This paper describes the computer simulation of a bus rollover test. First, as a base, a live rollover test was conducted and the mode of deformation was studied. Next, window pillar test pieces were impact tested for absorbed energy characteristics. These impact tests were then simulated with the LS-DYNA finite element (FE) code LS-in order to study efficient and accurate modelling techniques. Applying the knowledge gained, a complete bus structure involving shells, beams and rotational springs was developed and a rollover test was simulated. The simulation results compared well with the live test results in both deformation mode and amount of deformation. From this simulation, it was determined that 42% of the initial determined that 42% of the initial potential energy was absorbed as plastic deformation and the remaining 58% was dissipated as elastic energy. The results confirmed the usefulness of the busmodel. (A)
Abstract