A computerized analytical technique, which includes the NONDRIS (Nonlinear Dynamic Response of Integrated Structures) program and the structural models, has been applied to compute the structural response of space frames to static crush loadings and side impacts. As a first step toward full vehicle analysis, the vehicle is represented as a simplified space frame structure which can be modeled by beam elements, nonlinear stiffness elements, and concentrated masses. The analytical technique is used to compute deflections, force resultants, local section buckling of the beams, and fracture for the following cases: 1) side crush due to quasi-static loading and 2) side impact by a rigid barrier at impact speeds of 24 and 34 km/h.
To verify the analytical study, experimental space frame structures were fabricated and subjected to the aforementioned load conditions. Comparisons between measured and computed results indicate that total side crush, resisting force, and deformed profrles can be numerically predicted.