Technical Paper
I Section Bumper Beam Coupled with an Injection Molded Energy Absorber
2002-03-04
2002-01-1227
There are several key issues to consider when designing a bumper system within today's automotive environment. These include impact efficiency, corporate average fuel economy (CAFE), federal requirements, and independent consumer agency requirements. Impact efficiency of a bumper system is critical for three reasons. First, it enables vehicles to absorb more energy in less packaging space. Second, with CAFE a high priority, thermoplastic bumper systems provide an excellent opportunity to reduce vehicle mass, and improve CAFE ratings when they replace conventional steel foam systems. Finally, the system needs to meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) part 581 and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) requirements. The bumper system described in this paper offers the ability to achieve each of these goals and remain cost competitive.