MEG 320

Spring 2002

Project 1

Engineers study dynamics of motorcycles to better understand issues related to safety and rider comfort, especially when the motorcycle is used on rough terrains. The web site of (http://www.dinamoto.mecc.unipd.it/ ) from which Figure 1 is taken may be of interest for further understanding of motorcycle suspension issues.

Figure 1 shows a typical rear wheel suspension system of a motorcycle. The objective of this project is to better understand the system. The project include the following steps:

1. Using Figure 1, identify the lengths of all links based on the size of a regular motorcycle tire.
2. Identify the linkage loops and joints.
3. Calculate the degree of freedom of the linkage.
4. Identify the input link.
5. Graphically, trace the motion of the center of the rear tire over a 2 inch brick. Assume the tire is perfectly rigid.
6. Graphically, identify the ranges of the motion of every link for this excitation.
7. Use Working Model to study this system. Compare your results.
8. Provide a layout of the system.

Figure 1

Click here to view a simulation of the system.