Dynamic input loads evaluation of a recreational vehicle frame using multibody dynamics hybrid modeling validated with experimental and full analytical modeling data

Abstract

Knowledge of frame loads at the limits of the intended driving conditions is important during the design process of a vehicle structure. Yet, retrieving these loads is not trivial as the load path between the road and the frame mounting point is complex. Fortunately, recent studies have shown that multibody dynamic (MBD) simulations could be a powerful tool to estimate these loads. Two main categories of MBD simulations exist. Firstly, full analytical simulations, which have received great attention in the literature, are run in a virtual environment using a tire model and a virtual road. Secondly, hybrid simulations, also named semi analytical, uses experimental data from Wheel Force Transducers and Inertial Measurement Units to replace the road and tire models. It is still unclear how trustworthy semi analytical simulations are for frame load evaluation. Both methods were tested for three loads cases. It was found that semi analytical simulations were slightly better in predicting vehicle dynamic and frame loads than the full analytical simulations for frequencies under the MF-Tyre model valid frequency range (8 Hz) with accuracy levels over 90%. For faster dynamic maneuvers, the prediction accuracy was lower, in the 50%–80% range, with semi analytical simulations showing better results.