Experimental and crash-worthiness optimization of end-capped conical tubes under quasi-static and dynamic loading

Abstract

ABSTRACTIn the present study, the energy absorption capacity of thin-walled end-capped conical geometries is taken into consideration and the collapse of the absorbers under different loading types and strengths is investigated. First, the manual spinning method is utilized in order to manufacture the specimen. The manufacturing geometry quality of the parts is then evaluated. Next, quasi-static load-deflection tests are employed to investigate the collapse process as well as the calculation of energy absorption for conical tubes. Drop experiments are carried out using a free flight drop tower on the conical tubes to obtain the acceleration time-history of the hammer. The time history of hammer velocity change during its collision with the energy absorber, the mean collapse load of the absorber and absorbed energy are calculated. The explicit FE code Abaqus/explicit is employed and validated using dynamic experimental data. Finally, a multi-objective optimization method is used to find the tube geometry which has the maximum energy absorption and specific energy absorption. The results show that the impactor's velocity, as well as the geometrical characteristics of the end-capped conical tubes, have significant effects on the energy absorption and specific energy absorption capacity.