Search Results

An attempt was made to apply the index U* in detail analysis of load paths in structural joints under static load, using as examples coupling structures of two joined frames with hat-shaped sections, and T-beam joint structures each including spot welds, both of which are widely used in automotive body structures. U* is a load path analysis index that expresses the strength of connection between load points and arbitrary points on a structure. It was possible to identify areas making up load paths by means of the magnitude of U* values, and to clarify the areas that should be coupled in order to achieve effective load transfer to contiguous members. In addition, because it is possible to determine whether or not each section of a structure possesses the potential for load transfer using U* analysis, the research also demonstrated that U* could be used as an indicator of joint structures providing efficient load transfer.

Mechanical properties, formability and crash worthiness of a new sheet steel having an ultrafine grained (UFG) multi-phase (MP) microstructure are shown. The fabricated UFG-MP steel showed significant work hardening caused by deformation induced martensitic transformation of retained austenite, which resulted in a combination of high strength and large tensile elongation. It was confirmed by dynamic collapse test and FEM simulation that the large work hardenability of the UFG-MP steel promoted compact mode collapse that improved the absorbed energy.