Considerations on 1D beam concept modelling for the vehicle structure

When creating simplified models of the vehicle structure, 1D beam elements are normally used to achieve a small-sized and parametric representation of all beam-like parts. Despite of its undoubted advantages, such an approach can introduce certain modelling errors. They are influenced by various factors such as cross-section deformations, spotwelds, flanges, discontinuities and beam cross-section type. The aim of this paper is to perform a systematic study of these error factors and to classify their importance. Consequently, guidelines are given on good practices for overcoming the intrinsic limitations of 1D beam concept modelling techniques. For this purpose six different beam structures having idealized and real cross-section profiles are studied. The conclusions drawn are then applied to an industrial case-study. By giving a better insight of the potential pitfalls and their possible solutions, 1D beam concept modelling can become more accurate and reliable.