The Abdominal Pressure Twin Sensors (APTS) measure restraint loading to the abdomen of the Q‐Series dummies. The sensors were found not to influence the response of the abdomen in moderate‐rate belt compression tests using a material testing machine. The APTS were also found to be sensitive to restraint loading type and position. A material testing machine provides a very controlled means of loading the abdomen to characterise its response. However, it may not replicate the effects of loading typical of a dynamic collision event. This paper describes a series of restraint loading tests in which the test device provided a high‐rate dynamic, yet controlled, restraint system input to the abdomen.

The APTS increased the stiffness of the Q3 abdomen in these tests with dynamic restraint loading. The Q3 abdomen and the APTS were sensitive to the type and location of the restraint loads. Engaging the pelvis of the dummy is likely to reduce deflection and pressure for a given force for any restraint type. However, the APTS do not descend fully into the pelvis and hence it may be possible to load the abdomen in front of the pelvis in a region not covered by the sensors.