Composite leaf spring with improved lateral stiffness

摘要

A method of increasing lateral stiffness in fiberglass composite leaf springs used in suspension systems. The increase in lateral stiffness is accomplished by introducing two carbon fiber inserts to the longitudinal side regions of a fiberglass composite spring. The amount of volume of carbon fiber inserts is preferably between 10-20% by volume of the total volume of the spring and is a function of the strain characteristics required within the suspension system. The composite leaf spring secures the weight advantages of fiberglass springs as compared with traditional steel leaf springs and improves lateral stiffness that promotes improved handling as well as increased efficiency in the packaging of suspension and fuel storage systems. These new composite springs can be molded from layering preprag tape containing fiberglass, carbon fiber and resin, or from a 3D weaving process.