Regression surrogate modeling for structural optimization of rear underrun protection device (RUPD) for trucks
Abstract
This study presents a regression-based surrogate modeling framework for analyzing the quasi-static structural response of a truck rear underrun protection device (RUPD). Finite element data from five configurations are used to examine the effect of slot distance from the mounting plane (50–150 mm) as a single geometric parameter. Low-order polynomial surrogates are developed for von Mises stress, factor of safety (FoS), and mass, enabling interpolation between discrete designs. Results show a monotonic increase in FoS with slot distance; relative to the 125 mm reference, the maximum distance yields a 30.8% FoS increase and 25.7% stress reduction, at the cost of higher mass.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Transportation Safety and Impact Analysis
Railway Engineering and Dynamics
Transport Systems and Technology
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Mechanics Based Design of Structures and Machines
- Publisher
- Informa UK Limited
- Volume
- 54
- Issue
- 1
- Publication date
- 2 January 2026
- Language
- EN