Finite Element Analysis of Foldable Electric Vehicle

In the present work finite element analysis of foldable electric vehicle is carried out. With the use of finite element analysis, the magnitude of stresses and deflections at critical locations of the vehicle is evaluated. Dynamic analysis to simulate the vehicle behavior has also been carried out. The vehicle is proposed to accommodate a single passenger. The foldable vehicle is designed as per the regulations prescribed by the Automotive Resarch Association of India. Maximum vehicle speed of 25 kmph and dimensions in folded circumstances are the design constraints accounted for in the present work. Vehicle dimensions are computed using design constraints and the process mentioned in Automotive Industry Standard 049 (AIS-049). Materials for vehicle chassis, seat, hand rests, and centrally located telescopic support are steel 1018 and aluminum from speed and self-weight considerations. With the aid of the classical approach braking force, motor torque, wheel rpm, power, rolling resistance, and aerodynamic drag are calculated. Solidworks software is used for the preparation of computer-aided model. Finite element analysis of the foldable vehicle has been carried out to evaluate the static and dynamic stresses induced in the vehicle components. The meshing of the foldable vehicle is carried out using Ansys Workbench. From modal analysis, six mode shapes of the foldable vehicle are formulated, and corresponding frequencies and deflections are devised. A Mesh generator is used to mesh the foldable vehicle. The deflection and frequency magnitudes of the foldable vehicle evaluated are in good agreement with the experimental results available in the literature for similar materials.