Reliability Based Design of the Automotive Components considering Degradation Properties of Polymeric Materials

Abstract

: In this study, we used a stochastic approach for guaranteeing the reliability and robustness of the performance with regard to the design of polymer components, while taking into consideration the degradation properties and operating conditions in automobiles. Creep and tensile tests were performed for obtaining degradation properties. The Prony series, which described the viscoelastic models, were calculated to use the creep data by the Maxwell fluid model. We obtained the stress data from the frequency response analysis of the polymer components while considering the degradation properties. Limit state functions are generated by using these data. Reliability assessments are conducted under the variation of the degradation properties and area of frequency at peak response. For this study, the input parameters are assumed to be a normal distribution, and the reliability under the yield stress criteria is evaluated by using the Monte Carlo Simulation. As a result, the reliabilities, according to the three types of polymer materials in automotive components, are compared to each other and suggested the applicable possibility of polymeric materials in automobiles.

Structural reliability analysis of automotive parts based on strength degradation and abrasion and correlation

“…The reliability of a vehicle 1,2 mainly refers to the ability of vehicle parts to complete the specified function in the expected time of use and the working conditions required by the parts. The cumulative effect of external factors, such as temperature, humidity, and corrosion, 3 will change the strength and stress of the vehicle parts gradually, thus resulting in gradual gradient failure.…”