Title: Experimental validation of a three-axle semi-trailer finite element model for subsequent dynamic analyses

Authors: Javier Abad; David Valladares; Hugo Malon; Ramon Miralbes; Carlos Martin

Addresses: VEHIVIAL (New Vehicle Technologies and Road Safety), Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Zaragoza, E.I.N.A. C/ Maria de Luna s/n, 50018, Zaragoza, Spain ' VEHIVIAL (New Vehicle Technologies and Road Safety), Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Zaragoza, E.I.N.A. C/ Maria de Luna s/n, 50018, Zaragoza, Spain ' VEHIVIAL (New Vehicle Technologies and Road Safety), Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Zaragoza, E.I.N.A. C/ Maria de Luna s/n, 50018, Zaragoza, Spain ' VEHIVIAL (New Vehicle Technologies and Road Safety), Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Zaragoza, E.I.N.A. C/ Maria de Luna s/n, 50018, Zaragoza, Spain ' LECITRAILER S.A., Camino de los Huertos, S/N. Apdo. 100, 50620, Casetas (Zaragoza), Spain

Abstract: A methodology for validating a three-axle semi-trailer finite element model has been proposed in the present paper. This methodology is based on the establishment of a strong correlation between natural frequencies and mode shapes obtained by means of two different procedures: FEM modal analysis and impact hammer modal testing. The application of this methodology to the specific typology of vehicle analysed, coupled with the large size of its frame, and the development of the experimental analysis in situ at the assembly line during the manufacturing process, constitutes the main novelty and contribution of this paper. Moreover, it was necessary to develop a detailed finite element numerical model of the semi-trailer frame in order to achieve the best numerical-experimental correlation.

Keywords: semi-trailers; virtual testing; numerical modal analysis; experimental modal analysis; EMA; FEM; cargo transport; dynamic analysis; finite element method; modelling; natural frequencies; mode shapes; impact hammer modal testing.

DOI: 10.1504/IJVSMT.2013.056031

International Journal of Vehicle Systems Modelling and Testing, 2013 Vol.8 No.3, pp.209 - 227

Received: 26 Sep 2011
Accepted: 09 Jun 2012

Published online: 19 Jul 2014 *

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