Vehicle Structural Design Utilizing Optimized Finite Element Modeling

It is evident that the use of impact simulation, static, and dynamic analyses in the pre-prototype phase of the design process can significantly improve the structural efficiency of the design process can significantly improve the structural efficiency of the automobile. As a result of this design project, the accuracy of the structural modeling and analysis was verified by experimental data obtained from a fabricated test vehicle, and the potential value of design through analysis was demonstrated by a significant reduction in structural weight of the project vehicle. /SAE/

Design Through Analysis of an Experimental Automobile Structure

A Substructuring Approach to Localized Plasticity Analysis

A Few Aspects on the Development of Structural Models

The objective of this paper is to illustrate an interactive computer graphics program developed to simplify the creation of finite element data which will be used for computerized structural analysis. Three-dimensional, part definition data in the form of basic design lines in input to the program and displayed on a cathode ray tube, and then a structural engineer creates the finite element definition using various computer graphics techniques. The procedures involved are discussed in detail, as well as the advantages over the traditional manual approach to element generation.

Generation of finite element models via computer graphics

Various techniques were developed covering analytical modeling of complex structures and automated input data generation and output data interpretation using the graphic system. The results of the study show finite element structural analysis, when used with an interactive graphic system, can be used sucessfully as a powerful design tool for automobile body components.

S. W. Park

Papers

Finite element structural analysis as applied to an automotive door structure