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A cooperative project between the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Civil Aeromedical Institute (CAMI), Applied Safety Technologies Corp. (ASTC), and Robert A. Denton, Inc. was conducted to investigate modifications to the standard Hybrid III anthropomorphic test dummy (ATD) lumbar spine and its interface to the pelvis and thorax. The impetus for this project was based on the desires of aviation researchers, manufacturers, and dynamic test laboratories to utilize the Hybrid III ATD in the development and certification of aircraft seats. The goal was to develop a lumbar spine modification for the Hybrid III that would produce similar responses to those measured with a Hybrid II. The primary focus of this project was the compressive force measured at the base of the lumbar column during the vertical test condition required by FAA’s regulations.

Until 1987, force measuring sensor (load cell) development was primarily for the Hybrid III 50th percentile, adult, male dummy. [1] The development of more complex occupant protection systems, in the automotive industry, has resulted in the need for additional anthropomorphic test dummies. They include infants, small children, adult male and female dummies as well as dummies designed specifically for side impact crash testing. The new dummies have increased measurement capabilities to better evaluate the interaction of the occupant with the restraint system and the vehicle interior. Load cells have been developed to meet the needs of the new dummies as well as to increase the measurement capability of the Hybrid III 50th dummy.