A numerical model for the simulation of dynamic compression of a collapsible multilayer
structure subjected to transient compressive excitation is described and tested. It is shown that
impacts induce a chaotic collapse of crumple layers. The simulations predict shock pulses and
intralaminar forces. Simulated shock pulses that a free-falling impactor is subjected to, and the
corresponding animated deformation histories of the layers, are compared with the highspeed
videography. Cushioning performance maps and shock response spectra maps obtained from the
simulations are presented. The use of collapsible structures for cushioning applications is discussed.