Correlation of a fe vehicle with an equivalent macro element model, focused on the us ncap pole side impact test

Abstract

In order to increase time efficiency during the design stage of a crashworthy structure, Jaguar-Land Rover is interested in investigating the Macro Element Method, as modelling and simulation time is considerably reduced when compared with Finite Element simulations, but results are still similar. The objective of this document is to assess the quantitative differences between both approaches, identifying the advantages, disadvantages and limitations of the Macro Element Method through the study of the pole side impact test of a full scale vehicle. It is done following an increasing complexity philosophy: simple models were developed first in order to get some preliminary conclusions, and step by step the full scale vehicle was modelled and correlated. According to the results obtained, the Macro Element Method has proved to be a real possibility for automotive companies interested in increasing efficiency during the initial design phase of a crashworthy structure.