Two-Dimensional (2D) Modeling of Engine Mounted Hoses: Using Cosserat Theory of Rods

Abstract The use of hoses is widely prevalent in multiple mechanical, aeronautical, and automotive applications involving the use of coolants, lubricants, etc. However, most system models often fail to completely represent the dynamic and hyperelastic behavior of hoses. Though hoses generally undergo large deformations and offer non-linear damping, these characteristics are not fully leveraged in traditional analytical approaches. Fatigue and vibration analyses performed on the integration systems, which may include various metal components along with the hoses, are generally linear and elastic. The assumption of linearity may not account for actual strains in the components attached to these hoses. This may result in poor correlation between test and finite element analysis (FEA) results, leading to higher cost and sub-optimal designs. This paper discusses the formulation, modeling, and analysis of two-dimensional (2D) engine mounted hoses. The Cosserat theory of rods has been used for modeling. Multiple boundary conditions have been used to verify the robustness of the model. Free vibration and forced vibration response has been evaluated in this study along with an initial investigation of stability. It is observed that the Cosserat theory of rods in conjunction with a hyper elastic material model can be successfully used for modeling the structural dynamics of hoses. Such a model is expected to be beneficial in many applications.