Study on the Effect of Geometrical Parameters of a Hexagonal Trigger on Energy Absorber Performance Using ANN

Area of Science:

• Mechanical Engineering
• Materials Science
• Automotive Safety

Background:

• Thin-walled structures are crucial energy absorbers in vehicles, protecting components during low-speed (up to 20 km/h) collisions.
• Maintaining axial crushing is vital for effective energy absorption and occupant safety.
• Hexagonal triggers are investigated for their role in progressive collapse and energy dissipation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the influence of hexagonal trigger geometry on the axial crushing behavior of thin-walled energy absorbers.
• To determine the impact of trigger width and height on crash-box performance metrics.
• To optimize trigger design for enhanced energy absorption efficiency and crush axiality.

Main Methods:

• Numerical simulations of dynamic crushing were performed.
• Physical specimens were fabricated and subjected to dynamic crushing tests.
• High-speed cameras captured plastic deformation, and force/shortening data were analyzed.
• Neural networks were employed to assess variable importance.

Main Results:

• The width of the hexagonal crush initiator significantly impacts crash-box performance.
• Increasing trigger width and height can negatively affect crush axiality and energy absorber efficiency.
• Detailed analysis revealed the influence of triggers on post-buckling progressive collapse.

Conclusions:

• Hexagonal trigger geometry, particularly width, is a critical factor in energy absorber performance.
• Careful design of trigger dimensions is necessary to prevent crush non-axiality and maintain high energy absorption efficiency.
• Optimized triggers enhance the protective capabilities of vehicle energy absorption systems.