Simulation of Advanced Lateral Safety Systems as a Cost Effective Tool to Estimate Potential Success

Abstract

The need of promoting lateral vehicle safety is leading to more and more complex systems. As complexity increases, the evaluation of the potential success of new alternatives becomes a key point in reaching a cost-effective development. A system of four cameras mounted on the side of the vehicle has been suggested. By means of artificial vision, the control unit will be able to monitor the impacting car, and thus take effective measures to prepare the vehicle for the impact, changing the seat set up to aid the passenger and improve passive safety. By means of a simulation model different cases have been simulated varying speeds, locations of impact and studying the period of time on each camera between detection and impact. This simulation model has enabled evaluating the success of the proposed cameras set up.