Novel Pre-Crash-Actuator-System based on SMA for Enhancing Side Impact Safety

Abstract

The European IP APROSYS (Advanced PROtection SYStems) is currently being finished. The overall project goal was to decrease the number of fatalities on European roads. Within Sub-Project 6 a novel pre-crash side impact protection system was developed which improves structural behaviour in side crash. The main focus is to reduce intrusions. The given paper presents research activities which were carried out within SP6. The pre-crash-system combines a sensor unit, a data processing or data fusion unit and at least one reversible high-speed actuator. As outcome of this study about the pre-crash-system, a crash load redirection to the unstruck side was found to be most powerful and a suitable actuator was developed which takes away the crash loads directly from the incoming object at the door. This was achieved by creating a rigid connection from the struck door to other stiff car regions. By this, the energy absorbing process starts earlier and involves more structural parts. This system changes the crash deformation modes completely. Both, the B-pillar as well as the door intrusions are being significantly reduced, especially in regions being most critical for the occupant.