Axial Impact Crushing Performance of Bi-tubular Structures with Stiffeners

Abstract

Thin-walled tube shaped components have been expansively utilized as an impact energy dissipating devices in modern vehicles in order to decrease fatalities and vehicle damage during accidents. The present article investigates the axial crushing performance of bi-tubular structures of various configurations. Nonlinear impact simulations were performed on the proposed bi-tubular structure using finite element ABAQUS/CAE explicit code. From the outcomes attained, the Energy Absorption Capability (EAC) of bi-tubular structures with stiffeners were compared and it confirmed that bi-tubular structures have more potential than that of traditional simple geometry tubes. Furthermore, bi-tubular structure of circle section enclosed with square type section were recommended as significant one for superior EAC. This kind of bi-tubular structures was found to be proficient energy absorbing elements in vehicles to improve the crashworthiness performance