Design and Calculation of Energy Absorbing Systems

Abstract

Design of energy absorbing structures is achieved in several steps, usually in a highly iterative design/calculation loop. Objectives of each design step are secured by usage of dedicated computational tools typically different for each step. The selection of an appropriate tool for a given step depends on the complexity of the problem and availability of suitable software or other predictive techniques such as engineering formulas, empirical data or handbook — type of information. For example, in the pre — design or pre — prototyping stages factors such as the specific energy absorption per unit length or the maximal moment capacity of a cross — section are of primary importance. In the case of typical cross — sections such information is readily available in handbooks. In the case of more complex, real — word, members the desired parameters can be easily calculated by using specialized tools, such as Crash Cad ¹.