Virtual Test Rig Development for Accelerated Durability Analysis

The use of virtual and / or experimental test rigs applying random loading is becoming more relevant in the development and validation of new products. An application example is the analysis of components subject to vibrations, especially suspended components. For this type of application, product validation applying random loads and different frequencies becomes mandatory. This study developed a virtual test rig for suspended components validation and definition of experimental test rigs. The study was based on a standard component, using LMS Virtual.Lab Siemens software for the dynamic analysis and durability. The experimental data (extensometry and accelerometry) was collected on the special tracks of Randon Companies Proving Ground. From the virtual modeling and experimental data, the proper hydraulic actuators signals were defined to characterize the component behavior according to the field application. The results of the virtual model were satisfactory compared with the experimental results validating the method for this type of application.