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1 AUTOMOTIVE FUNDAMENTALS
Figure 1.13
Schematic of a
Differential
FPO
SUSPENSION
Another major automotive subsystem is the suspension system, which is
the mechanical assembly that connects each wheel to the car body. The primary
purpose of the suspension system is to isolate the car body from the vertical
motion of the wheels as they travel over the rough road surface.
The suspension system can be understood with reference to Figure 1.14,
which illustrates the major components. Notice that the wheel assembly is
connected through a movable assembly to the body. The weight of the car is
supported by springs. In addition, there is a so-called shock absorber (sometimes
20 UNDERSTANDING AUTOMOTIVE ELECTRONICS
