FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS (FEA)

FEA is a method that realistically models mechanical behaviours using a computer. This allows us to determine the strength, stiffness, deflection and natural frequency of certain designs before they are manufactured. Different design scenarios, such as tubing shapes, carbon layup design and wall thickness, can be tried. Optimisation of the product can then be achieved before prototyping and manufacture occur. Testing and prototyping is still an important part of the process as it can be used to verify the accuracy of the computer model and used to further enhance future analysis.

FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS (FEA)

  • Increase performance (stiffness to weight).
  • development speed of new products.
  • reduce costs to develop new products.
  • provide greater product reliability.
  • improve quality.
  • increase product life.
  • assist with development of testing processes.
  • improve the product fabrication process.
  • allow for examination of “what if” design scenarios.
  • increase customer satisfaction by offering far superior / well tuned bikes.

CFD

Computation Fluid Dynamics

Computation Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is an important part of the design and optimization phase of an aerodynamic bike. CFD is an engineering method in which fluid flow and other physics problems are solved using numerical methods and algorithms. Computers are used to perform detailed calculations to simulate the interaction of liquids and gases with surfaces. In our case the fluid is air and we analyse the interaction of air with a bike. It is essentially a wind tunnel inside a computer and this method can dramatically speed up the design and development process.

Suspension Kinematic Analysis

Suspension Kinematic Analysis

The way a full suspension mountain bike performs is heavily influenced by the operation of its linkages. The characteristics of the bike can be calculated and fine tuned by changing the pivot locations and linkage design during the design phase. This is called kinematic analysis. Pedalling efficiency, terrain handling performance and shock rate, amongst others, need to be investigated to make sure that they are ideal for the bikes intended purpose.


Next: Stage 3.5 - DESIGN Frame Geometry Analysis

Frame geometry is adjusted with precision to meet the needs of the intended rider and is continually being assessed for fractional but powerful improvements.

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