Creation of Halfshaft Joint Selection Tool in Terms of Strength and Life Calculations for FWD Vehicles 2014-01-2329

This study is inspired by the calculations and validations required for front wheel drive (FWD)-halfshaft joint selection. To increase design efficiency with decreased response time; a tool is required to validate calculations of strength based on maximum impact torque and endurance life based on corresponding vehicle usage. The tool has been developed to cover both strength and endurance life calculations. It also includes a constant velocity joint (CVJ) size library in order to compare different cases and to be able to see opportunities between different sizes. Validation and correlation has been completed using road load data from actual vehicles and standard load cycle (SLC) rig test results. This study introduces a more efficient methodology that will help the user select a joint that is sized best for strength and cost. After the completion of the study, one can be assured that the joint selected is the proper size-for all kinds of FWD vehicles.