Title: Development of an automated pre-processing tool and case study for coach rollover analysis

Authors: Y. Li; F.C. Lan; J.Q. Chen

Addresses: School of Mechanical and Automotive Engineering, South China University of Technology, Wushan Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou 510640, China; Traffic Management Research Institute of Public Security Ministry, Wuxi 214151, China ' School of Mechanical and Automotive Engineering, South China University of Technology, Wushan Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou 510640, China ' School of Mechanical and Automotive Engineering, South China University of Technology, Wushan Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou 510640, China

Abstract: Coach rollover numerical simulation is a highly complex and time-consuming process, especially in terms of its pre-processing tasks, which are commonly done manually. To improve modelling efficiency and standardise the modelling process so as to shorten the computation running time, based on the finite element software package Altair HYPERWORKS, an automated process tool is developed using Tool Command Language (TCL). The tool's framework is proposed as a step-by-step modelling wizard including 12 technical modules in compliance with ECE/R66. Users can easily use the tool without specialised knowledge of rollover simulation process and regulations. Based on the wizard, the complete finite element modelling for a coach rollover simulation validates the process tool's capability in automation and efficiency. Then a case study of coach rollover is carried out to investigate the rollover scenario and the superstructure strength. Compared to previous pre-processing methods, remarkable time was saved and the modelling process was standardised by utilising the automated process tool, which proved its feasibility and high efficiency.

Keywords: automated pre-processing; case study; coach rollover; rollover analysis; secondary development; passive safety; numerical simulation; modelling; finite element method; FEM; superstructure strength; vehicle safety; coaches.

DOI: 10.1504/IJHVS.2013.053007

International Journal of Heavy Vehicle Systems, 2013 Vol.20 No.2, pp.99 - 119

Published online: 30 Oct 2013 *

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