3D scanning applied in the evaluation of large plastic deformation

Crash test are experimental studies demanded by specialized agencies in order to evaluate the performance of a component (or entire vehicle) when subjected to an impact. The results, often highly destructive, produce large deformations in the product. The use of numerical simulation in initial stages of a project is essential to reduce costs. One difficulty in validating numerical results involves the correlation between the level and the deformation mode of the component, since it is a highly nonlinear simulation in which various parameters can affect the results. The main objective of this study was to propose a methodology to correlate the result of crash tests of a fuel tank with the numerical simulations, using an optical 3D scanner. The results are promising, and the methodology implemented would be used for any products that involve large deformations.