Analysis of Geometric Deformations in Off-Road Vehicles Using Dynamic Reduction-Based Virtual Models

The manual generation of off-road vehicle virtual models is inconvenient due to the sheer number and diversity of existing and operational off-road vehicles. This article proposes a virtual model development approach for off-road vehicles based on dynamic reduction. The dynamic reduction methods facilitate the development of reduced-order finite element models from full-order finite element models. The paper additionally includes a comprehensive mathematical derivation of the state-space representation for reduced-order finite element models. The development of reduced-order models from full order finite element models, as well as their subsequent state-state representation, may be automated. The proposed methodology consequently facilitates the development of virtual models of existing and operating structures with minimal effort and time. The state-space models enable the export of the reduced-order model into problem-solving platforms. The virtual models on these platforms are integrated with powertrain, electrical, and control components, facilitating for dynamic analysis of off-road vehicles. In the past, systems comprised of designs from distinct engineering departments often varied from the intended outcomes in the operational environment due to the limited scope of validation. This article addresses the geometric deformations induced by asymmetrical mass distribution and application specifics in off-road vehicles. The suggested methodology is substantiated using mathematical formulations and simulation outcomes of commercial off-road vehicle virtual models.