New Smart Panels Transform Cars

None of us expect to be involved in a crash at any time. Unfortunately it can happen to even the most careful driver. Even if the impact is at low speed often the car can seem badly damaged. This is because many cars nowadays have special areas built into the body work that are called Crumple Zones.

The Crumple Zone is designed to compress during an accident to absorb energy from the impact. Typically crumple zones are located in the front part of the vehicle, in order to absorb the impact of a head on collision, though they may be found on other parts of the vehicle as well.

Some racing cars use aluminium or composite honeycomb in their crumple zones to make the cars lighter and stronger.

The idea of putting crumples zones in cars is to reduce the amount of the impact energy that is transferred from the outside of the vehicle to the inside. This means that the occupants of the car are better protected from injury and deformations of the passenger cabin.

Automobile researchers have developed car panels that are capable of "transforming" from an aerodynamic to crumple resistant shapes in a split second before a crash.

Scientists at Siemens VDO are developing special metals known as "shape memory alloys" which morph into a pre-programmed shape when a current passes through. Small pistons will be fitted beneath panels, and made to flex when sensors detect an imminent side impact.

The added level of cushioning from the force of impact will make airbags and seatbelts even more effective, said researchers.

The system is expected to be ready for the first crash tests in two years time, using radar and video cameras to detect impact.

Because the process would allow for the removal of much of the thicker protective panelling previously used this is expected to allow for more aerodynamic designs and reduced weight.

If you would like to know more about crumple zones why not ask AnswerBank Technology.