Front underride protection device (FUPD) development: design strategy with simultaneous loading

This work is presented to fill a demand in understanding complexities associated with the design and performance of front underride protection devices (FUPDs) mounted upon tractor-trailers. A multi-objective design process is outlined utilising advanced optimisation techniques to effectively create FUPD systems complying with a variety of quasi-static loading standards via simultaneous rather than sequential considerations. These actions are performed to fit protection devices on tractors residing within two different ground clearance ranges. The effectiveness of the systems is then examined through compatibility, which indicates increased robustness when designed for higher load standards. In addition, heavy braking of the passenger vehicle prior to contact is studied and compatibility examined as influenced by the pitching of the vehicle. The results indicate negligible variation in vehicle-to-vehicle structural alignment, suggesting no structural compensation is required in accommodating both braked and unbraked passenger vehicles when designing FUPDs.