Arbitrariness of asymmetric hat-type channel members in the axial crush

Abstract

This paper is concerned with the crashworthiness of asymmetric hat-type specimens that are fabricated by spot welding or laser welding with different spacing between two welded spots. The specimens are evaluated for the axial crush at the various crush velocity. The experimental result shows that the specimens are not deformed in a consistent manner, but arbitrarily. In this type of axial crush, the length of the flange region is an important parameter as well as the spacing between welded spots. Experimental results also show the difference in the crush mode between the spot-welded specimens and the laser-welded ones. The difference in the first peak and average load is also demonstrated as well as the energy absorption capacity.