Finite element model updating of motorcycle main structure based on experimental modal analysis.

A virtual model of a motorcycle is essential during the design phase. Using a virtual model can significantly reduce development time. Large-scale simulations like road load simulators and virtual tests require accurate virtual modelling. This article explains the Finite element method update and create a complete model of the motorcycle's main structure. A valid virtual model of the motorcycle's main structure was created using FEA updating. The first step was selecting the correct element type, meshing size, and geometry. In addition, modelling comparisons were made to observe the differences of the RBE elements and solid reverse engineering models for engine as the main structure of a motorcycle which have a significant influence on stiffness. Components that have a minor effect on the structure's rigidity were omitted to simplify the modelling process. The ignoring component was done by comparing the effect on the experimental modal analysis result under the observed frequency. The frame body modelling result from the Finite Element Method was validated using the Experimental Modal Analysis. The prototype's natural frequency was determined by impact hammer testing and a digital signal analyzer. Experiment Modal Analysis was used to compare the natural frequency obtained from normal mode FEM simulation to the result of valid FEM models. The main structure of the motorcycle was reverse engineered in CATIA V5R25. The mesh was created in SimDesigner 2017 and analyzed in Nastran 2017 SOL 103 normal mode. The comparison of FEA normal mode analysis and experimental mode analysis reveals a satisfactory result and a valid FEA model of the motorcycle's main structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]