We were pleased to have @AA from the Politecnico di Milano present at the EuroMed SIMULIA Conference 2024 on June 11-12, 2024 at the Politecnico di Milano in Milan, Italy.
View here the slides of their presentation titled: Crashworthiness Optimization on CFRP Structures using Abaqus/Explicit and CZone
PDF Slides:
Abstract:
Crashworthiness is defined as the ability of a vehicle or its components to absorb the impact energy generated during a collision. This thesis delves into the design optimization of carbon fiber impact-absorbing structures with the aim of achieving enhanced crashworthiness. To achieve this, the geometry of the structure, the composite layup, and the modeling strategy are considered.
Five crash box samples manufactured by Pagani Automobili were dynamically tested to collect the necessary experimental data and validate a numerical model developed using Abaqus/Explicit.
The model is then used to computationally assess the optimal geometric configuration that maximizes the energy-absorption capacity. A multi-cell configuration, a transversally stiffened arrangement, and a thin-walled hollow structure are compared. Subsequently, a Genetic Algorithm approach is also adopted to optimize the lamination sequence.
Lastly, the modeling strategy of CZone for Abaqus is introduced and compared with the integrated Abaqus approach.
The developed model successfully replicates the crushing behavior experienced by the experimental samples. Furthermore, the optimization process results highlight the benefits of implementing longitudinal stiffeners for superior crashworthiness under dynamic impact loading. Finally, exploring CZone provides valuable insights into its modeling strategy and the proper implementation methods for future research.
About the Speaker:
Alessandro Amato is a MSc Mechanical Engineer from Politecnico di Milano.
Originally from Bologna, Alessandro moved to Milan, where he graduated with honors in April 2024.
Parallel to his master's, Alessandro has been part of Alta Scuola Politecnica (ASP), a two-year-long honor program in collaboration with Politecnico di Torino. He has also joined the Formula Student team of Politecnico di Milano (Dynamis PRC) as a composite design engineer in the Chassis Department.
For over a year, Alessandro has been passionately dedicated to understanding and shaping the structural behavior of composite structures for motorsports applications.
More content from the EuroMed SIMULIA Conference 2024 can be found here:
