Structural crashworthiness simulation of a rear end collision of a small European car

Abstract

Abstract Rear impact is the third most common accident scenario encountered in road vehicles and interest in it has grown steadily over the years due to the fact that more and more cars on congested motorways and urban roads are experiencing rear collisions. This has given impetus for much research into the performance of the rear structures, which are lightweight with little strength and hence absorb little energy in a crash condition. This paper investigates and qualifies load carrying capability of structural members in the rear part of a small European car with a view to reducing the severity of injury to occupants and minimise luggage damage. It also describes a 90° rear impact simulation and stipulates a variety of structural component test procedures vital in obtaining input data for the computer model, as well as for the qualification of component design. Experimental tests are carried out quasi-statically in order to understand the behaviour and the individual contribution of components with regard to the overall performance of the car structure. Comparisons between finite element analysis and experimental results are discussed.