A computational study on static and unconstrained dynamic rollover crash tests of a mid-size SUV for various initial rollover parameters

Abstract

In terms of frequency of accidents, rollover crashes are uncommon among all other crash types or directions. However, they are associated with highest fatality rate than any other crashes, as 33% of fatalities in automobile crashes correspond to rollover crashes. Beside a static roof crush test procedure, there is yet no standard dynamic test procedure to certify a vehicle for occupant rollover protection, because of its complexity and various factors that affect the outcome of the rollover crashes. The unpredictability of the rollover makes it difficult to design standard test procedure. There are various factors and parameters that affect the rollover crashes such as vehicle speed, height of its fall, angle of contact with the ground, side of contact, reason for the rollover, etc. The countermeasure for these parameters are also difficult to be included in a standard test procedure. The present study is focused on development and utilization of a computational finite element model of typical SUV vehicle in static and unconstrained dynamic rollover tests. The vehicle is subjected to various dynamic rollover parameters, including the height of its fall, longitudinal speed of the vehicle during the rollover and angle of contact with the ground. In the end, various parametric studies are examined on a Toyota RAV4 rollover crash, the energy inducing and the force imparting to the vehicle are analyzed, and their effects shall be identified for a recommended set of initial roll parameters.