Abstract:

A new 3-D topology optimization design space of chassis was constructed in the conceptual design stage of an electric vehicle white body to develop the body structure which satisfies the characteristics and requirements of electric vehicle. Single objective topology optimization designs of bending, torsion, and crash
conditions were conducted respectively using topology optimization method based on Solid Isotropic Material with Penalization (SIMP), considering the differences of body structure between electric and combustion-engine automobile. The optimal load transmitting path and the connections of supports for chassis were obtained. The results show that the optimization can meet the design requirements and provide proposal for the detailed design in the next stage or other electric vehicle models.

Key words: electric vehicle, body structure, conceptual desig, topology optimization, solid isotropic material with penalization (SIMP)