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A multi-element passenger side airbag model for analyzing airbags of complex shape is discussed. The model has the capability of allowing the passenger to interact with the three dimensional, instantaneous airbag shape determined by the various contact surfaces encountered by the airbag. Therefore, the shape of the contact surface presented to the passenger is not constant but deformable and can therefore accommodate large deflection penetrations by the passenger. Up to 3000 airbag elements can be used to configure the desired airbag shape. Airbag mass and its effect on airbag deployment kinematics and the subsequent bagslap forces are taken into account. Because of this, the model is capable of computing the kinematics and resultant injury of forward positioned children as well as normally seated adults.

This paper discusses the development, test case simulation and preliminary sensitivity study of a computer model designated SCORES (Steering Column and Occupant REsponse Simulation). The model was developed to simulate an occupant impacting a steering assembly in a frontal collision. The interactions of various body regions with steering assembly contact surfaces are modeled by defining the force deflection properties. During the impact event, the program describes the rotation and deformation of the wheel about the column, rotation, displacement and stroke of the column due to occupant loading and intrusion. Applications of the model could be: To reconstruct actual accident cases. To assess safety performance of steering assemblies. To predict improved performance of steering assemblies.