The objective of this paper is to discuss the potential capabilities of inertial sensors for point tracking and the presentation of a new tool which is able to place vehicle and dummy parts in 3D during a crash. This tool can help in the understanding of crash dynamics and optimize restraint system integration as well as CAE correlation.
This paper analyses the uses given to inertial sensors in crash applications, describes the errors obtained and proposes methods to correct them. The use of accelerometer-only based and accelerometer and gyroscope-based platforms is discussed. Recommendations for placement, filtering and calculation methods are given. A tool able to track in 3D the trajectory of a point is presented and the limitations found are commented.
The sled tests carried out to obtain relevant information are presented. Possible applications in current tests and probable new tests exploiting the capabilities of the new tool are suggested.