Citation

Nguyen LPT. Int. J. Crashworthiness 2017; 22(5): 518-526.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2017, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/13588265.2017.1281203

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This paper proposes an optimal design of frontal structures to improve the small-overlap rating, based on a computer-based crash simulation model. The frontal structures such as longitudinal, A-pillar and rocker panel are analysed to find the sensitive part in small-overlap crash test. To improve the small-overlap rating, two reinforced component models such as longitudinal reinforcement and rocker panel reinforcement are added to frontal structures, and then the thickness optimal design applies to the small-overlap frontal impact simulation following the real test conditions. Based on the rating guidelines of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the crash simulation results were used to evaluate the overall vehicle structure by comparison of intrusion measurements. The response surface method (RSM) was used in optimal frontal structures for improving the small-overlap rating of the IIHS. Based on the RSM function, the optimal values of the variables were chosen as the new design. The crash analysis and conclusions showed that the severe damage to the frontal structure happened when the vehicle model run into barrier model at 25% overlap. In this study, the overall rating of frontal structures was upgraded from 'poor' to 'good' in the case of small-overlap frontal impact with Flat 150 (the Flat barrier with a 150 mm radius and 25% overlap).

Language: en

Keywords

crashworthiness; crash test; frontal impact; Small-overlap; vehicle structure