The piece was designed this piece to simulate a 30 mph head-on collision. We took guidance from four major sources. A small-scale model, collision studies, industrial car compactors, and FEA analysis of a Solidworks computer model.
The 1:18 scale model was constructed first. I was able to confirm that a slow version of a wreck could simulate a large-scale actual collision.
We found from studies of collisions the calculated and measured forces that have been observed in real-world collisions. The peak pressures and forces in an actual collision are similar to the pressures required in the slow-motion sculpture.
We used hydraulic cylinders similar to what is used on industrial car compactors, for an economical means to create the forces needed.
We also used Finite element analysis that allowed us to calculate the stresses on our mechanism and make sure the steel and bolts etc were capable of transferring the forces involved.
I thank Karl Biewald for his invaluable support. You can see more of Karl’s work at: AXN-RXN.COM
Produced by STUK arts centre and City of Leuven
Supported by LMS international
Original concept drawing #1
Original concept drawing #2
Original concept drawing #3
Gear Reduction System for the original Car Crash
Planetary Gear Reduction system for the 2nd Car Crash
