Mechanical Components of Automobile Vehicles and Equipment for Testing

This book examines the main mechanical components of the automobile and equipment for experimentation and understanding. It begins by presenting the theory of braking in a motor vehicle, as well as devices for evaluating this system. The following chapters investigate the types of brakes, disc and drum, the design and calculation of braking systems, the suspension systems, including different vehicle models for calculation, the elastic elements of the suspension, the shock absorber, and the air suspension. Given the importance of the systems described, this book is instrumental in understanding the elements of a vehicle's braking and suspension. The volume serves as an up-to-date reference work for researchers, instructors, and students in the field of automotive engineering.

Vicente Díaz López is Professor of Automotive Engineering in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Carlos III University in Madrid (UC3M), where he has a long career dedicated to teaching and advanced research. Throughout his career, he has led numerous innovation projects focused on road safety, component design, and vehicle efficiency, establishing himself as one of the leading voices in the field of academic and industrial automotive engineering. His research work is reflected in an extensive scientific output, with dozens of publications in high-impact journals and presentations at international conferences covering topics ranging from system dynamics to sustainability in transport.
In addition to his teaching work, Dr. Díaz López has played a key role in the transfer of knowledge between the university and the private sector, collaborating closely with technology centers and leading companies in the sector. His technical expertise is complemented by a comprehensive understanding of the automotive life cycle, which has enabled him to supervise doctoral theses and specialized postgraduate programs that have trained new generations of engineers in Spain. In this work, he draws on his in-depth knowledge of automotive component architecture to offer a rigorous and up-to-date technical perspective, essential for understanding the challenges of contemporary mobility.