ABSTRACT
In this work, a computer-aided design and finite element analysis methodology has been developed for the caravan chassis. 3-D models are created by software ANSYS to predict the stress and deflection of the chassis under various working conditions. The optimal design techniques developed by the group helps to find the best shapes and sizes of the chassis elements. Computer-aided manufacturing has been employed for the components and assembly procedures. The computational techniques have been applied for both the traditional and the new generation chassis. For the traditional chassis, the weak parts of the structure have been discovered with improvements proposed to enhance the four ground beams and reducing the material in other beams. Pre-stress has been reduced for the manufacturing process. For the new generation chassis, a versatile, high quality and cost effective chassis has been successfully designed and launched into UK market. It is envisaged that benefits will gain from the improved products for better performance and less cost and the computational techniques will play a key role in the product design.
