Citation

Mao M, Chirwa EC, Chen T. Int. J. Crashworthiness 2007; 12(1): 41-55.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2007, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

With the increasing popularity of light trucks, sport utility vehicles and minivans in recent years, occupants' protection under rollover accidents require some urgent reassessment so as to further reduce the risk of severe and fatal injuries. European studies under the rollover project have shown that there is a relationship between head/neck injuries and the roof intrusion including its impulse. Typical roof damage accidents in Europe were investigated. Latest modification methodologies for the reinforcements to roof structures believed to significantly increase the crush resistance of the roof are suggested and discussed. The work also gives a comprehensive numerical analysis using LS-DYNA3D and experimental testing results of roofs under the crushing regulation FMVSS 216 as well as inverted drop tests. Simple design changes to the vehicle roof structure can produce a significant improvement in roof strength and energy absorption capability, although these changes will be accomplished with a weight penalty of 1.0% to 2.3% of test vehicle weight.