Abstract:
This thesis presents a comprehensive exploration into the design, fabrication, and realworld implementation of a solar electric vehicle (SEV) featuring a ladder frame chassis.
Motivated by the increasing demand for environmentally sustainable transportation
solutions, this study aims to revolutionize vehicle architecture by prioritizing economy,
scalability, and adaptability. Beginning with meticulous design selections and CAD
modeling, the ladder frame chassis was crafted to optimize structural integrity while
minimizing weight. Inspired by nature's efficiency, the design strategy sought to strike a
balance between weight reduction and robustness, facilitated by SolidWorks software.
Subsequent finite element analysis (FEA) simulations using ANSYS software validated
the chassis's structural performance and safety under static structural loads and torsional
forces. Crucial parameters such as total deformation and stress distributions were
scrutinized, affirming the chassis's resilience under diverse loading conditions. The
culmination of this research involved the fabrication of the SEV and its successful road
testing, underscoring the practical viability of the design. By translating theoretical
concepts into tangible results, this thesis demonstrates the efficacy of the ladder frame
chassis in real-world driving scenarios, affirming its potential to enhance both
performance and safety. The study concludes with forward-looking perspectives,
suggesting avenues for further refinement and optimization. Continued research into
advanced materials, component arrangements, and performance evaluations promises to
further enhance the SEV's efficiency and applicability in sustainable transportation
systems.
