The research detailed in this paper involved the testing of an existing side impact beam to confirm its behaviour in terms of load response, deformation modes and energy absorption profiles. The beam is simply supported and loaded at midspan. This does not represent the loading conditions of the beam within a vehicle where fixture to the vehicle structure would provide a complex end restraint. However, the simplified loading conditions can provide a benchmark with which to make an initial comparison of the performance of beams made from alternative materials. FEA and plastic analysis were carried out to predict the automotive beam's behaviour. It is hoped that modelling techniques evaluated for the steel beam could be adapted for assessing these alternative types of beams. (A)
Samenvatting