Evaluation of strength of undercarriage of light commercial vehicles with design changes

The results of the design study of undercarriage of light commercial vehicle are provided in the paper. GAZ 3302 was selected as object of research. Calculations are made using the finite element method and modern software package MSC PATRAN / NASTRAN of license package University MD FEA Bundle. The models of undercarriage with differ- ent types of settings are developed: euro truck, on-board platform, vehicle carrier. The possibility of extension of the frame of the automobile is considered. The developed model includes: frame, cabin, leaf springs, body superstructure. Models loading mode corresponds to the front right wheel display at full weight of the automobile. Picture of strain distribution and maximum equivalent stress by Mises criterion are gained. The calculation of bending stiffness is made. The obtained results of calculations allow to perform a comparative analysis of the original and extended structures with different body superstructures and to evaluate the degree of change in the stiffness and strength of the system. The re- sults of the research say that extension of the automobile frame within 1100 mm is an increase in stress in the average of 10% and a decrease in rigidity by 15%. The values of the maximum stresses remain within acceptable limits. There- fore proposed design of frame has sufficient strength and rigidity in terms of possible operational loads.

frame, strength, loads, deformations, torsion