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This paper describes the development of new advanced Finite Element (FE) models of the World SID series, namely World SID 50th and 5th, the new generation of side impact Anthropomorphic Test Devices (ATD). The model development follows the FTSS's rigorous quality assurance (QA) procedure and uses the manufacture's product data and test facilities extensively. The models are validated at material, component & assembly, full dummy certification and sled test application levels. A detailed modeling methodology is described. The models correlate well with both the component and whole dummy level test results.

Linear displacement transducers may be used to measure deflection and, based on time histories, calculate rates of deflection and viscous criterion (VC). The current study documents that these transducers are subject to damage affecting the linearity of their responses, that this damage is not uncommon, and that the deviations from linearity can greatly affect calculations of deflection rate and VC. A calibration procedure to identify transducers with significantly non-linear responses is proposed.

One of the current activities of EEVC Working Group 13 (WG-13) “Side Impact Test Procedures” is to develop a test procedure for Free Motion Head impact tests supplementary to the full-scale mobile deformable barrier (MDB) test specified in ECE Regulation 95. Amongst the factors needed for development of the test procedure, is the determination of “worst case” test conditions for specifying contact point and approach angle. The goal of this research project was to give an objective prediction of head impact location, related head impact angle and impact speed for small, average and large sized belted front occupants in realistic seating positions in a wide range of side impact crash scenarios. Head contact at A-pillar, B-pillar and Roof-rail in two vehicle types (light / heavy) and for different interior dimensions were studied. The prediction of head impact location, velocity and angle was realized by means of virtual testing using MADYMO.

Accident studies indicate that serious neck injuries are generally infrequent in side crashes. However, given the rapid changes in side impact protection technology, such as side airbags and curtain systems, the nature of head-neck interactions is likely to change. Consequently, the newest generation of anthropomorphic test devices for side impact should provide realistic prediction of the head-neck kinematics and include meaningful measurements related to risk of head and neck injury. The WorldSID dummy has been assessed against a set of five test conditions that have been used to define biofidelity impact response targets. Three of the five test conditions are recommended by ISO TR9790 (ISO 1997), the NBDL 7.2 G, 6.9 m/s lateral sled impact reported by Ewing et al. (1977) and Wismans et al. (1986), the Patrick and Chou lateral, 6.7 G 5.8 m/s (1976) and Tarriere lateral 12.2 g, 6,1 m/s sled impact (ISO 1997).

The issue of the European Directive 96/27/EC: "Protection of Occupants of Motor Vehicles in the Event of a Side Impact'' in 1998 marked an important step in improving vehicle safety in Europe, but also confronted car and restraint manufacturers with the difficulties of having to comply with different standards in the world. Subsequently, harmonization of the side impact test procedures and test devices has become a key objective for industry and governments worldwide. The EEVC WG12 on Adult Crash Dummies has contributed to this objective by assessing the design of the existing European side impact dummy EUROSID-1. Updates to the design are proposed to make it acceptable for application in other standards in the world as an intermediate harmonization solution until the WorldSID dummy becomes available. This paper summarizes the main design improvements and gives the results of the dummy evaluation program carried out on behalf of the working group.