Material Applications in Future Automotive Structure. Volume 1: Summary Report.

摘要

Candidate materials which might be used in future automotive structure were selected. These included steels, aluminum alloys plastIcs and fIber reinforced composites. General materials property data, availability, manufacturability, cost and their effects on crashworthiness, durability and non damageability were evaluated. Three vehicle structures; body on frame, unibody and unibody van were investigated with the possible use of the candidate materials in mind. Finite element analysis and mass-spring modeling of the vehicle structures were completed to determine limits and boundaries of materials application. The existing structure with appropriate sectional properties were obtained from current production vehicles. New concepts were suggested using the candidate materials in several forms. Advantages, disadvantages, manufacturing costs and the general complexity of alternate applications were reviewed. Suggested typical weight savings which might evolve through the use of these materials were presented.