Designing Efficient Commuter Vehicle using Finite Element Analysis And Computational Fluid Dynamics

This paper attempts to give an efficient designing approach for an affordable, environment friendly human powered vehicle that serves the purpose of exercising along with being a commuter vehicle using finite element analysis. The proposed design is an aerodynamically enclosed trike which makes it more efficient and less drag prone than a regular bicycle. Along with pedaling power it is assisted by an electric motor, powered by a rechargeable battery. The frame is designed using commercially available software and its structural rigidity is ensured using finite element analysis. The individual components are designed sequentially and combined to create the complete assembly. Later, electric motor calculations are also carried out to estimate power required for driving the vehicle. Coefficient of drag is calculated, using 2-D computational fluid dynamics techniques (CFD), for both faired and un-faired configurations of trike and then values are compared. Furthermore, total drag force is determined for the faired trike in a high wind simulation. Calculations are then carried out to ensure that the recommended motor is sufficiently powered to propel the vehicle even in adverse high wind conditions. The experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of the design.