Analysis of wheel arc for Fender design.

Introduction

When viewed from the top side of the vehicle, the tire should not protrude outside the fender. Because if it protruding outside would lead to more chipping while driving and have to compromise in pedestrian safety. Therefore, the wheel should be positioned inside the fender.

Wheel arch comes with some standard regulations. There are different regulations in different regions. In this case study, we go with European regulations.

Figure 1: European Regulation Standard

As mentioned in the above figure 1, the minimum curvature clearance L (10 mm) between the wheel and the wheel arch is recommended at all the 5 points shown here, the points are SB, SA, SC, SD, SE.

If the minimum curvature clearance is not obtained then the model needs to be modified accordingly.

Analysis

The part file is opened and the aforementioned points are plotted on the wheel arch after taking the required measurements from the wheel center.

Figure 2: lines are ploted as per the European Regulation Standard

Figure 3: Top view with measured clearance

The clearance values are measured at all the 5 points and found to be as follows

Section	Required Clearance (mm)	Measured Clearance (mm)
SB (30°)	10	10
SA (90°)	10	9.973
SC (90°+50°)	10	2.969
SD (equal distance)	10	0.19
SE (150 mm above 180°)	10	-3.161

Inference

Except point SB, all the other points fail to achieve the minimum clearance value (10 mm) according to the European regulations. In addition to that, the wheel is protruding outside at the point SE. This is not recommended, therefore the model needs to be modified accordingly.