METHODOLOGY DEVELOPED FOR SAFER HOOD DESIGN

The methodology enables material selection and design optimization of energy absorbers for pedestrian protection based on a simple laboratory test and FE model, eliminating the need for extensive vehicle testing.

GLOBAL REGULATIONS intended to enhance pedestrian protection in a vehicle collision are presenting significant challenges to vehicle engineers. For example, they are being pushed to use lightweight materials to improve fuel economy. A hood made of a lightweight material would help in that regard but would not be viable if the material did not absorb energy as well as a conventional steel one would.

Typically, the distance between the hood and underhood components is measured in tens of millimeters.