Dummy Performance in Crash Simulations Environments

Abstract

A test procedure is presented whereby dummies can be subjected to a controlled and reproducible environment which is independent of the sled facility used. Essentially, a set of straps with slack in them couple the sled to the dummy. The deceleration phase of the sled occurs during the time that the slack is taken up, and a difference in velocity is established between sled and dummy. The straps then decelerate the dummy in a specific fashion independent of the shape of the deceleration time pulse of the sled. Results of measurements on four dummies subjected to such a test are presented. Both side facing and forward impacts were simulated, each at two different energy levels.

Maximum accelerations were about 50 g’s in the head and about 40 g’s in the chest. The standard deviation of 10 runs for both head and chest measurements averaged about 6%.

A procedure is described whereby a calibration number can be assigned to individual dummies so that results obtained in compliance testing can be more uniform.*