A Torsional Strength Analysis of Truck Frames Using Open Section Members

A new method of torsional strength analysis has been developed for truck frames with open-section members. The conventional analytical methods often indicate values 2-20 times smaller or larger than the actual stress because the actual load transmission between the frame members is different from generally accepted theory.

In the present study, the stress distribution was measured in detail with an effective strain meter and the nature of the load transmission was made apparent. In the author's new method of analysis, this load transmission is taken into consideration, and the calculated values correspond closely to the experimentally measured values.