Investigation of a methodological approach to modelling sandwich structures using cohesive elements

Abstract

Lightweight multi-material architectures like sandwich structures can contribute to reaching environmental targets regarding the reduction of emissions from vehicles. In modern development processes, modelling sandwich structures' mechanical behaviour in finite-element simulations is essential. In the Next Generation Car (NGC) research project, a novel vehicle concept is being developed that makes extensive use of sandwich materials - the Safe Light Regional Vehicle (SLRV). Particularly, crash load cases are considered in the development of this sandwich structure. The investigated sandwich material consists of two metallic layers and a polyurethane foam core. For the derivation of an appropriate mechanical surrogate model, the damage mechanisms during loading have to be analysed and evaluated. Preliminary studies show potentials for the investigated approach that uses cohesive elements to model the sandwich core.