MATLAB/ Simulink Based Autonomous Vehicle Collision Simulation and Energy Absorption Analysis

Authors : Vedat Yeğin

Pages : 249-261

View : 44 | Download : 25

Publication Date : 2025-06-19

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :The ability of autonomous vehicles to mitigate collision damage is closely tied to how effectively they absorb impact energy. To explore this dynamic, a simulation model grounded in MATLAB/Simulink was constructed and employed to examine the key parameters influencing collision behavior. The model was evaluated under controlled conditions, including a 45-degree impact angle, a vehicle speed of 50 km/h, and a wet asphalt surface. A series of alternative scenarios were also developed by varying speed, angle of collision, and surface friction properties. Results from the simulations indicate that increases in vehicle speed correspond to significant rises in both impact force and the amount of energy absorbed by the structure. Notably, collisions occurring at a 30-degree angle demonstrated a wider distribution of force across the vehicle body, which facilitated more efficient energy absorption. In contrast, impacts at 60 degrees led to more localized force concentration, thereby reducing energy dissipation capacity. Lower friction values on the road surface were observed to extend the duration of impact and increase the spatial spread of force throughout the vehicle framework. To assess the accuracy of the simulation, results were compared against empirical crash test data sourced from Euro NCAP and NHTSA, as well as against theoretical calculations. These comparisons showed that the model\\\'s predictions aligned with physical test data to within ±5%, indicating a high level of reliability. Taken together, these insights contribute meaningfully to the refinement of passive safety mechanisms, inform the structural design of vehicles for improved crash resilience, and support the development of intelligent safety control systems for autonomous platforms.
Keywords : Dinamik model, Çarpışma davranışı, Otonom araç, MATLAB/Simulink, Çarpma kuvveti

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