More realistic crash testing in Spain
Crash test dummies have evolved substantially yet it is still difficult to produce an accurate model of populations such as pregnant women, children and the elderly. There is simply not enough data on the effects of accidents in these groups. With extremely careful attention to ethics, scientists have provided valuable insight using post-mortem human subjects (PMHSs) as well as the most advanced crash test dummy available, THOR. EU support of the project 'Advancing traffic safety through the investigation of human tolerance to impact' (BIO-ADVANCE) enabled the coordinator to establish the first research centre for impact testing using PMHSs in Spain. A state-of-the-art preparation room with a portable X-ray machine was constructed for both body preparation and post-test assessment. Studies of 3D kinematics during high-speed impact took place in the sled room. A newly acquired 10-camera Vicon infrared marker-tracking system enabled motion tracking. Obtaining PMHSs required very stringent adherence to both ethical and legal requirements. The coordinator joined established donor programmes, obtained explicit permission from donors or their next-of-kin for inclusion, and established an Oversight Committee. The methodology was approved by the Clinical Research Ethics Assessment Commission of Aragon. The focus of BIO-ADVANCE was investigation of human spine kinematics in pure frontal and oblique impacts using research protocols based on international experience. A world-leading automotive restraint manufacturer on the Oversight Committee provided THOR and new restraint systems not yet available on the market. BIO-ADVANCE performed 19 dummy tests on THOR and four PMHS tests to assess the performance of three different types of seat belts. The experiments also provided data that can be used to compare the behaviour of the advanced crash test dummy compared to human tissue, aiding in optimisation of the dummy itself. The project was publicised widely through participation in local, national and international radio, television and newspapers. Events with engineering students were organised to explain the nature of the work and the results. Close cooperation with industry should guarantee that societal benefits follow closely on the heels of experimental success.
Keywords
Restraint systems, crash test, impact biomechanics, traffic safety
