Determination of realistic load profiles for life time optimization of steering axes at utility vehicles

摘要

In order to fulfill the development requirements of the utility vehicle manufacturers, the subcontractors of components for chassis and steerings are confronted with two major tasks: Weight and cost reduction and optimization of the life time of components and wider maintenance intervals, respectively. As such a subcontractor, the company Lemforder Fahrwerkstechnik (LFT) developed steering casings and rubber bearings which have been optimized regarding their life time and their space capacity as compared to the previous generation. Extensive Wohler testing represented the basis for such optimization. In order to ensure the nominal size reduction of such components commercially, LFT performed driving tests in close cooperation with its customers on test courses relevant for release. On the basis of the weakest of all tested components, i.e. the rubber bearings, life time evaluation was carried out for each component taking into account the diverse test configurations.