Contribution of the experimental mechanics to the automotive design

Automotive design is a process which applies multidisciplinary and engineering knowledge to originate and develop plans or concepts for a new type of automotive or its modificaton. The automotive design employs the whole spectrum of engineering knowledge and know-how. Among them, the experimental mechanics plays an important role. In this survey, the recent development of experimental mechanics and how it contributes to automotive design is conducted. Firstly, the prestress engineering technology for mechanical design is introduced. In details, how to generate the prestress, determine its value and apply it in design are presented. Extending this a little bit, how to predict fatigue life based on cyclic stresses is also included. Secondly, the concept of surface nanocrystalization and how it improves material properties are articulated. Finally, the potential applications of this technology in automotive industry is predicted. This work basically highlights the integration of experimental investigation and methodology of experimental mechanics in automotive design. Copyright © 2007 SAE International.