The distribution of energy absorbed by a three-spoke steering wheel armature in an impact with a deformable chestform

Abstract

This research deals with experimental and finite element simulation of impacts occurring between a deformable chestform and an aluminium three-spoke steering wheel armature. Experimental testing was conducted to investigate the effect of impact location and armature orientation on the energy-absorbing capabilities of the automotive component. Numerical (finite element) models were developed to simulate the experimental process and to investigate further how the energy absorption abilities of the armature, and specific sections of the armature, vary with different impact situations. An excellent correlation between the experimental testing observations and numerical simulation results was observed for this highly non-linear problem. Most importantly, the finite element simulations have illustrated that the steering wheel armature hub and rim regions are the locations where most energy, because of plastic deformation in the structure, is absorbed. These observations provide an understanding of the characteristics of energy management in crash situations for the steering wheel armature.