Low-velocity impact of clamped Y-shaped sandwich beams with metal foam core

This study aims to analytically and numerically investigate the dynamic behavior of clamped foam-filled Y-shaped sandwich beams subjected to low-velocity impact. Using the yield criterion for the foam-filled Y-shaped sandwich structure, a theoretical model is proposed. The bound and the analytical solution of low-velocity impact (LVI) of the foam-filled Y-shaped sandwich beam (FYSB) are obtained. Numerical computations are conducted to study the dynamic behavior of FYSB subjected to LVI. Analytical predications are in agreement with numerical. Subsequently, an in-depth analysis is undertaken employing a theoretical model to discuss the influences of parameters such as the Y-shaped plate angle, impact location, foam strength on the dynamic behavior of the FYSB. It is shown that for the given deflection, the impact force diminishes as the impact location progressively approaches the mid-span, and increases with increasing foam strength, Y-shaped plate angle, face-sheet thickness and striker mass. The analytical model can be used to predict the dynamic response of the FYSB subjected to LVI.