Optimization of the Old Design of Double Axle Truck Tailgate Arm and Comparison of Loading Simulation of the New Double Axle Truck Tailgate Arm Design Using FEM (Altair Inspire)

Hengki Frisa Sukresno (Universitas Sultan Ageng Tirtayasa)
Erwin (Universitas Sultan Ageng Tirtayasa)
Dedy Triawan Suprayogi (Universitas Sultan Ageng Tirtayasa)

Jurnal Asiimetrik: Jurnal Ilmiah Rekayasa Dan Inovasi
Volume 8 Number 1 (2026)

This study optimizes and compares the structural performance of Type A and Type B tailgate frame arm designs for double commercial trucks to improve safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance. Analytical calculations and Finite Element Analysis using Altair Inspire were employed under a 650 kg operational load. Three materials ASTM A36, Aluminium 7075-T6, and Stainless Steel AISI 304 were evaluated in terms of stress, displacement, and safety factor. Results indicate that the Type B design reduces displacement by approximately 40% compared to Type A, while improving load distribution and structural stiffness. Aluminium 7075-T6 provides the best strength to weight ratio, whereas ASTM A36 remains the most cost-effective option. Only the Type B design complies with the Indonesian Ministry of Transportation clearance requirement (<200 mm). These findings demonstrate that Altair Inspire supports an effective optimization workflow for developing lighter, safer, and regulation compliant tailgate frame arm designs.