Topology Optimization of Vehicle B-Pillar

Abstract

Abstract: Weight reduction techniques have been practiced by automobile manufacturers for the purpose of long range, less fuel consumption and achieving higher speeds. Due to the numerous set objectives that must be met, especially with respect to of car safety, automotive chassis design for vehicle weight reduction is a difficult task. In passenger classed vehicles using a monocoque chassis for vehicle construction has been a great solution for reducing overall wight of the vehicle body yet the structure is more stiffened and sturdier. However, some parts such as A-pillar, B-pillar, roof structure, floor pan can be further optimized to reduce more weight without affecting the strength needed for respective purposes. In this paper, the main focus is on reducing weight of the B-pillar. The B-pillar of a passenger car has been optimized using topology optimization and optimum weight reduction has been done. The modelling and simulation are done using SOLIDWORKS 3D software. The B-pillar in this study has been subjected to a static load of 140 KN. Further by providing goals and constraints the optimization was caried out. The results of Finite Element Analysis (FEA) of the original model are explained. The Topology Optimization resulted in reducing 53% of the original weight of the B-pillar. Keywords: Structural optimization techniques, weight reduction techniques, weight reduction technologies, need for weight reduction, Topology optimization, B-pillar design, structural optimization of B-pillar, Topology optimization of B-pillar.