How Do Physics Formulas Explain the Function of Crumple Zones?

[Priebe]

I have been given an assignment on crumple zones. For part of the assignment we have to use physics formulas, I have searched but so far I haven't found any so if anyone could give me some physics formulas that would relate to this topic it would be most appreciated. This is for a science 21 assignment which is basically a mix of all sciences.

 

[Endorser]

There is no exact formula for crumple zones (that i am aware of) but through using a range of other equations to prove that the crumple zone 'decrease force' on the driver. I have done a few question on crumple zones in my time and many asked the use of the force equation.

soz i can't help you much

 

[Priebe]

Thanks for the help anyway. Hopefully there is some sort of physics formula that relates to it. If there are any that even loosely relate to crumple zones I will have them, every bit helps.

 

[AdamCFC]

Crumple zones serve as a disposable pillow in the case when 2 cars collide. When they collide, the momentum will be lost. How quickly they lose their momentum is called impulse ( rate at which momentum changes

The longer the car takes to lose its momentum, the smaller the impulse. Crumple Zone reduces the impulse by increasing the impact time.

Impulse is what causes fatality.

Impulse = Mass x Velocity

See this website, to help calcuate Impulse and see how to calcuate other unknowns.

"http://www.ajdesigner.com/phpimpulse/impulse_equation_impulse.php"

Hope this helps

Adam

 

[Priebe]

Thank you that is what I was after. Thanks for the help.

By the way that link doesn't work you need to remove one of the http: things and the quotations marks. I got the link working and got to the site, it will help a lot thanks

 

[mathias779]

What happens when you hit the side of the crumple zone?