Numerical Simulation for Crashworthiness of Frontal Rail Structure Using Explicit Finite Element Code

The effectiveness of the front rails in an automobile structure depends on its deformation behavior. Axial crush helps absorb energy, and hence decelerate the car, in a controlled manner. A bending collapse limits the energy absorption by the rails. Hence, this mode of failure of the front rails should be prevented.

In this paper, a new design for the front rails, one with an additional telescopic surround for the front rail has been proposed. This progressively collapsible component provides support to the front rail and prevents its bending collapse. The advantage of the new design in energy absorption has been demonstrated through simulation.