Energy absorption properties of multi-panel reinforced tubular structure under quasi-static compression loading

Energy-absorbing structures are widely used in the aerospace and automotive industries. The multi-panel reinforced tubular structure is mainly used in scenarios where size and weight are limited. By adding wall panels to the tubular structure, the energy absorption (EA) properties of the structure can be improved. In this article, the energy absorption properties of convex and concave type panel-reinforced tubular structures are experimentally and numerically studied. The effects of the number and thickness of panels on the energy absorption properties are analyzed. The results show that the convex panel-reinforced tubular structure has better energy absorption properties and a more stable process. The number of panels has little effect on the energy absorption properties of the entire structure. The specific energy absorption of the structure increases with the thickness of panels, but it is expected that there will be an upper limit of about 114 kJ·kg⁻¹.