Numerical Study of the Sensitivity of Contact Parameters in an Automobile Steering Column During a Crash Test

¹ Higher Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology of Sousse, University of Sousse, Rue Taher Ben Achour 4003, Sousse, Tunisia
² LGM Laboratory, ENIM, Tunisia, ENISo, University of Sousse, Avenue Ibn Jazzar, 5019 Monastir, Tunisia
³ LMS Laboratory, Higher Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology of Sousse, University of Sousse, Rue Taher Ben Achour 4003, Tunisia

^* Corresponding author: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract

Improving vehicle safety devices is crucial for minimizing injuries in the event of an accident. The steering column, designed to deform in a controlled manner upon impact, plays a key role in absorbing energy and creating a safety gap between the driver and rigid vehicle components, thereby reducing the risk of serious injury. This study focuses on the numerical analysis of the effect of key contact parameters on the collapse behavior of a steering column inclined at 25 degrees. All numerical simulations were performed using LS-DYNA software, investigating the static friction coefficient (FS), the Contact Thickness Scaling Factors (SFSAT and SFSBT), and the Coulomb Friction Scaling Factor (FSF). The results indicate that increasing (FS) enhances rigidity but limits energy absorption, while a lower (FS) improves energy dissipation. Higher (SFSAT and SFSBT) values increase rigidity but reduce impact absorption, whereas lower values enhance flexibility. A higher (FSF) increases resistance and reduces displacement, while a lower (FSF) promotes progressive energy dissipation. This study underscores the importance of these parameters in optimizing automotive safety and recommends an integrated approach combining numerical simulations with physical testing to enhance steering column crash performance.