The standard version of the Suspension Parameter Measuring Machine (SPMM) is designed to measure the quasi-static suspension characteristics that are important to a vehicles ride and handling. The machine applies forces slowly, so as not to excite any dynamic forces emanating from inertias, dampers or elastomers. The optional dynamic upgrade enables some tests to be performed at higher frequencies.

The SPMM is a moving body, fixed ground plane Kinematics and Compliance test machine with electro-mechanical actuators. It is designed to subject a vehicle to a variety of forces and displacements and measure the kinematic characteristics due to the suspension and steering system geometries, and compliances due to the suspension springs, anti-roll bars, elastomeric bushes and component deformations.

A wide range of parameters may be evaluated, the principal ones being suspension stiffness and hysteresis, bump-steer, roll-steer, roll stiffness distribution, longitudinal and lateral compliance, steer, and steering system characteristics. Knowledge of these parameter values and characteristics is an essential tool to a thorough understanding of a vehicle’s performance in terms of ride, impact isolation, steering and handling.

The SPMM is an accurate, easy to use, reliable and safe test machine. It is available in either a 4 wheel station (twin-axle) version, or a two wheel station (single-axle) version.

The optional MIMS upgrade adds the capability to measure the Moments of Inertia and Centre of Gravity height of a vehicle.