Simulation of Crashworthiness Performance of Thin-Walled Structures with Adapted Trigger Design

This paper presents numerical results for crashworthiness parameters of thin-walled structures with different section and trigger geometries. The improvement potential of the introduction of configurable crush triggers is analyzed. The main objective is to absorb impact energy in a progressive and controlled manner with higher efficiency and moderate peak loads. In the studied implementation different alternatives for trigger geometry and section design are proposed. The application is studied recurring to numerical simulation of representative octagonal geometries. The introduction of a complex section design suitable for extrusion manufacturing process allowed for significant improvements in specific absorbed energy. The ability to tailor peak loads was validated for the original octagonal geometry allowing for a peak load reduction of approximately 20%.