OPTIMASI MATERIAL STEERING KNUCKLE MOBIL SATU PENUMPANG DENGAN FINITE ELEMENT METHODE MENGGUNAKAN SOFTWARE AUTODESK INVENTOR

This research aims to optimize the material of the steering knuckle for a single-passenger car using the Finite Element Method (FEM) through Autodesk Inventor Professional 2021 software, Student Version license. The steering knuckle is a crucial component in the steering system that connects the wheel to the suspension. The design optimization was carried out using Autodesk Inventor Student Version and analyzed with FEM to observe the stress distribution, deformation, and safety factor. The results of the three material series variations—Al 5052, Al 6061, and Al 7075—showed similar values for von Mises stress, 1st principal stress, and 3rd principal stress. However, the displacement and safety factor values differed for each material. Aluminium 6061 was chosen due to its lighter mass and superior safety factor. The simulation results revealed that the Aluminium 6061 steering knuckle has a higher safety factor and a reduced weight of 0.0433 kg compared to the original design, without compromising structural strength. In conclusion, the design optimization with Aluminium 6061 provided the best results in terms of safety and performance. The implementation of the FEM method with Autodesk Inventor is effective for the design and analysis of automotive components.