Abstract
The loading specifications to which passenger vehicle body structures are designed seek to fulfil two basic requirements. Firstly, normal service loads experienced over the life of the vehicle must be met without loss of serviceability. Secondly, passengers and crew must be afforded protection against loads outside the normal service experience. In the specifications used in Europe and the United States there is an emphasis on ‘proof’ loading, that is loading which causes no permanent deformation. This requirement is in conflict with the absorption of energy which is necessary to cushion passengers and crew involved in an accident. The author examines UK accident statistics and proposes alternative ways in which the basic aims of structural crashworthiness can be met.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part D: Transport Engineering
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
