Crash analysis of a rainforest vehicle (RFV) under frontal impact loading

Abstract

Rainforest Vehicle (RFV) is defined as an outdoor vehicle that can be used in the rural, military area especially in the forest. This vehicle must have the capability to use in uneven terrain and sloping condition. This thesis presents the crash analysis of a (RFV) under frontal impact loading. A Finite Element (FE) nonlinear code, LSDYNA software was comprehensively employed to evaluate the crashworthiness performance of the space frame model of the RFV. Experimental testing was conducted on subcomponents to validate the FE model and the analytical analyses from the previous researchers were conducted to compare the results. In addition, the simplified model of the upper rails also validated throughout the quasi static experiment. The validated model was then used to examine three different crash scenarios; impacting rigid wall, 40% offset and rigid pole. The simulation results were used to identify the load path, deceleration and the energy absorption capacity of the main longitudinal component and available crush zone, thus facilitating crashworthiness requirement for future design improvements. The primary outcome of this research is to generate research and design information on the vehicle that will enable further modification and enhancement of the current design for optimizing crashworthiness performance and increasing the levels of safety.