Analysis of frontal car crash characteristics using ANSYS

Abstract

This article presents the finite element simulations for the crash characteristics and the energy absorption of thin longitudinal members of square and rectangle cross-sections using steel and aluminum as materials. Specific energy absorption and Peak forces experienced are the main variables considered in the analysis. Square shape provides a 16% increase in specific energy absorption and 15% rise in peak force experienced as compared to the rectangular shape, while use of aluminum reduces the weight by 63% consequently there is a decrease in both specific energy absorption by 24% and peak force experienced by the longitudinal member by 64%.