Development and correlation of three axes random vibration simulation on automotive lighting

Abstract

The vibration testing requirements for automotive lighting have become more severe in recent years. In the past, vibration testing was primarily done only in the up-down direction using limited g-loading. The new requirements are multi-axes with random loading. The intent of this document is to show how a three axes random vibration simulation can be performed using finite element analysis (FEA). FEA is a very efficient way of proving designs and concepts without building expensive prototypes. A methodology for performing a three axes random vibration simulation using any given power spectral density function will be illustrated. As with all simulations, it is paramount to properly correlate the simulation to prove the methodology. Correlation method and data will be provided as part of proving the simulation methodology. Copyright © 2005 SAE International.