Abstract:
Composites are termed as important lightweight materials because of their high specific stiffness and strength. The application of composites in automotive industry can be one effective way to reduce environmental pollution and energy shortages. A composites bumper, which is 27% lighter than the aluminum counterpart, was designed and fabricated using wet compression molding with carbon fiber. Then, 40% frontal collision following RCAR standard were performed on these bumpers. Meanwhile, the finite element models were built up in LS-DYNA and used for parameter discussion after validation. The thickness of energy absorption box can increase the crashworthiness of the bumper, while the energy absorption capability can be enhanced after introducing a bioinspired helicoidal fiber arrangement. Also, the composites bumper is demonstrated to outperform the metal one under the same weight.