Design Considerations in Energy Absorption by Structural Collapse

A general treatment of the absorption of mechanical energy by the axial collapse of a variety of structural shapes, including tubes, honeycombs and foams is developed which encompasses both the geometry of the structure and also the material properties. The use of the method in the design of load bearing structures in which energy absorption is an additional design function is illustrated. High strength-to-weight ratio materials offer a significant weight saving for energy absorbing components, although such materials may have a reduced tensile ductility. The implications to situations in vehicle crashworthiness are discussed.