On modelling of simulation model for racing car frame torsional stiffness analysis

Abstract

This paper concerns the modelling of the simulation structure for the torsional stiffness evaluation of a Formula SAE vehicle frame and presents some insights into the modelling of the problem using a beam-like model together with geometrical simplifications. The insights consist of presenting utilized simplifications and assessing their influence on torsional stiffness. The simulation model, consisting of the vehicle frame, suspension and testing fixture of complex shapes, requires certain simplifications to achieve a sustainable modelling and computational time while getting reasonable results. The influence of simplifications such as a linear isotropic material model for carbon-fibre and geometrical simplifications of the suspension, frame and testing fixture are discussed. The simulation model was developed in such a way to allow the easy change of cross-sections and geometry during the vehicle design process. The simulation model was also experimentally validated. A comparison of the results from the simulation and testing showed an acceptable difference (up to 10%), thus a small influence of the material and geometrical simplifications on the results of torsional stiffness is considered.