Skid Plate Development by using Topography Optimization

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to show that how the development of skid plate can achieve without increasing the gauge and upgrading the material properties. There are certain factors which can influence the skid plate such as rail width, shape, ground clearance, attachment points, load coming on skid plate and the general shape of the object for which it is the skid plate's design and purpose is to protect (transfer case, fuel tank etc.). This document also covers the CAE procedure to evaluate performance of skid plate for structural integrity under static load condition for vehicles. Bead plays an important role to increase the structural stiffness but challenge is how to decide bead patterns and bead pattern can be achieved by using topography optimization approach. The skid plate should absorb the damage and protect underneath parts and protect vehicle function ability. This paper will demonstrate a few ways to achieve a successful skid plate design while gaining some other unexpected benefits described herein.