Material and structural crashworthiness characterization of paratransit buses

摘要

A comprehensive experimental material characterization and full-scale testing of structural connections of paratransit buses is presented in this paper. Structure-property relations were quantified for the constitutive material models used for finite element simulation-based crashworthiness research of paratransit buses. Several structural materials used by the paratransit bus industry were identified, and coupon size specimens were tested. A dynamic wall panel test with an impact hammer provided validation data for the finite element simulations. In addition, quasi-static laboratory tests of standard connections between the walls, floor, and the roof of a selected paratransit bus were performed. In addition to FE model validation, the connection testing allowed for thorough qualitative assessment of connection design, which resulted in improved crashworthy connection details. The experimental materials characterization and validation protocol described in this paper is consistent with the draft of the crash and safety standard for structural assessment of paratransit buses in the state of Florida. This roadmap is intended to be used for crashworthiness evaluation of future paratransit buses.