McPherson veerpoot - Cornelis Schetst

Summary

The video delves into the fundamentals of the MacPherson strut suspension system, an essential vehicle component developed after World War II. Originating from General Motors and later refined by Ford, the system offers a compact and cost-effective solution for car suspensions, especially in front-wheel-drive vehicles. The discussion covers its design, various modifications over time, including the integration of shock absorbers, and its widespread use in both everyday cars and rally vehicles. The system's simplicity and ease of replacement make it a popular choice, even in high-performance applications.

Takeaways

• 😀 The MacPherson strut suspension system originated after World War II, developed by General Motors as a more compact alternative to traditional suspension designs.
• 😀 The design was meant to reduce space taken up by the suspension, especially in small cars, by integrating the strut into the vehicle’s suspension geometry and steering system.
• 😀 The MacPherson strut uses a single strut that supports both the spring and shock absorber, which is attached to the vehicle's chassis or body via the upper mounting point, often inside the wheel arch.
• 😀 This suspension system is particularly suited for cars with self-supporting bodies, which allow the strut to be mounted directly to the body without requiring a separate frame.
• 😀 Early MacPherson strut designs were compact and economical, making them popular in both mass production cars and motorsport, including rally vehicles.
• 😀 The system's simplicity makes it easy to repair or replace, especially in motorsport environments where quick repairs are crucial.
• 😀 The suspension system typically includes a spring and shock absorber working together to control the motion of the vehicle, and its geometry affects handling and steering.
• 😀 Variations of the MacPherson strut have been developed over the years, such as the use of air suspension, coil springs, and even torsion bars, depending on the specific vehicle requirements.
• 😀 In addition to compactness, MacPherson struts are relatively inexpensive to manufacture, making them a popular choice for various types of vehicles.
• 😀 Despite its benefits, the system does have limitations, such as a relatively high vertical profile, which can affect low-slung sports cars or vehicles with limited space.

Q & A

What is the MacPherson strut system?

The MacPherson strut is a suspension system developed in the early 1940s, which became popular in compact cars. It integrates the shock absorber and coil spring into a single unit, simplifying vehicle suspension while providing structural support for the wheel and axle.

Who first developed the MacPherson strut system?

The MacPherson strut system was developed by Earle MacPherson, an engineer working at General Motors in the early 1940s. It was further refined and produced by Ford in 1950.

Why was the MacPherson strut system developed?

The system was developed to create a more compact suspension design for small cars. It allowed for more interior space by replacing large and bulky solid axles that were typical in cars of that era.

What is the basic structure of a MacPherson strut?

A MacPherson strut consists of a spring and shock absorber combined into a single unit. The bottom of the strut is connected to the wheel hub and is attached to a control arm. The top is secured to the car’s chassis or body, typically in the wheel well.

How does the MacPherson strut system contribute to vehicle design?

The MacPherson strut system is compact, lightweight, and simple to assemble. It saves space, reduces weight, and lowers the cost of manufacturing, making it especially useful for small and compact cars.

What is the significance of the MacPherson strut in car manufacturing?

The MacPherson strut system has become a standard in modern vehicles because it simplifies the design of the suspension, reduces part count, and makes it easier to manufacture and replace compared to more complex suspension designs.

Can the MacPherson strut system be found in modern cars?

Yes, the MacPherson strut system is widely used in modern cars, particularly in front-wheel-drive vehicles. It is a standard component in many compact and mid-sized vehicles.

What are some variations of the MacPherson strut system?

Variations of the MacPherson strut include the use of air suspension (like in some Mercedes-Benz models), torsion bars (used in earlier Porsche 911 models), and multi-link systems for more complex suspension designs. These variations modify the system for specific performance or comfort needs.

Why is the MacPherson strut system popular in rally cars?

The MacPherson strut system is popular in rally cars because of its simplicity and ease of maintenance. Rally cars benefit from its quick assembly and disassembly, allowing for fast repairs during events.

What is the role of the upper mount in the MacPherson strut system?

The upper mount of the MacPherson strut connects the strut to the car's chassis or body, typically in the wheel well. It allows the strut to pivot as the wheel moves up and down while providing structural support.