Model analysis and redesign of an IC-engine rocker arm.

The goal of this project was to redesign the intake rocker arm in the Chrysler Neon engine for better dynamic performance. The natural frequencies of the existing part were experimentally measured using a dynamic signal analyzer. A computer model was built in Pro/ENGINEER, and Pro/MECHANICA was used to perform a model analysis. Agreement between experimental results and FEM results verified that it was a correct representation of the actual part. With the verified computer model, an FEM stress analysis of the part was performed using realistic, worst-case loading conditions. The rocker arm was then redesigned based on this stress analysis to reduce the mass without compromising the stiffness or strength of the rocker arm. Reduced mass with equivalent stiffness will improve the rocker arm\u27s dynamic performance