Semitrailer Tractor Frame Finite Element Strength Analysis

In this study, the static and the dynamic analysis of a frame of a semi-trailing tractor (Model: CA4320) under various operating conditions were carried out using a general finite element analysis software in order to find the problems of the frame. And then, a modal test analysis was subsequently conducted to verify the results obtained from the analysis. The result of the analysis figured out the reasons of the crack in the semi-trailing tractor's frame. Some suggestions were also presented to help further modification of the frame, which could improve its performance. Therefore, this thesis has several practical values in leading to an appropriate tractor frame design.This thesis comprehensively summarizes the finite element analysis of the vehicle's frame. The finite element model of the Semi-trailing tractor's frame was realistically constructed. In this paper the pre/post processing software of MSC.Patran (MSC.software, USA) and the finite element software of MSC. Nastran (MSC.software, USA) were used in the strength and modal analysis of the Semi-trailing tractor's frame successfully. The load acting on the semi-trailing tractor and the methods of applying the load to the finite element model of the tractor were extensively discussed. The strengths of the frame under five typical operating conditions were calculated, by the results of the analysis, the reasons of the crack in the primitive frame was found out. In this paper, the modal frequency and the modal shapes were obtained, then, the results of the calculation were contrasted with that of the experiment. By this way, the dynamic property of the frame was known.The modal test was carried out successfully, and finite element model was verified using the results of the experiment. It is not only the theorical foundation of the improvement but also the basement of the further NVH study.