Light frame design for quad bike using topology optimization

Abstract

The paper describes a quad bike frame design procedure with the use of topology optimization technique. The design space specific properties, quad bike specific load cases and problem formulation for topology optimization are presented. Topology optimization results – beneficial load paths of the frame structure – have been interpreted into a new frame design providing sufficient space for placement of all systems of the vehicle. The new frame strength has been proved using finite element method. Comparing with the previous steel frame design, the new frame of the quad bike has become 2 times as stiff and 17% lighter while having low stress levels due to the substitution of aluminum material for steel and a new optimized topology of the frame load-bearing structure.

multi-working condition joint topology optimization design of an electric truck aluminum alloy frame based on subjective and objective interactive weights

“…In practical engineering applications, components frequently operate under diverse working conditions. For instance, Konrad and Vdovin utilized topology optimization to analyze various usage scenarios of bicycle frames, achieving significant weight reduction while maintaining the required frame stiffness (Vdovin et al 2019;Łyduch et al 2022). When dealing with multi-objective optimization problems, a commonly used approach involves linear weighting or transforming multiple objectives into a single objective for resolution.…”

Lightweight Design of Shock-Absorbing and Load-Bearing Components Based on 3D Printing Technology

“…Guojun et al [14] studied the arrangement of the toes of the mole, reconstructed the toe model with CAD, and finally obtained the toe contour curve, so as to design a bionic sawtooth cutter. Abroad, D Vdovin's team from Moscow State University of Engineering [15] used topology optimization technology to make a lightweight design on the frame of a four-wheeled motorcycle, increased the stiffness of new frame by 2 times, and reduced the weight by 17% in 2019. In 2020, Y Jung et al from Hyundai Motor of South Korea [16] came up with a multi-material topology optimization technology, achieved different material configurations on different structures, and lowered the body mass of electric buses through the optimized lightweight design.…”