Simplified modelling of thin-walled box section beam

Simplified models for thin-walled box section beam members are created and validated through crashworthiness analyses. To create the simplified models, the published collapse theories of thin-walled box section beams under axial compression and bending are reviewed and applied to simulate the structure's collapse behaviour. In this paper, a detailed straight thin-wailed beam model and a detailed "Z" shaped thin-walled beam model are simplified to verify the non-linear spring elements developed on the basis of the existing collapse theories. Modelling steps are illustrated in detail, and a general simplified modelling method for such beam members is summarized and presented.