Dynamics of Low Speed Crash Tests with Energy Absorbing Bumpers

Low speed crash tests with Ford Escorts of model years 1981-1983 were conducted. The response of these vehicles equipped with energy absorbing bumpers in bumper-to-bumper impacts and in an under-ride of one bumper under another are evaluated.

Bumper displacement, vehicle acceleration, and vehicle velocity time histories are presented for both bullet and target vehicles. Two impacts each at 2.23, 4.47, and 6.71 m/s were conducted. Similar data is presented for a 4.47 m/s impact in which the front bumper of the bullet vehicle underrode the rear bumper of the target vehicle. Results indicate increased damage associated with the underride test, without corresponding increases in vehicle responses.