Crash behaviour of lightweight structure materials. Deep drawing sheet materials and simple metallic foam -FRP- design structures at dynamic loading conditions

Weight reductions in automotive structures require new material concepts which fulfil structural and safety requirements at various operating conditions. One way to achieve this objective is to utilize new steels which have higher strength, without changing the deep drawing capabilities and the response to crash. Results of dynamic loading tests of various deep drawing sheet materials are presented and discussed in the view of lightweight design requirements. Using new materials and new design methods could be another way to save weight. FRP-tubes filled with aluminium foam are one example for new structural elements. The results prove that this simple structure can be used as an efficient crash absorber. It can be seen as a model for an efficient energy absorbing lightweight component.