Abstract This study presents a method for enhancing vehicle design through the integration of CAD-based topology optimization and finite element analysis (FEA) simulation. Specifically, the vehicle chassis is refined by incorporating design elements inspired by biomimicry, which are integrated to improve the vehicle’s NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) performance. Noise and vibration have consistently played a critical role in vehicle design, as such, automakers devote substantial attention to minimizing the transfer of road and engine-induced disturbances into the cabin. This reduction is crucial, as excessive noise and vibration can lead to an unpleasant driving experience and may accelerate driver fatigue. Moreover, if the chassis does not effectively absorb these disturbances, the resulting stress on vehicle components can be significantly increased. In this study, FEA is employed to establish a baseline chassis model, with simulations conducted to analyse its natural vibrational modal response. Once the initial performance thresholds are established, identical constraints are applied to assess the vibrational response of the modified chassis featuring the optimized structure. The results underscore the critical value of integrating CAD and FEA methodologies in vehicle design, demonstrating a substantial positive impact by reducing development time and enhancing the overall quality of the resulting prototypes.
Maftei et al. (Mon,) studied this question.