What is a Bodywork? This is Its Function and Types
The frame cover, more popularly known as the bodywork, is a body structure on special vehicles, such as travel cars, fire trucks, ambulances, trucks, and buses. For those of you working in the world of large automotive vehicles, it is essential to understand it thoroughly.
Interestingly, in Indonesia, there is already a special association for this frame, namely Askarindo (Indonesian Bodywork Association). Therefore, it can be said that this element is indeed very important in the automotive industry, especially for buses and trucks.
Main Functions of Bodywork
Before discussing the functions, you need to understand the origin of the term. This term is derived from the Dutch word, Carrosserie. The word means the vehicle house built on the chassis. From this definition, it can be understood that its main function is as a frame or cover for the vehicle.
The vehicles that most commonly use it include fire trucks, ambulances, trucks, and buses. However, some regular cars also use it. For manufacturing, the entire process is carried out in specialized bodywork workshops. This means that this component cannot be made carelessly; it must be done by parties who are truly experts in their field.
Types of Bodywork Are as Follows
In general, the function of bodywork is as a cover for the vehicle frame. However, each type of vehicle usually has specific functions that differ, whether for transporting goods or passengers. Here is a complete explanation.
1. On Fire Trucks
Fire trucks are specially designed and are not like other vehicles. Therefore, the construction of their frame cover also needs to be adjusted. This component is designed to accommodate various firefighting tools such as high-pressure pumps, water tanks, and hoses.
As a note, the frame cover on fire trucks must be able to hold water in large volumes. Not only that, but the stability of the vehicle in emergency situations is also a separate consideration. That is why this type of structure will be made much sturdier.
2. On Commercial Vehicles
The meaning of commercial vehicles here refers to those used to support businesses. Some examples of commercial vehicles include shop cars, agricultural product transporters, food trucks, and others. Related to their structure or characteristics, they are usually adjusted to the needs of the business.
For example, for food truck needs, a design for a small kitchen or serving area is required. This way, sellers will find it easier to serve buyers. Another example is for agricultural product transporters.
Transporting harvests manually will certainly drain energy. Therefore, farmers usually use transport vehicles to be more efficient and save energy. Hence, the space to accommodate the harvest also needs to be adjusted and should not be too cramped.
3. On Buses
Next is the type found on buses. The construction of the frame cover is based on the chassis provided by the vehicle manufacturer. There are various types such as sleeper buses, intercity buses, or tourist buses.
The bodywork on buses is equipped with several facilities to support passenger comfort, such as air conditioning, entertainment features, ergonomic seating, and more. Meanwhile, the interior and exterior can be modified according to the requests of the transportation company.
4. On Trucks
Finally, the frame cover on trucks is designed to transport various loads such as mining products, liquids, and other heavy goods. Therefore, safety standards and the strength of the frame must be taken into account.
It can be concluded that the function of bodywork is as a cover for the vehicle frame. Since each vehicle has different needs and functions, its structure also needs to be adjusted accordingly.
The bodywork structure on trucks is certainly different from that on buses, as well as on fire trucks, ambulances, or others. Regardless of these differences, the strength of the frame structure is the main thing that must be considered for the safety of the occupants inside.
