Design Optimization of Go-Kart Chassis Frame Using Modal Analysis

摘要

The chassis of automobile houses crucial mechanical component such as engine, suspension, steering and transmission system. Therefore, the chassis structure must be strong enough to absorb the static and dynamic loads generated by these mechanical components. In this work, the structural strength of go-kart chassis has been improved against static and dynamic loads through geometrical modifications. The geometrical modifications in the chassis structures were decided individually on each structural element where maximum deformation was analyzed in the modal analysis. This structural element was reanalyzed after making multiple variations in its geometry in attempt to minimize the deformation. When the minimum deformation was achieved in the structural element, then structure was finalized for stage 1. Similarly, other structural elements were also modified in the same continuous iterative process by keeping in consideration the weight constraints. After the termination of each modification torsion test, impact analysis was also carried out to examine torsional rigidity and crashworthiness. In five successive iterations, the optimum results for the chassis structure were obtained with little scope of further improvement. In the final structure, the lowest modal frequency was found to be shifted from 11.691 to 57.318 Hz to that of the initial structure. A significant reduction of 42% in maximum deformation along with a reduction in mode shapes was also witnessed in the final structure. The final structure was also found to be better in the results obtained from torsional analysis and impact testing.