Mechanical Simulation Corporation Joins SuspensionSim Software in Partnership

By DE Editors

Analysis of critical suspension designs can now be completedquickly, easily, and cost-effectively thanks to SuspensionSim, asoftware product that can be used with CarSim from Mechanical Simulation Corporation (Ann Arbor, MI). According to Terry Rhoades, Mechanical Simulation president, the product was developed by Knable and Associates, Inc. (Brighton, MI).

“SuspensionSim gives engineers the capability to model almost anysuspension system in a setting that rivals most testing facilities,“Rhoades said. “Then results can be imported directly to CarSim orTruckSim for immediate analysis of the suspension’s affects on vehicledynamics. It’s an easy-to-use program that’s completely compatible withour simulation software.”

According to a press release, SuspensionSim analyzes suspension systemsfor their kinematic and compliance qualities. The graphical userinterface (GUI) and engineering layout allow for simple and quick modelbuilding and change evaluation. A variety of suspension templatesprovide a jump start in building user-defined models. The entireprogram is PC-based; files created in SuspensionSim can be directlyimported by CarSim or TruckSim for further analysis.

CarSim is Mechanical Simulation’s software package for simulating thedynamic vehicle behavior of cars, light trucks and utility vehicles.CarSim animates simulated tests and generates more than 500 outputvariables that can be plotted and analyzed, including the “fish hook"test now required by the National Highway Traffic SafetyAdministration. TruckSim is software for simulating the dynamic vehiclebehavior of heavy-duty vehicles with dual wheels, asymmetric steeringsystems, multiple axles and single or multiple trailers. SuspensionSimwill be offered to customers as a stand-alone product, or inconjunction with either CarSim or TruckSim programs.

For more information, visit carsim.com.

Sources: Press materials received from the company. Additional information gleaned from the company’s website.