Torisonal analysis of 3 axis trailer chassis

The structure of trailer chassis generally consistsof two main members arranged parallel to the longitudinalaxis of the chassis and connected together by crossmembers. The main members are usually of channel or1- section while the cross-member are generally connectedto the webs of the main members by welding or bolting.In most cases frames for trailers are constructedfrom cross-members and longitudinal members formingnodes at th i er connecti ng pc i nts. Wi th rega rd to thetorsional stiffness we may distinguish in this type offrames two kinds of joints. stiff and flexible. Connect-ing the side member to the cross member over the wholecross-sectional area of the former creates a theoriticallystiff joint. A flexible joint is formed by connectionbetween cross and side members using welding. The designof such chassis frame is usually based on the provisionof main members of suffi cient strength and sti ffness tosupport bending loads produced by the trailer payload.The torsional stiffness of the frame must be sufficientto ensure safety but not excessi ve so that high stressconcentration arise.The problem of a thin-walled interconnected structure-(the side & cross member) are solved by utilizing finite