• TRANSPORT TECHNICS. INVESTIGATION OF ELEMENTS. RELIABILITY

    Implementation of Composite Materials into the Design of an Experimental Vehicle for the Shell Eco-Marathon Competition

    Trans Motauto World, Vol. 11 (2026), Issue 1, pg(s) 17-20

    The current optimization of materials in the automotive industry is primarily driven by the objective of progressively reducing vehicle curb weight, which serves as a critical instrument for lowering greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing energy efficiency. Empirical data demonstrate a direct correlation between weight reduction and fuel consumption: a 10% decrease in vehicle mass generates an approximate 7% reduction in fuel consumption. Composite materials, defined as heterogeneous systems consisting of at least two components—a continuous matrix (binder) and a discontinuous reinforcement (fibers, particles, or layers)—enable a synergistic effect of mechanical properties that are unattainable with monolithic metallic materials. In structural applications, polymer matrices (including both thermosets and thermoplastics) predominate in combination with high-strength carbon, aramid, or glass fiber reinforcements. These material systems exhibit extreme specific strength, a high modulus of elasticity, fatigue resistance, and anisotropic properties that allow for the directional optimization of stiffness. For components requiring maximum dimensional stability and self-supporting (monocoque) capabilities, sandwich configurations are utilized, typically integrating an aramid honeycomb core between high-performance composite face sheets. The qualitative parameters of the resulting components are directly dependent on the chosen manufacturing technology and the fiber-to-resin ratio. The Vacuum Infusion (VI) method represents a highly efficient process in which a vacuum-sealed mold ensures the uniform saturation of dry reinforcement with liquid resin. This procedure minimizes porosity, achieves a high fiber volume fraction—reaching up to 70% in advanced systems—and guarantees high production reproducibility and surface quality without the need for secondary machining. Despite their technical superiority, the primary limiting factors for widespread implementation remain the high economic cost of raw materials and the complexity of manufacturing cycles. Prospective development is focused on streamlining processes for mass production, implementing sustainable bio-fibers as reinforcing components, and addressing the challenges of recyclability and component replacement at the end of the life cycle. Advanced composite structures thus form the essential material foundation for the next generation of ultra-lightweight and safe transport vehicles.

  • SCHEMATISATION THE STUDY PROCESS OF MULTIBODY ROAD VEHICLE MODELS DESCRIBING RIDE COMFORT – PART II. METHODS OF MATRIX MECHANICS

    Machines. Technologies. Materials., Vol. 9 (2015), Issue 3, pg(s) 7-25

    The objective of this study is investigation possibilities to obtain main parameters of road vehicle ride comfort using formal matrix approach. The automobile is modeled as a dynamic system consist masses interconnected by springs and dampers with linear characteristics. The procedure is applied about four to eight wheel models. The engine, transmission, passengers and loads are presented like a simple masses suspended on a single springs. In the paper are written the main principles of calculation procedure for formal modeling typical vehicle dynamic system.

  • SCHEMATISATION THE STUDY PROCESS OF MULTIBODY ROAD VEHICLE MODELS DESCRIBING RIDE COMFORT – PART I. METHODS OF CLASSICAL MECHANICS

    Machines. Technologies. Materials., Vol. 9 (2015), Issue 3, pg(s) 3-6

    The objective of this study is investigation possibilities to obtain main parameters of road vehicle ride comfort using formal matrix approach. The automobile is modeled as a dynamic system made of masses interconnected by springs and dampers with linear characteristics. The procedure is applied about four to eight wheel models. The engine, transmission, passengers and loads are presented like a simple masses suspended on a single springs. In the paper are written the main principles of calculation procedure for formal modeling typical vehicle dynamic system.