Audi A6 242 - Page 9

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The natural frequency of the bodywork is
essentially determined by the characteristics
of the springs (spring rate) and by the sprung
mass.
Greater mass or softer springs produce a
lower natural frequency of the bodywork and
a greater spring travel (amplitude).
Smaller mass or harder springs produce a
higher natural frequency of the bodywork and
a lesser spring travel.
Depending on personal sensitivity, a natural
frequency of the bodywork below 1 Hz can
cause nausea. Frequencies above 1.5 Hz
impair driving comfort and are experienced
as shudders above around 5Hz.
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Definitions
Vibration Upward and downward
motion of the mass
(body)
Amplitude The greatest distance of
the vibrating mass from
the rest position
(vibration extent, spring
travel)
Cycle Duration of a single
vibration
Frequency Number of vibrations
(cycles) per second
Natural
frequency of
the bodywork
Number of vibrations of
the sprung mass (body)
per second
Resonance The mass is disturbed in
its rhythm by a force
which increases the
amplitude (build-up).
Greater mass or softer springs
Smaller mass or harder springs
Spring travelSpring travel
Low natural frequency of the
bodywork
High natural frequency of the
bodywork
1 cycle
1 cycle
Time
Time