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Implementation and Assessment of Measures for Compatible Crash Behavior Using the Aluminum Vehicle as An Example
Technical Paper
986062
Sector:
Language:
English
Abstract
The compatibility of passenger cars is mainly attributable to
the parameters of mass, the shape of the contact surfaces and the
rigidity of the vehicle''s front end. Due to its low
density, aluminum offers excellent conditions for compatible
behavior in road traffic.
Using the Audi A8 as an example, a presentation is made of the
design measures which have a positive impact on the distribution of
kinetic energy on both the vehicles involved in a crash. Great
importance is placed on structural and passenger simulations using
FE and MBS programs during the concept phase of vehicle
development.
In the meantime, the compatible design of the vehicle''s
front end has been confirmed by test series performed by
independent test centers. Findings show that the aluminum body is
subject to highly regular deformation in an offset crash both with
a vehicle of identical mass and with vehicles of lower mass. The
aluminum body is also capable of absorbing a high proportion of the
total energy produced by the two vehicles.
Finally, further test results are forming the basis for
discussing how well the 40% offset crash at 40 mph (IIHS crash
test) against a deformable barrier can simulate a real crash.