Abstract

In this paper, we investigate the deformation of a thin-walled tube under side impact using finite element analysis. The maximum deflection of the tube is reduced by engraving slit patterns on the tube between its center and impact point. By varying the aspect ratio, the number of slits, and the range of a patterned area, we study how slit patterns affect the maximum deflection of the tube in its center. We find that longitudinally thin slits are effective in transforming the impact energy consumed as a cross-sectional deformation into an elliptic shape and reducing the maximum deflection of the tube. Engraving slit patterns on the tube has additional benefits, does not alter the bending stiffness significantly, and decreases the weight.