Automotive Structural Analysis

This course reviews the concepts and applications of advanced mechanics of materials to the analysis and design of automotive structures. Basic body structure, loading, and vehicle dynamics are presented. Analytical techniques, including energy and numerical methods are reviewed, especially those which lead to the application of modern design and the latest analysis tools. Major topics covered include: Body structure and configurations, primary vehicle motions and loadings, structural analysis techniques, modeling of automotive structures, model and vibration analysis, fatigue (structural durability), and use and integration of the latest engineering computational tools.