Finite Element Analysis

Finite Element Analysis is a technique using computers to simulate an object in order to calculate material stresses and structural deformations of the object under various contitions.

These images are the output of NASTRAN(TM) simulations of the original equipment Monaco trailing arm and the TRA-1003 replacement arm. NASTRAN was originally developed at NASA as a tool in the design of systems for spaceflight.

The image above is of the original equipment trailing arm. The red areas of the structure represent high levels of stress. Note that the high-stress level areas are in the primary structure (tube) of the arm.

In this image, we see the TRA-1003 arm FEA output. Notice that the only high-stress (RED) areas are in the side gusset plates, not in the structure of the arm itself. The overall stress level within the composite structure is much lower than in the Axle-to-frame pivot section of the OEM structure.

NEW! FEA output of a competitors replacement arm!

Notice the lack of side-plate gussets placing a larger area of high stress on the primary arm structure.