Modelling and identification of fatigue load spectra: Application in the automotive industry

Abstract This paper is focused on variable amplitude loading spectra applied in the automotive industry, more specifically for the chassis system parts with respect to high cycle fatigue design. A first analytical model referred to as Heuler’s model is considered. It is of the simplest use, with one parameter to be identified. A whole identification process, based on road measurement realized on carmaker’s proving ground with instrumented vehicles, is developed and discussed. Once the model is identified, the cycles influence on damage production is also investigated. In the light of the obtained results with this model, a second one, noted modified Heuler’s model, is introduced and investigated. This model, similar to the first, requires the identification of two parameters. Once again, the whole model identification process is applied, and the lifetime accuracy is assessed. A new tool is presented, enabling the visualisation on the loading spectrum representation of the most and less damaging cycles. Hence, a methodology is set to legitimize a gate implementation when studying a variable amplitude loading spectrum.