Dynamic Analysis of Vehicle Arm Based on Finite Element Approach

Abstract

In the automotive industry, the riding comfort and handling qualities of an automobile are greatly affected by the suspension system. In this paper a suspension arm model based on finite element analysis (FEA) is proposed. First, critical location and suitable materials for the suspension arm has been identified, and then the contact stress analysis and dynamic behavior of lower arm has been investigated. A structural modeling of the lower arm suspension was developed using SolidWorks and aluminum alloys (AA7075-T6) are selected as a suspension arm materials. The linear static stress distribution is investigated using the commercial FEA package, and dynamic analysis was performed using NASTRAN software. Two types of nodes, 4 nodes tetrahedral (TET4) and 10 nodes tetrahedral (TET10) has been used in the finite element modeling. According to the results TET10 are able to capture the higher stresses than TET4 for the same global length. In addition TET10 mesh size 0.1 mm (54178 elements) has been chosen for dynamic analysis because of predicted higher maximum stresses. This model will provides a solid foundation for further study of failure life analysis of the suspension arm components.