Crashworthiness unit cell design investigation for energy absorption analysis

Abstract Generally, developing crashworthy components necessitates the use of a specific structural design that facilitates efficient crushing deformation to absorb accident impact energy. The modern techniques for reducing the intensity of the impact are formed from techniques of recent advancement. The metallic foam and honeycomb structures are both capable of absorbing a significant amount of specific energy. Both structural arrangements, however, have inherent limitations: honeycomb structures are unidirectional, while metallic foam structures have extremely random 3D cell configurations. While additive manufacturing has given rise to the creation of complex geometry that aids in the production of crash-worthy components, such as lattice structures, it has also pioneered the way for the development of parts with even more complex geometries. Lattice systems are intended to absorb crash energy while allowing for both three-dimensional and normal structural configurations. Since lattice systems have a high potential for use in crash effect structures, they can be extremely useful in energy management of crash effect structures. Based on the literature, an attempt has been made to develop a new form of unit cells since they are the most significant feature of the lattice structure in terms of energy absorption. Nine distinct types of unit cells are developed and analyzed. The planned unit cells are loaded in a single direction. The study determined the energy-absorbing characteristics of nine different types of unit cells, including deformation, peak force, energy absorption, and crash force strength. The maximum specific energy absorption (SEA) was calculated for nine different unit cell configurations using the software “ANSYS/EXPLICIT.” The “Type-6” unit cell is discovered to be well suited for crashworthy components.