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A new technique for body/frame cars to predict the vehicle collapse, velocity, and deceleration histories in a barrier crash at any speed between 10-30 mph has been developed. This approach requires data interpolation from a minimum of two, and preferably three, barrier tests conducted with no additional instrumentation than that already present in today's standard testing. Potential savings could be derived from using this technique to reduce the number of barrier tests that would otherwise be necessary for checking safety restraint performance throughout the crash speed spectrum contained within the test boundaries. Good correlation with tests was obtained with the 1969 Ford car line. Application of this technique to the 1971 Mercury showed similar favorable results, Applicability of the equations to body/frame configurations other than those tested has not been determined.

This paper provides an overview of the Side impact Research program conducted by Vehicle Methods and Components Department of Ford Motor Company over the past three years. A simple spring-mass computer simulation model is developed for predicting crash behavior of the body side structure of a vehicle impacted on its side by another vehicle. The model was used in determining the degree of structural reinforcement required to effectively reduce body side intrusion of a compact size vehicle. Exellent agreement between the predicted and test results was obtained and the effectiveness of structural reinforcements in reducing occupant cushioning requirement was demonstrated.