Horst Lanzerath

Crash Simulation of Structural Foam

On the base of the Finite Element Method (FED) simulation models for structural foam in crash relevant body components will be developed. These models will be implemented into commercial software and can be used in the development of vehicle structures. The first step is the material characterization model will be developed and validated. In the last step simulations will be performed with the new simulation tool and the results will be compared to test results. The potential of structural foam in two crash relevant body areas, the bumper beam aluminum foam and a B-pillar polymer foam application will be shown.

Improved Crash Simulation of Impact-Loaded Interior Plastic Parts

Occupant safety is one of the most important considerations in the development of motor vehicles. In order to be able to fulfil the increased requirements in view of shorter cycle times and rising cost pressure, car manufacturers are intensifying the use of virtual development tools. An overview of the basic challenges in crash simulations of thermoplastics and an illustration of the advantages of an advanced simulation approach examined at the Ford Motor Company are presented.