Determination Of Factors To Improve Effectiveness Of Triangulation Members For A Formula SAE Race Car Frame

Abstract

This thesis suggests which factors have significant effect on the torsional and flexural stiffness of a space frame without contributing excessively to its weight. These factors are used as design variables to display the interaction plots generated by performing a Design of Experiments (DOE) using the Hyperstudy tool in Hyperworks by Altair®. The DOE will also provide a mathematical model which can help predict the responses by varying several factors in the design. The node - element models are created in ANSYS classic and are analyzed for various load cases that are representative of the loads on a formula SAE chassis during operation. The main focus is to maximize stiffness to weight ratio for a simple rectangular space frame while keeping making sure the various stresses acting along the section is under the yield load.