Numerical Study for Crashworthiness of FSAE Vehicle Chassis via Biomimetic Approach

Abstract

In the automotive context, a vehicle’s crashworthiness represents its ability to protect the occupants in case of accidents or collisions. This paper documents the design and topology study process of the prototype FSAE (Formula of Student Automotive Engineers) vehicle regarding the crashworthiness aspect. This project aims to generate design for the chassis of prototype FSAE vehicles through a biomimetic approach to simulate the feasibility of biological systems integration in engineering design. Studies on different biological structures good in compression loading resistance and distribution have been conducted according to the selected biomimicry approach. Quasi-static finite element analysis with dynamic loading analysis was implemented in studying the axial, lateral and bending deformation of the designed chassis concerning the specific energy absorption of the model. The following biomimicry approach has successfully shown potentiality in creating a satisfactory solution for automotive problems. The final chassis of the prototype FSAE vehicle shows specific energy absorptivity of up to 130 kJ/kg upon normal to critical impact conditions. CAD design of the expected prototype is produced, along with the presentation of a scaled-down fabricated 3D model. Considering the performance aspect of the prototype FSAE vehicle, the weight of the vehicle chassis has been successfully minimised by 30.8%.