One-dimensional modelling of contact impact problem in guided transport vehicle crash

It is impractical to rely solely on prototype testing for the global analysis of structures in impact. Numerical simulation is also necessary. We propose using a lumped-mass model, linked by springs and dampers. In certain crash configurations, links between bodies may be fully compressed. Difficulties encountered in solving these types of problems include the treatment of contact velocity reversals in impact. We state the contact equations between bodies using the Lagrange multiplier equations, where we introduce a restitution coefficient which takes body compressibility and energy losses into account. Then, we propose a new algorithm, and show in a one-dimensional example its advantages, over a penalty method. Finally, we apply this method to a 30 km/h frontal impact of a railway carriage.