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The automotive electronic systems are composed of two major mechanical elements: an equipment housing or enclosure, and a printed circuit board (PCB) assembly. The PCB is made up of alternating layers of copper and FR-4 glass epoxy laminated together. An estimation of the mechanical reliability of a PCB in an electronic system is considered to be an important part of the overall reliability estimate of the entire system and vibration is often one of the key causes of system and component failures. As different kind of electronic components (like transformers, capacitors, chips etc) are mounted on both sides of the PCB using solder joints, adhesive etc, various complexities are encountered while modeling them for analysis. For avoiding those, simple PCBs without any components are considered for the present study. This paper focuses on the methodology to understand and predict the dynamic behavior of the system using various mechanical tests and simulations.

Wheel loaders are heavy earth moving machines used in construction field for applications like truck loading, stockpiling and various other material handling operations. Wheel loaders are classified according to their operating weight and pay load capacities in the construction equipment market. Wheel loaders are equipped with articulated steering using two hydraulic cylinders connecting the front and rear frame. The speed of steering is controlled by the steering control valve, which controls the hydraulic oil flow rate to the steering cylinder. The expansion and retraction of the two cylinders make the wheel loader to articulate with pin joint connecting the frames. During articulation of the machine, the front and rear frames hit against each other inducing a system (Impact) force. The system force caused due to the steering influences the operator comfort, stability and durability of the structural components in the machine.

Continuous improvement and weight reduction are key contributors to success of most of the Product Engineering Organizations. This helps to keep the product competitive in market from cost, weight and performance stand point. It needs to be ensured to have enough strength in the structures to support the external loads along with quality requirements. This can be ensured by removing material from redundant zones and provide it at necessary areas carrying loads. In current paper, author covers information about utilization of topology optimization tool to achieve the weight reduction and in turn cost reduction to contribute in the organizations Value Improvement efforts. Stabilizer foot optimization is an opportunity explored in construction vehicle (Backhoe). Current stabilizer foot is a common design across multiple models that range in performance and weight capability.