Analysis of the effect of passenger car design on floor panel wear

Abstract

The aim of the study presented in the paper was to analyse and identify the magnitude of shifts of the floor panel basis points in vehicles with different design parameters. In contrast to other studies, the analysis did not directly address the effect of vehicle mileage on changes to the floor panel geometry. The study carried out a comparative analysis of changes to the vehicle body geometry depending on the body type, the vehicle segment, the type of engine, and the power transmission system type. Depending on individual design parameters, the intensity of changes in the floor panel geometry may vary. The changes to the floor panel geometry were primarily influenced by the body type and the drive system of the vehicles. There were differences between the particular body types in the value of changes to the floor panel geometry. These changes resulted, to a large extent, from the different axle bases and the complete kerb weight of the vehicles. In most cars, the areas with the greatest intensity of changes in geometry were the points associated with the mounting of the front and rear axle suspension system components.