Modelling A 32-Seat Bus And Virtual Testing For R66 Compliance

A 32-seat bus finite element (FE) model was developed based on AutoCAD files and technical notes of the structure supplied by Woodall Nicholson Ltd., the manufacturer of the Mellor bus. The resulting model was used for rollover computational mechanics studies underpinned by UN-CE R66 Standards test. The paper describes the bus lateral characteristics through the acceleration threshold limit that defines the transverse acceleration from which rollover process is initiated. The paper also assesses the bus superstructure strength and energy absorption capability validated through experimental testing of important structural components. In the process, occupants are protected from MAIS 3+ injuries that may lead to fatality. Overall results show that closed rings, proper joint design at roof, waistrail and floor level assemblies have significant effects on the rollover crashworthiness capability.