Crash test dummy gets smarter overhaul
The Hybrid-III crash test dummy, extensively used throughout automobile-occupant safety testing has shown a considerable difference in performance than would a real driver or occupant. The dummy, developed in the seventies, acts according to the biomechanical data of that era. While the understanding of biomechanical knowledge has developed, the performance of the dummy has not. Furthermore, new features such as airbags and load limit belts have affected the performance ratios of the Hybrid-III to such an extent that it no longer is capable of providing accurate data on human responses. In order to rectify this error, as well as to develop a crash test dummy that behaves in a manner with greater conformance to this knowledge, a consortium has undertaken the development of a more advanced dummy. To do so, statistics were analysed, showing that the most common injuries were to the shoulder/thorax, pelvis/femur/knee and the ankle/foot regions. Tests were conducted to compile a more complete biomechanical data set. Documentation has been drafted that proposes a set of response requirements to assess the bio-fidelity of an anthropomorphic Frontal Impact Dummy. The compiled data will be entered into the Advanced Passive Safety Network of Excellence database.