Equivalent Stiffness Analysis of Rubber Bushing Considering Large Deformation and Size Effect

Abstract

In this paper, the amplitude and frequency dependent dynamic characteristics of the equivalent stiffness of a rubber bushing are investigated. A new mathematical model is proposed to explain the large deformation and size effect of a rubber bushing. The proposed model consists of elastic, viscous, and frictional stress components and the equivalent strain. The proposed model is verified using experimental results. The comparison shows that the proposed model can accurately predict the equivalent stiffness values of a rubber bushing under various magnitudes and frequencies. The developed model could be used to predict the dynamic equivalent stiffness of a rubber bushing in automotive engineering.