Side impact simulation analysis using an improved occupant model

Hasewaga, J.; Fukatsu, T.; Katsumata, T.

Various simulation models have been proposed so far as a means of the analysis on side impact phenomena. However, it was difficult to simulate actual occupant behaviors in impact accidents and the complex thoracic response in particular, since most of those models have been derived from the simple one-dimensional spring-mass model approach.

The authors, therefore, analyzed DOTSID thoracic responses through dummy impacts tests using a rigid surface impactor, and improved the previous occupant model developed by Toyota, taking account of dummy rotational motions as well. For the verification of the validity of this new model, predictions made by this model were compared with actual dummy behaviors determined by a padded impact tester which simulated the full-scale vehicle impact. As a result, it has been verified that the accuracy of the new model for the prediction of dummy behaviors is higher than the previous model.

The new model was also used in parametric studies to evaluate potential injury reduction measures in side impacts.

Year

Entry

1985

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2003

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1991

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1993

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