Application of the generalized mixing kinematic model to the calculation of crushing response of complex prismatic sections

Impact behaviour of vehicles can be conveniently studied by means of hybrid numerical models using equivalent elements such as bars and non-linear springs. Wierzbicki and Abramowicz proposed a kinematic model for calculating the average and instantaneous crushing force for these macro elements. An equally simple model for the pre-collapse phase was developed by Huang and Wierzbicki. Our obective in the present paper is to determine the entire crushing characteristic of prismatic members consisting of plates with different wall thickness. Several examples are worked out in which comparisons with FE calculations and experimental results are made.