Weight Optimization of Hub and Knuckle Using Topology Optimization

International Journal of Mechanical Engineering

© 2020 by SSRG - IJME Journal

Volume 7 Issue 6

Year of Publication : 2020

Authors : P. Chaudhari, R. Khairnar

10.14445/23488360/IJME-V7I6P103

How to Cite?

P. Chaudhari, R. Khairnar, "Weight Optimization of Hub and Knuckle Using Topology Optimization," SSRG International Journal of Mechanical Engineering, vol. 7,  no. 6, pp. 20-23, 2020. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/23488360/IJME-V7I6P103

Abstract:

Steering knuckle is the most stress sustaining and critical component of All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV). The lightweight and high strength components are highly necessary for race car applications. A lightweight and optimized steering knuckle design is proposed to use in a BAJA SAE INDIA off-road race car. A steering knuckle is a component over which a wheel hub is mounted for supporting the steering and braking, which operates under very high-stress conditions. THE 3D CAD model was created by using Cero 3.0. Static and model analysis was carried out in HYPERMESH and ANSYS software to understand its behavior under operating conditions. A CAD model of the existing steering knuckle and wheel hub is applied in the race car. The finite element analysis (FEA) method was used to predict product reactions to real-world forces, vibration, and other physical effects to prove whether a product worked the way it was designed to. At the same time, topology optimization was used to minimize the weight of the component. There was a 24.09 % weight reduction for Hub and 16.30% for knuckle after weight optimization performed using topology optimization. FEA analyzed that the knuckle models are below the stress values and very less deflection under the applied loads.

Keywords:

Topology optimization, Hub, knuckle, FEA

References:

[1] Joost, W. J, Reducing vehicle weight and improving US energy efficiency using integrated computational materials engineering. Jom, 64(9) (2012)1032-1038.
[2] Dusane, S. V, Dipke, M. K, and Kumbhalkar, M. A, Analysis of steering knuckle of all terrain vehicles (ATV) using finite element analysis, In IOP Conference Series: Materials Science and Engineering, 149(1) (2016). 012133. IOP Publishing.
[3] Kokate S.B and Kulkarni G. R, Material Optimization of Wheel Hub using Finite Element Analysis, (2019).
[4] Kavita,RakeshSaxena, LalitRanakoti, AshishBedwal,Topological Optimization using Guide Weight Method, SSRG International Journal of Mechanical Engineering. 2(7) (2015)18-2.
[5] Saxena G, Chauhan A. S, Jain R, and Gupta I,Simulation and Optimization of wheel Hub and Upright of Vehicle: A Review.
[6] Andrew Salzano and Eric Klang, Design, Analysis andFabrication of a Formula SAE Chassis, College of Engineering,North Carolina State University, (2009).