Using Simple Structural Beam Model to Optimize for Bending Stiffness and Vibration in Automotive Structures

Prior research has shown that the design of a vehicle’s structure has a substantial impact on its overall performance under static loading [1], since the structure affects other components of the vehicle aside from the body. In addition to the past research, dynamic loading is added in this paper as a parameter for design. Bending stiffness and weight are still important factors to consider, since a stiffer structure (higher stiffness) means longer life and stability. A lighter vehicle translates to better fuel economy, lower cost and higher performance. Simple Structural Beams are used to model the structure, where several beam elements are used in the setup. The cross-section properties are analyzed to determine the structure’s weight, bending stiffness, natural frequency and amplitude of vibration. In order to find an acceptable solution, the design must avoid the possibility of resonance. Vibration has a large impact on a structure’s performance, the larger the amplitude, the more uncomfortable the ride is. The goal of this research is to obtain a design that will optimize for vibration and for bending stiffness and weight. The purpose of the optimized design is to provide the best performance and most comfortable ride to the driver. The optimization process is automated iteratively and solves for the beam dimensions that correspond to the optimized parameters.