Simulation of a Motorbike Chassis

Purpose

The objective of this project was to perform a comprehensive simulation of a motorbike competition chassis using SolidWorks. The aim was to assess the structural integrity and performance of the chassis under various load conditions, ensuring it meets the demands of competitive racing.

Overview

The motorbike chassis was modeled using the Weldments feature in SolidWorks, focusing on creating a robust tubular structure. The design process began with a detailed sketch, followed by the assignment of tube profiles to the sketch lines. Connections were meticulously trimmed and extended to ensure perfect fits according to manufacturing processes. The simulation steps included initial setup, defining motion, static analysis, and frequency analysis. Gravity and contact types were applied to simulate realistic interactions, and the chassis was positioned correctly using the Move/Copy Bodies tool.

Results

The simulation provided detailed insights into the chassis's performance under static and dynamic conditions. Key findings included stress distribution, highlighting high-stress areas around the head tube and diagonal supports, and displacement, indicating potential weak points. Frequency modes were analyzed to reveal natural frequencies and associated deformation modes, helping design countermeasures against vibrational failures. This project demonstrated the importance of thorough simulation in ensuring the reliability and performance of a motorbike chassis, providing a solid foundation for further design improvements and optimizations.