Failure analysis and design of a front bumper using finite element method along with durability and rig tests
by Ricardo R. Magalhaes; Cristiano H. Fontes; Silvio A.B. Vieira de Melo
International Journal of Vehicle Design (IJVD), Vol. 60, No. 1/2, 2012

Abstract: This work presents a case study that comprises the application of the Finite Element Method (FEM) to the design of a front bumper to predict possible failures caused by fatigue. Stress distribution and damage estimates were obtained by using FEM together with rig tests results. Vehicle durability tests were also performed, and geometric changes were proposed in the design of the component analysed based on the simulation results obtained from FEM. A good agreement between experimental data and FEM predictions was found. The case study and results demonstrate that time and cost can be reduced in the course of the product development phase in the automotive industry. FEM also can be used to support decision-making during the design phase of the product.

Online publication date: Tue, 23-Apr-2013

The full text of this article is only available to individual subscribers or to users at subscribing institutions.

 
Existing subscribers:
Go to Inderscience Online Journals to access the Full Text of this article.

Pay per view:
If you are not a subscriber and you just want to read the full contents of this article, buy online access here.

Complimentary Subscribers, Editors or Members of the Editorial Board of the International Journal of Vehicle Design (IJVD):
Login with your Inderscience username and password:

Username:        Password:          Forgotten your password?

Want to subscribe?
A subscription gives you complete access to all articles in the current issue, as well as to all articles in the previous three years (where applicable). See our Orders page to subscribe.

If you still need assistance, please email subs@inderscience.com