It is a challenging task to find an optimal design concept for a truck frame structure given the complexity of loading conditions, vehicle configurations, packaging and other requirements. In addition, there is a great emphasis on light weight frame design to meet stringent emission standards. This paper provides a framework for fast and efficient development of a frame structure through various design phases, keeping durability in perspective while utilizing various weight reduction techniques. In this approach frame weight and stiffness are optimized to meet strength and durability performance requirements.
Fast evaluation of different frame configurations during the concept phase (I) was made possible by using DFSS (Design for Six Sigma) based system synthesis techniques. This resulted in a very efficient frame ladder concept selection process. Frame gauge optimization during the subsequent development phase (II) utilizing a newly developed damage based approach greatly reduced the number of design iterations relative to a typical stress based approach. In the light weighting phase (III) that followed, a method was established to effectively locate and optimize lightening holes using fatigue damage contours. In the final optimization phase (IV) custom Python® scripts were developed to optimize weld lengths at joints.
This whole framework provides a fast and efficient way to optimize a frame structure for durability.