Computer simulation of the truck cabin tests to find ways to meet the requirements of the UNECE Regulation 29

BACKGROUND: Ensuring the required level of passive safety of trucks is a relevant task. To solve this problem, it is necessary to use computer simulation methods. AIM: Search for the ways to ensure the passive safety of trucks by choosing the appropriate cabin design. MATERIALS AND METHODS: During the study, the method of virtual simulation of the truck cabin tests was used in accordance with the requirements of the UNECE Regulation 29. RESULTS: A simulation model of a truck cabin has been developed, which makes it possible to conduct the computer simulation of the tests according to the UNECE Regulation 29. The main requirement of the UNECE Regulation 29 is retaining sufficient space in the cabin to accommodate the driver’s dummy inside it after its testing. As a part of the study, the properties of the material (steel) used for manufacturing of prototype cabins of the truck under development were determined, and the tested specimens were obtained by dissecting the prototype of the cabin, so the obtained results take into account the technological history of the material. The obtained data on the properties of the materials were used in the development of the simulation model of the cabin. The developed and used simulation model takes into account all the design features of the cabin under study, including the location and properties of welding points. Various options of cabin design changes and their impact on the ability to meet the requirements of the UNECE Regulations 29 are investigated. It has been found that it is not possible to fully comply with the requirements of the UNECE Regulation 29 only by increasing (within reasonable limits) the thickness of individual elements of the cabin frame and/or using high-strength steel for their manufacturing. Based on the analysis of the deformation of the prototype cabin frame during the Test C according to the UNECE Regulation 29 Revision 2, proposals for changes to the cabin design to meet the requirement of the UNECE Regulation 29 are formulated. CONCLUSION: The results of the study indicate the prospects of the proposed changes to the cabin design.