Generalized Deformation and Total Velocity Change Analysis with Missing Vehicle Stiffness Coefficients; G-DaTA ?V™

Abstract

Analysis of vehicle deformation from impacts largely relies upon A and B stiffness coefficients for vehicle structures in order to approximate the velocity change and accelerations produced by an impact. While frontal impact stiffness factors for passenger vehicles, light trucks, vans, and sport utility vehicles are relatively prevalent for modern vehicles, stiffness factors for rear and side structures — as well as heavy vehicles, buses, recreational vehicles, trailers, motorcycles, and even objects — are essentially non-existent.