B-pillar design optimization under a crushing load

Abstract

B-pillars designed from B1500HS boron steel were compared for roof crushing situations for three different hardness values in the study’s scope. Simulations were also performed for designs where different parts of the B-pillar have different hardness values (tailored properties). For this purpose, roof crushing analyses were conducted, and results were compared in energy absorption and peak crushing force. The highest peak crushing force was obtained from the upper part T25 and lower part T400 heat-treated B-pillar. Upper part T400 and lower part T25 heat-treated B-pillar gave the highest energy absorption value. Since the energy absorption value of the upper part T25 and lower part T400 heat-treated B-pillar is low, the upper part T400 and lower part T25 heat-treated B-pillar provides the second-highest peak crushing force was chosen for use in the optimization. Single and multi-objective optimization studies were conducted to maximize peak crushing force and specific energy absorption for the upper part T400 and lower part T25 heat-treated B-pillar. The optimal B-pillar with tailored properties has an advantage over the base B-pillar, which could be used for B-pillar design.