Material and Design Factors Influencing the Quasi-Static Dent Resistance of Steel Body Panels 1999-01-0025

The quasi-static denting behavior of sheet steels has been analyzed in a systematic FEA study, which considers material properties, panel radius, sheet thickness, panel length and boundary conditions. Results from a full factorial experimental matrix have been analyzed statistically to identify those variables and variable interactions that influence dent performance. The primary factors which control dent performance are material properties, panel radius and sheet thickness, while panel length and boundary conditions are not significant. Based on the results of this study, two commonly used dent criteria (loading energy and visible dent load) are analyzed, and previously reported opposite effects of radius of curvature on dent performance are clarified.