Multi-objective optimization of crash box filled with three-dimensional cellular structure under multi-angle impact loading
Fangwu Ma, Hongyu Liang, Yongfeng Pu, Qiang Wang, Ying Zhao
Abstract
Oblique impact loading conditions are common in automobile collision accidents, which strongly influence the energy absorption performance of thin-walled structures. In this paper, a novel three-dimensional (3-D) hexagonal structure-filled crash box with better comprehensive crashworthiness under multiple working conditions is proposed. First, the finite element models of four 3-D typical cellular structures (hexagon structure, re-entrant hexagon structure, star-shape structure, double arrow structure) are established. The dynamic responses of four structures under different impact angles (from 0° to 30°) and impact velocities (from 5 to 15 m/s) are discussed. The results reveal that the 3-D hexagonal structure has great advantages in terms of the energy absorption at varying inclination angles. Second, the 3-D hexagonal structure is filled in the crash box in the form of gradient distribution. The multi-island genetic algorithm (MIGA) based on the response surface model (RSM) is utilized to explore the optimal design of crash box. Compared with the traditional crash box, the optimal 3-D hexagonal structure-filled crash box increases 18.9% in specific energy absorption and decreases 21.7% in maximum peak force, which demonstrates great potential for applications in impact engineering.