Numerical simulations of composite frontal protection system according to EC 78/2009

Abstract

According to Regulation (EC) 78/2009 currently in force in the European Union the frontal protection system (FPS) is a separate structure, which is intended to protect the external surface of the vehicle, from damage in the event of a collision. The use of FPS was the subject of many discussions. This was mainly due to the increasing popularity of Sport Utility Vehicles (SUV) with non-compliant bull bars fitted by owners. It should be noted that, in most cases, installing an FPS on a SUV is simply a matter of car tuning. The purpose of such modifications is to make the vehicle appear more aggressive and stand out against similar cars. The problem came when frontal protection systems became merely a fashionable decoration of sport utility vehicles in place of their original function. Unfortunately, due to their growing popularity, SUVs are increasingly involved in accidents involving pedestrians. Over the years, vehicles equipped with bull bars have been causing an increasing number of pedestrian deaths and therefore specific requirements were introduced for this component. The paper presents numerical comparison of FPS made of steel and fiberglass according to the current regulations. A notable difference in legform acceleration was noted, which indicates a good potential in fiberglass usage as a base material for FPS.