Abstract
Over the years the role of the frame in American passenger cars has changed greatly. More recently, the virtue of the frame with respect to collision damage and passenger safety is receiving increasing attention. After a short discussion of frame function, the author explores the evolution of the frame as influenced by major changes in other vehicle components. Special laboratory equipment for durability testing and analysis of structures is complemented by a machine for crushing vehicles and components to simulate the effects of collisions. This permits a step-by-step analysis and provides data for design improvement.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.