Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v4 - SHS 2
INTRODUCTION TO VEHICLE TECHNOLOGY
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INTRODUCTION TO VEHICLE TECHNOLOGY
Download the Lessonotes Mobile Ghana app for faster lesson access on Android and iPhone.
Subject: Applied Technology
Class: SHS 2
Term: 1st Term
Week: 6
Grade code: 2.1.2.LI.5
Strand code: 1
Sub-strand code: 2
Content standard code: 2.1.2.CS.1
Indicator code: 2.1.2.LI.5
Theme: AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY
Subtheme: INTRODUCTION TO VEHICLE TECHNOLOGY
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Good day, students. Today, we are going to explore a critical part of every vehicle you see on our Ghanaian roads, from the family saloon car to the busy 'trotro' and the sturdy pickup truck: the suspension system. Have you ever wondered why a ride in a new Uber feels smoother than in an older taxi, especially on a bumpy road with potholes? The answer lies in the suspension. This system is the bridge between the car's body and its wheels. It is responsible for your comfort and, more importantly, your safety by keeping the tyres firmly on the road. Understanding how it works is fundamental for anyone interested in how cars are built, maintained, and repaired.
A. What is a Suspension System?
A vehicle's suspension system is a network of springs, shock absorbers, and linkages that connects the vehicle's body to its wheels. It has two main jobs: Ride Comfort: To absorb shocks and vibrations from bumps, potholes, and uneven road surfaces, isolating the passengers and cargo from the harshness. Handling and Safety: To keep the tyres in constant contact with the road, ensuring good grip (traction) for braking, steering, and accelerating. B. Independent Suspension System
An independent suspension system is a design where each wheel on the same axle can move vertically (up and down) without affecting the other wheel. Analogy: Imagine you and a friend are walking. Your legs move independently. If you step on a stone, your friend is not affected. This is like an independent suspension. Contrast (Dependent Suspension): Now imagine your ankles are tied together with a solid bar. If you step on a stone and your leg goes up, your friend's leg will be tilted. This is a dependent suspension (or solid axle), common in the rear of older cars, buses, and many pickup trucks.
The main advantage of an independent system is improved ride quality and handling, as one wheel hitting a bump doesn't disturb the opposite wheel. This is why most modern passenger cars use independent suspension, especially at the front.