Search Results

This paper describes further developments of the MVMA-2D model including program modifications of the air bag and the energy absorbing steering assembly submodels. The air bag submodel and the steering assembly submodel in the MVMA-2D crash victim simulation are independently formulated. No coupling exists between these two submodels to permit simulation of the kinematics of an anthropomorphic dummy restrained by a driver air bag restraint system mounted on a collapsible steering column. The development effort of integrating both submodels to provide the MVMA-2D model with such a capability is presented. The integrated model has been successfully utilized in simulating dynamic responses, in frontal impact situations, of a dummy restrained by a driver air bag restraint system mounted on a collapsible steering column. Validations of the model were made by comparing simulation results with experimental test data.

An improved windshield with a special, thin, plastic inner surface attached to the inner surface of a three layer windshield similar to those used in the United States minimizes lacerations from occupant impact to the windshield during a collision. The plastic coats the sharp edges of the broken glass preventing or minimizing laceration. It was evaluated by comparing its laceration performance with that of a standard windshield in simulated barrier crashes at velocities up to 65 km/h. No lacerations resulted from impact to the Securiflex windshield at Barrier Equivalent Velocities up to 65 km/h. Substantial laceration resulted at velocities above 20 km/h with the standard windshield. It is concluded that the Securiflex windshield essentially eliminates lacerations in the particular vehicle involved at velocities up to at least 65 km/h.