Modeling Optimization and Testing of an Engine Bracket Using the Finite Element Method and an On-Board Vehicle Data Acquisition System

The new design for a diesel engine chassis mount bracket was fitted with strain gages and placed in a test vehicle instrumented with an on-board data acquisition system to find stress levels under actual service conditions. All experimental stresses were smaller than endurance limit of the part, so the bracket was predicted to have infinite life. In addition, a finite element model of the chassis mount bracket was optimized. The solution suggested removal of three portions of the bracket, reducing the weight by 13.49% and saving some manufacturing costs.