Numerical analysis of vehicle-to-vehicle impact using vehicle dynamics control systems for collision mitigation

Abstract

This paper focuses on the use of vehicle dynamics control systems (VDCS) to mitigate vehicle collisions in case of offset frontal vehicle-to-vehicle crash scenario. A unique 6-degree-of-freedom vehicle dynamics/crash mathematical model is developed and analyzed in this research. The model is used to define the vehicle body crash parameters by integrating a vehicle dynamics model with a vehicle front-end structure model. In this model, the anti-lock braking system and the active suspension control system are co-simulated with the full car vehicle dynamics model and integrated with the front-end structure. The associated equations of motion of the model are developed and solved numerically. Four different cases of VDCS are investigated in this paper and their associated results are compared with the free rolling case scenario. It is shown from the numerical simulations that the vehicle dynamics/crash response can be captured and analyzed quickly and accurately. Furthermore, it is shown that the VDCS affect the crash characteristics positively.

Vehicle crashworthiness performance in frontal impact: Mathematical model using elastic pendulum

“…First, instead of focusing on the pitching about the center of gravity as most existing models do, we simulate the vehicle pitching during a full frontal crash about the point of impact. Second, contrary to traditional approaches based on the use of Newtonian formulation [4,8] for the derivation of the governing equations of motion, we use relativistic Lagrangian formulation; the model equations are further simplified by conversion to polar coordinates. The vehicle body pitches and drops at frontal impact are the main reason for the unbelted driver neck and head injury [6].…”

“…The geometry and deformation of the front end members are important for predicting the forward pitching of a vehicle. In fact, downward bending of the rails generated by the imbalance of forces acting on the part in the vertical direction is a key reason for pitching in full frontal impacts [4,5]. The rotation of the vehicle that leads to yawing and rolling is not included in most simulation models predicting the injury response because they are negligible in case of a full frontal impact.…”

“…The vehicle pitch was simulated using CAE modeling by Chang et al who concluded that the modeling and design of vehicle rails play a crucial role in vehicle pitch and drop [6,7]. Vehicle rotations were also predicted by Lumped Parameter Models (LPM) in [4,8] using a 6 DOF (Degrees of Freedom) vehicle model with an active vehicle dynamics control system.…”

Mathematical models for assessment of vehicle crashworthiness: a review

“…The model in this this study does not include the front bumper mass or a rigid mass like an engine or battery which may contribute to the deceleration and deformation of the vehicle. In Elkady et al [47], the vehicle model is modified by adding a lumped mass for a front bumper which connects the front end members represented by springs.…”