Abstract
Passive safety systems of cars include parts on the structure that, in the event of an impact, can absorb a large amount of the kinetic energy by deforming and crushing in a design-controlled way. One such energy absorber part, located in the front structure of a Formula Student car, was measured under impact in a test bench. The test is modeled within the Finite Element (FE) framework including the weld characteristics and weld failure description. The continuous welding feature is almost always disregarded in parts included in impact test models. In this work, the FE model is fully defined to reproduce the observed results. The test is used for the qualitative and quantitative validation of the crushing model. On the one hand, the acceleration against time curve is reproduced, and on the other hand, the plying shapes and welding failure observed in the test are also correctly described. Finally, a model that includes additional elements of the car structure is also simulated to verify that the energy absorption system is adequate according to the safety regulations.
Highlights
In high speed vehicle impacts the role of the structure is of uttermost importance, in that it must absorb as much energy as possible
This study focuses on an Impact Attenuator structure designed for a racing car under the Formula Student (FS) regulations
It can be seen that, in this case, there is no failure in the welded parts, probably due to the energy absorption on the chassis tubes
Summary
In high speed vehicle impacts the role of the structure is of uttermost importance, in that it must absorb as much energy as possible. The structure includes elements with a well defined stiffness and is designed to deform under impact so that the kinetic energy is transformed into plastic deformation. The FS 2017–2018 rules [1] define design conditions for a list of car components, in particular concerning the Energy Absorption system. This system must include an Impact Attenuator and an Anti-Intrusion Plate. This study focuses on an Impact Attenuator structure designed for a racing car under the Formula Student (FS) regulations
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