Numerical Study of the Sensitivity of Contact Parameters in an Automobile Steering Column During a Crash Test
Year: 2025
Type: conference-paper
Abstract: Improving vehicle safety devices is crucial for minimizing injuries in the event of an accident. The steering column, designed to deform in a controlled manner upon impact, plays a key role in absorbing energy and creating a safety gap between the driver and rigid vehicle components, thereby reducing the risk of serious injury. This study focuses on the numerical analysis of the effect of key contact parameters on the collapse behavior of a steering column inclined at 25 degrees. All numerical simulations were performed using LS-DYNA software, investigating the static friction coefficient (FS), the Contact Thickness Scaling Factors (SFSAT and SFSBT), and the Coulomb Friction Scaling Factor (FSF). The results indicate that increasing (FS) enhances rigidity but limits energy absorption, while a lower (FS) improves energy dissipation. Higher (SFSAT and SFSBT) values increase rigidity but reduce impact absorption, whereas lower values enhance flexibility. A higher (FSF) increases resistance and reduces displacement, while a lower (FSF) promotes progressive energy dissipation. This study underscores the importance of these parameters in optimizing automotive safety and recommends an integrated approach combining numerical simulations with physical testing to enhance steering column crash performance.
Source: MATEC Web of Conferences
Authors: Cyrine Gaied, Slim Ben Elechi, Sami Chatti
Language: English
Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4414744734