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Vehicle ride comfort properties must be optimized in order to prevent discomfort felt by the driver and passengers in the event that vehicle ride comfort properties doesn't meet essential criteria. For this reason before starting the processes of manufacturing and physical testing, ride comfort properties must be evaluated and arranged so as to meet essential criteria during early stages of vehicle design process. Resolving the problems related to ride comfort that may appear in later stages will cause some difficulties in terms of cost loss and time loss. In this study, a simulation-based model of a full-car suspension system is proposed to predict the ride comfort without the need of physical prototypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper presents a framework for re-designing a failed automotive component subjected to cyclic loading. In the automotive industry, some parts fail before completing their design life. These failed components have to be re-designed using modern optimisation tools. In this paper, a failed clutch fork was completely re-designed using topology and the shape optimisation approach. Stress-life fatigue analysis was conducted to correlate the crack location between the failed component and the simulation model. A new design proposal was determined with the topology optimisation approach, and then design optimisation by response surface methodology was effectively used to improve the new clutch fork design. The mass reduction obtained was 24%. A maximum stress reduction of 9% was achieved, and the rigidity was improved up to 37% in comparison to the original clutch fork. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]