Advanced Finite Element Model for AE-MDB Side Impact Barrier

This paper represents a new Finite Element simulation model for AE-MDB v3.9 side impact barrier and proposes a method on creating suitable assumptions and material data. Cellbond AE-MDB barrier investigation was carried out to produce an advanced FE model. Experimental Flat Wall and Offset Pole test results were used to validate the accuracy of the developed models. The explicit LS Dyna 3D code was used to model the geometries, and the Material Card data was obtained from several static compressive tests at different angles to characterize the yielding function of the aluminum honeycomb parts. The dynamic models were also validated by a Flat Wall test which represents the crash performance of AE-MDB barrier. For dynamic tests the barrier was mounted on a mobile trolley and it was tested at speed of 35 km/h. In Offset Pole test, the AE-MDB barrier was subjected to an asymmetric crush with a rigid vertical pole in which test speed was 20 km/h. The final comparison of the overall results demonstrates a good correlation between test data and CAE results for both the Flat Wall and Offset Pole tests.