Abstract
Firstly, FEM model for the body frame of a fuel cell vehicle was built up and design optimization results based on different schemes were exhibited. One scheme was to minimize weight while maintaining the normal mode frequencies and the other was to increase the frequencies without weight change. Next, for a rear frame model, shape parameter study on collapse characteristics such as peak resistance load and absorbed energy was carried out. Also, the stiffness of frame mounting brackets was predicted using inertance calculation and the durability of those mounting brackets for vehicle system loads was evaluated. Finally, for a representative mounting model, the influence on durability due to thickness change was analyzed.