Design Analysis and Comparative Testing of Composite Elliptical Shape Leaf-Spring Damper

Abstract

This study investigated the design, analysis, and comparative testing of a novel composite elliptical-leaf spring damper. Traditional leaf spring suspensions have limitations in terms of damping performance and durability. In this study, these shortcomings were addressed by using composites and an elliptical design. The objective of using composites is to enhance their strength-to-weight ratio, thereby resulting in lighter and more efficient components. Finite element analysis (FEA) was performed to investigate the stress distribution and optimize the critical design parameters. The FEA results were verified experimentally to allow for a direct comparison of the damping characteristics of the proposed composite elliptical leaf-spring damper and conventional steel leaf springs. The findings showed an improved damping performance, reduced weight, and improved durability, all of which make this design a promising alternative for various vehicle applications.