch ringed
8.9 Exercise: Using the Display Mode Tool
To put into practice some of the items covered above, open a new model based on a
front suspension template type 1.
File / New select front and suspension type 1 Double wishbone, select
Done to create the model.
Turn on compliant mode and edit the two lower wishbone points to be compliant.
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Solve / 3D Compliance. In edit mode pick in turn the two lower wishbones
points and change them from Rigid to Compliant.
Setting the Lower wishbone points to bushed
Open the display mode tool and experiment with the Single Step option.
View / Set Display Mode Tool. Change to Single Step and select different
options from the associated list box. What happens if you change to Roll or
Steer?
Turn on the compliance mode (if off) and add some external forces to the display.
The simplest way to do this is to use the default force sets, and change set to be
default.
Data / Compliance Data / External ForcesChange to Set 1 and select the
def button to make it appear on the graphics screen.
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Setting Force set 1 as Default
Turn compliance mode on and ensure external forces are on.
Solve / 3D Compliance and Solve / 3D External Forces both need to be
checked.
Now we can use the deformed geometry option on the display mode tool. Select
Deformed Geometry and enter a scale factor of 20. If you now animate the
sequence, you can view the scaled displacement of the model.
Setting Display Mode to Deformed Geometry
For interest review the Mode shape and Forced Damped options.
9 User Formatting Results
9.1 Overview
A number of the result sections can be either fully or partially formatted
by the user, to display a specific set of relevant results. These format
settings are saved as part of the INI file. For some result sections a
number of format layouts can be created and saved under different
labels. These different result layouts lend themselves to defining a
range of standard results formats.
Because individual users require the ability to change the appearance
of the results, the user can format a number of text and graphical results
displays. In some cases, a range of format options can be created for a
particular result section, being labelled in such a way as to from a set of
standard results formats that given a shared INI file could become
company wide standard results formats.
The following sections cover each of the result sections that can be
formatted beyond simple header switching, or decimal point display.
They are all sections that a user, as a minimum, can control which
values are shown, and have an element of control over the appearance
as well.
9.1 Overview............................................................................ 101
9.2 Formatted SDF................................................................... 102
9.3 Spline Fits .......................................................................... 104
9.4 Spline Data......................................................................... 105
9.5 Formatted Point Forces...................................................... 106
9.6 Compliance Text Values .................................................... 108
9.7 Exporting............................................................................ 109
9.8 Exercise: Example Formatted SDF.................................... 112
9
9 - User Formatting Results
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9.2 Formatted SDF
Results / Formatted SDF
The Formatted SDF results have full format control, each format stored in a
numbered and labelled slot. The first four slots 0,1,2 and 3 have a hard coded format
setting, these can be overwritten by settings in the INI file, that relate to each of the
four default displacement modes. The four hard-coded format settings are set up to
mimic the original fixed format version outputs of each displacement mode.
Each format slot is selected via the local Setting menu. This lists the available
format settings. Note that by default, empty undefined slots are labelled as Not
Defined. A local switch, independent of the format, controls which end(s) are plotted.
To change the setting of a format set, first via the Setting menu, select the required
format slot number. Now open the format editor via the local Display / Edit Current
Setting menu.
Format Editor Formatted SDF Results
The format properties start with the label string for this format setting, (this is the
description that will appear on the menu). Enter as required.
The top of each page of the results has a number of optional header lines. These
include; a copy of the input hard point co-ordinates, the run time and date, the
analysis displacement type, the corner number and the template type. Each of these
can be optionally made visible.
The next format property setting is the number of tables. Each table is added
sequentially to the results listing and has its own defined column data settings. Set
the required number of tables, (maximum 10). Each table then has its own spread
sheet page to define the contents of the table.
Table properties start with a heading string, (define as required), the number of
columns, (each column can be thought of as a result), the column width defined as a
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number of characters and the number of header lines on the columns. The column
width and number of header lines applies to all columns in the table.
For each column in a table it has a source setting, parameter from the defined
source the number of decimal points to use and the corner offset. Source is the
group that the SDF variable is in, the options are Standard SDF, Front Graphic, Rear
Graphic and User Defined SDF. This setting can also be set to Not Set, this would
produce an empty column. Once Source is set the available Parameter options list
is changed to reflect the selected source. The Corner option provides the ability to
list in the same spreadsheet the result from both left and right hand sides. This is
achieved by having the one of the columns being -ve Y with the other being set to
+ve Y.
Label
Headings
Table 1
Label
Col Col Col Col Col
Table 2
Label
Col Col Col Col Col
Heading Heading Heading Heading Heading
Heading Heading Heading Heading Heading
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Example formatted SDF
9.3 Spline Fits
Spline fits display mathematical fits to the raw SDF data. The format functionality for
Spline Fits is similar to the previous item: settings are saved with an identifying label
to a slot number. The format settings consist of a number of options that are set via
the Display menu items.
SDF Spline Fits Format Options
105
To edit/define the format select the required slot from the list. Then from the display
menu select the required options.
Format: Sets the numerical display form of the spline fits coefficients. Select
between real number display with differing Nos of decimal points, or Exponent
displays with differing Nos of significant figures.
List: Sets the individual visibility for the fits to the original data curve, its derivative
and the integral. Note these are three individual visibility options not an individual
exclusive option.
Polynomial Power: Sets the visibility for the individual fits polynomial order. These
are individual choice options, not a mutually exclusive selection, thus this option
together with the previous makes visible up to 6 curve fits for each enabled variable.
Headers: Sets five individual header visibility switches, Data Echo, Time / Date,
Analysis Type, Corner and Template Type.
Setting the Header Visibilitys
The visibility of each individual SDF is then controlled by the next three sub menus,
each of which has a list of their associated variables. These three sub menus are
Standard SDF, Graphics (Front and/or Rear) and User Defined SDF. The x-variable
can also be defined via its set of sub menus.
All settings are saved to the users INI file.
9.4 Spline Data
This results section is very similar to the previous one, but rather than listing
polynomial fits to the results it lists the results values themselves. This includes
listing the derivatives and integrals. Settings are not shared between Spline Fits and
Spline Data. Each has its own separate group of format settings.
106
Example SDF Spline data display
9.5 Formatted Point Forces
These compliance results allow a user to fully format the point forces results display.
As with previous result sections, settings are given a slot number and label. This
enables different standard settings to be created, saved in the INI file, and potentially
used subsequently by other users through shared INI file settings.
To edit/change a particular setting select the required set from the Setting list. Then
open the Display / Edit Current Settings to display the formatting tool. The setting
label used on the menus can be edited here. Point force results are arranged in
tables. At the top of the edit tool is the definition of the number of tables, and also
settings for the overall header visibilities.
Each table has a heading string and a set of unique format settings. The table overall
settings include the number of Columns, the column size in terms of the number of
characters, the number of lines to use for the column headers, the maximum number
of lines in the columns, and the column comment character width placed at the
beginning of the line.
Some settings are then listed as properties of each column, whilst the lower ones are
listed as properties of each line. The column properties specify which default force
set to use for the column and also the number of decimal points to use for the listed
numbers.
The by-line properties list the end to use, (ignore offset reserved for future use), the
hard point to use (or special force case), the force component, the model
displacement type (i.e. bump, roll, steer or combined), the actual displacement
position and the comment string at the beginning of the line.
107
Point Forces Editing Tool
The formatted point forces display has a range of plotting options to produce hard
copies or text files saved to the local discs.
Sample Formatted Results Display
108
9.6 Compliance Text Values
The compliance text values display is slightly different from the other result sections
in that the editing of the formatting is performed by selecting on the actual display
itself rather than through a separate tool. A pop up menu is displayed when you click
on the display with the right mouse button. Move around the display with the left
mouse button.
Example right mouse pop-up menu
The compliance text values is a direct numerical equivalent of the Compliance Bar
Values graphical display. They share the same settings for which there is only one
set. So unlike the early results sections different settings can not be saved to unique
slots.
Results are listed by force set for each of the enabled variables. The value listed is
the difference in the selected variable between the kinematic and compliant values
(for this load case). These coefficients are only listed for the static position, so are
thus not affected by displacement mode.
To make a change to the result of a particular force set, move the text cursor to the
area of that set, (use the left mouse button or keyboard arrows), then use the right
mouse to pull up the menu options. This will include options to switch the default
force set (remember this is the one displayed on the 3D graphics), turn the force set
off (i.e. remove it from the results list) or add a new SDF variable to the listed
results. The hard coded defaults have just Camber and Toe displayed for each force
set.
Some local format menus are provided under the Display menu to set the numerical
display format, control header visibilitys and control the visibility of the target values.
Target values can be edited through the local Data sub menu options.
109
9.7 Exporting
It is recognised that, for a software application to be popular and easy to use, it
should integrate with other tools that are considered standard. This particularly
applies with an application operating on a PC running a Windows operating system
needing to integrate with Microsofts desktop products.
When LSA is first run after the installation, on start-up, the program will check for the
presence of the executables. The search is performed through the registry.
Additional menu items will then become visible/enabled where relevant (no changes
are made to the registry).
If software products such as Mathworks Matlab are installed after LSA, the search
for installed components needs to be re-run in order to initialize the link. The menu
item Set-Up / Re-run Search for Installed Components is used to rerun the search.
Example external link menus Formatted SDF Results
The following summarizes the available links:
Open as Text in Word (.txt):
File, Text Editor
Results, Formatted SDF
Results, SDF Spline Fits
Results, SDF Spline data
Results, Formatted TRA
Results, Bush Deflections
Results, Joint-Bush Rotations
Results, Formatted Point Forces
Results, List All Point Coords for User Position
Results, List a Point Coords at All Positions
Results, List All Point Coords at a Position
Results, Compliance Text Values
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Results, Report Batch File Display
Open as Text in Word (.rtf):
Open as HTML
Save as HTML
Open Text In Excel (.prn) (and Export to Excel Options)
File, Text Editor
X-Y Graph (right mouse menu)
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Open in Matlab
X-Y Graph (right mouse menu)
Below is shown an example of a formatted SDF result, opened directly in Excel.
Example Open as Text in Excel Formatted SDF Results
To increase the functionality of the Excel export, a number of additional options are
available. These give greater control on where the Excel data appear. These three
extra options are available wherever the standard Open in Excel option is given.
The first option is to export the data to a new File, whilst similar to the Open in Excel
it does make use of Excels own import filter to split the data up into individual
values.
The second option is to add the data as a new worksheet in the current excel file.
For this, there must be a currently open excel session. If more than one file is open,
the current file is that identified by Excel as its active session.
The third option is to add the data as a new worksheet in an existing file. This file
must not already be open; it will subsequently be opened in Excel as part of this
add operation.
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9.8 Exercise: Example Formatted SDF
In this exercise we will produce a user formatted display for the Formatted SDF
results. To produce some numbers to plot open a new front model using default
template type 1.
File / New, select front suspension type 1 double wishbone
Module / 3D Steer
Open the formatted SDF results display and change to results set number 4 and
then open the current settings for set 4.
Results / Formatted SDF
Use Local menu, Setting / Set 4 Not Defined
Use Local menu, Display / Edit Current Setting
We will create a simple display with one table that just lists the toe angle for the two
front wheels (so only the front End), see example screen shot below.
Formatted SDF example
With the edit settings display open, fill in the settings necessary to produce the
required display. The solution is shown on the next page.
113
Format solution
Try producing the settings for the output shown below.
Example roll format output
114
10 Local Coordinate Systems
10.1 Overview
This chapter describes the concept of local coordinate systems, how to
create them and convert points such that they are defined in a local
coordinate system rather than the global system. A solver option that
makes use of local coordinate systems to have moving markers is also
discussed.
10.1 Overview............................................................................. 115
10.2 Introduction ......................................................................... 116
10.3 Creating a Local Coordinate System .................................. 117
10.4 Changing a point to use a Local Coordinate System.......... 119
10.5 Exercise: Using a local coordinate system.......................... 120
10
10 - Local Coordinate Systems
116
10.2 Introduction
Local coordinate systems have been included primarily to locate the initial static
position of a hard point in a local rather than global system. The local coordinate
system is defined using existing model points to locate the origin, and axis directions.
Points defined in local coordinate systems are solved and treated in exactly the
same way as any other model point. It is only the initial placement of the point that is
different.
The static global position of a point defined in a local coordinate system will change if
its local coordinate system is moved or modified. Thus you can for example use this
feature to place a number of points on a part into the same local coordinate system
then move the coordinate system origin to relocate the part in the model. This
achieves a different effect to that from the Edit / Change Mode / Retain Parts action
which impacts on all points in the model and is limited to moving ground points.
A solver option is available to make use of local coordinate systems, to have moving
markers that are incrementally located by the local coordinate system, rather than
fixed on a part. This is useful for applying external forces to a model at a point such
as a trailed TCP point that is required to stay a fixed trailed distance from the
incremental tyre contact point but rotate with toe angle. This solver option needs to
be set through the main template editor.
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10.3 Creating a Local Coordinate System
To create a local coordinate system open the coordinate system display via main
menu entry Data / Coordinates / Local Coordinate Systems select the add button
and provide the definition data.
Creating a Local Coordinate System
The properties of the local coordinate system are:
Label: Used in menu selection boxes and graphical display to help identify specific
coordinate systems.
Origin Coordinates (Global): Identifies the position of the local coordinate systems
origin in the global axis system. This can be entered as a position, or relative to
another point in the model. Obviously setting the relative dimensions to zero will
place the origin directly at the selected point.
118
Point on Local Axis: Identifies a point on the chosen axis (select from x, y, z, -x, -y
and -z). Define its position either as a global position, or relative to the origin using
global offsets or relative to another point in the model. Again in the relative to point
option setting the relative dimensions to zero will place the axis point directly at the
selected point.
Point in Local Plane: Identifies a point in the chosen plane (four plane options are
presented that vary depending on which axis has been selected for the above item).
Define its position either as a global position, or relative to the origin using global
offsets or relative to another point in the model. Again in the relative to point option
setting, the relative dimensions to zero will place the plane point directly at the
selected point.
Any number of local coordinate systems can be used in a model. This date editor
also allows you to delete the currently selected system. Care should be taken when
deleting coordinate systems as this may affect points that currently still use this local
system.
119
10.4 Changing a point to use a Local Coordinate System
To change a point to use a local coordinate system, change to edit mode and select
the required point from the graphical display. This needs to be done in the kinematic
mode, since in compliant mode the bush property editor is displayed rather than the
point editor. The point edit display has a selection box that identifies the coordinate
system to use for its definition.
Changing to a Local Coordinate System
To change from global to local, simply select the definition coordinate system
selection box, and pick the required system. As you switch between one system and
another, the points x, y and z definition values are changed to retain the resultant
global position of the point. This ensures that a model remain valid as you switch
definition system. When defined in a local system, the point editing utilities change
the label to indicate that it is a local dimension.
Note that it is possible to recursively define a point in a local coordinate system when
the point is also used to define the local coordinate system. This must be avoided.
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10.5 Exercise: Using a local coordinate system
In this exercise, we will create a local coordinate system for the lower wishbone of a
conventional double wishbone, and switch other points on the part into this new
coordinate system.
Create a new model, using template type 1 double wishbone, damper to lower
wishbone. Set to Kinematic mode, (i.e. compliance off).
Create a local coordinate system, label Example, with its origin at point 1 Lower
wishbone front pivot. Put the point on the local Z axis as point 2 Lower wishbone
rear pivot.
Set the point in the local X-Z plane as relative to the origin, 0.0, 0.0, 100.0
Select the Ok button to create the local coordinate axis. The graphic display will
now show the new axis symbol. If it does not appear, check you have created it and
that the visibility settings are on, Graphics / Enhanced Visibility / Settings / Local
Coordinate System Axes.
Now edit point 3 Lower wishbone outer ball joint, and change the definition
coordinate system to use our recently created local system (note the change in
labels and the x, y and z values. Repeat for the damper attachment and spring
attachment points.
To test the impact of our newly defined points, change to drag edit mode and drag
point 2 along the y-axis. Note how our modified points pivot with the local coordinate
system. Repeat the dragging with point 1, you will see the same sort of effect.
Finally create a temporary group that includes both point 1 and 2, then dragging
either point 1 or 2 has the other local points translating with the dragged movement
(Edit / Groups / Pick temporary).
11 Ball Joint Results Display
11.1 Overview
This chapter describes the use of the ball-joint results display tool. A
range of options allows individual ball joint rotations to be plotted for the
prescribed combined wheel motion displacement mode. Rotations can
be referred to global axes, local axes or specified marker points.
11.1 Overview............................................................................ 121
11.2 Introduction ........................................................................ 122
11.3 Setting the Displayed Point ................................................ 123
11.4 Changing the Reference Axes ........................................... 123
11.5 Hard Copy.......................................................................... 124
11.6 Auto-Centring..................................................................... 124
11
11 - Ball Joint Result Display
122
11.2 Introduction
The ball joint results display shows, on an individual joint by joint basis, the
articulation of the selected joint for the current wheel motion definition. Rotations are
displayed graphically on an x-y target display (z axis is out of the page) with
rotations being relative to either the global axes, local bush axes or two specified
axis markers. To open the display, select the Results / Ball Joint Target Rotations
menu item. Note that this option is only available in compliant mode. Because of the
off-line calculations performed with this module it may take a few seconds for the
dialogue to initially open.
The format for the display is saved as a set of details. Up to 25 different sets can be
pre-formatted and saved as part of the INI file. A format includes the displayed point,
the axis system, graphical axes properties and auto-centring options.
Example Ball joint display Global axes
123
11.3 Setting the Displayed Point
With the display open, the details of the displayed point is shown across the bottom
of the graph. To change to another point select the local menu View / Set Point and
select the required point from the presented list of joints. Note that the list only
presents points within the template that are tagged as bushes. Because of the off-
line calculations performed this may take a few seconds for the display to refresh.
Alternative method of changing the displayed point is to pick an alternative pre-
defined setting (assuming others have been defined).
11.4 Changing the Reference Axes
The display shows the angular displacement of the ball joint in the x and y directions
referenced to a z-axis. The default setting is for these axes to be aligned with the
model global axis system. The View menu allows the display to be switched, to be
relative to the bushes local axis system (which the user can define as a property of
the associated bush). The axis system can also be set to use three points in the
model to be local axis markers. With this option you can also control the parts that
the housing and the ball are associated with.
Setting the Local Axes markers
If needed, extra points can be added to the template, for use as dedicated axis
markers. The available markers in the selection boxes can be filtered to list just
those associated with the part, both parts, or all markers.
124
Local Axes markers
11.5 Hard Copy
This results display supports the normal printing options. These include Copying to
clipboard, Printing (with prompt), Printing to the default printer or Export to Excel.
11.6 Auto-Centring
The calculated points display can be re-positioned about the z-axis with centring
shifts in both X and Y directions. This centring can be automatically applied to put
the displayed locus centrally in the display, or the user can edit the values directly as
a single correction.
The current centre offset values are displayed at the top of the display. As well as
direct editing, they can also be modified via the two sliders located at the bottom of
the display.
12 Internal Optimiser
12.1 Overview
This chapter describes the use of the internal optimiser to provide a
numerical method of identifying an 'optimum' solution. The requirements
for this optimum solution are defined as a series of kinematic and/or
compliant targets. The solution can be achieved by moving identified
points within a defined limited space, and/or varying bush properties,
again within a limited variation.
12.1 Overview............................................................................. 125
12.2 Introduction ......................................................................... 126
12.3 Setting Kinematic Targets via User Lines ........................... 127
12.4 Weighting Settings for Kinematics ...................................... 128
12.5 Identifying Positional Optimiser Parameters ....................... 130
12.6 Running a Kinematic Optimisation...................................... 131
12.7 Kinematic Tutorial ............................................................... 133
12.8 Setting Compliant Targets via Compliance Coefficients...... 135
12.9 Weighting Settings for Compliance Targets........................ 136
12.10 Specifying Compliant Optimiser Parameters and Limits ..... 137
12.11 Running a Compliant Optimisation...................................... 139
12
12 - Internal Optimizer
126
12.2 Introduction
The optimiser is a fully integrated solution technique for quickly and efficiently
identifying 'optimum' solutions. The approach used is not based on a design of
experiment or Taguchi type techniques. It instead uses a combination of scoring,
sensitivity and trends to identify the optimum.
The scoring technique is used to convert the deviation of the current solution from all
desired characteristics and values to a single number (or score). The objective of the
optimisation process is to reduce this score to zero.
The score is determined by summing the deviation of each point on the calculated
curve (e.g. camber angle against bump travel) or value when compared to a defined
target curve. Any number of characteristics can be included in this way, the
summation of each made with reference to a weighting factor. It does rely on the
user knowing what target responses they require for each included characteristic.
Increasing the number of characteristics does not significantly alter the analysis time
of the optimisation process.
The variables for the optimisation are identified as point positions and/or bush
properties. Whilst the optimisation can include both kinematic and compliant
variables they are more normally performed in isolation of each other. Each included
variable has a user-defined range to contain the solution within sensible bounds.
Also, within these bounds, a minimum resolution is specified to limit the number of
solution steps. The number of variables included directly affects the run time for the
optimisation, so it should be kept to the minimum possible.
The optimiser assesses each variable to identify a sensitivity value. This is the
amount the score changes over the defined range at the specified step size. This
then sets the order that each variable is adjusted to produce its minimum value
before moving on to the next variable in the sensitivity order list. The user can run
the optimisation either from the most to the least sensitive or more successfully from
the least sensitive to the most sensitive.
Thresholds can be set to ignore variables whose sensitivity is significantly less than
the most sensitive, as well as a solution acceptance tolerance on getting the
deviation score down to zero.
At the end of the optimisation process, the user is presented with the original score
and the best position score. The user can then optionally accept the new 'optimised'
solution, or return to the original models data.
127
12.3 Setting Kinematic Targets via User Lines
The kinematic targets for the optimiser, such as camber, toe and roll centre height
are defined via user lines, defined for each of the required suspension derivatives
graphs. Note that although graphs can display graphical element properties, they
cannot be used for the optimisation, as you cannot define user lines for them. User
lines can be defined directly or extracted from user line data sets. These data sets
are managed through a series of menu options that allow the user to add, edit or
remove user line data from data sets. Each dataset can have any number of
complete sets of user lines stored in them, and any number of datasets can be
referenced by the application at any one time. These data set files are stored by their
full pathname in the users ini file, such that they are searched for at program start
up, and added to the relevant menu tree. In a similar manner to 'add', datasets can
be removed from the available list. These dataset files can thus be shared between
users, either through a central server type location or by local copies of the same file.
Example Graph showing User Line and deviation 'score'
A convenience menu function is provided, Graphs / User Lines / Copy Front-2D data
to User for copying the current result line values to the user line. This menu function
performs a copy not just for the currently visible graph parameters, but all available
results (some 45 different parameters). Thus for a given target model, this function
provides a complete set of user line curves, that could be stored/added to a dataset
for use as a future target for an alternative model.
Individual graphs user lines can be edited directly through the right mouse menu
option on the chosen graph. Note that user lines are stored and edited by corner.
This is to support asymmetric model options.
128
Example user line edit
12.4 Weighting Settings for Kinematics
Each graph/curve used in summing the total deviation from its respective user line is
included via its own weighting factor. This allows the user to balance the numerical
differences, between say an angle such as camber, and a distance such as roll
centre height. A number of convenience functions are available to automatically set
these, but before we can look at these, we need to review how we specify which
graphs we wish to include in the optimisation process. It doesn't necessarily follow
that: if a particular graph is visible, it will be included in the optimisation score.
Optimiser Display Screen
All optimiser settings are accessed through the Solves / Display Optimizer display.
This display can be with or without 'details'. The screen shot illustrates the 'with
details' display.
129
Through this display, you can specify which graphs to include into the sum. The top
left corner shows the 'sum using' options. We can choose to include No. Graph lines,
All defined (i.e. any with a user line specified visible or not), All visible defined graph
lines, (i.e. as per the previous option, but must also be visible), or a user defined list.
The user-defined list is set graph by graph in the lower right hand corner. Note that
the top left hand box also has the compliance sum options that we will cover later.
Once we have identified which Graph selection to include, we can then set the
appropriate weightings. The 'Graph weightings' panel shows the current value for
each graph. We can either edit them directly, or use one of the menu options (lower
left). This will either set them all to zero, all to unity or to a weighted value based on
the individual graphs y-range. The latter option attempts to provide a convenience-
weighting regime without recourse to lengthy editing of each graphs value. These
weighting numbers will directly influence the optimisation process, in both the order
and final achieved model. When using this auto-weight option, it is important to have
the graph y-axes correctly set. This may be nothing more than using the graph
autoscale option or may involve more specific axis setting.
You can also set some X-dist weightings, by editing the values accessed with the
associated button next to Graph Weightings. The X values go from 1 (lower limit) to
+1 (upper limit), 0 being the static position. The Y values define the shape of the
curve. The appropriate X-weightings are then extrapolated from these values, and
used to put a weight on all the parameters at some specific position. For example, a
curve with a point at x=1 and y=0 will lead to the multiplication of all the parameters
at full deflexion by 0.
Graph weightings ringed - Set by Auto-weight routine
130
12.5 Identifying Positional Optimiser Parameters
Having specified how we are to determine the targets and summation, we need to
identify which hard point positions we intend to move. We can set positional
parameter limits by individual corner. In the simplest single corner symmetrical
model we would only be interested in one corners points set.
Accessing the positional parameters settings
Within each corner set, we identify which points are to be included with a simple
on/off selection. On the same line, we also define the limits of motion in each axis for
the selected point. Menu options are available to set the limits as the current
position, or the current points tolerance limits. As a display option, we can either view
the parameter limits as absolute or deltas.
Example Parameter setting - Point 1 selected viewed as deltas
The above screen shot shows just point 1 as having been selected, and only the x-
axis will be considered, since the limits for y and z are set to 0. This display has been
switched to show delta's and thus the zero's imply no change from the current actual
value.
131
Once we have set all our required parameters, we can list them through the 'List
parameters' button. Our simple case of a single parameter is shown below.
Parameter listing - single point position single axis
In a similar display, we can list the parameters in sensitivity order. This can be useful
in identifying parameters that have a small impact on the solution and they can thus
either be removed from the list, or used to identify a value for the 'sensitivity ignore
ratio'; the objective being to reduce the number of parameters to produce a quicker
solution time.
Sensitivity listing - three parameters shown, Y insensitive.
12.6 Running a Kinematic Optimisation
With the targets defined and the parameters specified, we can run the optimiser. As
stated previously, the solver will run through each parameter in a sensitivity-based
order, selecting the setting for each parameter that gives the lowest deviation. This
positional setting for minimum score is retained as the solver moves to the next
parameter. During this process the user can view the intermediate steps in the
graphical window as well as the animated score. Two optimisation options are
available, one of which is a simple full matrix solution. This full matrix option is
impractical for all but the most simple cases (simple in terms of few variables). The
normal solution method is the 'Sensitivity Based Optimization'.
When you first select the optimisation button, a summary display is shown, listing the
step size resolutions, number of parameters, total number of steps and an estimate
of the run time.
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Optimisation summary
Selecting Ok will start the optimisation and display the progress display shown
below. The display shows the progress and three scores. The scores are the value
at the start, the minimum value found so far and the score for the last iteration.
Progress display
133
12.7 Kinematic Tutorial
To illustrate the previous discussion, we will run a simple example involving three
graph curves and three parameters.
Create a new single corner front model based on default type 1.
Open three graphs, Camber Angle, Kingpin Angle and Castor Angle, Graphs / New.
Ensure you are set to 3d bump module, and that bump/rebound is set to +-60mm
with a 20mm increment, Data / Parameters.
Use the graph convenience menu item to pre-fill the user lines with the current data
values, Graphs / User Lines / Copy Front-2D data to User.
Edit point 3, the outer lower ball joint to a new position, X=4072, Y=733.5, Z=177.0
Before opening the optimiser display autoscale the graphs. They should now appear
as below. Note deviation scores visible.
Graph screen shot for tutorial
Open the Optimiser display, Solve / Display Optimiser, and set the display to show
details. For this simple example, we will use a fine positional increment, so set
'Position Mesh Size' to 1.0 mm.
We are going to have point 3's X,Y and Z position as variables so open the relevant
'Position Limits' display and set them 'on' and range to the current tolerances. Check
by comparing your parameter list with that shown below.
Parameter Listing
134
Before we can run the analysis, we need to define what weightings we will apply.
Initially, try the 'Auto-Set weightings based on display' option. This should give 1.0
(camber), 0.2724 (castor) and 0.4543 (kingpin) for our three graphs.
Try running the optimiser with these weightings
Auto-Weightings Result - Score = 0.4654
The auto-weightings do not produce a very effective solution. In particular, the
Camber curve is not very close. Try re-running, but this time double the camber
weighting, i.e. 2.0, 0.2724, 0.4543. No need to reload the original values, we can re-
run from this new position.
Revised Weighting Graphs
In this case we get a much-improved match, and a score of zero. Are the co-
ordinates for point 3 the same as originally? Would we have got here in one step had
we set the weightings to 2.0 etc. from the start?
135
12.8 Setting Compliant Targets via Compliance Coefficients
To extend the use of the optimiser into the use of tuning compliant properties, such
as bush stiffness and orientation, we need to have an additional compliant results
scoring method, similar to that used with our derivative graphs. We can of course
use the graph curves user lines as targets for compliant bush optimisation, but it is
more normal to use the 'Compliance Values' bar chart display (Results / Compliance
Bar Values), as this allows us to use compliant specific results under a range of
different load cases.
Example Screen Shot - Compliance Values
Each bar on the display has an associated target or limit setting. These are drawn as
horizontal lines across each bar display. We can use the sum of differences from
these 'limit' settings to control our optimisation process in a similar way to the x-y
graph user lines. To set the limit values for a particular bar, select it with the right
mouse button, and then edit as required. Alternatively, to edit them all through a
single display, select the menu option Edit All Line Limits/Scale/Weights, from the
right mouse menu on the compliance values graph.
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Limit Setting for Individual Bar
In a similar manner to user line setting, a convenience menu option is available, Set
All Limit Values to Current from the right mouse menu, to take the current values as
required limits.
No database system exists for these limit settings, but they are saved into the users
ini file.
12.9 Weighting Settings for Compliance Targets
As with the kinematic user lines, we need to apply a weighting factor to each
compliant bar graph. We can either edit them individually using the right mouse
menu item Edit Weighting Setting or use the Edit All option.
Setting Weighting Values via the edit all display
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Individual weighting values are applied to each separate bar in each load set,
although the same value is used for each corner within a single bar variable, though
each corner can have a separate target/limit.
The optimiser display has two convenience options for auto-setting the bar weighting
values. The lower left panel has Auto-Set Compliance Weights Based on Display
and Set All Compliance Weightings to Unity. They function as implied to provide one-
click settings for the weightings.
Compliance Weighting Settings
12.10 Specifying Compliant Optimiser Parameters and Limits
The compliant properties available as parameters for the optimiser are the bush X, Y
and Z axial stiffness, the bush X-X, Y-Y and Z-Z rotational rates, and the bush
orientation. The bush orientation is controlled by the optimiser through an Euler
sequence of local axis rotations about the X, Y and Z axes.
Obviously, compliant optimisation can only be applied to model points that are either
a connection to ground, or a connection between parts. They must also have been
identified as 'compliant' rather than 'rigid'.
Because of the often symmetric nature of bushes, special options are provided to
couple the X and Y stiffness (i.e. no need to set both the X and Y axial stiffness as a
parametric variable just change one and the other will be automatically made the
same). A similar option is available for the x-x and y-y rotation rates.
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Coupling the X and Y Stiffness parameters
To select the required bushes to optimise, select the 'Bush Stiffness Limits' icon.
Within this display, toggle on the required bushes, and set the x, y and z limits in a
similar manner to that performed previously for point position.
You can pre-fill all the stiffness values using the two convenience menu items, Pre-
Fill Min/Max Using Defined Values, and Pre-Fill Using Actual Values. The first of
these two options requires the user to specify what the min and max limits should be.
Single Bush enabled, limits set for x, y and z
Once all the required parametric bush properties are defined, they can be viewed via
the list parameters option. The axis will be identified as 'Xstiff', 'Ystiff' and 'Zstiff' as
applicable.
Parameter listing, stiffness variables indicated.
We can similarly review sensitivities of the defined parameters. The step size used
between minimum and maximum stiffness is defined in the top right panel entries.
Here you define the step sizes for both the axial and rotational stiffness.
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The same process can be applied to set up bush rotations as parametric variables.
Identify the points, set the limits and step the step size.
Sensitivity listing - note min and max sums given
12.11 Running a Compliant Optimisation
With the variables, limits and parameters defined, we cannot run the optimisation in
exactly the same way as for the previous kinematic only example.
Because this is a compliant solve, the solution run times will be longer than
previously. Check the total number of steps and run time for sensible values before
submitting the optimisation run. You may need to revise the step size to reduce the
run time.
Check run time before submitting
You can stop an optimiser run before it finishes, and still have the option to take the
lowest score solution already found. This can be useful when a suitable solution has
already been found, in a long run. You could also set the 'Auto-Stop' value higher.
Stop button identified
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Interactive Template Builder Module
13.1 Overview
This chapter describes the interactive template builder module. This
module provides the simplest method of generating a new template or
modifying an existing one, being completely graphical in its
implementation. The alternative method of direct template editing
through the template spread sheet, (see the following chapters), can be
used interspersed with the interactive module.
A number of the commands and actions that can be used within this
module are also available when in the other 3D modules (i.e. bump), for
use in the general modification of an existing models template. These
were discussed in Section 3.0 Interactive Template Modification. The
main difference between this module and previous template editing is
that the user can work with all the elements of a template, so the user
can add and delete parts. These parts can be joined together or joined
to ground. Parts that are joined can be split for modification.
Whilst in this module no results are calculated as the model is not being
solved over any particular displacement case. This makes for a far more
stable environment in which to make template modifications without the
risk of programs errors due to invalid or incomplete templates being
solved.
13.1 Overview............................................................................. 141
13.2 Template Builder Screen Layout ........................................ 142
13.3 Template Builder Individual Menu Options ......................... 146
13.4 Building a New Template, Example 1................................. 146
13.5 Building a New Template, Example 2................................. 153
13.6 Exercise: Non-Steerable Single Upper Link Suspension... 155
13
13 Interactive Template Builder Module
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13.2 Template Builder Screen Layout
The template builder mode is selected from the module main menu Module / Shark /
3D Template Builder. When switching to this module two toolbars become active that
have icons for the main template builder commands, (note that because toolbars can
be redefined by the user they may not appear exactly as shown in this document).
The builder icons will be greyed out until a new template is opened (they will
however be enabled if a model had already been loaded).
In the Interactive Template Builder
When in template builder mode the graphical display indicates this by showing the
Template Builder label in each corner of the display.
To illustrate the layout of the template builder screen and to review the New
template options we will generate a new template using the Copy from standard
template option. This creates a new template but from the start point of an existing
defined template.
Change to the Interactive 3D Template Module. Module / Shark / 3D
Template Builder.
Create a new template. File / New.
Five options are presented, three of which generate a new template, Steerable,
Non-steerable and Copy from Standard Template. The only difference in selecting
between the steerable and non-steerable is that the steerable will function as though
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it is a front suspension whilst the non-steerable is edited as thought it were a rear
suspension. The last two options open an existing template for further
editing/modification.
New Template Creation Options
Select Copy from Standard Template.
Each new template has a unique slot number, and takes the next free position. This
Slot No. is shown on the title of the New Template label entry and will appear in
the status bar once in the template builder mode.
Seting the Template Label for the New Template
Enter a suitable label for the new template and Select Ok.
For this example we will select from the template list presented by the Copy from
Standard Template option. We will use standard template 1, Double Wishbone,
damper to lower wishbone.
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Selecting the required Template to copy for the New Template
Select standard template No. 1 from the list presented and Select Ok.
The Graphical display will refresh to show the selected template. The graphical
display will show lists for Tag Type, Points, Parts, Graphics and Status. These
lists are unique to the template builder module and provide the means by which
entities can be individually selected and thus modified/deleted.
Individual Element Lists Highlighted
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The lists have a number of selection actions. The visibility of the list can be turned
on/off by picking with the mouse the box at the top right of each list. The second box
at the top of each list controls the visibility of the grey location lines. These lines
connect each entry in the list to the appropriate position on the model.
If a list has more entries than can be viewed in the specified space then the hidden
items can be scrolled into view by selecting the triangle at the bottom left of the list.
A similar triangle will appear at the top left if items are scrolled off the top of the list.
The position and size of each list can be modified by selecting the relevant hot spot
with the mouse. These hot spots are indicated by the cursor changing appearance to
either the position cursor or the size cursor. The position hot spot is at the top of
the list in the middle, whilst the size hot spot is similarly in the middle of the list but
at the bottom.
Individual items in a list can be selected / un-selected with the mouse. The selected
item is highlighted and a line drawn to the relevant screen position. For Tag Type
and Points this screen position is the relevant points position in the model, for
Parts this screen position is the average of all associated active points on the part.
For Graphics the screen position is the location of the graphics hot spot.
Selection of Items from List, Note to ground symbol
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For the status list only two items are given. The first when selected shows the
location of all the defined equations and their equation type, whilst the second item
shows the location in the model of the unknowns. When editing of the template is
complete these two items should always be equal for a valid template.
13.3 Template Builder Individual Menu Options
Having selected an entry from a list, the right mouse then lists a context sensitive set
of appropriate menu options. Some of these listed menu options duplicate the
general options that are available from the toolbars, such as for the Part list the right
mouse menu includes the add part section. Other items in the list menu duplicate
some of the standard edit functions, for example the Points list menu has an edit
point properties option that is the same as the normal graphical point edit by picking
the point directly when in Edit mode. The objective of these right mouse menus is to
collate all relevant menus in to one convenient menu.
The Tag Type List is the summary of which points in the model are prescribed to
have a specific function, simple examples of this would be the spring upper and
lower points. This tagging allows the solver to efficiently determine specific
suspension type results, for example tagging of the spring points allows spring travel
and spring ratio to be calculated. The right mouse menu options for Tagging allow
you to remove a tag, change the point the tag is applied to, change the tag type for
the listed point or add a new tag type by picking a type and then point. Tag types are
split in to three groups, Standard set 1, Standard set 2 (which is normally the same
as in standard set 1 but applied to the opposite corner in a full axle model) and
Extended.
13.4 Building a New Template, Example 1
We will now build a new template from scratch to illustrate the use of the toolbar part
icons and also the interactive template builder actions. We will create a double
wishbone suspension similar to the template No. 1 that we just used. First create a
new steerable template.
Create a new steerable template, File / New and Select Steerable
Suspension and then Select Ok.
Provide a suitable label.
Enter a label for the new template and then Select Ok.
The template builder toolbar icons should now be selectable. If these toolbars are
not visible they can be turned on via the SetUp / Toolbar Visibility menu, look for the
two 3D Template Builder entries. Remember that to find out the function of an icon
hover over it for the toolbar bubble help.
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Template Builder Toolbar - Part Icons
Template Builder Toolbar - Action Icons
We need to add four parts, an upright the upper wishbone the lower wishbone and a
steering arm. Start by adding a three-point stub axle to the model. With the default
icons this is the 5th icon in the Parts toolbar, alternative use the main menu Edit /
Add to Model / Add Part / 3 Point Stub Axle.
Add a three point stub axle to the template, Edit / Add to Model / 3 Point
Stub Axle.
This adds one part, six points, five tag types and three graphics. Note that when a
part is added all the points added with the part are placed into a temporary group,
such that if you drag one of the points the others are dragged by the same amount.
As usual to cancel the group, such that points can be moved individually, select Edit
/ Groups / Cancel or select the equivalent icon.
Now add the first wishbone (lower) and drag it down in Z to a suitable position. Either
use the 3 Point Wishbone toolbar icon, (third icon on the parts toolbar). Alternatively
use the main menu Edit / Add to Model / Add Part / 3 Point Wishbone.
Add a three wishbone to the template, Edit / Add to Model / 3 Point
Wishbone, and drag it down in Z to a suitable position.
Two parts added wishbone dragged down as a group
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We will now use some of the template builder actions to create some connections.
First connect the two inboard points to ground. To do this we select the appropriate
toolbar icon or the main menu Edit / Template Builder Actions / Join Point to Ground
(at Point). Thus select the icon then select the first of the two wishbone inboard
points, its graphic will change to indicate that it is connected to ground. Repeat the
icon selection and then pick the second of the two wishbone inboard points. Note
that as you make the connection the number of unknowns reduces by 3.
Connect the two wishbone inboard pivot points to ground, Edit / Template
Builder Actions / Join Point to Ground (at Point). Repeat for both inboard
points.
Join Point to Ground (at Point) - Template builder icon
We now need to join the outer ball joint of the wishbone to the lower ball joint of the
stub axle. There are three methods of joining two parts together, the mean position
of the two points, at the position of the first point or at the position of the second
point. For this example we will joint the parts at the mean of the two position.
Connect the wishbone outboard ball joint to the lower ball joint of the stub
axle, Edit / Template Builder Actions / Join Part to Part (at mean of two
points).
Wishbone Outer Ball Joint joined to upright At Mean of two points
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We now need to repeat the previous steps for the upper wishbone. So add a new 3
point wishbone, drag it up in Z to an appropriate position, connect the inboard points
to ground and the out board point to the stub axle upper pivot.
Add a three wishbone to the template, Edit / Add to Model / 3 Point
Wishbone, and drag it up in Z to a suitable position.
Connect the two wishbone inboard pivot points to ground, Edit / Template
Builder Actions / Join Point to Ground (at Point). Repeat for both inboard
points.
Connect the wishbone outboard ball joint to the upper ball joint of the stub
axle, Edit / Template Builder Actions / Join Part to Part (at mean of two
points).
Upper Wishbone Added to Template and Joined to Ground and Stub Axle
Your template should look similar to that in the above screen shot and have 12
unknowns and 11 equations. We still need to add the steering tie rod check for
additional Tag Types and include the spring and damper.
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To add the last part we will include a 2-point link to the template. Either use the
second toolbar parts icon or the Edit / Add to Model / Add Part / Two Point Link. Drag
it forward in X to a suitable position. Connect the inboard end to ground and then join
the outboard end to the stub axle at the mean of outboard end and the stub axle
steering point (i.e. last free point on the stub axle).
Add a two point link to the template, Edit / Add to Model / 2 Point Link, and
drag it forward in X to a suitable position.
Connect the inboard end of the link to ground, Edit / Template Builder
Actions / Join Point to Ground (at Point).
Connect the link outboard ball joint to the steering point of the stub axle,
Edit / Template Builder Actions / Join Part to Part (at mean of two points).
Final Template prior to spring/damper being added
We could now use the template at this stage. The status indicates 12 unknowns and
12 equations, so it is balanced and thus solvable.
To retain the use of this new template we need to save it, either using one of the
Template file options,kor it could get saved just as part of a data file, (provided that
the option Setup / Include User Templates in Data Files is enabled). More normally
we would save this new template using one of the File / Template File Options sub
menus. For our example we will save it as a single custom template. This is a file
that just contains this template and if we wanted to use it in future runs of the
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program it would first need to be read-in via the File / Add Custom Templates from
File menu option. Save the template to a custom file as sample_template.dat.
Save the template as a custom template file, File / Template File Options /
Save Custom Template. Set file name as sample_template.dat
If you wanted to load a saved custom template back into the template editor for
further modifications you would, in the Template builder module, use the File / New
menu item as though your where creating a new template, but use the option Open
Saved Custom Template. The saved template is read in to enable further changes to
be made. The template builder module File / New options list also includes an option
that allows you to select an existing standard template for modification, but rather
than create this as a new template in the next free slot it modifies it in its current
location. As with all user template modifications they must be saved using one of the
available options if the changes are to be retained for future re-use.
Before we use this template we should add some additional components to increase
the functionality. The most commonly added will be the spring and damper. We will
add these as a common component, this allows us to add them in one go.
Add Spring / Damper Toolbar Icon
To add the combined spring damper select the icon as indicated above, or the menu
Edit / Add to Model / Add Part / Add Spring-Damper. Note that this template builder
add part action is functionally different from that used in the interactive model editing
option, Edit / Add to Model / Spring 1 (pick two points), which as the menu suggests
requires you to pick the two existing points for which the spring should be attached
to. The menu option we are using is only available in the template builder mode as it
adds the two points required to mark the upper and lower connections, but does not
connect them with any particular part. This would thus not be valid in the normal
interactive model editing. You could of course use the interactive model editing
option in the template builder but you would first need to add the two points for
picking.
We will use the Edit / Add to Model / Add Part / Add Spring-Damper menu option
which places the spring/damper unit on the graphic. As a variation on the normal we
will be connecting the spring and damper on to the stub axle rather than one of the
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wishbones. So drag the upper and lower points to suitable positions prior to making
the connections.
Add the combined Spring/damper unit to the model, Edit / Ad to Model /
Add Part / Add Spring-Damper. Then drag the upper and lower connection
points to suitable positions for connecting the lower point to the stub axle.
The spring/damper upper point we can connect to ground in the same way that we
did for our other ground points, (remember you may prefer to think of ground as
the body since this is what is implied by the analytical term to ground).
Connect the Spring/Damper upper point to Ground. Edit / Template Builder
Actions / Join Part to Ground (at Point)
To make the connection of the spring/damper unit on to the stub axle we could use
the method we have employed previously of joining two parts by selecting two
points. In this instance we dont have a point on the stub axle that we could connect
to, the existing points all being used to define joints with the other suspension parts.
We could create a new point on the stub axle using one of the Edit / Add to Model /
Add Point / to Part menu options and then join this point to the lower
spring/damper point with the Join Part to Part option, but there is a more convenient
method available. We will make the connection with Join Point to Part (at the Point)
menu. Thus we only need to select the part we wish to join to and the point we wish
to join to it.
Connect the Spring/Damper lower point to the stub axle. Edit / Template
Builder Actions / Join Point to Part (at the Point)
Template with spring/damper added
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We now have a complete template that can be used for modelling. Before
proceeding re-save the template as a custom template.
Re-Save the template as a custom template file, File / Template File Options
/ Save Custom Template. Set file name as sample_template.dat
To use this as a model we can simply switch to one of the 3D modules such as 3D
Bump. The display will change to indicate that we are no longer in the template
mode and the model will now solve over the defined articulation range. Confirm this
by displaying an x-y graph of the calculated camber angle.
Change to the 3D Bump module and display a camber angle graph. Module
/ Shark / 3D Bump, Graphs / New-open
Note that you can freely switch between the 3D-bump mode and the template builder
module to make further changes to the template as required.
13.5 Building a New Template, Example 2
As a second example of using the interactive template builder we will create a
Mcpherson Strut type suspension. This simple 4 part template requires only three
actual add part actions since the Strut/Upright adds two parts but is a single add
part action. Thus we need to add the following parts from the Edit / Add to Model /
Add Part options; 3 Point Strut, 3 Point wishbone and 2 Point Link.
Once the parts have been added and positioned at appropriate locations, to
complete the template we must carry out a number of steps. 1) We need to connect
the strut top, wishbone inner points and the steering link inner points to ground. 2)
Join the wishbone outer ball joint to the strut lower ball joint. 3) Joint the steering link
outer ball joint to the strut steering arm.
Change to template builder mode, Module / Shark / 3D Template Builder
Create new template, File / New, select Create Steerable Suspension,
give this new template a suitable label, Mcpherson strut example.
Add a 3 Point Strut Part, Edit / Add to Model / Add Part / 3 Point Strut
Add a 3 point wishbone and drag it down in Z to an appropriate position,
Edit / Add to Model / Add Part / 3 Point Wishbone.
Add a 2 point link and drag it forward in X to an appropriate position, Edit /
Add to Model / Add Part / 2 Point Link.
Connect the Strut top to Ground, Edit / Template Builder Actions / Join Part
to Ground (at Point).
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Connect the Wishbone Inner pivots to Ground, Edit / Template Builder
Actions / Join Part to Ground (at Point).
Connect the Steering link inner pivot to Ground, Edit / Template Builder
Actions / Join Part to Ground (at Point).
Joint the Wishbone outer ball joint to the lower ball joint of the Strut, Edit /
Template Builder Actions / Join Part to Part (at mean of two points).
Joint the Steering link outer ball joint to the steering arm ball joint of the
Strut, Edit / Template Builder Actions / Join Part to Part (at mean of two
points).
You should now have a valid template. As always check the status, you should have
15 unknowns and 15 equations.
McPherson Strut Template No Spring in template
Try adding the spring to complete this template.
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13.6 Exercise: Non-Steerable Single Upper Link Suspension
For an exercise try and produce the template shown below. It is a non-steerable
suspension with a single upper link and extended lower wishbone.
Non-Steerable template exercise
Hints: This 11 point 3 part template uses the following parts, 3-point stub axle, 4-
point wishbone and a 2-point link. The normal steering link connection on the stub
axle is re-positioned by connecting it to the other lower wishbone outer ball joint.
You should end up with a 12 equation / 12 unknown template.
As an extension to this exercise try and add the spring/damper unit operated on by a
push rod from the lower wishbone. You will need to add two more parts, a three-
point wishbone and a two-point link as well as the spring/damper unit.
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Push Rod Spring-Damper Modification
These changes produce a new template with 18 equations and 18 unknowns. Since
the additional push-rod mechanism does not control the kinematic motion of the
wheel as it is articulated, the extra points we have added can be post-solved. Post
solving can be used to remove unknowns from the main solution process, thus
leading to a quicker solution. We can make this change direct from the interactive
template editor.
To return to our previous 12 unknowns we need to switch the two unknown points
(since each unknown point adds three unknowns) from unknown to known via the
relevant right mouse menu. The two points to switch are the ends of the push-rod.
Changing the unknown Type
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Having made the changes to solver type you should be back to 12 unknowns and 12
equations. Test your template in the 3D bump module and the Roll module.
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15 User Templates (1)
14.1 Overview
This chapter describes the structure of the model Templates used by
Lotus Suspension Analysis to define and solve each suspension type.
This then details how users can create their own templates, and make
them available as extra default templates, or share them with other
users.
14.1 Overview............................................................................ 159
14.2 Description of User Templates........................................... 160
14.3 The Parts Data-Set ........................................................... 161
14.4 The Points Data Set ......................................................... 162
14.5 The Settings Data Set ...................................................... 164
14.6 Settings - Parts................................................................. 164
14.7 Settings - General Types.................................................. 165
14.8 Settings - Bushes ............................................................. 174
14.9 Settings Point Solution Type.......................................... 174
14.10 Template Validation ........................................................... 185
14.11 Exercise 1, Modifying an Existing Template....................... 187
14
14 - User Templates (1)
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14.2 Description of User Templates
All suspension types used in LSA (Shark) are defined using a template structure.
This structure uses a combination of data sets separated up into Parts, Points,
Settings and Graphics. A significant number of the most common suspension
types are hard coded into the application as defaults, but the user can modify these
defaults or add their own through the template-editing tool, (File / Edit Templates).
Each template is given a location number in the templates database (for example
the default double wishbone suspension is stored in location number 1). The
template is also given a descriptive string to make recognition of each type easier.
For a server installation, on program start up the template file _User_Template.dat
is searched for in the <install> folder. If it is found any template definitions identified
within it are loaded and will either overwrite an existing default template (if the
template number is already used by a default entry) or fill an empty slot number.
If a Database Folder is defined, on program start up the template file
_User_Template.dat is searched for in the <database> folder. If it is found any
template definitions identified within it are loaded and will either overwrite an existing
loaded template data.
Template definitions can be modified by individual users, thus individuals may have
completely different definitions using the same template slot number. To provide a
robust definition method, the specific template definition can be optionally included in
the models data file. By definition this implies that when a model file is read in it can
redefine a template specification, (and also that any subsequent use of the same
template number will be similarly affected until the program is restarted or the
templates reset).
Extra custom templates can be loaded at any time. Custom templates would
normally have be a pre-saved set (or single) template, that may be required for
occasional use but dont warrant being added to the automatically loaded
_User_Templates.dat file.
To allow users to return to a set of known template definitions, menu options are
provided that will re-set the template definitions to the hard coded ones only, or the
hard coded ones plus the system user templates in the _User_Templates.dat file,
(if it exists).
Data values in the various data sets within the template editor are grouped into four
further categories. These are compulsory, level 1, level 2 and level 3. Each
category is identified by a colour. These are used to illustrate which values must be
defined by the user, and which can be filled via the auto-fill routines. The auto-fills
can be used to assist in identify missing template values, through a series of menu
options.
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14.3 The Parts Data-Set
The Parts data-set defines how many parts are in the suspension corner (or axle)
model. Parts include wishbones, tie rods, uprights and rockers. There is no need to
add a part for the vehicle body (this is taken as part number 1), spring/dampers or
the tyre. Each of these is implicitly included later by Point definition.
The only data field for a part is an identifying label. This label is used in the other
data sets to ease part recognition/selection.
Parts Data Set editing Default template 1 shown
Part Numbers and Part Labels for the defined model can be displayed on the model
using the visibility switches, Graphics / Part Nos and Graphics / Part Labels.
All data values in the Parts data set are in the Compulsory category.
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14.4 The Points Data Set
The Points data set defines how many hard points are included in the suspension
corner/axle model. The data fields for each point are a Point short label/No., a
descriptive label (again used to aid identification/selection), and the default x, y and z
co-ordinate values. The default co-ordinate values are those that are applied to a
new model using the particular template. The SHARK co-ordinate system is a right
handed system with the Y-axis across the car track, the origin of which is assumed
to be on the vehicle centre line, and the +ve direction being towards the offside
suspension (Right hand Corner sitting in car). The X-axis is along the vehicle
wheelbase, normally with the origin in front of the vehicle with the +ve direction
towards the rear. The Z-axis is the vertical height, which for the 3D mode can be at
any height position. The +ve direction is taken as upwards.
Shark Coordinate System
Connections between parts are made at points (i.e. wishbone ball joint). These
connection points should only be entered once in the list of points (the association to
two parts is made later). Remember to add points for springs and damper connection
points. You need to include points for both the suspension attachment point of the
spring (or damper) and the attachment to the body.
If you have a combined spring/damper unit that employs common attachment points,
you dont need to define the spring and damper points separately. We can associate
both the spring and damper to the same connection point later.
For strut type suspensions, three points define the strut: the strut top mount point,
and two further points on the slider axis. These later two points would normally be
placed at the upper and lower bearing centres to ensure the correct moments/forces.
These three points will always be forced to lie along a single 3D line and thus get
updated/corrected by the application.
Two points are always used to define the wheel spindle axis. The first is the wheel
centre and the second is a point on the wheels rotational axis. This second spindle
point can be either inboard or outboard of the wheel centre, although it is usually
placed inboard of the wheel centre since its is the normal convention to draw
between these two, a graphical element representing the spindle shaft.
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Points Data Set editing Default template 3 shown
Although we have given each point a descriptive label, they can also be referenced
by the Point No, which is actually a short string. This short string is limited to a
maximum of 8 characters. This short string can be numbers, characters or a mix. If
numbers, it doesnt need to be the same as its numerical position in the list. The use
of this short label as a number is somewhat historical relating back to earlier version
of the program, when points were only referenced by number, rather than by label.
The visibility of both number and label on the model is set using the visibility
switches, Graphics / Point Nos. and Graphics / Point Labels.
You do not define a point for the tyre contact point. This is calculated automatically
from the tyre properties and the wheel spindle points. It can be added to the template
as a calculated point, should its visibility be required.
All data values in the Points data set are in the Compulsory category.
The 'Points' data set does have some optional identification labels that are used for
the import/export options to some specific file formats. These can be seen in the
right hand columns of the spreadsheet.
Points can be defined in a template as a function of another points position. In the
simplest form, it can be made the same by replacing the value with the string [P1X].
This will then always use the x co-ordinate from point 1 for this defined points
position (need not also be x). This string can be extended to include simple maths
equations, i.e. [P1X+10.0], or involve more than one point, i.e. [(P1X+P2X)/2.0].
These relationships are held as you drag points in the model.
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14.5 The Settings Data Set
The Settings data set has a row entered for each point defined in the Points data
set. It is through the Settings data set that we identify the association of points to a
part (or Parts), the solution method to solve for each point, a bush No., and any
special function that the point has. Some of these data fields are compulsory others
may be filled through the auto-fill options. It should be noted that the auto-fill
routines are not foolproof, and thus should be applied with care. Auto-fill routines
should only be used once all the compulsory data fields have been filled.
Settings Data Set editing Default template 1 shown
14.6 Settings - Parts
Columns 3 (part 1) and 4 (part 2) define the parts that a
point is associated with. These are compulsory data fields.
A point can at most be associated with two parts (this
would be a connection between parts and requires a bush),
and a minimum of one. In the case of a point associated to
one part, always fill column 3 in preference to column 4.
Note that additional part options, Ground and None are
added to the available parts list.
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14.7 Settings - General Types
Column 12 (Gen Type 1) which, whilst it is a compulsory data field, it can be left
blank (the equivalent of none from the menu options). This column defines whether
a point performs one of the General Types functions. These functions identify to the
solver and the template builder that a point has specific properties. Column 13 (Gen
Type 2) is a repeat of column 12 and is used if a point has more than one General
Type classification. There are currently 76 different General Types. The major ones
are discussed below.
General Types Menu
0 = None: Identifies that the point has no specific type. This could include points
such as wishbone attachment points to ground.
1 = Wheel Centre: One point must always be identified as wheel centre. Identifies
that the point is the wheel centre.
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2 = Stub Axle: One point must always be identified as stub axle. Identifies that the
point is the second point on the wheel spindle which together with the wheel centre
define the stub axle and hence all wheel related parameters.
3 = Steering Attachment Point to Rack: This optional point identifies that the
template has a point at which steering input can be applied, (either rack or steering
box). It is also used to determine whether the template will appear in the list of
available Front suspensions on the File/New option, (all templates appear in the list
of Rear; suspensions irrespective of this general type).
4 = Damper 1 to Suspension: This optional point identifies that the specified point
is the position in the template at which the damper is attached to the moving
suspension. This is used to determine damper travel, damper ratio etc. To work
correctly it will need general type 5 to also be defined. This would also be used to
identify the point at the upper bearing position on the slider of a McPherson-strut
suspension. The reference to Damper 1 in the description is a recognition for
potential future expansion to include multiple damper templates.
5 = Damper 1 to Body (also Strut Top): This optional point identifies that the
specified point is the position in the template at which the damper is attached to the
body. It is used in conjunction with general type 4 above. This would also be used to
identify the point at the top of the slider for a McPherson-strut suspension.
Example Rear Suspension Showing General Types 1,2,4,5,6 and 7
6 = Spring 1 to Suspension: This compulsory point identifies that the specified
point is the position in the template at which the spring is attached to the moving
suspension. This is used to apply suspension spring forces to the template and
determine spring travel, spring ratio etc. To work correctly it will need general type 7
to also be defined. The reference to Spring 1 in the description is a recognition for
potential future expansion to include multiple spring templates.
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7 = Spring 1 to Body: This optional point identifies that the specified point is the
position in the template at which the spring is attached to the body. It is used in
conjunction with general type 6 above.
8 = Upper Ball Joint: This optional point identifies that the specified point is the
upper ball joint on the steering axis. Whilst this is optional if it exists and can be
identified this will improve the calculation speed/accuracy. Together with general
type 9 it defines the steering axis. If a steering axis can not be defined but a steering
attachment point has been identified, (see default template No. 20), then additional
calculations are used involving a small steering perturbation to identify the effective
steering axis. This normally involves suspension types that have twin outer ball joints
rather than a single one.
Example Front Suspension Showing General Types 3,8 and 9
9 = Lower Ball Joint: This optional point identifies that the specified point is the
lower ball joint on the steering axis, (see comments for type 8 above).
10 = Strut Slider Point: This optional point identifies that the template is a strut type
suspension and the specified point is the strut body upper bearing position. This
should not be confused with the strut top mount, (which is identified via general type
5). This point moves with the strut body and is used as the sliding connection
between the slider and the strut body, (see also type 11 below).
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11 = Strut End Point: This optional point identifies that the template is a strut type
suspension and the specified point is the strut slider end bearing. This point moves
with the strut slider and is used as the sliding connection between the slider and the
strut body.
Example McPherson Strut Showing General Types 5,6,7,10 and 11
14 = Roll Bar Link attachment: This optional point identifies the point where the
roll bar drop link is attached to the anti-roll bar. This is used to identify the amount of
twist in the bar and hence the force applied to the suspension.
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Example Front Suspension General Types 14 and 34
15 = Rack Lateral Mount point: This optional point identifies the point as being a
the rack attachment point that also takes the axial reaction load. User defined bush
properties should be defined accordingly.
16 = Rack Mount Point: This optional point identifies the point as being the second
rack attachment point. No axial load is carried by this point when using the default
bush settings.
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Example Front suspension General Types 3, 15 and 16
17 = Wheel Centre(2): This optional point identifies the point as being the second
wheel centre for rigid axle and full axle templates.
18 = Damper 2 to suspension: This optional point identifies the point as being the
second dampers attachment point to the suspension. It may be a second damper on
a single corner model or the opposite side on a full axle model.
19 = Damper 2 to body: This optional point identifies the point as being the second
dampers attachment point to the body. As for point 18 above it may be one of two
cases.
20 = Spring 2 to suspension: This optional point identifies the point as being the
second springs attachment point to the suspension. It may be a second spring on a
single corner model or the opposite side on a full axle model.
21 = Spring 2 to body: This optional point identifies the point as being the second
springs attachment point to the body. As for point 20 above it may be one of two
cases.
22 = Rigid axle revolute: This optional point identifies the point as being a revolute
joint at the centre of a rigid axle. It is required for rigid axle templates to enable them
to pre-solve in kinematic mode when in roll mode.
23 = Stub Axle(2): This optional point identifies the point as being the second wheel
stub axle point. This is needed for full axle models.
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24 = Shear Point: Used just for twist beam suspensions to identify the different pivot
point position used in bump and roll. (Optional).
25 = Part C of G Point: Used to identify a point as being the C of G point for its
primary part. It is normal for this point to not be used except as the C of G point, i.e.
no involved in any joints. (Optional).
26 = Upper Ball Joint(2): Identifies a point as being the upper ball joint for the
steering axis on full axle templates only. This must be a connection between two
parts to conform with the concept of a steering axis. It is an optional setting in that if
it (and the lower ball joint) are not defined the steering axis is determined via a small
perturbation of the steering input mechanism. If it can be defined it will lead to faster
solution times than the small perturbation method. (Optional).
27 = Lower Ball Joint (2): Identifies a point as being the lower ball joint for the
steering axis on full axle templates only. This must be a connection between two
parts to conform with the concept of a steering axis. It is an optional setting in that if
it (and the upper ball joint) are not defined the steering axis is determined via a small
perturbation of the steering input mechanism. If it can be defined it will lead to faster
solution times than the small perturbation method. (Optional).
28 = Strut Slider Point(2): Sets the point for a Macpherson strut suspension type
that is considered to be the location of the top bush for the strut for full axle
templates only, (attached to the strut body). (Required for Struts).
29 = Strut End Point(2): Sets the point for a Macpherson strut suspension type that
is considered to be the location of the strut lower bush for full axle templates only,
(attached to the strut slider). (Required for Struts).
32 = Roll Bar Link Attachment(2): Identifies the point as being the second
connection between the roll bar drop link and the suspension. (Optional). Roll bars
can only be added to full axle templates so a template must have both this and point
14 defined.
33 = Steering Attachment Point(2) to Rack: T Identifies which suspension link end
point should be used for the steering input from the rack or steering box for the
second end in a full axle model only. See also point 3 above. This point should be
the inboard end of the track rod, i.e. link point connected to body or rack. (Optional).
For a compliant rack to be added to the model this point must be defined together
with point 3 above.
34 = Roll Bar, Revolute Joint: Identifies the point as being the centre point of a two
part roll bar. In kinematic mode this is treated as a simple revolute allowing roll
motion. In compliant mode the roll bar stiffness is applied to this point to simulate the
effect of the roll bar stiffness. (Optional). Roll bars can only be added to full axle
templates so a template must have this point and points 14 and 32 defined.
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35 = Wheel Hub Compliance: Identifies the point as representing the hub
compliance. This forms the connection between the upright and the hub/wheel. The
solver uses this to apply suitable default stiffness values to the associated bush
when the user as left it as rigid. This is necessary since a rigid has no rotational
stiffness and would lead to unconstrained rotations of the hub.
36 = Wheel Hub Compliance (2): For full axle models identifies the point as
representing the hub compliance for the other side. This is used by the solver in an
identical manner to general type 35 above.
37 = Outer CV Centre: Tags the point in the template as being the Outer CV joint
centre. This is used in conjunction with general types 39 and 41 to fully define the
centre positions and orientations of the drive shaft. In most instances where the drive
shaft has been added using the convenience menu the general type 37 is assigned
to the stub axle point, (general type 2). The wheel centre is also used with this point
to define the axis orientation of the output shaft.
38 = Outer CV Centre (2): Identical function as general type 37 above, but for the
opposite side with full axle models.
39 = Inner CV Centre: Tags the point in the template as being the Inner CV joint
centre. This is used in conjunction with general types 37 and 41 to fully define the
centre positions and orientations of the drive shaft.
40 = Inner CV Centre (2): Identical function as general type 39 above, but for the
41 = Inner CV Axis: Tags the point in the template as being a point on the Inner CV
joint axis. The axis uses this point and the inner joint centre to define the axis
orientation of the input shaft. This is used in conjunction with general types 37 and
39 to fully define the centre positions and orientations of the drive shaft.
42 = Inner CV Axis (2): Identical function as general type 41 above, but for the
43 = Spacer Point: Identifies the point as being associated with a spacer. This
enables certain solver functionality for the point including local solving by length and
checking for an associated spacer vector point. As with all general type allocations it
also assists in filling the template values when users use the auto-fill options.
44 = Spacer Vector Point: Identifies the point as being the vector point for a spacer.
This is used to identify the direction of the spacers length vector for any
subsequent changes in the spacer length applied to that spacer.
45 = Leaf Spring Hanger Mount: Together with general types 46 and 47 this point
identifies and defines the equivalent leaf spring model. It is used by the solver to
apply suitable default stiffness values when in compliant mode and when the bush
properties are undefined (i.e. set as rigid). This particular general type is for the
connection between the spring hanger and the body/ground.
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46 = Leaf Spring End Eye: Together with general types 45 and 47 this point
identifies and defines the equivalent leaf spring model. It is used by the solver to
apply suitable default stiffness values when in compliant mode and when the bush
properties are undefined (i.e. set as rigid). This particular general type is used on
either end of the spring, so the connection between the spring eye and the spring
hanger or the spring eye and the body/ground.
47 = Leaf Spring Joint: Together with general types 45 and 46 this point identifies
and defines the equivalent leaf spring model. It is used by the solver to apply suitable
default stiffness values when in compliant mode and when the bush properties are
undefined (i.e. set as rigid). This particular general type is used on the joints within
the spring, so the connection between the spring parts.
49 = Zero Stiffness Mesh Point: The meshing of a rigid part make use of two
general types, 49 and 50 to deal with the graphical drawing and application of
suitable default stiffness values. The zero stiffness point will have by default zero
stiffness values applied to it by solver unless specifically defined by the user. They
are zeroed to allow the structural mesh point to control the meshed part flexibility.
50 = Structural Mesh Point: The meshing of a rigid part make use of two general
types, 49 and 50 to deal with the graphical drawing and application of suitable
default stiffness values. The Structural mesh point will have by default high
translational and rotational stiffness values applied to it by solver unless specifically
defined by the user.
51 = Bump stop 1 to Suspension: Identifies the point as being the suspension end
of the bump stop 1.
52 = Bump stop 1 to body: Identifies the point as being the body end of the bump
stop 1.
53 = Bump stop 2 to Suspension: Identifies the point as being the suspension end
of the bump stop 2.
54 = Bump stop 2 to body: Identifies the point as being the body end of the bump
stop 2.
55 to 72 = Specific Calculation Points: All these points are positions in the model
that are classed as Calculated, that is their position is calculated directly from other
points in the template are not therefore defined directly. They cannot be edited or
manipulated but can be used in the template to locate graphics.
73 = Steered Point: A specific option that identifies a point attached to the body as
one that should move with steering articulation. Alternative methods such as local
co-ordinate systems or point definition strings would not achieve this behaviour as
they only set the initial position.
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14.8 Settings - Bushes
The settings data-set is where we define the number of bushes in the model, and
assign a bush number to each connection (column 5). A bush is added at any point
that is a connection between two parts, and at a point that is the connection of a part
to ground. Bush Nos. are primarily used for internal identification and need not be
sequential.
14.9 Settings Point Solution Type
Column 2 (Point Type) defines for each point the solution type used to solve its
incremental position. This controls the number of equations, and the values used in
solving the set of simultaneous equations. Some solution definitions can be post
solved. That is determined after the set of simultaneous equations are solved.
Fourteen different point solution types are available although by far the most
common is the use of the sphere equation. A description of each solution type is
given below. Depending on the solution type selected the values required in columns
6 to 11 alter. These level 3 data fields identify the relevant points for the selected
solution type.
Point Type options list
-1 = Dummy Axis Point: This option would not normally be used. It was added to
deal with a specific issue identified for backward compatibility with default template
type 12. It had in its original formulation an additional undefined point used to
restrain the upright and enable the use of a steering knuckle. It is not envisaged that
users would need to use this special option, as it is perfectly feasible to build this
suspension template without recourse to this point solution type.
0 = To Body/Ground: This sets the point solution type as being pre-filled, (by bump,
rebound or roll articulation) and hence no equations are added to the solver for this
point. No arguments are required in columns 6 to 11 for this solution type. Points that
use this type are usually those that are attached directly to the body.
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Typical Point Type 0s, To Body/Ground
1 = Solve Direct (sphere): This sets the point solution type to be based on the
equation of a sphere. A spherical equation is added to the list of simultaneous
equations for each point referenced in columns 6 to 11. The sphere equation
controls the 3D distance between two points. The two points being the current rows
point and the column 6 to 11 data field values.
Typical Double Wishbone Type 1s, Solve direct (Sphere)
Data entry in columns 6 to 11 can be completed using the auto-fill routines. The
auto fill routines tend to add duplication but these are checked for and ignored by the
solver.
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Screen Shot for settings on solution type 1, Adds 4 Equations
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2 = Solve Post (Vector Position): This sets the point solution type to be based on a
fixed position relative to three other points on the same body. It is a post
simultaneous equation solution calculation and as such has no control on the
suspension articulation. Typical cases where this solution type is applied would be
the case of a simple damper attachment to a wishbone. By definition it requires a
minimum of four points to be associated with the relevant part. It is used where
possible in preference to type 1 above, to increase the overall calculation speed by
not adding three more sphere equations to the list. This solution type should not be
used on push-rod or pull-rods since additional mechanism positions rely on it.
Example Solver Point Type 2
Define in columns 6,7 and 8 the three point Nos of points on the same part as this
point. No numbers are required for columns 9 to 11.
Screen Shot for settings on solution type 2
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3 = Define Z Position (Wheel Centre): This point solution type is specific to wheel
centre points. A point that has already been identified as the wheel centre would be
given this point solution type by the auto-fill routines. It requires in columns 6,7 and
8 three other reference points to be identified on the same part. One of these points
should not be the wheel spindle point since that point is always post calculated and
therefore not available to use in defining the wheel centre. This point solution type
adds one equation to the simultaneous equation list. No values are required in
columns 9,10 and11.
Example Solver Point Type 3, Typical point dependency
Screen Shot for settings on solution type 3, Adds 1 Equation
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4 = Solve Direct (Slider Connection): This point solution type is specific to Strut
slider points. A point that has already been identified as the Strut slider point,
(general type 10), would be given this point solution type by the auto-fill routines. It
requires in columns 6 and 7 the two other strut slider points to be identified, (general
types 5 and 11). This adds two equations to the simultaneous equations list.
Example Solver Point Type 4, Shows both part definitions
No value is required for column 8. In columns 9,10 and 11 point Nos are required for
up to three other points on the Strut Upright part, that define the location of it on that
part. Each point number adds a sphere constraint equation between it and the strut
slider point. The auto-fill routine will always add three points, any subsequent
duplication in spherical constraints is ignored.
Screen Shot for settings on solution type 4, Adds 5 Equations
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5 = Solve Post (Stub axle): This point solution type is specific to the point general
type 2 Stub Axle. A point that has already been identified as the Stub axle point,
(general type 2), would be given this point solution type by the auto-fill routines. It
requires three points to be defined through columns 6,7 and 8 that are also on the
upright part. This is a post simultaneous solution method and so does not add any
equations to the list.
Example Solver Point Type 5, Shows typical three point definition
The normal point selection would include the wheel centre point. Because this is a
Post simultaneous equation solver type it can use any three points on the body that
have already been solved in the main simultaneous equation solution, this is typically
major defining points such as all ball joints. It can not use points that are also post
solved since depending on the solver order sequence they may not yet have been
evaluated.
Screen Shot for settings on solution type 5
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6 = Solve Direct (Slider Bottom): This point solution type is specific to Strut End
Points. A point that has already been identified as the Strut End Point, (general type
10), would be given this point solution type by the auto-fill routines. It requires in
column 6 the strut top point to be identified, (general types 5). This adds one
equation to the simultaneous equations list.
Example Solver Point Type 6, Shows single point identification
No values are required for columns 7 and 8 or columns 9,10 and 11.
Screen Shot for settings on solution type 6, Adds 1 Equation
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7 = Solve via Hookes Joint: This point solution type is a post calculation solution
type that was added to handle the specific case of an under constrained kinematic
model. The normal use for this solution type is when a spring or damper is attached
to a tie rod. Kinematically a tie rod having just two attachment points provides a
single spherical constraint to the model but in itself it has a degree of freedom left,
rotation about the axis joining the two ends. When a damper is attached to this link,
unless it is placed exactly on the tie rod axis, this degree of freedom means that the
new position of the damper attachment cannot be solved. By placing a Hookes joint
at one end of the tie rod this rotational degree of freedom is removed and a
kinematic solution can be identified.
Example Solver Point Type 7, Two points identified
The use of a Hookes joint in the kinematic model does not effect the fully bushed
compliant solution. The rotational degree of freedom in the complaint case is taken
out via suitable bush properties. An example of the Hookes joint point solver can be
found in default template 19.
Screen Shot for settings on solution type 7, Example template 19
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8 = Solve Post (Sphere): This point solution type is a post calculation solution type
and as such adds no equations to the simultaneous equation list. It is used as an
alternative to point solution type 2 in special cases. It is always preferable to use
point solution type 2 rather than this one. Since the sphere equation always has
more than one solution which can lead to errors when two solutions are similar.
Default template 23 uses this solution type for the anti roll bar drop link attachment.
As with the conventional Solve Direct (sphere) solution type up to three points are
listed in columns 6,7 and 8 a spherical constraint equation added for each point
number. All points entered must be on the same part as the point being solved. No
data points need be defined in columns 9,10 and 11.
Screen Shot for Settings on solution type 8
9 = Pre-Solve (Kinematic Fix): A pre main solver option calculation. Requires no
defining points since the point is assumed to be inactive in kinematic mode. It
remains fixed to the part it is defined on (normally ground or a ground fixed part). It is
used to add additional compliance effects for parts such as rack mounts and sub
frames that are assumed to have no kinematic effect but are included in the
compliance matrix.
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10 = Solve Post (Direct Substitution): A post solver option calculation. Is used to
identify all points that belong to the calculated group. That is points with General
Type tags of 55 to 72. Requires no defining points since the points general type is
sufficient to identify the solution.
11 = Solve Post (Vector Sphere): Used to solve the position of a drive shaft inner CV
type point. A post solver option calculation that requires three points to be identified,
Itself, its axis point (that together with itself identifies the axis that the inner joint
slides along and the point for the outer drive shaft centre. the distance between the
inner and outer shaft centres is held constant whilst the inner CV plunges along the
specified axis.
12 = Solve Post (Sphere Predictive): This post solver calculation is identical to
Solution type 2 with the exception of how the solution choice from the two possible
options is made. It takes the same option of the two as was identified for the static
case. This can be a useful option when type 2 has an instability due to inversion.
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15.10 Template Validation
The definition of a template is used to identify unknown point positions (x, y and z),
and the number of equations. For a successful template definition, the number of
equations must equal the number of unknowns. A utility is provided to test the
unknown to equations count. From the template window, select Data / Run
Validation Test The produced display lists the number of unknowns, and the
number of equations. Each equation is listed by type and with the associated point
numbers.
Example Template validation for default template type 1
This list can be compared with expected equations to debug new template problems.
Remember that it will not list post calculation unknowns or equations, only those
that are solved as the list of simultaneous equations. If we compare the validation list
with the template settings, we can identify the source of each equation. The
validation of template 1 shows 12 unknowns. Looking at the conventional double
wishbone suspension, we can identify these (we will ignore additional points that are
post calculated);
Lower Wishbone Outer Ball Joint, X, Y and Z co-ordinates, (x3, y3, z3)
Upper Wishbone Outer Ball Joint, X, Y and Z co-ordinates, (x6, y6, z6)
Steering Arm Outer Ball Joint, X, Y and Z co-ordinates, (x9, y9, z9)
Wheel Centre Point, X, Y and Z co-ordinates, (x14, y14, z14)
These 12 unknowns are illustrated on the image below.
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Default Template Type 1, 12 unknowns indicated
If we now look at the data in the Settings display we can identify the origin of the 12
equations used to solve for the 12 unknowns.
Screen shot of settings for default template type 1
Compare the paired numbers with those given in the validation list: they will match.
Minimum Z equation added automatically for wheel centre point. Three duplicate
spherical constraints ignored by the solver.
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15.11 Exercise 1, Modifying an Existing Template
As a simple exercise in modifying a template, we will take default template 1 and
change the component that the spring/damper is attached too. To validate that we
have changed the connection point of the spring, we will use the compliant analysis
force display.
Open a new front-end only model, and use default template type 1. Turn the
compliance on and note the calculated force display (see front view screen shot
below).
Standard templates calculated forces
Now modify the points Damper wishbone end and lower spring pivot point such
that they are attached to the upright rather than the lower wishbone.
Remember to set any required changes to the new points in columns 6 to 11. For the
purpose of this exercise do not use the auto-fill routines we will cover these later.
Make the require template changes and confirm the difference by checking for a
change in the calculated forces.
Hint: Use the apply button to apply the changes to the current model (you can also
press ok).
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Exercise: Solution
You should have made changes to the Part 1 settings for points 7 and 12. You will
also have needed to change columns 6, 7 and 8 for both of them to reference three
points (other than themselves), on the upright. Could pick any three from points 3, 6,
9 or 14.
Modified template 1, Changes ringed
Revised model illustrating the change in calculated forces
If this was required to be a permanent change, we would probably change the
default x,y,z co-ordinates for points 7 and 12 to make them more realistic and
change some of the point descriptions to be inline with our new template.
Unless we save this modified template, our changes will be lost when we close the
application. In this instance we do not want to retain the changes to this default
template. In the next section we will look at creating and saving new templates such
that they are available for future use.
18 User Templates (2)
15.1 Overview
In this chapter, we extend the previous chapters description of the data
structure for templates, by creating a new template and making this
available for subsequent analysis runs.
15.1 Overview ............................................................................. 189
15.2 Template Sources ............................................................... 190
15.3 Storing and Saving Templates ............................................ 193
15.4 Saving to the User Templates File....................................... 193
15.5 Saving Custom template Files............................................. 194
15.6 Creating New Templates ..................................................... 194
15.7 Exercise 2 Creating a New Template ............................... 195
15.8 Template Graphics .............................................................. 200
15.9 Exercise 3 Adding Graphics to a Template ...................... 207
15.10 Using the New Template ..................................................... 209
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15.2 Template Sources
Each template is stored in a particular template slot (normally referred to as
template type). So the conventional double wishbone suspension, with damper
attached to the lower wishbone, is stored in slot 1 by the hard coded default
templates.
Each saved model data file references the appropriate template slot via this number.
The data file itself does not necessarily have a copy of the template structure, only
the slot number (you can optionally save the template(s) with the data file SetUp /
Include User Templates in Data Files). Thus it is important to remember that if you
make a change to a template the safest approach is to save it to a new free slot
number.
Templates are stored at four levels. Each subsequent level can overwrite the current
slot template with a new template, if it defines a template slot number that is already
defined by a previous level.
The first template source level is the hard-coded defaults. These are built into the
program at compile time and thus whilst they can be modified or over-written by
subsequent levels, (as identified above), they cannot be directly changed by the
user. The hard-coded defaults at release version 5.01a are:
Slot 1 Double Wishbone, damper to lower wishbone
Slot 2 Lower H frame, single upper link
Slot 3 Steerable Macpherson Strut
Slot 4 Non-Steerable Macph Strut, two lower ball joints, tie to ground
Slot 5 5-Link Rigid Axle (Panhard Rod)
Slot 6 Double Wishbone, damper to upper wishbone
Slot 7 Non/Steerable Macpherson Strut, toe link to lower wishbone
Slot 8 4-Link Rigid Axle (Panhard Rod)
Slot 9 4-Link Rigid Axle (Twin Upper)
Slot 10 Trailing Arm upper and lower rear links
Slot 11 Semi Trailing Arm
Slot 12 Steerable Twin Parallel Wishbones and Knuckle
Slot 14 Double Wishbone Push Rod to Damper
Slot 15 Double Wishbone, Rocker Arm Damper
Slot 16 Non-Steerable Lower A Arm with Toe Link
Slot 17 Double Wishbone, Push Rod, Mono-shock
Slot 18 Double Wishbone, Upper Toe Link, Drop S Link
Slot 19 Hinged Trailing Arm, Twin lower Link
Slot 20 Double Wishbone, Twin Outer Ball Joints
Slot 21 5-Link Rigid Axle (Watts Linkage)
Slot 22 Double Wishbone, Twin Outer Ball Joints, Spring Front
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Slot 23 Double Wishbone, Anti-Roll Bar
Slot 24 Steerable Macpherson Stut, Twin Outer Ball Joints
Slot 25 Double Wishbone, Twin Lower Outer Ball Joints
Slot 26 Double Wishbone, Damper to Lower Wishbone, Compliant Rack
Slot 27 Steerable Macpherson Strut, Twin Lower Link
Slot 28 4-Link Rear, Transverse Control Link
Slot 29 Twist Beam Twin Wheel
Slot 30 Generic 5-Link Rear
Slot 31 Leaf Spring Rigid Axle (Panhard Rod)
Slot 32 5-link Rigid Axle (offset wheels)
Slot 33 McPherson Strut with Steerable Hub
The second template source level is the User defined Templates. The user defined
templates are stored in a specific file (_user_templates.dat), in the same folder the
software is installed in. On program start-up, this file is checked for, and if found, any
user defined template information stored in it is loaded into the application. As
discussed above, if the same slot number as one of the hard coded defaults is
used, the user template will overwrite the hard coded default. This file will only exist if
the user has previously selected to save a template from within the template editor.
The third template source level is the Custom Templates. These are stored by the
user into a user-defined file (disc location, folder location and name). They are only
loaded from the file into the relevant template slots when the user scans for and
reads the required file. Thus custom templates can be stored in any number of
separate files, these files can be passed between users or stored on a central
repository. As identified previously, slot numbers referenced by the custom
templates will overwrite any existing default or user template definition. If you use
custom templates, the template properties must be loaded before you load a data file
that references this custom template.
The fourth template source is from within a loaded data file. If the template has been
saved with the data file, this will be loaded into its respective slot when the data file is
opened. Note that these changes to the template will continue to reside in the loaded
slot, until it is overwritten, or the program is restarted, or one of the File / Re-Read
menu options is run.
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Slot No. 1 - Hard-coded defaults 2 - User Defined
Templates
3 Custom
Templates
4-Data Files
1 Double Wishbone, damper to lower wishbone.
2 H-frame Lower, single upper link.
3 Steerable Macpherson Strut.
4 Non-Steerable Macpherson Strut, twin lower link.
5 5-Link Rigid Axle (Panhard Rod)
6 Double Wishbone, damper to upper wishbone.
7 Non-Steerable Macph strut, toe link to wishbone. Would overwrite
hard coded
Would overwrite
defined
8 4-Link Rigid Axle (Panhard Rod)
9 4-link Rigid Axle (Twin Upper) Would overwrite
hard coded
10 Trailing Arm, upper and lower rear links.
11 Semi Trailing Arm.
12 Steerable Twin Parallel Wishbones and knuckle.
13 Free slot to use
14 Double Wishbone, Push Rod to damper.
15 Double Wishbone, Rocker arm damper.
16 Non Steerable lower A with toe link.
17 Double Wishbone, pushrod mono-shock.
18 Double Wishbone, Upper toe link + S link.
19 Hinged Trailing Arm, Twin Lower Link.
20 Double Wishbone, twin outer ball joints.
21 5-Link Rigid Axle (Watts Linkage)
22 Double Wishbone, twin outer ball joints Spring front.
23 Double Wishbone, twin outer ball anti roll bar.
24 Steerable Macpherson Strut, twin outer ball joints.
25 Double Wishbone, twin lower outer ball joints.
26 Double Wishbone, damper to lower, comp rack.
27 Steerable Macpherson Strut, Twin lower Link
28 4-Link Rear, Transverse Control Link
29 Twist Beam Twin Wheel
30 Generic 5-Link Rear
31 Leaf Spring Rigid Axle (Panhard Rod)
32 5-link Rigid axle (offset wheels)
33 Macpherson Strut with steerable hub
34. Free slot to use
. Free slot to use
50 Free slot to use
Schematic of Template Levels and Slot Nos.
The schematic above illustrates the templates levels. Cyan shows the free slots
where new user or custom templates could be stored. The Red boxes indicate
example slots for user and custom templates that would overwrite the Hard-coded
defaults. The mauve box indicates an example custom template slot that would
have overwritten the Red box user template.
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15.3 Storing and Saving Templates
As identified previously, the user can save templates either as User templates,
Custom templates, or within the data file. Saving templates involves writing the
specified template slot number to a file.
The user templates file is a predefined file name and location, whilst the custom
templates are saved to user specified files. Custom templates can be saved either
singularly or as a complete capture of all currently defined templates, including
unaltered default templates.
15.4 Saving to the User Templates File
A template is saved to the user templates file from the template editor. Open the
template editor, File / Edit Templates. You would then display the required template
by selecting the + and - icons. Once displayed, select the menu Data / Save
Template to User File. You will be warned about the data change and overwrite
existing users file, (if found).
Saving current template to user template file
The user templates file, (_User_Templates.dat), will only exist if a previous template
has been saved to the user templates file. If the user templates file already contains
an entry for the slot number selected, this will be replaced with the current settings. If
no entry exists in the User templates file for the selected slot number then this
template definition will be added to the User templates file.
When adding/over writing the contents of the User templates file the existing file is
renamed to _User_Templates.dat.old.
If you choose to delete the user templates file, all templates revert back to the hard
coded settings.
At any time during a program run, you can revert back to the hard coded defaults +
saved user templates by selecting the main menu item, File / Re-Read Default +User
Templates. If the user templates has been deleted this will effectively set all template
settings back to the hard-coded defaults.
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15.5 Saving Custom template Files
A modified template data settings can be saved to a separate file as a Custom
template. On subsequent analysis runs this file would need to be re-read before this
custom template can be used. From within the template editor, the currently
displayed template can be saved to a custom file by selecting Data / Custom
Template Save Confirm the information message and use the file browser to
identify the required file location and name (this could be on a remote/central server).
Save Custom Template file message
Templates loaded from custom files will overwrite any existing data in the specified
slot number.
It is also possible to take a snap-shot copy of all defined template data settings, and
save them to a single custom templates file. From the main menu, select File / Save
Custom Templates (All), then use the displayed file browser to locate the required
file location and name.
On subsequent runs, if you require to use a Custom template, these must be re-
loaded as, unlike user templates, they are not automatically loaded when starting
the application. To load a custom template from the main menu, select File / Add
Custom Templates Use the displayed file browser to locate the required custom
templates file.
15.6 Creating New Templates
If you need to create a new template, you would normally pick a currently free slot
to avoid overwriting an existing template. In the template editor, step through until
you find a Slot identified as Not Defined.
To assist in building a template that is only a slight change from an existing one, you
can pre-fill your new template from an existing one, by using the File / Fill current
Template From / menu option.
We will create a new template completely from scratch via the following exercise.
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15.7 Exercise 2 Creating a New Template
As an exercise in understanding the structure of user defined templates, we will
create from scratch a new template for the generic five link rear suspension
illustrated below.
Example five link rear suspension
To create the new template, open the template editor (File / Edit Templates). Find a
convenient empty slot (the screen shots shown with this examples use slot number
8). But you may wish to select a free slot such as number 34.
Step 1: Starting at the Parts tab we need to;
1) Give the template a label
2) Identify the number of parts
3) Give each part a descriptive label.
No need to define a part for Ground.
See overleaf for example Parts data values.
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Identification of Parts, Six in Model
Screen shot with Parts data values entered
Step 2: Change to the Points tab. Now we need to;
1) Identify the number of points
2) Give each point a short label
3) Give each point a descriptive label
4) Supply the default x, y and z values for each point.
Remember you dont need to define a point for the tyre contact point and we can
make the spring-damper attachment points as coincident.
See overleaf for example Points data values.
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Identification of Points, 14 in Model
Screen shot with Points data values entered
Step 3: Change to the Settings tab. Now we need to:
1) Identify the Part 1 and Part 2 settings for each point.
2) Define any General types for each point.
Remember any point that is a connection between two parts, or a connection
between a part and ground, requires two parts to be defined.
See overleaf for example point Settings.
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Initial Settings for Part 1, Part 2 and Gen Type values.
We can now use the auto-fill routines to complete the other required data values.
Alternatively you may want to try completing them by hand and then check them with
the auto-fill settings. To use the auto-fill select Data / Test Auto Fill and if you then
select Level 1 you can note the changes level by level.
Using the Test auto-fill routines allows you to visually review the differences, and
accept or reject the changes.
Repeat the Test Auto-fills for Levels 2 and 3, such that you have a fully defined
template (check with results on following page).
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Data Fill Complete to Level 3 using auto-fill routines.
We could now use this template to create a new model, using the File / New option
in the normal way (remember: because we have not identified an input steering
point, it will only appear in the Rear suspension list).
If we did use this template in its current form, because we havent associated any
graphics with this template, we would only see the hard points, tyre graphic and
spring/damper graphic. We need to define template graphics.
Before we cover template graphics, save the currently defined values for our new
template to a user file. From the template editor, select Data / Custom Template
Save. Confirm the save event and locate the required file folder and name using the
standard browser
Save custom template message.
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15.8 Template Graphics
When a template is used within a model, each has its own associated 3D graphics.
Apart from the generic graphics items, such as the wheel/tyre, spring, and damper,
the remainder such as links and wishbones are specified by the fourth data set of the
template specification Graphics.
Currently nine basic graphics primitives are available: Line, Cylinder, Circle, Sphere,
Facet, Plane, Distance, Component and Angle. Each of these graphical types is
drawn based on hard point co-ordinates. Each primitive type has its own set of
property values, and some may be defined in a number of ways. A full list of the
current options is given below, with further details of some specific examples
following this list.
Line Graphic Classes:
Pnt-Pnt Line: Adds a new Line graphical element to the selected ends template. Two hard point
picks are required, points need not be on the same part.
Pnt-Vector Line: Adds a new Line graphical element to the selected ends template. Three hard
point picks are required, a line is drawn through the first point whos direction is set by the vector
defined by the second and third picks, points need not be on the same part. The first and second
picks can be the same point. The line is drawn to a global clipped length.
Pnt-Xvector Line: Adds a new Line graphical element to the selected ends template. One hard
point pick is required, a line is drawn through the picked point in the global X axis direction. The line is
drawn to a global clipped length.
Pnt-Yvector Line: Adds a new Line graphical element to the selected ends template. One hard
point pick is required, a line is drawn through the picked point in the global Y axis direction. The line is
Pnt-Zvector Line: Adds a new Line graphical element to the selected ends template. One hard
point pick is required, a line is drawn through the picked point in the global Z axis direction. The line is
Pnt-Plane-Norm: Adds a new Line graphical element to the selected ends template. A line is
drawn through the selected point in a direction normal to the selected plane. The plane is identified by
three point picks. The line is drawn to a global clipped length.
Pnt-UserVector: Adds a new Line graphical element to the selected ends template. A line is drawn
through the selected point in a direction defined by a user vector. The line is drawn to a global clipped
length.
Pnt-Vector^Vector Line: Adds a new Line graphical element to the selected ends template. A line
is drawn through the selected point in a direction defined by the cross product of two defined vectors.
The line is drawn to a global clipped length.
Cylinder Graphic Classes:
Pivot: Adds a new Pivot graphical element to the selected ends template. Two hard point picks are
required, both points need not be on the same part.
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Tube: Adds a new Tube graphical element to the selected ends template. Two hard point picks are
required, both points need not be on the same part.
Vector-Radius-Length: Adds a new cylinder graphical element to the selected ends template.
Drawn through the selected point in a direction defined by the second and third point picks. The
radius and length of the cylinder are defined directly.
Pnt-Vector-Radius-Length: Adds a new cylinder graphical element to the selected ends
template. Drawn through the selected point in a direction defined directly by the user. The radius and
length of the cylinder are also defined directly.
Circle Graphic Classes:
Pnt-Pnt-Pnt: Adds a new Circle graphical element to the selected ends template. Three hard point
picks are required through which is drawn a circle, both the circle centre and radius are calculated
and displayed as part of the graphical display.
Cntr-Rad-Norm: Adds a new Circle graphical element to the selected ends template. Three hard
point picks are required. The circle is drawn centred at the first point of a defined radius and whos
normal is defined by the second and third picks. The first and second picks can be the same point.
Cntr-Pnt-Plane: Adds a new Circle graphical element to the selected ends template. Three hard
point picks are required. The circle is drawn centred at the first point and is drawn through the second
point, (i.e. defines the radius), in a plane that contains the third picked point. All picked points must be
different.
Pnt-Normal: Adds a new Circle graphical element to the selected ends template. Three hard point
picks are required. The circle is drawn through the first point about the defined normal vector. All
picked points must be different. The derived circle centre and radius is drawn as part of the graphical
element display.
Sphere Graphic Classes:
Pnt-Pnt Radius: Adds a new Sphere graphical element to the selected ends template. Two unique
hard point picks are required. The sphere is centred at the first pick and the radius is set by the
second pick.
Pnt Radius: Adds a new Sphere graphical element to the selected ends template. One hard point
pick is required. The sphere is centred at the pick and given the radius specified by the user.
Pnt-Pnt Dia: Adds a new Sphere graphical element to the selected ends template. Two unique
hard point picks are required. The sphere is centred at the mid point of the two picks, the radius being
half the distance between them.
Pnt-Pnt-Pnt-Pnt: Adds a new Sphere graphical element to the selected ends template. Four
unique hard point picks are required. The sphere is drawn through the selected four points. Four
points will define a unique sphere whos calculated radius and centre position is identified as part of
the drawn graphical element.
Facet Graphic Classes:
Pnt-Pnt-Pnt Facet: Adds a new Triangular Facet graphical element to the selected ends template.
Three hard point picks are required; points need not be on the same part.
Pnt-Pnt-Pnt-Pnt Facet: Adds a new four-nodded Facet graphical element to the selected ends
template. Four unique hard point picks are required; points need not be on the same part. Whilst
points need not be in a plane, any facet drawn of non-planar nodes is not fully define
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Plane Graphic Classes:
Pnt-Pnt-Pnt Plane: Adds a plane graphical element to the selected ends template. Three unique
hard point picks are required; points need not be on the same part. All plane elements are drawn
clipped to a global value, (which the user can edit).
Pnt-X-Y Plane: Adds an X-Y plane graphical element to the selected ends template drawn through
the selected pick. All plane elements are drawn clipped to a global value, (which the user can edit).
Pnt-X-Z Plane: Adds an X-Z plane graphical element to the selected ends template drawn through
Pnt-Y-Z Plane: Adds an Y-Z plane graphical element to the selected ends template drawn through
Pnt-UserVector Plane: Adds an plane graphical element to the selected ends template drawn
through the selected pick. The orientation of the plane is controlled by two user defined vectors. All
plane elements are drawn clipped to a global value, (which the user can edit).
Distance Graphic Classes:
Pnt-Pnt Dist: Adds a point to point distance graphical element to the selected ends template. Any
two hard point picks are required; both points must be on the same suspension corner. The display
shows the total distance between the two points.
Pnt-Line Dist: Adds a point to line distance graphical element to the selected ends template. Any
three hard point picks are required; all points must be on the same suspension corner. The last two
picks define the required line. The display shows the total perpendicular distance between the point
and the line.
Line-Line Dist: Adds a minimum distance between two lines graphical element to the selected
ends template. Any four hard point picks are required; all points must be on the same suspension
corner. The first two picks define one line whilst the last two picks define the other required line. The
display shows the minimum normal distance between the two lines as a total distance.
Pnt-Plane Dist: Adds a points distance from a plane as a graphical element to the selected ends
template. Any four hard point picks are required; all points must be on the same suspension corner.
The first point is the required point whilst the last three picks define the required plane. The display
shows the normal distance between the point and the plane as a total distance.
Components Graphic Classes:
Pnt-Pnt Comps: Adds a point to point distance graphical element to the selected ends template.
Any two hard point picks are required; both points must be on the same suspension corner. The
display shows the distance between the two points in its x, y and z components.
Pnt-Line Comps: Adds a point to line distance graphical element to the selected ends template.
Any three hard point picks are required; all points must be on the same suspension corner. The last
two picks define the required line. The display shows the perpendicular distance between the point
and the line in its x, y and z components.
Line-Line Comps: Adds a minimum distance between two lines graphical element to the selected
corner. The first two picks define one line whilst the last two picks define the other required line. The
display shows the minimum normal distance between the two lines in its x, y and z components.
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Pnt-Plane Comps: Adds a points distance from a plane as a graphical element to the selected
corner. The first point is the required point whilst the last three picks define the required plane. The
display shows the normal distance between the point and the plane in its x, y and z components.
Angle Graphic Classes:
Pnt-Pnt-Pnt Angle: Adds an angle between three identified points as a graphical element to the
selected ends template. Any three hard point picks are required; all points must be on the same
suspension corner. The middle picks is the point for which the angle is given. The display shows the
angle created by the three point picks in degrees.
Pnt-Pnt Z-Axis Angle: Adds an angle between two identified points and the Z-axis as a graphical
element to the selected ends template. Any two hard point picks are required; all points must be on
the same suspension corner. The first pick is the point for which the angle is drawn at. The display
shows the angle created by the two point picks in degrees.
Pnt-Pnt Z-Axis X-X Angle: Adds a rotation angle of a vector defined by two identified points and
the Z-axis as a graphical element to the selected ends template. The angle is the rotation angle from
the Z-axis around the X-X axis. Any two hard point picks are required; all points must be on the same
suspension corner. The first pick is the point for which the angle is drawn at. The display shows the
angle created by the two point picks in degrees.
Pnt-Pnt Z-Axis Y-Y Angle: Adds a rotation angle of a vector defined by two identified points and
the Z-axis as a graphical element to the selected ends template. The angle is the rotation angle from
the Z-axis around the Y-Y axis. Any two hard point picks are required; all points must be on the same
Pnt-Pnt X-Axis Angle: Adds an angle between two identified points and the X-axis as a graphical
Pnt-Pnt X-Axis Z-Z Angle: Adds a rotation angle of a vector defined by two identified points and
the X-axis as a graphical element to the selected ends template. The angle is the rotation angle from
the X-axis around the Z-Z axis. Any two hard point picks are required; all points must be on the same
Pnt-Pnt X-Axis Y-Y Angle: Adds a rotation angle of a vector defined by two identified points and
the X-axis as a graphical element to the selected ends template. The angle is the rotation angle from
the X-axis around the Y-Y axis. Any two hard point picks are required; all points must be on the same
Pnt-Pnt Y-Axis Angle: Adds an angle between two identified points and the Y-axis as a graphical
Pnt-Pnt Y-Axis Z-Z Angle: Adds a rotation angle of a vector defined by two identified points and
the Y-axis as a graphical element to the selected ends template. The angle is the rotation angle from
the Y-axis around the Z-Z axis. Any two hard point picks are required; all points must be on the same
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Pnt-Pnt Y-Axis X-X Angle: Adds a rotation angle of a vector defined by two identified points and
the Y-axis as a graphical element to the selected ends template. The angle is the rotation angle from
the Y-axis around the X-X axis. Any two hard point picks are required; all points must be on the same
Line Graphic:
This is a simple line joining two hard points. It could be representing a simple link or
be part of a wishbone, the graphics of which are built up using a number of lines.
The properties of a Line are;
Point 1 Hard point at start of line, (pick from list).
Point 2 Hard point at end of line, (pick from list).
Position 1 Sets association with either first or second part, (if applicable).
Property 1 Offset in Global x from Point 1 x-value
Property 2 Offset in Global y from Point 1 y-value
Property 3 Offset in Global z from Point 1 z-value
Colour Optional colour setting, (numerical 1-n).
The position settings are used to show compliance deflections. A hard point that is
associated with two parts, (by virtue of being the connection between them), can
have in compliance solution mode two positions. The ability to pick either the first or
second parts allows a visual representation of deflection of a bush by the separation
of two graphics points.
Examples of Line graphics
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Cylinder - Pivot Graphic:
This is a simple cylinder joining two hard points. Normally used to indicate a pivot
axis, (also added automatically joining the wheel centre and the spindle point). The
properties of a Pivot are;
Examples of Pivot Graphics
Cylinder - Tube Graphic:
This is a tube joining two hard points. Normally used to indicate a bar or tubular link.
The difference between this and the Pivot graphic is that the properties of the tube
allow you to control the diameter and the axial offsets from the ends. The properties
of a Tube are;
Property 1 Outer diameter of tube.
Property 2 Offset of tube start from point 1 position, along the tube axis.
Property 3 Offset of tube end from point 2 position, along the tube axis.
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Example of Tube Graphics.
Facet - Triangular Graphic:
This is a triangular facet joining three hard points. Normally these would be on the
same body and used to indicate a face of a solid link. It will only appear as a filled
facet when the view fill style is set to something other than wire frame. In wire frame
mode only the boundary of the facet is drawn. The properties of a Tri Facet are;
Point 1 Hard point at first corner of the facet, (pick from list).
Point 2 Hard point at second corner of the facet, (pick from list).
Point 3 Hard point at third corner of the facet, (pick from list).
Examples of Tri Facets Graphics
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15.9 Exercise 3 Adding Graphics to a Template
To complete the template we created earlier, we will now add some graphics to the
template. Open the template editor, and select the correct template and change to
the Graphics tab. Currently, the number of graphical elements is set to zero.
For our template, add a Tube graphic for each of the five links, and fill the upright
with 6 triangular facets. Remember we do not need to add graphics for the spring,
damper, spindle axis or tyre as these are automatically drawn, using our point gen
type settings.
Remember to identify the required properties for each element, and select the
relevant points.
Once complete, compare to the solution overleaf and re-save the completed custom
template.
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Graphical Element Settings for Five Link Template
The screen shot above shows the settings used, values have been entered for the
tube diameters and end offsets, all other property values are left as zero.
Make any alterations as necessary, and re-save your custom template. We can now
use our template to create a model.
Note: You can add extra points to your templates that are used purely for applying
graphical elements too. These dummy points can be included to the template in the
same way as any other point. Remember, because these points do not have any
influence on the kinematic mechanism, they do not need to use one of the Pre-solve
options that adds to the simultaneous equations set (since this would lead to an
increase in solution time). These dummy points would normally be solved using
Solve Post (Vector Pos), Solve Post (Sphere) or Solve via Hookes joint.
Whilst the method outlined above is perfectly valid, the addition of convenience
menus under sub-menu Graphics / Add, it is far easier to add graphical elements to
templates by using the graphical interface to identify required graphics primitive, and
then select points directly from the 3D view.
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15.10 Using the New Template
We can now use our new template. Open a new model in the normal way, (File /
New), and select our new template from the rear suspension list.
Selecting the new template.
Your new model should look like that shown below. This new template can be used
as a generic template for all 5-link rear suspensions. We could, with a small change
to the template, make it available for use as a steerable front suspension.
Screen Shot of Generic 5-link rear suspension template
Try modifying the template for use as a steerable front 5-link suspension.
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17 External Application Auto-Search and Load
16.1 Overview
This chapter describes the use of the Auto-Search and load feature. It is
a route by which an external application can update the co-ordinates of
model hard points via an automatic software link. Conversely the same
link can be used to export hard points from LSA out to an external
application.
16.1 Overview............................................................................ 211
16.2 Introduction ........................................................................ 212
16.3 Mode Types ....................................................................... 212
16.4 Settings .............................................................................. 213
16.5 Processing ......................................................................... 215
16.6 Exercise: Running a Simple Case...................................... 216
16
16 - External Application Auto-Search and Load
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16.2 Introduction
The auto-search and load function is a fully automatic software executed loop, that
imports/exports hard point co-ordinates from/to some other external application. An
example of this may be a CAD package that writes the new point positions of a
modified suspension layout, and with Shark open at the same time, the suspension
analysis model can be auto-updated, re-solved and all current graph results
refreshed without any user interaction. This eliminates manually entering data and
the associated opportunity for errors. Data Transfer is via an intermediary ASCII text
file, and uses text strings to identify the points by comparison with the point labels.
Auto-Load Menu Options
16.3 Mode Types
The function can be run in one of five modes. Scan Once Load, Prompt Before
Load, Auto Load, Write Once or On Auto Write.
Off: Auto-Load is not enabled. This is the default setting
Single Scan Load: On selection of this mode, a once only scan is performed. The
defined file is searched for. Each line of text in the file is then processed by
identifying the string, and checking it against each point in the models label (and its
other import labels).
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Prompt before Load: This mode is a continuous scanning mode: at the defined time
interval, the link file is searched for and checked to see if it has been modified since
the last scan. If it has been modified, then the user is informed of the change and
asked to confirm that it is okay to read and update the model. It is then opened and
processed line by line in the same way as the previous option. When this mode is
first set to On, the link file is searched for, and if found it is opened and processed.
Auto Load: This mode is also a continuous scanning mode, checking for a
modification of the link file at the prescribed time interval. When a change is
detected, the file is processed, and the model updated without any user prompt.
When this mode is first set to On, the link file is searched for, and if found it is
opened and processed.
Write Once: This mode is the opposite of Load Once: instead of loading the
specified file, it is written. In the case of writing, all points in the model are listed in
the created file.
On Auto Write: This mode is an extension of the Write Once mode: whenever a
change is made to the LSA model (as detected by the edit buffer), the new model
data is written to the defined file.
16.4 Settings
Timer: The frequency at which the scan for file modification is performed is
controlled by this variable. The default setting is 3000 mSec. This setting is stored in
the INI file.
Interrupt Time Edit
File Name: Defines the full path and name of the link file used to transfer the hard
point co-ordinates. This setting is stored in the INI file.
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Setting the Link File full Path Name
Label Option Switches: Defines which point labels will be checked for in the
scanned file. The settings for this allow either individual or multiple label cases to be
scanned for.
Setting the Point Labels to Scan for
Warn any Missed Labels: When enabled, this option flags the user when a line in
the scanned file is not recognised by its label. The data loading is unchanged by
having this setting on or off, the only change is that the user is informed that some
lines have not been processed. Missed labels do not cause the import to stop: it will
continue to process as many points as it can recognise.
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16.5 Processing
The link file is processed on a line-by-line basis. The first record of the file should
contain a version number (currently set as 1.0), this is intended to protect for future
user specific requests for file formats. All subsequent lines are treated in the
following way. The first part of the line should contain a string that matches the
required point labels (as set by the Label Option Switches). This must be followed
by the global x value, y value and finally z-value. Note that z and y can be optionally
omitted, i.e. the first value is assumed to be x, the second value if present is
assumed to be y, and finally the third value if present is assumed to be z.
The point labels can be viewed/edited through the template editor: File / Edit
Templates, select the Points tab. The label matching is case sensitive and requires
the full label to be matched. Whilst this may seem excessively restrictive, i.e. why not
allow partial match, it is rigorous and ensures parts of strings that are used in more
than one label are not modified in error.
Editing the Point Labels Template Editor
Based on interacting with the above template settings, an example link file might
contain the following lines;
1
Lower wishbone front pivot 3900.0 320.0 210.0
Upper wishbone rear pivot 4300.0 400.0
Note that you only need to specify as many points as required.
With any of the Auto-update options turned on, you can continue to use LSA in the
normal way, data will be changed either with or without prompting (depending on the
mode selected), as you use the program.
As indicated in the Mode Types section above, the processing can also be
performed in the opposite direction, writing a transfer file on demand or whenever a
change is applied to the LSA model.
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16.6 Exercise: Running a Simple Case
As a real example of how this works, we will use the simple executable
autoload.exe provided with the tutorial files. This file writes the co-ordinates at a
user specified time interval, to a user-specified file for two points: Lower wishbone
front pivot and Lower wishbone rear pivot.
Open Shark and Select File / New.
Ensure def ve Y Side is checked.
Select Front Suspension and set to Type 1 Double Wishbone.
Select Done.
Open Two x-y Graphs, Camber and Toe, Autoscale the graphs.
To run the simple executable autoload.exe, you can either run it from a Windows
command prompt or by double clicking on it through Windows Explorer. The text
below assumes the later approach.
From Windows explorer locate the file Autoload.exe double click on it to
start this simple external application.
The external application opens a display and prompts for a linking filename and Time
Delay.
Screen shot of external application at startup
Enter the filename, (select a suitable path and name), and enter the time
delay as 5 seconds.
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Once you have entered this information, this simple application writes to the defined
file at the defined time interval. A line appears in the display at each time increment
to indicate the defined file has been updated.
Leave Running.
Example of data format of Transfer.dat
Now we need to activate the Shark end of the link.
Open the Auto Search file name entry and set to your defined name.
Hint: use menu File / Auto Search and Load-Write / Edit File Name. Either locate
with the browser or enter directly.
Setting the full path name for the link file
We will now turn the auto-search facility on and try the three alternative methods
provided, Scan Once, On Prompt before Load and On Auto Load.
Turn the Auto-Search facility on to the Scan Once Load option.
No message is given, but if the file is found, the data is scanned for and the model
updated. Try repeating this a few times, to check that the external application is
continuing to update the transfer file (remember you will need to leave at least the
defined delay time interval for a change to occur).
Now try the second auto-search option:
Turn the Auto-Search facility on to the On Prompt Before Load option.
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Initially you are prompted to choose whether LSA should perform an immediate scan
for the transfer file, or wait until a future change occurs.
Wait for change prompt
Select No.
Choosing the no option means that you will wait for the next change. Once a
change is detected, LSA will open a prompt to tell you that a change in the file has
been noted.
Auto-load prompt
Select Yes.
Choosing yes will scan the file and load the new co-ordinates. The displayed
graphics and graphs should change to reflect this. Note that on the Auto-load
prompt, we can cancel auto-load action. Next time the prompt appears we will
cancel the action.
Select Cancel.
Finally we will change to the fully automatic setting.
Select Solve / Auto Search and Load-Write / On Auto Load.
As before, the wait for change prompt is displayed. Select either option then wait to
check that the graphics and graphs now update at regular time intervals. Note that
you can continue to use all the menus and functionality of the interface.
To stop the autoload.exe program, simply close the windows command prompt via
the top right corner x.
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18 Command Mode Operation
17.1 Overview
This chapter describes the use of the command mode. This mode does
not rely on the main graphical user interface, but uses a simple
command line display with associated short string commands to
perform the analyses. The command mode is also the route towards
batch files (see next chapter), and thus automated standard analysis
cases.
17.1 Overview............................................................................ 221
17.2 Introduction ........................................................................ 222
17.3 Basic Commands............................................................... 224
17.4 Command Arguments ........................................................ 225
17.5 Switching Between Graphical and Command Modes ........ 225
17.6 Exercise: Running a Command Mode Example................. 226
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17.2 Introduction
The batch mode was introduced as an alternative to the main graphical user
interface. The program can switch between these two modes (command or
graphical), or be started in either. Each mode has its own entry on the desktop and
in the start menu.
Command Mode Display Top Menu Shown
Each command in the main graphical interface has an equivalent short command
string, for example FI is equivalent to File. They are arranged in menu levels in the
same way as the graphical interface, the user migrates up and down menu levels to
the various sub menus. Command strings are mostly only 2 characters with a few
being three characters long. Commands can be typed individually or strung together
to provide a sequence of commands. General purpose commands have been
included for listing the available menus and their short string equivalent (enter the ?
character at the prompt) and for moving up a level in the command structure (enter
the / character or enter // to move up to top level). The prompt string changes to
indicate the current menu position and level. At the top level the simple > symbol is
displayed.
Some commands have no non-graphical equivalent, the data being too complex to
define/edit from the command line. In these cases a command is provided that
opens the relevant full graphical dialogue box. Thus a command run can still access
all data menus. Obviously these should not be used in an automated batch file, as
they require user input. Command menu items that relate to a graphical display,
and hence requiring user input, are shown on the command list in a separate list,
below the non-graphical options.
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Command Mode Display Example Graphical Menus Ringed
Batch commands can be stored in a series of text files to provide standard analysis
tasks. This is covered in the next chapter. It is a natural extension of the command
mode and the ability to string commands together. A complete list of the command
short strings is given in appendix 1 of the on-line help.
Appendix 1 on-line help file Supported Batch Commands
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17.3 Basic Commands
Some examples of basic commands are given here. To create a new file for a rear
suspension using template number 2 would look like;
// ! ensure in top level
FI ! change to File main menu
NE 2 3 ! new file template type 2 for end 3
This could have been strung together as;
//FI NE 2 3
To list to the command screen the formatted SDF results for end (corner) 3 using
formatted set 1
// ! ensure in top level
RE ! change to Results main menu
FO ! set to formatted SDF
LI 3 1 ! list for corner 3 using format set 1
Or strung on to a single line
//RE FO LI 3 1
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17.4 Command Arguments
Some commands require additional arguments. The File / New command given
above was an example of this requiring a template type number and the corner (or
end) number. Note that some arguments are optional but that in some cases, the
absence of an argument may be interpreted as reverting to the graphical mode. This
is the case of the File/New command. If the template type and end is omitted, the
application opens the File / New graphical display. In other cases, omitting an
argument causes the particular command to not be applied.
The listing in Appendix 1 indicates the commands that require arguments, these
argument terms are shown [ ] bracketed.
Appendix 1 on-line help file Some Command Arguments
17.5 Switching Between Graphical and Command Modes
A user can switch between the command mode and the graphical (and back the
other way), should this be required.
To open the command window from the full graphical interface, select from the main
menu File / Manage Batch Files / Open Batch Command Window. This will open the
scrollable command window, with the menu set at the top level.
If the command window was opened from the interface (in the manner described
above), then to return to the graphical interface, users can close the batch window
via the top right corner cross, select the Esc key on the keyboard or at the top level
enter the short command string INT.
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If the application was initially opened in batch or command mode, and the full
graphical interface has not yet been displayed, then the first two items mentioned
above will close the application rather than open the graphical interface.
17.6 Exercise: Running a Command Mode Example
We will open the program in Command mode. Refer to the earlier text as to how you
can do this. You may have an existing start menu entry or desktop icon or you may
need to modify one of them to do this.
We will create a new model from the standard templates, run a bump and rebound
solution and list the SDF spline results. Follow the sequence of commands and
remember that you can use the ? character at any time to list the available options.
FI NE 1 1 ! opens a new model
// MO 3B ! ensure set to 3D bump
// RE FI LI ! list the SDF fitted spline fits
Now change the co-ordinates for a hard point and re-list the results.
// DA PO LI ! list the current hard points
? ! show the available menu options
ED 3 4090.0 -725.0 168.0 ! change point 3 co-ordinates
// RE FI LI ! lists the new SDF fitted spline fits
We can create a new user formatted window to display some x-y graphs, even
though we are in command mode.
// WI OPI ! opens a new user custom control box
Select the Edit mode and from the right mouse menu select delete all to clear the
display. Use the Add / Graph option to put two new graphs on the user window. Pick
each in turn. Set the first graph to Camber Angle and its Y-axis values to 2.0 to
+1.0. Set the second graph to Toe angle (SDF) and its Y-axis values to 0.1 to
+.0.1 Then select the Use button to return to normal display of this single control
window. It should look similar to the image below.
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Simple two graph Custom control box
As an example of the linked functionality, we can add three sliders to this custom
control box that will change the hard point x, y and z co-ordinates of the point 3 we
changed earlier. Go back to Edit mode and add three horizontal sliders. On their
property sheet, set them to Point 3 X-coord, Point 3 Y-coord and Point 3 Z-coord
with suitable slider limits and step sizes, we can use them to control the co-ordinates
of this point. If we also add three value displays that show the same three co-
ordinate properties, we can produce a modified display similar to below.
Final two graph Custom control box with point sliders
The use of custom control boxes is also covered in section User Formatting Results.
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19 Batch Files
18.1 Overview
This chapter introduces the concept of batch files. They are discussed
as an extension to the Command Mode covered in a previous section.
The batch file provides a method of creating and reusing standard
procedures in the analysis of suspension systems. This should provide
a method by which different levels of users can all achieve the same
results in both form and function in a rigorous manner.
The batch file is an extension of the short string command structure of
the command mode introduced in section Command Mode Operation.
The batch file is an ASCII text file, in which each line has short string
commands.
Different batch files can be created for specific process tasks to
provide a user with an independent method of modelling, solving and
presenting suspension analysis results.
Batch files could be created via any standard text editor (a simple text
editor is also provided within the software).
18.1 Overview............................................................................ 229
18.2 Running Batch Files from the System Prompt ................... 230
18.3 Running Batch Files in the Command Mode...................... 230
18.4 Using Batch Files in the Graphical Interface ...................... 231
18.5 Site Specific Batch Files..................................................... 233
18.6 Exercise: Creating a Sample Batch File............................. 233
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230
18.2 Running Batch Files from the System Prompt
Batch files can be run directly from the Command Prompt, by specifying the required
file name after the batch string. In its simplest form this might look like;
System prompt>shark.exe batch test1.bat
or
System prompt>shark.exe batch test1.bat
or
System prompt>shark.exe batch <install>test1.bat
Note: to be able to use the <install> string replacement, the characters are
required around the file name.
Running a batch file from the Dos/Command Prompt
When a Batch files is run from the system prompt, the application will be left open
unless the batch file includes the necessary quit (QU) command.
18.3 Running Batch Files in the Command Mode
Batch files can be run from within the application whilst in Command Mode (not to
be confused with the Windows Command Prompt). For example you would enter the
following short command, FI RU test1_batch.dat or FI RU <install>test1_batch.dat
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231
Running a batch file from the Command Mode
The application provides a list of standard batch files. These can be added
to/organised via a tool in the main graphical interface. In the command mode, you
can list the standard files via the FI RU LI short string command. They are listed by
number and can then be run either by using the filename, or more simply by its
number.
Within the command mode, options are provided to browse (BR) for a batch file, list
(DIR) current directory contents, or change (CD) the current directory. Note that for
specific server based installations, the use of the <install> string is supported as
part of the file name where <install> is automatically replaced with the actual
installation folder location.
18.4 Using Batch Files in the Graphical Interface
Batch files can be run directly from the File menu. In the same way as with running in
command mode a list of standard batch files is given, together with the option to
browse for a file. Running a batch file from the graphical interface will cause the
command mode scrollable display to be opened to enable the batch file to run. As it
runs, the commands (and any requested lists) are echoed on to the scrollable
display.
Once the batch run has finished the prompt, * Batch Run Complete Hit Return to
Close is displayed. This is to allow the user to scroll the display if required before it
is closed. Whilst the batch file is running, the user cannot interact with the main
graphical interface. It is effectively locked out until the batch run is complete and the
command mode display closed.
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Running a batch file from the Graphical Interface
To add an existing batch file to the defaults list, either use the main menu option File
/ Manage Batch Files / Add File to List and use the browser to locate the required
file, or from the same sub menu open the Batch File List Status
The Batch File list status display allows you to add other batch files in the same
way as the previous item via a conventional browser. It also provides access to a
number of other batch file features. These include changing the order of the files in
the list, Remove (All) file, Edit a file from the list, Run a file from the list or create/edit
a new batch file.
Batch File List Status display
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To apply some of these actions, highlight the required file from the list: this will
enable extra options. Most of these options are self-explanatory. The Edit option
opens a separate simple text editor to display the contents of the selected file (or
empty for a new file) to allow editing of the short string commands. Refer to
Appendix 1 of the on-line help file for a full list of the short string commands.
Example batch file edit
Note the use of the ! character at the start of the line allows an echoed comment to
be added to the batch run.
18.5 Site Specific Batch Files
It is anticipated that individual user sites will be configured to provide a list of
company wide standard batch files. As a user, you may be instrumental in creating
new standard batch files, or you may just use batch files created by other users. In
either case, you may need to understand where these batch files are stored (or could
be stored) to ensure site wide access.
18.6 Exercise: Creating a Sample Batch File
We will use the internal text editor to create a simple batch file that we can then run
from a Windows command line. This batch file will open a user located file, set the
analysis mode, list formatted SDF results, change a model property, and list the new
results. Open the application in interactive mode.
File / Manage Batch Files / Batch File List Status
Select the local New button
We will use comment lines in the batch file to add reading and act as local prompts.
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Enter each line into the text editor
!open the file using the browser (note assumes front model loaded)
//FI OP BR
!run the solver in 3d roll
//MO 3R
!list the formatted results
//RE FO LI 1 1
!change the rolling radius value
//DA TY ED "Rolling Radius (mm)" 245.0 1
!list the revised formatted results
//RE FO LI 1 1
!write the formatted result on c drive
// re fo wr "c:\exercise.txt" 1 1
Then save the batch file to exercise.dat in a suitable folder. To test this batch file
we can run it directly from the Batch File List Status display. Highlight the saved file
from the list and select the Run button.
Try running this batch file directly from the Windows command prompt. Remember to
use the batch argument with the batch file as the second argument.
C:\\shark.exe batch C:\\exercise.dat
20 Report Files
19.1 Overview
This chapter introduces the concept of Report Files: these are script
files that allow a user to formulate the process of generating consistent
reported output from the program. They rely on batch commands and
batch files, so users should be familiar with these (see previous
chapters). By combining the functionality of batch commands with
additional format statements such as new page, different report
formats can be merged into a single report document. In a similar way
to batch files report, files are run, edited and managed through a utility
tool. Report files can be shared between users either through common
file location or local copies of the same files. Standard report files can
be added to the interface menus and lists, and these lists are saved as
part of the INI file. Reports created in this way can be sent straight to
the printer or to a file. Alternatively they can be displayed in a rich text
editor that provides the opportunity to edit/format the content before
printing.
Report files are used to standardise and streamline the process of
producing reports from the suspension analysis. They make use of
batch commands and batch files to load, solve and list results, whilst
additional formatting options such as line feed and new page are
included to allow the creation of standard report formats.
Report files are ASCII text files that, whilst they are similar in form to
Batch files, have some specific layout and formats, and thus would not
normally be edited through a simple text editor. The interface provides
a manage tool, as with batch files, but the edit option opens a unique
spreadsheet-editing tool.
19.1 Overview............................................................................ 235
19.2 Report File Items and Arguments....................................... 236
19.3 Running a Report File in Command mode......................... 239
19.4 Using Report Files in the Graphical Interface..................... 240
19.5 Site Specific Report Batch Files......................................... 242
19.6 Exercise: Creating a Sample Report File ........................... 242
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19.2 Report File Items and Arguments
Report files are made up of a sequence of lines, each line defining an action, a result
or some other relevant action. The following lists the available items and their
associated arguments.
Single Line of Text: Adds a single line of text to the report document. Arguments
are; text string, font colour, font size, Bold on/off, Italic on/off, Underline on/off,
Strikeout on/off, Superscript on/off, Subscript on/off, Justify, Line Feed and Font
type.
Text file: Adds the contents of the supplied text file to the report document.
Arguments are; file name, font colour, font size, Bold on/off, Italic on/off, Underline
on/off, Strikeout on/off, Superscript on/off, Subscript on/off, Justify, Line Feed and
Font type.
Single Blank Line: Adds a blank line (hence implied line feed) to the report
document. No arguments.
Single Space: Adds a single blank space to the report document at the current
position. No arguments.
Single Character: Adds a single character to the report document at the current
position and using the current font attributes. Single argument, the Character.
New Page: Adds a page break to the report document. No arguments.
Single Batch Command Line: Performs a batch command or series of batch
commands. It does not add results to the report, it just allows for the required data
changes, solver changes etc that may be required to enable the required results to
be subsequently included. Arguments are; batch command string.
Batch Command File: In the same way as the single batch command line this
does not add results to the report. The defined batch file will contain command
strings necessary to make data changes solver changes etc, so that the required
results can subsequently be added to the report. Arguments are; batch command
file.
Formatted SDF: Includes the specified corners Formatted SDF results in the report
document using the defined format set. Arguments are; font colour, font size, Bold
on/off, Italic on/off, Underline on/off, Strikeout on/off, Superscript on/off, Subscript
on/off, Justify, Font type, Corner number and format set number.
SDF Spline Fits: Includes the specified corners SDF Spline fits results in the report
on/off, Justify, Font type, Corner number and format set number.
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SDF Spline Data: Includes the specified corners SDF Spline data results in the
report document using the defined format set. Arguments are; font colour, font size,
Bold on/off, Italic on/off, Underline on/off, Strikeout on/off, Superscript on/off,
Subscript on/off, Justify, Font type, Corner number and format set number.
Bush Deflections: Includes the specified corners Bush Deflection results in the
report document using the defined format set. Arguments are; font colour, font size,
Subscript on/off, Justify, Font type and Corner number.
Joint-Bush Rotations: Includes the specified corners Joint-Bush Rotation results in
the report document using the defined format set. Arguments are; font colour, font
size, Bold on/off, Italic on/off, Underline on/off, Strikeout on/off, Superscript on/off,
Subscript on/off, Justify, Font type and Corner number.
Bush Forces: Includes the specified corners Bush Force results in the report
on/off, Justify, Font type and Corner number.
Formatted Point Forces: Includes the specified corners formatted point force
results in the report document using the defined format set. Arguments are; font
colour, font size, Bold on/off, Italic on/off, Underline on/off, Strikeout on/off,
Superscript on/off, Subscript on/off, Justify, Font type, Corner number and format set
number.
List All Point Coords for User Position: Includes a list of all points for the specified
corner at the defined user position. Arguments are; font colour, font size, Bold on/off,
Italic on/off, Underline on/off, Strikeout on/off, Superscript on/off, Subscript on/off,
Justify, Font type, Corner number, bump travel, steer travel and roll travel.
List a Point Coords at All Positions: Includes a list of specified point for the
required corner at all current solution points. Arguments are; font colour, font size,
Subscript on/off, Justify, Font type, Corner number and Point label (or point No.).
List All Point Coords at a Position: Includes a list of all points for the specified
corner at the identified position. Arguments are; font colour, font size, Bold on/off,
Italic on/off, Underline on/off, Strikeout on/off, Superscript on/off, Subscript on/off,
Justify, Font type, Corner number and Position label (or position No.).
Insert User Window: Inserts a user window/control as an embedded image in the
report. Arguments are; User Window No. (or User window label), Line feed and
Justify.
Insert Visible Graph: Inserts a visible graph as an embedded image in the report.
Only currently open graphs are available, so batch commands will need to be used
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to ensure they are open before being included. Arguments are; Graph No. (or SDF
Label), Line Feed and Justify.
Insert Current Graphics: Inserts the current graphical view as an embedded image
in the report document. Arguments are; Line Feed and Justify.
Insert Current AVI as File: Inserts the current animation sequence as an embedded
AVI object in the report document, (included like this within a word document it can
be viewed/animated directly from Word when the document is distributed).
Arguments are; Line Feed and Justify.
Insert Ball Joint Target Rotation: Inserts the ball joint target graphical display for
the specified point. Arguments are; Setting No, Corner (optional), Point No (optional),
Point Short Label (optional), Line Feed and Justify.
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19.3 Running a Report File in Command mode
Report files can be run from within the application whilst in Command Mode (not to
be confused with the Windows Command Prompt). For example you would enter the
following short command, FI RE RU report1.rpt or FI RE RU <install>report1.rpt
Running a report file from the Command Mode
The Run (RU) option will only run the report file. If you want to subsequently view the
report file you will need to open the rich text display (DI). To print the current report,
select the print (PR) command. Note that you can give both the display and print
commands an optional filename, so that it will open or print using the new report file.
Note that display and print does not currently support file number, it must be the file
name.
The application provides a list of standard report files. These can be added
to/organised via a tool in the main graphical interface. In the command mode, you
can list the standard files via the FI RE LI short string command. They are listed by
number and can then be run either by using the filename or more simply by its
number (see comment above on display and print options).
Within the command mode, options are provided to browse (BR) for a report file, list
(DIR) current directory contents or change (CD) the current directory. Note that for
specific server based installations the use of the <install> string is supported as part
of the file name where <install> is automatically replaced by the software with the
actual software installation folder location.
Printing is controlled by local printing properties, which can be edited through the
local printer setup (SE) command.
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Sample Report Document Created by a report file
19.4 Using Report Files in the Graphical Interface
Report files can be run directly from the Results menu. In the same way as with
running in command mode, a list of standard report files is given together with the
option to browse for a file. Running a results file from the graphical interface will
cause the results report rich text display to be opened, and the created report
document displayed.
Once the report file has finished, the displayed report can be edited using the
functionality of the rich text editor. Alternatively it can be sent to a printer, saved to a
rich text document or opened directly in Word.
Running a report file from the Graphical Interface
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To add an existing report file to the defaults list, either use the main menu option File
/ Manage Report Batch Files / Add Report File to Listand use the browser to locate
the required file, or from the same sub menu, open the Report Batch File List
Status
The Report Batch File list status display allows you to add other report files in the
same way as the previous item via a conventional browser. It also provides access
to a number of other report file features. These include changing the order of the files
in the list, Remove (All) file, Edit a file from the list, Run a file from the list or
create/edit a new report file.
Report Batch File List Status display
To apply some of these actions, highlight the required file from the list: this will
enable the extra options. Most of these options are self-explanatory. The Edit option
opens a specific report file editor spread sheet to display the contents of the selected
file (or empty for a new file) to allow editing of the report format (see earlier
discussion of feature items and arguments).
Example Report batch file edit
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19.5 Site Specific Report Batch Files
It is anticipated that individual user sites will be configured to provide a list of
company wide standard report batch files. As a user, you may be instrumental in
creating new standard report batch files, or you may just use report batch files
created by other users. In either case you may need to understand where these
report batch files are stored (or could be stored) to ensure site wide access.
19.6 Exercise: Creating a Sample Report File
We will create a new report file that reproduces the previous chapters exercise, but
instead of listing the results to the batch window, we will create a report file display.
From the main interface, we will open a new report file, and use the local edit spread
sheet, follow the entry below.
File / Manage Report Batch Files / Report Batch File List Status
Select the New button to open the editor spread sheet for the new file. We will enter
our batch commands in a similar way to previously, but use the output selection for
Formatted SDF rather than the batch command. Follow the steps outlined below.
Set type to Single Batch Command and string as //FI OP BR
Set type to Single Batch Command and string as //MO 3R
Set type to Formatted SDF set justify to Left and setting to set 5 Roll
Exercise
Set type to Single Batch Command and string as //DA TY ED "Rolling
Radius (mm)" 245.0 1
Set type to Formatted SDF set justify to Left and setting to set 5 Roll
Exercise
The top half of the entry should look the same as indicated in the screen shot below.
The comment lines are not compulsory.
19 - Report Files
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243
Exercise Report batch file contents
Now save the report file to a suitable folder as exercise1.rpt. You will be given the
option to add this report file to the list of default report files, select Yes. We can now
run this report file from the status display. Highlight the file and select the run button.
Select the Run Go to Display option. Select an example file and the report rich text
editor display will appear with our two sets of formatted results.
Exercise Report batch file contents
Try running some of the other run options such as open in word as rtf.
19 - Report Files
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21 User Language
20.1 Overview
This chapter describes how users can create their own custom
dictionary to replace a large number of text labels and variable names
used by the interface. Because of the potentially large number of not
only native languages but also local working practises, the hypothetical
creation of custom dictionaries is to be carried out by the end user
rather than the software vendor.
The default language for the interface is set to English. Through the
SetUp / Language / User Defined menu option, an individual user (or
customer site) can switch to their own settings. The user defined
language is carried out on a string by string substitution. Each
substitution required must be defined by the user and then becomes
saved to the users _Custom.Dic file. On subsequent program re-
starts, this file is searched for and reloaded automatically if found. Users
only define as many of the strings as they require. The custom
dictionary can also be passed to other users for sharing, or in some
specific server based installations, all users might use the same custom
dictionary.
20.1 Overview............................................................................ 245
20.2 Opening the Editor ............................................................. 246
20.3 Using the Editor.................................................................. 246
20.4 The Search Facility ............................................................ 247
20.5 Implementing the User Dictionary ...................................... 247
20.6 Exercise: Replacing Camber Angle .................................. 248
20
20 - User Language
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246
20.2 Opening the Editor
To open the editor and start defining your own language/customer string settings
from the SetUp main menu select Setup / Language / Edit User Language. This will
open the language editor tool. In some installations, access to the editor is protected
by a password. Consult your local support staff if it is the case.
Optional Password Entry
20.3 Using the Editor
The editor tool has a simple selection box at the top, that users can scroll through
every string entry used by the application (these strings has been made available to
the custom language function). Each entry in this list has a maximum of three
defining strings. Depending on the exact use of the string, the first two are either the
UPPERCASE and lowercase options, or the Short and Long menu options. The third
defining string, when used, is always the help string (this is for buttons and icons).
For each of the three strings, two text displays are shown. The top non-editable
display shows the default English string whilst the second is editable and is where
the user defined equivalent string should be entered.
20 - User Language
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247
Language Editor Tool
20.4 The Search Facility
A search facility allows the user to enter part or all of the required string to replace.
The go button then performs a search either up or down the list (depending on the
arrow settings) for the next occurrence (if any) of the search string. If the search
string is found, the tool displays the matched entry that can now be edited. You can
repeat the search on the same string or change to another.
20.5 Implementing the User Dictionary
To save the changes, select the done button (cancel will lose the changes). The
changes will only be fully applied when you restart the program. To use the user
dictionary, ensure the SetUp / Language / User Defined menu option is checked.
This selection setting is saved in the INI file, and is thus preserved for future use.
20 - User Language
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248
20.6 Exercise: Replacing Camber Angle
As an example of how the user dictionary can be implemented, this exercise will
replace Camber Angle with the French equivalent Angle de Carrossage.
First we will open the user language editor. If you need a password for this, either
check with your site expert or for training courses, your course tutor. Remember the
password file is case sensitive.
SetUp / Language / Edit User Language.
With the display open, enter camber in the search list box, choose to search down
and select Go. As each reference to camber is found via the search, change the
string to the required angle de carrossage for the full camber angle replacement, or
just Carrossage for camber on its own.
Screen Shot User Language Equivalent of Camber angle
20 - User Language
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249
Repeat until all references have been suitably replaced. Then select the done button.
This will only be applied to new menus, and only once the user language option has
been enabled.
Informing the Effect of User Changes
To enable the change to the user language setting, set the following menu option.
SetUp / Language / User Defined.
To test the user language implementation try opening a new x-y graph and use the
right mouse list select the camber option. This should have been replaced with the
supplied string.
x-y Graph Label Changed
SDF Spline fits label change
20 - User Language
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250
22 Full Suspension Model
21.1 Overview
In this chapter we will develop separate front and rear suspensions in
two separate files, then combine the two to create a full vehicle
suspension kinematic model.
A target hypothetical suspension characteristic has been set, and we
will attempt to achieve a design that gives the best compromise
solution. The target does not necessary represent desirable kinematics
nor have other limitations such as packaging been considered. The
suspension specification shown is a subset of all the dimensions /
specifications required. All other data has been left as LSA default
values.
21.1 Overview............................................................................ 251
21.2 Target suspension design.................................................. 252
21.3 Tutorial 2.a......................................................................... 253
21.4 Tutorial 2.b......................................................................... 257
21
21 - Full Suspension Model
252
252
21.2 Target suspension design
Front suspension: Type 1: double wish bone
Steering: Steering rack
Rear suspension: Type 1: double wish bone
Settings
Front Rear
Toe 0 0
Camber -1.5 -1.5
Castor 3 0
KPI 5 5
Anti-dive 40 -
Anti-squat - 44
Ackerman 80% -
% braking 60% 40%
Roll centre height 75 100
Suspension travel
Front Rear
Bump 40 40
Rebound 40 40
Roll 2.5 2.5
Steering 30 -
Tire
Front Rear
Rolling radius 225 225
Width 150 150
Suspension specifications
Goals:
Minimise roll and bump steer.
Minimise movement of roll centre.
Keep roll centre above ground at maximum bump.
Camber less than zero at maximum body roll angle.
Minimise tire scrub with bump
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253
21.3 Tutorial 2.a
Open new front suspension model
From the file main menu select File / New to bring up the new model dialog
box.
Select front suspension only with Type 1: double wishbone suspension and
steering rack.
On the New Model dialog left click on the View/Edit parameter data icon
.
Go through the list of parameters and modify: Bump travel, Rebound travel,
Roll angle and Steer travel to match the data in the previous table.
Left click Ok to close parameter dialog box then Done to generate the
new model.
To set the static toe and camber angles from the main menu select Data /
Set Static Angles and input 0.0 for toe and 1.5 for camber, then click
ok.
Check that all of the 4 toolbars are displayed. If any are missing they can
be displayed from setup on the main menu.
The model parameter and static settings have now been set up. We will now
proceed to set up graphs to display the results as we manipulate the suspension
geometry. Our goal is to manipulate the hard points to give kinematic motion in
bump/rebound, steer and roll that gives the best compromise compared with our
design goals.
Open Graphs
Left click on the open new results graph icon on the graphics+data
toolbar to open a new results graph.
Right click on the new graph and select Y-Variable(SDF) / Standard /
Camber angle
Open another 5 graphs for toe angle(deg) {SAE}, castor angle (deg), King
Pin Angle (deg), Roll Centre Height {To Grnd} (mm) and Half Track change.
Once all the graphs are open arrange the 3d display window and the graphs
so they can all be viewed simultaneously.
Select 3D Bump mode by left clicking the icon .
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254
Right click on each graph in turn and select AutoScale to Y increment to
auto scale each graph. (The axis scale and y increment size can be set to
your own custom values by right clicking on the graph and selecting Axes
Scales).
The castor angle and KPI will be modified first to achieve the specified values. For
this tutorial we will modify the upper ball joint on the suspension upright.
Turn off display of the wheels by clicking on the Toggle Enhanced Wheel
Vis icon .
Select joggle mode and left click on the top upright ball joint. You can now
move the ball joint in the y direction. As you move the hardpoint (keyboard
keys ctrl + ->) the KPI graph will be updated. Move the ball joint to give 5
degrees KPI at zero bump as shown on the KPI graph.
With the ball joint selected, the mouse right click will toggle through the available
joggle directions in that view
Right click on the KPI graph and select List data line(s) to verify angle.
Close the dialog when done.
Change the view to z-x
Move the top upright ball joint in the x-direction to give 3 degrees castor
angle.
The castor and KPI are now set and you can manipulate the views to visually verify
that the top of the King Pin axis is inclined inwards towards the centre line of the car
and backwards toward the rear. The castor and KPI are also listed in the SDF output
file available in the results menu. Return to front view and 3d roll mode when done.
Next we will manipulate the inboard suspension hard points to achieve desired
suspension kinematics in bump and roll.
To achieve these characteristics, we will move the inboard suspension hard points
on the upper and lower suspension wishbones, and the inner and outer steering ball
joints. Before proceeding, experiment with moving these 6 suspension hard points
and see if you can achieve a compromise between the target suspension kinematic
characteristics. As movement of any one hard point can affect all of the
characteristics we are interested in, you will need to iteratively move and adjust each
hard point in front and side view until you have reached a best compromise. Figures
below give an indication of one hard point configuration that satisfies this condition.
Once you have finished experimenting, continue with the tutorial to input the
suspension hard points manually.
255
255
Set viewing mode to front view y-z
Turn hard point numbering on by toggling the Point Nos Visibility
tool.
Select the Set to Edit Mode icon and select the lower front inboard
pivot: Point 1 and type in the hard point location shown.
256
256
Now go through each of the hard points listed in table bellow and use the
same method to set the hard point locations listed in the table.
Point Name X (mm) Y(mm) Z(mm)
1 Lower wishbone front pivot 3819 91 181
2 Lower wishbone rear pivot 4179 92 197
5 Upper wishbone front pivot 4092 308 385
6 Upper wishbone rear pivot 4332 308 369
11 Outer track rod ball joint 4214 668 233
12 Inner track rod ball joint 4245 197 230
Suspension hard points that require modification
With the suspension now located, toggle between 3D bump roll and steer modes and
verify that the design criteria are satisfied.
You can now verify yourself from the graphs and animating the suspension
in steering, bump and roll that a compromise solution to the targets has
been achieved.
From the main menu select File / Save As and save the model as Tutorial
2a.
Now that we have setup the graphs, we can also save window settings to save which
output graphs are displayed. The next time you use the model, you can load the
windows setting file to reset the graphs.
From the main menu select SetUp / Save Window settings To. Enter
Tutorial 2a as the file name and save the widows settings file.
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257
This completes tutorial one. The solution obtained is a compromise between all the
desired and sometimes conflicting requirements of the suspension. You may want to
experiment to see if you can improve the design. Also notice that the camber and
castor angles achieved are not an exact match to the targets.
21.4 Tutorial 2.b
Open New Rear Suspension Model
From LSA menu select File / New.
Check the rear suspension tick box and select Type 1 Double wishbone,
damper to lower wishbone (we will add the front suspension later).
Check that the parameter data and tyre data are correct (you may need to
modify Bump travel, Rebound travel, Roll angle and Steer travel to match
the data in the first table) then click done on the New Model dialog to open
the new rear suspension model.
Now we have a new rear suspension model open, we will setup a new graph to
display % anti-squat for the rear suspension.
From the main menu select Setup / Load Windows settings From..
Select the settings file Tutorial 2a that we saved earlier and open.
Add another graph by clicking on the Open New Results Graph tool
and position the graph so it does not obstruct any of the other graphs.
Right click on the new graph and select Y-Variable (SDF) / Standard -/ Anti-
Squat (%).
Auto scale the Y-axis. Right click on graph and select Autoscale To Y
Increment.
The new graph settings can be now saved to the windows settings file.
From the main menu select SetUp / Save Window settings To. Enter
Tutorial 2b as the file name and save the widows settings file.
Setup of the rear suspension follows the same procedure as the front therefore we
will omit manipulating the suspension hard points and edit the rear suspension co-
ordinates table directly. At this point you can experiment for yourself to see if you can
meet the suspension characteristic targets, then continue from this point once you
are done (you may want to save your own model before you proceed).
Click on the View/Edit rear co-ordinates icon to bring up the rear
suspension co-ordinates table.
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258
Now you can manually edit each of the suspension hard point locations by
directly editing the (X,Y,Z) co-ordinates of each hard point. Use table
bellow for input data. Click OK when finished.
Rear suspension hardpoints co-ordinate table
You can check for yourself that the new rear suspension co-ordinates give a good
compromise solution compared to the targets set out. To complete the full
suspension model we will now proceed to add the front suspension from tutorial 2.a.
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259
From the main menu select File / Add End From File and select the front
suspension model developed in tutorial 2a.
You now have a full vehicle suspension kinematic model, which satisfies the target
kinematic characteristics.
When working with full suspensions, displaying both the front and rear suspensions
can be visually confusing. LSA allows you to display only the front or rear
suspension and also only one side of the suspension.
Displays only the front suspension.
Displays only the rear suspension.
Displays both front and rear suspension.
Toggles between displaying one side and both sides.
In this tutorial you have learnt all the basic operations for setting up, manipulating
and analysing suspension kinematics. To complete this tutorial save your file and
quit LSA.
Save model as Tutorial 2b and close Lotus Suspension Analysis to end
tutorial 2.
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260
13 Importing/Exporting Hard Points
22.1. Overview
This chapter describes the use of a text recognition based system of
importing hard point geometry to (and from) the Adams Subsystem
file. This section describes the process through which users can
successfully transfer data between the application and external file
format.
The option to extract data to/from data files from other applications is
currently supported for one specific case. It is an ASCII text file, but but
has its own unique format. The format supported is the Msc Software
Adams sub system file.
Export is supported through the use of text string recognition. Each
point in the LSA model has a matching text label in the exported data
file. This text string equivalence is extended to include, bush axis points,
part properties, bush properties and general model parameters such as
rolling radius.
These tables of equivalent text strings are edited by the user, and saved
within the INI file such that they are available for future re-use. The use
of standard labels within models and subsystem files aids in the
reusability of these settings.
These import and export options only become enabled once a model
has been specified via the new or the open commands.
22.1 Overview............................................................................ 261
22.2 Import and Export to an Adams Sub System..................... 262
22
22 - Importing/Exporting Hard Points
262
262
22.2. Import and Export to an Adams Sub System
The use of this import export filter is obviously going to be limited to users who have
a licensed copy of Adams. The data transfer is between LSA and the sub-system file
normally having the .sub file extension. To open the split window display use the
File / Import Hard Points from / Adams Subsystem or File / Export Hard Points to
/Adams Subsystem as required. The opened display shows a split screen with two
text area display. The upper area will be where the opened subsystem file is
displayed, whilst the lower display for import will show a preview of the extracted text
sections and extracted values. For export it will show a preview of the modified
subsystem file with the new number substitutions.
For importing data, the normal order of actions would be, first ensure all the text
strings are set for each section that you intend to import. The sections are; Hard
Points, Bush Axis points, Part Mass Properties, Bush Stiffness and Parameter. Each
section has its own set of strings to edit under the local Data menu entry. Secondly,
open the Adams sub-system file that you require to extract the data from, via the
local File / Open (subsystem) command. The subsystem file should now be
displayed in the top display area. You can now preview the values that will be
extracted from the subsystem file using the local File / Import Hard Points (Preview),
the extracted numbers are previewed in the lower display area (note this is an
optional step you can go straight to the next item). To complete the data import,
select the local menu File / Import Hard Points. The display will close and the import
number used to update the model.
Example Adams subsystem import screen shot preview shown
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263
As well as the import function having the matching strings, users can apply local
shifting, scaling and axis switching to the data values.
Editing the General label strings
The export option follows the same process as the import, except that the preview
displays the modified subsystem file, rather than the extracted data values.
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GROUP HEADQUARTERS
Group Lotus Plc
Potash Lane
Hethel, Norwich
NR14 8EZ
United Kingdom
Tel: 01953 608000
Fax: 01953 608300
Email Cars: [email protected]
Email Eng: [email protected]
Email Group: [email protected]
INTERNATIONAL OFFICES
Malaysia United States China Germany
Lotus Engineering Malysia
Sdn. Bhd.
Lot G-5 Enterprise 3
Technology Park Malaysia
Lebuhraya Puchong-Sungia Besi
Bukit Jalil
57000 Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
Tel: +60 (3) 8996 7172
Fax: +60 (3) 8994 1172
Lotus Engineering Inc.
PO Box7209
1254 N.Main St.
Ann Arbor
MI 48104
USA
Tel: +1 734 995 2544
Fax: +1 734 995 9301
Lotus Engineering China
7th Floor, New Jinqiao Tower
No 28 New Jinqiao Road
Pudong, Shanghai
201206
P.R.China
Tel: +86 21 5030 9990
Fax: +86 21 5030 9993
Lotus Engineering Germany
Hennigsdorfer Str. 71
13503 Berlin
Germany
Tel: +49 (0)30 30 64 33 94
Fax: +49 (0)30 30 64 33 95

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