COMBINED APPROACH USING TEST AND F.E.M. ANALYSIS IN CAR BODY DESIGN

In the early design stage of a new car, theoretical studies and analyses are a fundamental guide to the designer, but, to be an effective tool, mathematical models must be quick to prepare, ready to use and easy to modify in order to follow with efficiency the evolution of the design. Therefore in this phase, in terms of finite element models of the car body, only simple beam-and-shell models can be profitably used, models developed to provide macro-informations and to pursue parameter studies. But when prototypes are available, it is worth it to develop a more refined F.E.M. model which, after an intensive correlation process with experimental tests, can be so representative of reality as to provide precise information on the key parameters at the origin of the structural behaviour, thus allowing the full understanding and the optimization of the body. The present paper shows how these refined models have been used in the lightening and optimization process of a medium large saloon car.

• Supplemental Notes:
  • ISATA 84, "In Pursuit of Technical Excellence". Proceedings Volume 2. International Symposium on Automotive Technology and Automation with particular reference to Vehicle Management Systems and Flexible Manufacturing Systems, Milan, Italy 24-28 September 1984.
• Corporate Authors:

  Automotive Automotion Limited

  42 Lloyd Park Avenue
  Croydon CRO 5SB, Surrey,   England 

  Alfa Romeo Auto SpA

  Milan,   Italy 
• Authors:
  • Pagliarulo, V
  • Ugolini, R
• Publication Date: 1984

Media Info

• Features: Figures; Tables;
• Pagination: 21 p.

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Finite element method; Mathematical models; Motor vehicle bodies; Optimization; Vehicle design
• Old TRIS Terms: Automobile bodies
• Subject Areas: Design; Safety and Human Factors;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00399942
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
• Report/Paper Numbers: ISATA 84064, HS-038 482
• Files: HSL, USDOT
• Created Date: Nov 30 1985 12:00AM