Investigating Natural Frequencies for Enhanced Towable Vehicle Performance

Abstract

The recreational vehicle (RV) industry has witnessed remarkable growth, particularly in North America, establishing itself as a rapidly expanding sector. RVs, equipped with essential amenities, exemplify adaptability and mobility, categorized into those with integrated driving capabilities and those designed exclusively for towing. In the cold Northern American climate, towable RVs predominantly integrate wooden components, leveraging the material's advantages to enhance overall efficiency. However, the introduction of wood brings challenges, notably in structural dynamics, leading to vibrations during travel. These vibrations pose potential impacts on user comfort, appliance lifespan, and mounting strength, necessitating a comprehensive investigation into the vibration characteristics of towable RVs. This paper focuses on the primary objective of conducting an exhaustive natural frequency (modal) analysis of foundational towable RVs using the finite element method (FEA). Following this, experimental modal analysis will be performed, and the results correlated with FEA findings. The ultimate aim is to propose and implement targeted modifications, utilizing Finite Element Analysis (FEA), to enhance the natural frequencies of towable RVs. This research endeavors to significantly improve both the longevity and overall user experience associated with these vehicles, thereby contributing valuable insights to the evolving landscape of RV design and construction. This research paper presents an in-depth investigation into the dynamic characteristics, specifically the natural frequency, of recreational towable vehicles through a comprehensive analysis utilizing Computer Aided Engineering (CAE) and Experimental Analysis. The study explores various mode shapes and elucidates their significance in understanding the vehicle's dynamic behavior. Furthermore, it conducts a comparative analysis of the natural frequencies of recreational towable vehicles against those of other common towable units. The paper delves into the Finite Element Analysis methodology employed in the study, shedding light on the intricacies of the analytical process. Beyond providing a comparative analysis, the research extends its scope to propose enhancements aimed at refining the dynamic characteristics of towable vehicles. The findings and recommendations contribute to advancing the understanding and optimization of the performance of recreational towable vehicles. Index Terms- CAE, FEA, Modal Analysis, Towable