Semester

Spring

Date of Graduation

2006

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Type

MS

College

Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources

Department

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Committee Chair

Hota V. S. GangaRao.

Abstract

A FRP composite cargo trailer was developed for the U.S. Marine Corps using the existing Prodeck4 FRP bridge deck as a trailer bed. Detailed finite element analysis and experimental evaluation was carried out on the FRP trailer. The FRP deck used is a new system and has orthotropic material properties, therefore an FE model of deck that is validated through experimental data will ensure confidence in results obtained from the FE model. Experimental modal analysis (EMA) was used to verify and update the FE model of the FRP deck.;A FE model of FRP deck was built in ANSYSRTM and the frequencies and mode shapes of the deck were evaluated. The FE model results were used in planning the modal tests to determine the best impact, best suspension, and the best accelerometer locations. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).

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