Finite Element Analysis of Mini Baja Frame

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Finite Element Analysis of Mini Baja Frame

• Ariana L. Gonzalez
• April 29, 2003
• MECE

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Problem Statement

• The Mini Baja Frame needs to withstand any
  collision that it might be subjected to as part
  of the testing process or competition.
• Four impact scenarios were analyzed to ensure the
  frame design will not fail.
• Front Impact
• Rear Impact
• Side Impact
• Roll Over

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Material Properties

• The frame material is 4130 N Chromoly Steel with
  an outer diameter of 1.125 and wall thickness of
  0.058 but was modeled as solid rods with1.125
  diameter.
• Elastic Modulus 29 106 psi
• Poissons Ratio .25
• Yield Stress 1.16 105 psi

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Pro/Engineer Model
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Actual Frame Design
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Calculation of Front Impact Force
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Forces and Constraints

• The force of 7111 lbf was divided by four and
  applied to the four front most points of the car
  (1777.75 lbf).
• The rear most points of the car was constrained
  to prevent movement.

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Finite Element Analysis of Front Impact
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Close Up
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Calculation of Rear Impact Force
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Forces and Constraints

• The force of 9026 lbf was divided by four and
  applied to the four rear most points of the car
  (2256.5 lbf).
• The front most points of the car was constrained
  to prevent movement.

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Finite Element Analysis of Rear Impact
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Close Up
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Finite Element Analysis of Rear Impact
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Calculation of Side Impact Force
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Forces and Constraints

• The force of 9026 lbf was divided by four and
  applied to the right most points of the car
  (2256.5 lbf).
• The left most points of the car was constrained
  to prevent movement.

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Finite Element Analysis of Side Impact
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Close Up
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Calculation of Roll Over Force
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Forces and Constraints

• The force of 7111 lbf was divided by two and
  applied to the top most points of the car
  (3555.50 lbf).
• The bottom of the car was constrained to prevent
  movement.

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Finite Element Analysis of Roll Over
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Close Up
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Alternative Design
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FEA of Alternative
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Close Up
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Conclusions

• The solid model can only be used to determine
  places where there is a stress concentration.
• The proposed alternative reduces the stress
  concentration at desired location.