Abstract
This work presents examples of design tools and numerical models that contribute to a basic understanding and prediction of the crash behavior of aluminum automotive structures.
Aspects such as energy absorption in axial crushing, buckling modes, material rheology and dynamic effects contribution have been examined. Numerical calculations are based on implicit and explicit finite element codes. Low speed compression and drop weight tests with various impact speeds provide the models with the necessary experimental validation.
A wide range of geometric and material parameters has been tested demonstrating that aluminum alloys semi-products provide an attractive solution for such applications.