Joe graduated from The University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology (UMIST) in 2005, with a degree in Mechanical Engineering with Design, Materials and Manufacture. He enrolled in a taught Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering Design at Manchester, which required the research study on which this lecture is based. Joe works at Bombardier/Shorts Aerospace in Belfast Northern Ireland

Impact Energy Absorption Using Air-filled Rubber Balls

This study predicts a novel composition’s response to creep and impact load conditions by means of mathematical simulation. The composition consists of elastomeric air cavities within a liquid matrix that is confined to piston and cylinder containment.

The mathematical simulation was based on the viscoelastic mechanical system analogies of Kelvin, Voigt, Standard linear solid and the three-parameter solid. Results were compared to physical load tests on the composition, which maintained the material parameters and load conditions of the simulation. The Voigt and Standard linear solid analogies came close to modelling the creep loading condition, while the Voigt analogy, under impact conditions, was similar to the physical impact behaviour of the composition.

The study was part of a wider research effort into the development of pedestrian friendly vehicle front ends to satisfy the EU directive (2003/102/EC), and future regulations relating to this aspect.

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