Numerical investigation of crash behavior of vehicle side door beams under high-speed pole side impacts

Abstract

In side vehicle accidents, there is a very short distance between the impactor and the passenger. In such accidents, car manufacturers place impact energy absorber beams inside the door so that the passengers do not suffer from loss of life or major damage. In this study, the crashworthiness performances of impact energy absorber beams were investigated. Comparisons were made by changing the beams’ angles, materials, thickness, and cross-sections. Among the materials used (Aluminum 6061-T6 and A36 steel), Aluminum 6061T6 material stood out with its high Specific Energy Absorption (SEA) value, low reaction force, and low permanent deformation performance. The best Velocity Absorption Time (VAT) value was obtained in the combination where the angle between the two beams defined by A36 steel was 25°. It has been stated that the hexagonal cross-section door beam used is superior to the circular beam and is open to improvement.