Topology Optimization Design of Automotive Suspension Control Arm

Abstract

In order to reduce the weight of electric vehicle suspension systems, improve structural strength and stiffness, and lower manufacturing costs. This study is based on the continuum topology optimization method to optimize the structure design of the lower control arm. First, taking the minimization of overall flexibility as the optimization objective, the sub objectives are normalized based on the compromise programming method, and a comprehensive mathematical model of the objectives is constructed. Subsequently, the Analytic Hierarchy Process was used to determine the weight coefficients for each operating condition, and an optimization plan was obtained by combining ANSYS finite element analysis. Finally, the optimized conceptual model is reconstructed into a 3D solid on the NX platform. The optimization results show that the overall weight of the optimized lower control arm has been reduced by 15.1%, and the structural stiffness and strength performance have been significantly improved. The topology optimization design of the lower control arm not only provides an effective technical solution for the lightweight design of electric vehicle suspension systems, but also takes into account manufacturing feasibility, bringing energy-saving and economic benefits to large-scale production.