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The paper describes the use of strain gauge goniometers to measure dummy leg joint angles in impact tests. The instruments have been developed based on regular goniometers used for human gait analysis. Specific modifications enhanced the mechanical stability and the electrical insulation of the sensors. They are now compatible with standard crash data acquisition systems. Several vehicle crash tests have been analyzed using the goniometers as a supplementary measurement device. Due to its low weight, the device does not significantly alter the dummy behavior. Further areas of application are outlined in the paper.

A new 128 channel data acquisition and analysis system was introduced in the John-Andrews-Engineering-Centre of the Ford-Werke-AG, Jest-Germany, in January 1996. Due to the large distance between crash barrier and analysis facilities, a serial data transfer via fibre optics cables is used. The following paper highlights the essential considerations that led to the design of exactly this system and that are decned to be of general interest. In conclusion of this presentation the complete system is briefly described.