Structural Simulation

Introduction and Background The modern recreational vehicle (RV) and motorhome industry relies extensively on commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) truck and van chassis platforms supplied by major OEMs such as Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis (Ram). Popular base platforms include the  Ford Transit, E-Series 350/450/550/600,  Ram ProMaster and Ram 3500–5500 cab chassis,…

Introduction Caliber Technologies LLC (Caliber Tech) conducted a comprehensive simulation-based engineering study to assess the structural integrity of a motorhome roof system in accordance with FMVSS 220 – School Bus Rollover Protection standards. The study utilized a high-fidelity nonlinear Finite Element Analysis (FEA) model that accurately represented the geometry, material…

Tire force variation induced by road surface irregularities, tire nonuniformity, and operational conditions can trigger complex vibrations in automotive systems, influencing ride comfort, NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness), and long-term durability. Leveraging engineering simulation—especially Multi-Body Dynamics (MBD) modeling with flexible body representations—enables engineers to analyze, predict, and mitigate these adverse effects…

Industrial robots are the backbone of modern manufacturing, enabling high-precision, repetitive tasks across automotive, electronics, consumer goods, and many other sectors. However, repeated operation under dynamic loads can lead to structural deflection, fatigue, and eventual component failure, directly impacting productivity, safety, and equipment lifespan. At Caliber Technologies LLC, we leverage…

Trailer hitches are a critical component of vehicle towing systems, directly influencing safety, durability, and performance. Designing a robust hitch requires careful consideration of dynamic loads, structural integrity, and long-term reliability. At Caliber Technologies LLC, we specialize in leveraging Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to develop high-performance hitch designs that comply…

The deployment of large-scale solar farms presents unique structural engineering challenges. Solar panel support structures must withstand extreme wind loads, environmental degradation, and long-term operational stresses while maintaining precise alignment and performance. At Caliber Technologies LLC, we leverage advanced Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to design…

Body design, particularly the Body-in-White (BIW) stage, plays a pivotal role in achieving key performance targets like static and dynamic stiffness, Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH), crashworthiness, and durability. Engineering such complex structures demands sophisticated simulation tools and analysis strategies to ensure safety, comfort, and longevity. Technical Challenges in Body…

Designing frames for demanding applications—such as truck, trailer, RV, and travel trailer chassis—requires a delicate balance between load carrying capacity, weight, stiffness, and manufacturability. Let’s break down the main engineering challenges, then see how Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) methods, especially Finite Element Analysis (FEA), are crucial in overcoming them.  Caliber Technologies…