Passive and active energy dissipation devices for superior crashworthiness performance

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The proposed research program will continue experimental, numerical, and theoretical studies towards the development of novel and high performing structural energy absorbing devices. These investigations will seek to understand and develop both passive and active adaptive energy dissipation structures relevant to many safety applications, including but not limited to, personal safety devices and automotive, aerospace, and blast protection industries. Two specific areas of research are targeted towards the development of these adaptive energy dissipation devices, namely, (i) the application of a cutting deformation mode of extrusions towards achieving a system which exhibits desired and controlled load/displacement behaviour during deformation, and (ii) the understanding and development of foam filled braided tubes as a novel energy dissipation device. The long term objectives of this research project are to develop high performance, novel, robust, and effective energy absorbing devices so as to mitigate serious injuries or death as a result of falls, automotive crashes, pedestrian impacts, blasts, or bomb explosions in a broad range of safety applications.****Experimental studies will be conducted under quasi-static, dynamic, and ballistic loading conditions and students will be utilizing state of the art equipment, including but not limited to (i) a unique long stroke quasi-static tension/compression testing machine, (ii) two droptower testing devices, (iii) a custom built pneumatic ballistic impact device, and (iv) traditional quasi-static tension/compression loading machines. Quantification of the deformation characteristics and performance of the energy absorbers will occur through the use of transducers, high speed photography and associated digital image analysis software, as well as optical strain measurement systems (using both traditional and high speed cameras). Numerical models will also be extended from the applicant's previously developed engineering models utilizing traditional Lagrangian finite element formulations as well as Eulerian and smooth particle hydrodynamic technologies. These extended models will be experimentally validated and used to understand deformation behaviour and appropriate strategies for design of the adaptive energy dissipation devices. Theoretical models, previously constructed by the applicant's research team, will be used, modified, and extended into optimization studies for prediction of device performance and enhancement. The combined experimental, numerical, and analytical approaches are expected to result in the development of well-engineered adaptive energy dissipation systems. Support from the proposed research grant will provide assistance to train highly qualified personnel and conduct research in the development of these superior energy dissipation devices.**