AEI's What's New at SAE 2002
Occupant safety testing
Microsys Technologies Inc. will display and demonstrate Version 5.0 of its SureFire occupant safety test-system control software. The new release includes upgrades in database functionality and enhanced camera control. Database functionality eases the handling of large image and sensor data files created during a test and handles system configuration and calibration issues. Customers can choose either Oracle or Microsoft Access as the database engine. The software also features camera control options for high-speed digital cameras; camera parameter management with information such as parameter settings, serial number, current lens, and current assignment; and Auto-AVI creation based on pre-defined frame ranges and corrections. In addition, it has the ability to save and recall "test profiles" to simplify and speed setups, and can be completely integrated with high-g sled crash simulation facilities.
Simulation table
A high-frequency multi-axial simulation table from MTS Systems Corp. features a hexapod with six extensible servo-hydraulic struts. It provides repeatable, high-frequency, six-degree-of-freedom simulation of the operating environment of automotive systems and components. Engineered to be stiff, the system delivers frequency content in excess of 250 Hz, giving it unique potential in both durability and noise and vibration testing. It offers sinusoidal testing, including sine sweep and sine dwell, and time history reproduction using MTS' Remote Parameter Control software. To ensure accuracy, controllability, and repeatability over a broad frequency range, the system uses displacement, velocity, and acceleration feedback in conjunction with a three variable control algorithm.
Triaxial ICP accelerometer
The Model 356A32 triaxial ICP accelerometer from the Vibration Div. of PCB Piezotronics, Inc. features a 100 mV/g output signal, 300 µg resolution, and a small, lightweight, titanium housing. Additionally, a four-pin electrical connector with positive keyway achieves the convenience of a removable cable without risk of bent pins. The unit is suited for modal and structural vibration analysis on automotive and aerospace structures as well as automotive NVH and general-purpose applications. Shear mode, piezoceramic sensing elements account for the high sensitivity and accuracy through a frequency range of 0.7 to 5000 Hz (±10%).
PDA integration
Pi Technology has developed applications for Palm Corp.'s Bluetooth radio for the Palm Vx that allow the user to control the vehicle radio and CD player without using the audio system controls. From the PDA, users can perform functions such as selecting tracks on the CD and adjusting the volume. Bluetooth is suitable for in-vehicle use because of its electrical noise tolerance. Applications include PDAs that instruct the vehicle's navigation system based on the day's diary, phones that integrate with the vehicle's audio system for hands-free operation, trip computers that automatically download information to the driver's PDA for trip reports and expense claims, and wireless audio systems.
Linear displacement sensor
The LD-50 noncontact, linear Hall sensor from Power Components of Midwest, Inc. is a hermetically sealed unit that is available in either single or dual programmable outputs in any combination of 0 to 5 V dc, PWM, or specific switch points. The unit can sense from 12.7 to 762 mm (0.5 to 30 in) of travel with resolution to ±0.025 mm (0.001 in) and linearity of 1% over the temperature range of -40 to +150°C (-40 to +300°F). Mechanical life expectancy is in excess of 30 million operations. Custom termination and mounting configurations are available, as well as complete custom packaging with integral connectors.
Design manikin
The 3-D H-Point Machine, HPM-II, is offered through the auspices of the SAE Strategic Alliance (SSA) Engineering Aids Program. HPM-II describes seat- and package-related reference points used for designing, auditing, and benchmarking. HPM-II represents a midsize U.S. male, and it defines and locates a standard seating reference point, the H-Point, and additional leg, shoe, and pedal reference points. The HPM-II articulated lumbar spine conforms to seatbacks and allows more repeatable measurements. It measures seat-cushion angle, seatback angle, and lumbar support prominence simultaneously. The previous H-point manikin required a separate installation procedure to measure seat-cushion angle and could not measure lumbar support prominence. Installation and operating procedures are simpler and result in more consistent, repeatable measurements. HPM-II measures a seat without using legs, creating ease in rear-seat measurements. With the HPM-II redesign, the HPM-II CAD model was developed, which will supply complete geometric compatibility between the design tool and physical tool.
