The influence of load distribution in kinematic constraints of connecting rod on the results of the stress simulation

The article presents the results of simulations research carried out, using Finite Element Method. The simulations were made in the Abaqus software. Calculations were made on the connecting rod of opposed piston engine. The connecting rod was subjected to a compression tests. Different versions of the boundary conditions in the form of load forces and pressure distribution acting on the small end of the connecting rod were presented. Depending on the load distribution acting on the connecting rod small end, different distributions of stresses in the connecting rod geometry were obtained. All studies were performed for the same geometry, the same mesh grid, and for the same value of compressive force (research could be considered as comparable). Changing the size and distribution of stresses in the connecting rod, evidence the impact of the adopted boundary conditions of the load distribution on the calculation results. It is important for the use of modern simulation tools in the design process of new mechanical parts.