Strength analysis of bus superstructure according to Regulation No. 66 of UN/ECE

• Modelling of a bus superstructure and its strength analysis using the finite element method was conducted.
• Rollover test is defined as the basic approval method for buses.
• The residual space during and after the rollover test on a complete vehicle should be unharmed.
• Significant deformation of the profiles of the body frame structure occurred, mainly in the front.
• The AUTOMET 2DX0AZ bus satisfied the requirements established in Regulation no 66 of UN/ECE.

The article presents the modelling of a bus superstructure and its strength analysis and evaluates the requirements of Regulation No. 66 using the finite element method, with consideration of nonlinearity of materials and geometry. The analysis includes a strength test simulation in the form of a rollover test, which was performed in accordance with the requirements specified in Regulation No. 66 of UN/ECE and annex no. 3 of Regulation 66 of UN/ECE. The article presents the results of the dynamic analysis which uses the finite element method.