Improved Models of Joined Sheet Metal Beam Structures for Vehicle Safety Studies
Loading...
Date
2017-05
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
The Ohio State University
Abstract
This research was motivated by the practical need of the automotive industry to enhance simulation technology for use in crash sensor calibration prior to the construction of a physical prototype. This study aimed to aid in developing connection models and damping parameters for use in full-scale vehicle crash models. In particular, prior literature has suggested the need to extend the frequency range up to at least 400 Hz for simulation technology. The purpose of this research was to create computational (finite element) models of sheet metal beam structures that are joined using spot welds and structural adhesives. Benchmark laboratory (modal type) experiments were conducted to assist with validation of the finite element model with emphasis on the connection properties. Dynamic accelerations and forces (under controlled impulsive loading) were measured to compare to the model predictions in both the frequency and time domains. Parameters of the model that were examined include mesh size, part thickness, contact, and interfacial damping models. Frequency domain analysis results show that the double hat section specimens used in this study, which were joined with structural adhesives and spot welds, can be idealized as having rigid connections with light material damping. Conversely, the double hat section specimen joined via spot welds alone exhibits significantly higher damping due to dissipation mechanisms within the interface. Furthermore, differences in modeling techniques showed that results from the frequency domain could not be directly translated to the time domain formulation.
Description
Keywords
Damped connections, Impulse loading, Spot welds, Frequency response